Obituary of Mark David Luftig

It is with enormous sadness that the family of Mark Luftig announces his death on May 1 at the age of 83 in Chapel Hill, NC.  Mark was an exceptional man who led an exemplary life. He brought joy and happiness to so many, especially to his wife and family.

Born in the Bronx, New York, and graduating from Bronx High School of Science, Mark received three degrees from Columbia University in New York: an AB in Economics 1958, a BS degree in Business 1961 and a J.D. from Columbia Law School 1962.

Retiring in 2004, his career spanned both law and investment banking, being a partner in the investment banking firm W. H. Reaves and Co from 1995 – 2004, Senior Vice President and Director of financial research at Kemper Securities 1992 – 1994, Vice President National Economic Research Associates 1989 – 1992, Director of Research and Analyst Salomon Brothers 1975-1987.

His earlier career included being General Attorney for Rates and Regulatory Matters for the New York Telephone Company 1968 -1975 and a private law practice in New York City from 1962 – 1968.

Mark loved travel and adventure. He and his wife Linda avidly explored the world together. He had an irreverent sense of humor and always had a twinkle in his eye. He was a math wizard. He could mentally compute faster than you could on a calculator. He had a positive outlook, no matter how grim the situation. He gave back to the community by serving on numerous nonprofit boards and volunteered his time as a volunteer tax preparer for people in need. And oh, did he LOVE to play poker.

Mark cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Stryker-Luftig, daughters Lisa Zimmerman [son-in-law Mark Zimmerman and granddaughter Alana Zimmerman]  and Jill Campbell [son-in-law Patrick Campbell and granddaughter Alexandra Campell], step daughters Wendy Stryker [son-in-law Richard Robbins and granddaughters Ava and Ella Stryker-Robbins], Beth Stryker [son-in-law Hussein Saddique and granddaughter Lara Saddique], and Jo Stryker [son-in-law Ivan Rasnik, and granddaughters Isadora, Maia and Nina Rasnik-Stryker].

A private funeral service for family only will be held at Walker’s Funeral Home in Chapel Hill, NC on May 3. A Memorial service will be held at the Cedars of Chapel Hill at a later date. Memorial donations in Mark’s name may be made to the Chelsea Art Theater, 1129 Weaver Dairy Rd. Suite AB, Chapel Hill, 27514.

Walker's Funeral Home in Chapel Hill is assisting the family.