Harold Ewen

Harold Ewen, 91, of Tampa, FL, passed away on July 4, 2024.

Harold was born in Frankfurt, Germany, on January 24, 1933, the son of Sigmund and Fanny Ewen. He and his family moved to the United States in 1937, where they passed through Ellis Island and lived for a year in New York City before settling in Indianapolis, IN.

Harold Ewen graduated with his undergraduate degree from Butler University and served in the army after graduation. He earned a Doctor of Law from Indiana University in Indianapolis.

Harold married Carole Michelson on September 27, 1970. They spent nearly 54 years chatting and laughing together. The couple moved to New York City at the beginning of their marriage, and then to the Chicago area.

In 1982, Harold and his family moved to Tampa for his role as the President, and later Vice Chair, of Communications Equity Associates. He worked there until his retirement at age 84. Harold was a founding member of the cable television industry and was inducted as a member of the Cable TV Pioneers in the Class of 1979.

Harold was a prodigious reader, a wonderful storyteller, a smart dresser, and an avid golfer. He made a mean guacamole and was always happy to share his recipe when it was requested.

Harold had kind eyes and laughed easily and often. His warmth, charm, and delightfully sharp sense of humor made him a favorite of everyone who met him. Harold traveled far and wide in his work, from small towns in the rural South to Singapore, and no matter the situation, he never met a stranger. He was happy to share the wisdom he gleaned over his career and life with anyone who asked, and treated everyone he met with respect, kindness, and dignity.

Among all his successes throughout his 91.5 years, Harold’s greatest achievement was his family, whom he adored beyond measure. His second greatest achievement was the time a congregant at his synagogue told him that he had a lovely singing voice.

Harold is survived by his wife, Carole Ewen, son, Joshua Ewen, daughter, Sara Laine Ewen, son-in-law, Patrick Combs, and grandson, Jack Combs, as well as his sister Esther Fogle, and his six nieces.

Memorial donations in Harold Ewen’s memory may be directed to the National Casa Association for Children, Magen David Adom, or to any charity that honors his legacy of kindness.