Well-known retailer Abe Hecker died Nov. 4 of heart failure. He was 90.
A Milwaukee native, he graduated from North Division High School and attended Milwaukee State Teachers College.
He began a 70-year career in the shoe business as a salesman at Newark Shoe Store in 1932. He worked at several other area shoe stores, gaining retail experience, until 1947 when he leased with two partners a shoe department in Bitker Gerner, an upscale department store.
Ten years later, he decided to have his own business. He opened Hecker Shoes on Silver Spring Dr., to sell children’s shoes. In 1960, he took over the adjacent store to make a family shoe store. His motto was, “Service and proper fit makes all the difference.”
He was a member at Congregation Anshai Lebowitz for 90 years as his father was one of its founders. He took great pride in being active in synagogue affairs, and also belonged to the Masons. An avid golfer, he also enjoyed playing cards, reading and spending time with his family.
His survivors include his wife of 67 years, Ann Hecker (nee Lepovitz) of Mequon; son Dr. Richard Hecker of Mequon; daughter Marcia Hecker of Glendale; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Rabbi Bernard Reichman officiated at the funeral on Nov. 6. Burial was in Anshai Lebowitz Cemetery.
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