Robert C. Spodick, Honored Life Member of The National Association of Movie Pioneers, died at Gaylord Hospital Milne Pavilion in Stratford on December 22, 2009, at the age of 90.
Born and educated in New York City, he began his business career working for Lowe’s Theatres, while attending City College of New York. In 1945, he began a lifetime partnership with first cousin, Leonard E. Sampson, when they acquired The Lincoln Theatre, New Haven Art House. Subsequently, they operated many theatres in New Haven County, Fairfield County, and later, New London County. Past President and Lifetime Honoree of C.A.T.O. (Connecticut Association of Theatre Owners), he was active in community life, serving on the Board of Temple Mishkan Israel, Common Cause, and the Connecticut Civil Liberties Union, among others. Mr. Spodick retired in 2006, when he closed the York Square Cinemas in New Haven.

Survivors include his wife, Pearl; and five children, sons, Michael, Peter, Russell, Edward; daughter, Rebecca; two daughters-in-law, Maria Elena and Ilana; and two sons-in-law, Echo Kwong and Anthony K. Mentzer; nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Published in Connecticut Post on Dec. 27, 2009.