Dr. Irving J. Edelman March 25, 1921 – March 19, 2012 Dr. Irving J. Edelman, a leading innovator in education for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools from 1947–1990, has passed away. A native of Cleveland, OH, Irv graduated from his beloved Duke University with an AB in 1943 and an MA in 1947, both in History. He received his Ed.D. from UNC-CH in 1991. Irv served during WWII in the US Army from 1943-1946 with the 197th Anti-Aircraft Artillery group. He saw combat in New Guinea and the Philippines. Irv was teacher and mentor to countless students and staff, and coach to athletes in basketball, football, baseball and track during his 43 year career with CMS. In 1963 as a part time coach, Irv established the UNCC 49ers basketball program. He led the then Charlotte College team to the Suncoast Classic Tournament Title in 1964 and the Dixie Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championship in 1965, after which he was named the Conference Basketball Coach of the Year. Irv launched the country’s 1st ongoing news broadcast for the classroom via educational TV, directed the state’s 1st advanced placement program, established CMS’s 1st humanities program and co-chaired the noted Jefferson Convocation Series. He was distinguished for his leadership integrating the CMS schools in 1957. A classically trained pianist, Irv’s great loves were his family, friends, music, history, sports and Duke University. A lifelong learner himself, Irv constantly strove to broaden and nurture the intellect of all those close to him. Irv is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ruth, and his children, Samuel Edelman, Susan Edelman, Becky Ford and Stacey Flur. The family has established a tribute website at: www.irvingedelman.muchloved.com. Friends and family are welcome to share their personal stories of Irv and take comfort in the collective loss of a man who inspired us all. Please direct memorial donations to: Temple Ohev Shalom, P.O. Box 46155 Tampa, FL 33646-0102, (813) 632-9900 Operation Smile, https://secure.operationsmile.org 888-377-2289