Funeral Details

Dr. Louis Goldsmith, 96, passed away at home beside his beloved wife of 72 years, Rosalyn nee Yampolsky, 95, on March 5th. Dear father of Gerald (Laura) Goldsmith, Bryna (Allan) Towb, and the late Rabbi Aaron Goldsmith. Proud grandfather of Heather (Phil), Yitzy (Mimi), Shmuly, Paul (Liz), Chani (Shuky), Moshe (Shoshanna), Shula (Yehuda), Jenny (James), Rochel (Shira), and Amy (fiancé Scott). Adored great-grandfather of 14. Treasured brother of the late Jack (the late Helen) Goldsmith and brother-in-law of Bernice (the late Sam) Resnick and Marsha (the late Arthur) Godfrey. Fond uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Dr. Goldsmith, affectionately known as Dad, Grampa, and Lou, grew up in Toronto and received a traditional Jewish primary education. A summer job working in medical research instilled Lou with a passion for science and engineering. Lou pursued this passion at the University of Toronto, where he studied microbiology and biochemistry under the direction of Dr. Peter Joseph Moloney–an eminent scientist who was the first to purify insulin on a large scale. In 1955, under Dr. Moloney’s supervision, Lou completed a PhD researching insulin and heparin. Lou and Dr. Moloney enjoyed a close relationship for many decades. When Dr. Moloney’s daughter wrote a book reflecting on her father's life, she often referred to their tight-knit relationship.

In 1956, Lou and Rose moved with their young family to the United States. Lou worked as an industrial scientist, leading an accomplished career in chemical engineering at G. D. Searle. Lou’s work optimizing fermentation for Searle became the basis for the production of NutraSweet. His contributions to the field of artificial sweeteners are celebrated in the book Sweet Success.

Outside of work, Lou was a gifted hobby-woodworker and carpenter. He lovingly crafted custom furniture pieces for his family and community, including a Torah Ark for Solomon Schechter Middle School and a bespoke portable bookcase for every grandchild's 18th birthday. From 1997 to 2015, he built 10 bookcases, completing the final one at the age of 86!

Lou was strongly committed to lifelong learning and growth, staying physically and mentally active throughout his life. He walked 2 miles every morning, and then joined his wife for her own walk later in the day. Despite formally retiring in 1991, he continued to follow emerging research and was a proud member of the American Chemical Society for 70 years. He held an active role in his son Aaron's business, Transfer Master, into his 90’s. Lou was humble with regard to his own career, but he loved to share stories about his children’s and grandchildren's’ accomplishments. He would often independently research their fields of interest, to stay current with their pursuits.

Everyone who met Lou was instantly drawn to his sweet disposition and infectious smile. Wherever Lou went, he forged strong connections with friends and communities. Throughout their long marriage Lou cared for Rose in the most beautiful and loving manner, holding her hand through his last days. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals – Buffalo Grove Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com