Sheldon L. Holzer

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution announces with great sorrow the death of long-time WHOI volunteer Sheldon L. Holzer on August 20.  He was 81.

Shelly was born in New York City on September 14, 1936 to the late Claire and Leo Holzer. He attended the High School of Music and Art in NYC and then went on to graduate from Lehigh University. His business career was spent in advertising in NYC.

It was at Ted Bates Advertising Agency that he met Mary Kirk. They were married on November 23, 1968.

In 1971 they moved to Stamford, CT, where they lived for 34 years. In 2005, they retired to Cape Cod. While there, he served on the Board of Assessors for the Town of Mashpee. Shelly was also a dedicated volunteer at the Ocean Science Discovery Center, coming in the entire season for many years.  “His friendly smile and his knowledge of WHOI always enhanced the visitors’ experience,” said Kathy Patterson, WHOI Communications Department.

Among his interests, Shelly was an avid skeet shooter, sailor, and photographer.

In addition to his wife of 49-1/2 years, he is survived by his brother, Edwin Holzer of Barrington, IL., and four nieces and three nephews.

Burial is private, but friends and family are invited to remember Shelly on Sept. 8, from 3-5 p.m., at their home in Mashpee, Mass.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the MSPCA in Centerville, Mass.

Some of the information for this obituary is from the Cape Cod Times.