Saul Gitomer

Saul Lee Gitomer, 87, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

A memorial service was held at Village Shalom on November 19, 2025, followed by a graveside service on November 21 at his family's cemetery in Milville, NJ.

Saul was born on October 9, 1938, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, to Betty and Aaron Gitomer, of blessed memory. Affectionately known as 'Saulee' in his youth and later as 'Dappy' by his grandchildren, Saul enriched the lives of those around him with his warmth and storytelling.

In 1969, Saul relocated with his family—Audrey, Lynn, Kenan, and Daniel—from New Jersey to Kansas for a career opportunity in the pharmaceutical industry. His storied career as a research statistician and consultant spanned over 35 years, leaving a meaningful impact. His tenure at Marion Laboratories sparked a lifelong passion for international travel, which led him to explore 35 countries—a journey he chronicled in his memoir, The Luckiest Man Alive, published in 2023. He was so proud of this book that he shared it with every one he met!

Saul will be lovingly remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, always bringing joy with his engaging stories, family gatherings at the Jersey Shore, and his gentle presence. Whether basking in the sun, fishing, traveling, cycling, or savoring good food, Saul’s zest for life was contagious. His pride in his family was boundless; he often described himself as the wealthiest man alive because of them. His fondest memories included time spent with family on the beaches of Brigantine, NJ.

An accomplished cyclist, Saul rode thousands of miles across the U.S., raising funds for Multiple Sclerosis and AIDS, while forming enduring friendships. Locally, he dedicated time volunteering at Restart, cooking for their homeless shelter, Jewish Family Services, and the Ronald McDonald House, securing and preparing food with great compassion.

As a lifelong member of Congregation B’nai Jehudah, Saul cherished chanting his Bar Mitzvah Torah portion, Bereshit, annually on Simchat Torah. His dedication to Judaism and its rituals remained unwavering. Recently, he found weekly joy in singing the Kiddish at Friday Night services at Village Shalom.

Saul's legacy continues through Audrey Hollander, his children, Lynn Gitomer and her husband Dan Weiner, Ken Gitomer and his wife Kathy, and Danny Gitomer, along with his grandchildren, Jesse, Allie, Connor, and Sussa, and great-grandchildren Ella, Cameron, Emma, and Savannah.

Memorial Donations may be made to:
• Village Shalom Employee Appreciation Fund
• Congregation B’nai Jehudah Rabbi Rothstein Discretionary Fund
• The Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City

The family extends deep gratitude to the caring teams at Village Shalom and Monarch, especially to Melissa Jacob and Val Somova, for their compassionate care over the past three years.

Saul, Dad, Dappy—you will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.