Robert C.  Spodick, Honored Life Member of The National Association of Movie Pioneers died at Gaylord Hospital Milne Pavilion in Stratford, Connecticut, 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 5 children; sons Michael, Peter, Russell, Edward, daughter Rebecca, 2 daughters-in-law Maria Elena and Ilana, and 2 sons-in-law Echo Kwong and Anthony K.  Mentzer, 9 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be held Thursday, 11: am at Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden. The interment will be in the Mishkan Israel Cemetery, Jewell St., New Haven. Memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Mishkan Israel, Gaylord Hospital, or your favorite charity. Period of mourning will be observed at the Spodick residence, 108B Seminole La., Oronoque Village, Stratford.