Eugene Kirsch

Eugene Kirsch of Hot Springs was born September 16, 1917 in Bridgeport, Connecticut and he passed away on Monday, July 21, 2014. He was predeceased by his parents, Sam and Faye Kirsch, his wife, Serena and his sister Laura Fleischner. He graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School and attended St. John's University in New York City. He was a graduate gemologist. He married the love of his life, Serena Esther Friedman, on June 21, 1941, and their union lasted for 67 years until her death in 2009. Eugene moved to Hot Springs in 1940 and joined his father in the antique auction and jewelry industry, where they owned and operated Lord's and Esskay Art Galleries, for the next 50 years. He served his country in the original Army Air Corps from 1941 - 1943. His passion was his alto saxophone. He was a card carrying member of the New York Musicians' Union. The swing music from the 1930s and 40s followed him throughout his entire life. An accomplished musician, he taught music and played in venues from the Catskill Mountains to the Arlington Hotel, with the local Hot Springs Concert Band and Jazz Society and at every family affair. Eugene is survived by his devoted son, Steven (Clarissa) of Hot Springs; two daughters, Suzanne Kirsch Klein of Boca Raton, Florida and Michelle Kirsch of Dallas Texas; three grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; nephews, Stuart (Kay) Fleischner and Mark (Patti) Fleischner of Hot Springs and their families and many other relatives. In addition, a very special friend, Ms. Bee Frank of Boca Raton, Florida, his personal assistant, Cleta Barrington, and always by his side, his trusty companion, Tiger. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening beginning at 6:30 P.M. at 116 Bafanridge Drive. Graveside services will be 10:00 AM Thursday, July 24, 2014 at Beth Jacob Cemetery. (Highway 5 North about 8 miles - cemetery will be on the right) Pallbearers are Scott Smith, Brooks Nickles, Glenn Mortenson, Lloyd Dunaway, Irvin Teet and Jack Bennie. Memorials may be made to Congregational House of Israel - 300 Quapaw Avenue - Hot Springs, AR 71901 or Hot Springs Concert Band - PO Box 8667 - Hot Springs, AR 71910.

Eugene Kirsch

September 16, 1917 - July 21, 2014