Melvin Hurwitz's Obituary
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Melvin Hurwitz on October 19, 2025, at the age of 100. He was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, who lived life to the fullest until only a few weeks before his passing.
Melvin was born on March 12, 1925, in Westminster, Maryland, the son of Russian immigrants who came to this country to start a jewelry and watch business. He attended Peabody College in Nashville before returning to Maryland to join the family trade. Melvin worked first in his father’s store in Westminster and then for 30 years alongside his brother, Will, at Colonial Jewelers in downtown Frederick.
Upon retirement, he lived for 30 years in Boca Raton, Florida, returning to Frederick in 2017 after the passing of his wife, Bette. At the age of 92, he began a new chapter in his life—making many new friends, embracing new experiences, and enjoying remarkable health. His quick wit, warmth, and genuine friendliness drew people to him wherever he went.
During his final years in Frederick, Melvin became deeply involved with causes honoring veterans of World War II. He was proud to be connected with the Best Defense Foundation, a nonprofit organization that honors veterans by returning them to the battlefields where they served. Through the Foundation, Melvin traveled to Germany, France, and Pearl Harbor—participating in milestone WWII commemorations and forming lifelong bonds with fellow veterans and volunteers. His final journey with the Foundation was to Normandy at the age of 99, an experience he cherished.
Melvin was the son of Benjamin and Rae Hurwitz, and brother of Will, Al, and Jerry Hurwitz. He was predeceased by his first wife, Vera (2014), and his second wife, Bette (2016).
He is survived by his daughter, Alene Fisher of Rockville; his grandsons, Aaron Fisher (Jennifer) of Baltimore and Ethan Fisher (Rebecca) of Westminster; and his great-grandson, Micah Fisher. He is also remembered with affection by Kaveh Rahimi (Kara) of Minneapolis, Minnesota, the grandson of his late wife, Bette.
A memorial service will be held at 11 am in Catoctin Chapel at Resthaven of Frederick on Tuesday, November 11, 2025
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Best Defense Foundation at
https://bestdefensefoundation.org/donate/
What’s your fondest memory of Melvin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Melvin?
Share a story where Melvin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Melvin you’ll never forget.
How did Melvin make you smile?