BY LORI KRAVITZ | Sheldon (Shelly) J. Kravitz, a media advertising businessman who was known as one of the real “Mad Men,” died on Sat., Oct. 3. He was 85.
Kravitz was born in Brooklyn, the son of Dr. Daniel Kravitz and Lillian Kravitz.
Kravitz, who lived on the Upper East Side, leaves behind his wife of 31 years, Lori, and the apple of his eye, 15-year-old son Daniel. He was a truly devoted father. He also leaves behind his only brother, Paul, and his family of friends whom he adored.
His versatility started with his love of football, which began when he started playing the sport at Poly Prep. He went on to medical school, and also earned a law degree. He was an accomplished trumpet player, starting his own swing band. His love of music expanded to his own home recording studio, where he would create voiceover introductions on tapes and CD’s, so he could share his passion with others.
Kravitz’s decades as an advertising man were highlighted by his years spent as TWA’s head of advertising. He spoke fondly of his years spent at the airline company.
He was best known to his friends by his bigger-than-life personality. He was an engaging conversationalist. In his presence, all felt they were with someone with a generous spirit and enormous heart. He spoke of all the famous people he knew, never realizing just how famous he was himself.
