Obituary of Theodore Largman

Theodore Largman was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and lived for many years within a short walk of Independence Hall. The legendary building was an inspiration for him and enhanced his patriotic feelings and love of history. Ted’s parents immigrated from Bessarabia (what is now Romania) in the early 1920s. The family opened a restaurant on 2nd Street whose upper floors served as the family’s home. Through his early years, Ted could often be found behind the deli counter or in a back booth studying when he was not helping with chores or teasing his younger sister, Evelyn. Ted was always fond of grabbing a Hostess Cherry Pie when studying in the back booth. He and his sister would often venture to the roof of the building to look out over the neighborhood. He excitedly remembers looking into the night sky to see Sputnik flying overhead. Ted attended Temple University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry. At the age of 18, he took a three-year hiatus from his studies to enlist in the United States Army. A veteran of World War II, he was stationed in Pacific Front (New Guinea and the Philippines) where he was a technical expert and was decorated many times for his service. After the war, Ted went on to earn his Ph.D. in chemistry at Indiana University. A job offer from Allied Chemical brought him to Morristown, New Jersey, where he was a Senior Research Scientist. During his 39-year tenure, Dr. Largman was awarded over 35 patents. He developed fire proof nylon, novel polymers, new agrichemicals, improved amino acid synthesis, and an array of new synthetic fibers with singular properties and structure for use in carpets, textiles, and other fiber uses. After his retirement, Ted sought to apply his creative talents to areas outside the field of science, although equally as creative. Enrolling in numerous classes at local colleges and universities, he explored mediums such as photography, oil painting, wood carving, and clay. Sculpture classes introduced him to a unique medium which he scientifically called “Boxology.” Ted’s artwork moved from elaborate dioramas and shadow boxes to mystical and abstract presentations. They are best compared to three dimensional political cartoons, poems, or erudite essays. Through his sculptures, Ted (who’s “nom de plume” is T. Eleazer) tells stories that challenge our way of thinking with juxtapositions of ancient and modern facts, often with a humorous twist. They concisely combine technology, mythology, religion, science, politics, and irony. (You can view his work at Teleazer.com) Ted was extensively involved in his community. He was chair of the Morris Township Environmental Commission and a member of that body for 50 years. He successfully launched the Renaissance Group, a social and educational organization for elders, which grew to 33 locations across the country and are still thriving after 30+ years. In recognition of his 50 years of service to the local community and commitment to the environment, in 2016 the Morris Township (NJ) Committee honored Ted by dedicating a community garden in his name. The 3-acre organic garden can be found on Picatinny Road. Ted is survived by his four proudest achievements, – Susan Slotnick and her husband, Irwin; Robert Largman and his wife, Aparna, and their two children (Ted’s [a.k.a. Pop Pop] grandchildren) Rohan and Anika; Richard Largman; and Michele Largman and her partner, Ron Faas. He was predeceased by his wife, Doris and sister, Evelyn Berger. If you wish to make a special remembrance in his memory, please make a donation to Temple B’Nai Or in Morristown, NJ with a designation to either the Linda Grandis Blatt Gallery or the Renaissance Group. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ If you wish to attend the Graveside Service for Ted virtually, please see the Zoom information below... Topic: Largman Funeral Time: Sep 29, 2020 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85171190452?pwd=SEMrRFhyK0JZQldaYjZrUXh6cTBBUT09 Meeting ID: 851 7119 0452 Passcode: Largman20