KALISH, Morton (Mr. Mort)

Morton "Mr. Mort" Kalish passed away on April 5, 2004. He was 83. Mort and his family moved to Phoenix from Chicago in 1967. He was preceded in death by his son, Scott. Mort is survived by his wife of 62 years, Rose, and his children, Barbara Kalish, Cindy Piggott (Rob), Lou Kalish, and daughter-in-law, Marcia Kalish; his brother Buddy Kalish (Gail), and sisters, Shaindel Greenspan and Dodo Bishaf (Morrie). He was a devoted grandfather to Todd, Kelly, Lisa, Ben, and Amelia and great-grandfather to Scott and Alex. Mort was the founder and owner of Mr. Mort's restaurant at 1830 W. Glendale Ave. in Phoenix for 32 years. He dearly loved people, especially children, and enjoyed watching generation after generation grow up as they came into the store. He was a kind and gentle man who brought a smile to everyone he met, and he was always there to feed those who were hungry or in need. He was loved by all those whose lives he touched and treated everyone as if they were a part of his family, because they truly had become and were his family. He enjoyed sharing the exploits of his children and grandchildren with his friends and customers and would always take the time to listen to their stories as well. Everywhere he went, there would be someone who recognized and knew "Mr. Mort". In his later years, the first question always asked of his children was, "How is your dad?" He was a very special person and truly a gift from God. You could never have asked for a better father or friend. We miss him. That best portion of a good man's life, his nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love. Memorial services were held Friday, April 9th, 2004 in Sinai Mortuary Chapel, 4538 N. 16th Street, Phoenix. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014 or a charity of your choice. The Arizona Republic 4/7/2004 - 4/8/2004.