11/23/08 - NNHS Newsletter -
Bernard Morewitz

Bernard A. Morewitz
(02 June 1918 - 21 Nov 2008)

Newport News High School Class of 193_

NEWPORT NEWS - Dr. Bernard A. Morewitz, local optometrist for 50-years and respected community leader, departed Friday, Nov. 21, 2008 at the age of 90.

Born June 2, 1918, to Samuel M. Morewitz and Reba Dorf Morewitz, he was proud of his Yiddish-speaking parents, who gave him a love of life and of learning. His father, who immigrated to America from Latvia at age nine, became a pharmacist and, alongside his father's brother, Dr. Thomas D. Morewitz, served ships coming into Newport News ports.

Dr. Bernard Morewitz, small in stature, but who at times seemed greater than life, brought true meaning to the word serve. He served his family, his faith, his community, and his profession. His great drive to give back as a first-generation American would lead him to the board of the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind and Peninsula Port Authority, where as a Commissioner, he signed bonds with Bob Kelly for industry coming into the area. He lobbied extensively and successfully for I-664, while serving on the downtown development corporation.

Graduates of Newport News High School, Dr. Morewitz and his older brother, Alvin, began their careers at NACA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), precursor to NASA. He later received his engineering degree from the University of Virginia. When World War II broke out, the Morewitz brothers were eager to join, but when told that their services at NACA were too valuable, they joined the coast guard and patrolled the Hampton Roads coastline on weekends.

Later, Dr. Morewitz would attend Columbia University, where he would receive his Doctorate in Optometry. He was very active in his association, serving in numerous positions. He was also greatly involved in Rodef Sholom Temple, where he was a past president and shofar blower (in the footsteps of his father) for too many years to count.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Miriam Morewitz Price, and one nephew, Stewart Morewitz.

Still living are two brothers, Freddie Morewitz, 93, and Alvin Morewitz, 92; his wife, Louise; one sister, Lorraine Morewitz; nephews and nieces, Barry Morewitz, Alice Morewitz, DeeDee Morewitz Halpin and her husband, Dr. Robert Halpin; great nieces and nephews, Risa, Rebecca, Denise, and Matt; and his friend of 32 years, Joyce Davison, who was by his side at death.

The family would like to thank their family physician, Dr. Michael Lustig, who stood near his side to the end, and the staff at Riverside Hospital, especially Dr. Chan, as well as Rabbi Gilah Dror.

In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to a charity of your choice.

A service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Rodef Sholom Temple, officiated by Rabbi Gilah Dror. Burial will follow in the Jewish Cemetery of the Virginia Peninsula.

Peninsula Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.

Published in the Daily Press on 11/23/2008.
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