PROMINENT REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER AND PHILANTHROPIST SIDNEY ESKENAZI DIES AT 95

PROMINENT REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER AND PHILANTHROPIST SIDNEY ESKENAZI DIES AT 95


Indianapolis, Indiana — Renowned real estate developer and philanthropist Sidney David Eskenazi has died at the age of 95.

Eskenazi passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at his residences in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. His death comes just weeks after the passing of his wife of more than seven decades, Lois Eskenazi, who died on January 4, 2026.

Widely respected in business and civic circles, Eskenazi built a distinguished career in real estate while dedicating significant resources to philanthropy, particularly in the areas of public health, education and the arts. Alongside his wife, he made a landmark $40 million donation toward the construction of the Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital in Indianapolis — a gift regarded as one of the largest private donations ever made to a public hospital in the United States.

Born on March 25, 1930, in Indianapolis, Eskenazi grew up on the city’s south side during the Great Depression. He later attended Indiana University, earning both undergraduate and law degrees. After completing his education, he embarked on a real estate career that included the development of numerous retail shopping centers, including K-Mart locations, and the founding of Sandor Development Company, which expanded to hold properties across 26 U.S. states.

Beyond his business achievements, Eskenazi was widely admired for his philanthropic vision. He and his wife provided extensive support to Indiana University, including major endowments for the Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art and the Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design. The couple also funded scholarship programs, including law school scholarships aimed at assisting students beyond traditional academic rankings.

Family members have said Sidney and Lois Eskenazi met while they were students at Indiana University and shared a lifelong partnership rooted in service, generosity and community impact. Their combined legacy continues to shape healthcare delivery, educational opportunities and cultural institutions across central Indiana.

Sidney Eskenazi is survived by his three children — Sandra Eskenazi, Dori Meyers and David Eskenazi — as well as his grandchildren and extended family.

Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, with interment to follow at Etz Chaim Cemetery.


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