A genuine Chelsea success story is Elliot Katzman’s trajectory.
Salem State University was where he completed his education, following his years at Shurtleff School and Chelsea High School. His formative years were spent in the Central Avenue housing development. He has since launched a dynamic career as a highly respected executive, establishing four highly successful companies.
As a general partner at Commonwealth Capital Ventures, Katzman remains active in the business sector.
At its Annual Community Breakfast on May 17 at the Bostonian Hotel, the Chabad of Merrimack Valley-Boston paid tribute to Katzman’s achievements, generosity, and kindness.
The occasion became especially meaningful because his father, Myer Katzman, a resident at the Cohen Florence Levine Estates Assisted Living, received recognition as well.
Among those attending to honor the former CHS track standout were Elliot’s longtime Chelsea friends Tom Faitel and Mike Zullo.
In his acceptance remarks, Katzman demonstrated characteristic humility, expressing gratitude to Jon Hirschtick, whose friendship has spanned 20 years.
He expressed appreciation for his wife, Donna (Frangiamone), whom he described as “the heart and soul of our family” and his high school sweetheart.
“fblikebutton_button” Katzman shared with the assembled crowd that filled the function hall: “If my mother were here, she would point out that from our first date, Donna gave me purpose and motivation to build a future together.”
Jack and Mary Frangiamone, Chelsea residents serving as his parents-in-law, were also recognized by Katzman, with the couple watching from the family table near the podium.
Katzman stated, “fblikebutton_button” “I couldn’t ask for better parents in-law.”
His children received acknowledgment as well—Matt, Dave, Katie, and Emily, his daughter-in-law. “fblikebutton_button” “I couldn’t be more proud of Matthew and david and the men they have become.”
Describing his father as “the man of the hour, the real honoree,” Katzman offered special praise for Myer.
He explained, “fblikebutton_button” “While I received a wonderful formal education, much of what I accomplished in life is the result of the love and support from my parents and grandparents, and special life lessons I received simply by observing my dad.”
“fblikebutton_button” “My father married Marilyn Rosenthal in 1955 and they settled in Chelsea. My father was a devoted husband and father. He has always been a dedicated father to my brother [Scott] and me.”
Elliot recounted his father’s career at Revere Smoked Fish, which subsequently became Sealect Foods, where Myer worked for more than 50 years. The guests learned of the considerable respect Myer commanded among his customers.
“fblikebutton_button” Katzman stated, “Today my father is thriving at the Leonard Florence Assisted Living. He says it’s the nicest place he ever lived. There are recreation activities and the staff makes him feel special and respected. I want to thank Barry Berman and Shelly and her husbad, Jimmy, and Kate Kelly, his nurse practitioner for the wonderful work they do.”
Myer Katzman approached the podium to a standing ovation and an embrace from his son Elliot.
“fblikebutton_button” Mr. Katzman declared, “I love my sons, Elliot and Scott, very much and I am very proud of them. They both married wonderful women, Donna and Robin, and they gave me four grandchildren.I have much nachas, which is Yiddish, and means I am very lucky.”
“fblikebutton_button” Mr. Katzman also expressed his appreciation to “the people at the Assisted Living for everything you do.”
The profound honor bestowed upon both father and son left Mr. Katzman visibly moved on this significant occasion.
Mike Zullo, Elliot’s friend and former classmate, remarked, “wp-caption alignright” “This was a deserving tribute to two outstanding individuals. I feel fortunate to be here today on such a happy occasion. I’m proud of Elliot for all his accomplishments in life and the fact that he has never forgotten his Chelsea roots.”
Elliot Katzman embraces his father, Myer, as they receive a standing ovation from the many guests at the breakfast.