Bernard S. Schreft

Of North Bethesda, Maryland, formerly of Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Boston, MA, Bernard Schreft passed away on May 5, 2016, at the age of 88. Beloved husband to Janice Schreft; devoted father to Stacey Schreft and Tracey Norwitz (Scott); adored "Papa" to Josh and Matthew Norwitz; loving brother of Joyce Lodgen.

Bernie was a native Bostonian and earned a BS and MS from Boston University. He began his career as a journalist, serving as editor and feature writer for Fairchild Publications' Women's Wear Daily in New York City. He met Janice, his devoted wife of 58 years, during that period. After relocating to South Florida, Bernie became a partner and President of Gross Greenman Advertising, helping to build the firm into The Greenman Group, Inc., which, during its existence, was the nation's leading provider of residential marketing services to builders, developers and lenders. Bernie was a widely sought after public speaker on topics related to the homebuilding industry, a regular columnist for Builder magazine, and the author of two books on marketing.

Bernie was a founding member of Temple Solel in Hollywood, Florida and active in many religious, civic and philanthropic organizations throughout his life. He was a talented piano player who, without formal training, could play any song he heard by ear. In retirement, he enjoyed taking piano lessons and could often be found playing his beloved baby grand. Genealogy became another hobby of his, and he painstakingly tracked down his family tree, making contacts globally to do so.

Bernie will be remembered for his love of family and friends, his tireless work ethic, his dry sense of humor and quick wit, and his passion for life and learning.

Service and interment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice.