Milton J. Sondell, renowned dentist, loving husband, caring father and brother, doting grandfather, died of natural causes Sunday 23, 2001 in Palm Beach, Florida. He was 89. After returning from WWII, where he was a Major in the U.S. Army Dental Corps. stationed in the Fiji Islands, Milton spent the next 41 years of his life in Chicago. He raised a family of three, Sue, Jim and Jill, on the South Side with his beloved wife Judith Weiler (deceased), built a successful dental practice, and was an active member of the community. Milton graduated with a B.A. in Philosophy from the University of Illinois in 1935 and received his D.D.S. from Northwestern University in 1940. Dr. Sondell concentrated his dental practice on reconstructive dentistry and TMJ problems. Colleagues from across the country often referred difficult cases to him after other treatments had failed. Milton was a Fellow of the International College of Dentists and the recipient of many other honors during his career. He was very active in Alpha Omega dental fraternity and was involved in the creation of the first dental school in Israel. He gave back to Chicago both professionally and personally. He spent many years mentoring dental interns at Michael Reese Hospital. He also spent his time as a Cub Scout pack leader and was active at the South Shore Temple and the B’nai Brith. Milt’s later years were blessed by his second marriage of 16 years to Jeanne Shapiro, formerly of Massachusetts. They resided in Cape Cod and Palm Beach, Florida. Milton pursued an interest in art and sculpture. He left his family with many creative works. Throughout his life Milton’s love for his wives, children, grandchildren, family and friends could always be measured by the twinkle in his eyes. Besides his wife, Jeanne, survivors include sister Bess Epton Kulwin of Skokie; daughters Sue Safir (Robert H. Olson) of Lansing, MI and Jill Koidin (Michael) of Swampscott, MA; a son, Jim (Jackie) of Northbrook, IL; four grandchildren, Joel Safir, Jason Sondell (Sandy), Matt Koidin and Elyssa Koidin; and beloved nieces and nephews. A memorial service was held in Palm Beach, Florida. Family and friends who wish to pay their respects may do so at the home of Jackie and Jim Sondell on Sunday, September 30, 2001 between 4 to 6 p.m. Further information call 800-947-4256. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Alpha Omega Foundation, 500 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15068-7573.
