Elliott Landsman
February 14, 1920 - May 5, 2013
The world has lost a wonderful man and we have lost a beloved neighbor.
In 1952, my parents bought land on Canandaigua Lake's Seneca Point and built a seasonal cottage. When we were children, my brothers and I enjoyed spending every summer there. When we were a bit older, we went off to camp in Canada's Algonquin Park, but returned to Canandaigua Lake, like homing pigeons, at the end of the summer.
In the 70's, the house to our north was sold to Elliott and Dotty Landsman. The Landsmans lived in Brighton, but came to the lake every summer, enjoying everything this idyllic location had to offer. Their 3 girls were grown, but also enjoyed coming to the lake when they were able, sometimes from great distances.
Elliott was a self-made businessman, very successful and yet very low key. He gave generously to the commuity. And as a neighbor, he was generous to our family, always volunteering his ski equipment, life jackets of every size and shape, numerous tools from his well-stocked tool box, and even the use of his boat.
He had a "ski boat", a boat that could pull up any skier. We had a "boat" that could pull up most skiers, but which didn't have the power to pull up 200+ pound skiers who wanted to start off on one ski, like my brother Tom. When Tom really wanted to have a fun ski, he would take Elliott up on his always-present offer to ski behind the Landsmans' boat.
But Elliott's special talent was helping children and even those a little older, who had no waterskiing experience, learn how to ski. He would talk them through it, and even get in the water beside them, if needed. He was full of good tips and encouragement and never failed to get a skier up. Elliott himself waterskiied until he was in his 80's.
Dotty passed away too early, but Elliott found happiness again with his second wife, Debby. Together Elliott and Debby continued the tradition of being wonderful neighbors and friends. Just last summer they included our then-six year old grandson at their Friday evening family sabbath dinner. Q and Aviva, Elliott's great-granddaughter, became fast friends.
Four generations of both families have spent summers side by side for over 30 years. Sadly, this summer will be different, and Elliott will not be there to cheer on the skiers or the kids jumping on the water trampoline. But he will not be forgotten and his spirit will always be a part of our family's summer traditions and memories. Thank you, Elliott, for being part of our family and kudos to you for a life very well lived.
