Selma Baum's Obituary
Selma Baum, age 94 of Lantana, FL, previously of Palm Beach and North Woodmere, NY died on June 30, 2018. She was born in Brooklyn, the youngest child of Samuel N. and Tillie Goldman. In 1945 she met Milton Baum, still in the Army and jaundiced from malarial medication. They fell in love and married in January, 1947, and remained married for 71 years.
Selma rose through the ranks of the working world at a time when most women remained homemakers. As her younger child was entering high school, Selma re-entered the workforce two afternoons a week, working for the local Gimbels. Within 18 months she was an executive at the corporate office. From Gimbels she was recruited to Saks Fifth Avenue where she was Director of Customer Relations. In that position she successfully championed the implementation of effective service measurements for customer service personnel and a merchandise quality assurance program; the name Saks Fifth Avenue had to be synonymous with unparalleled service–the kind her customers had every right to expect and deserved. Her reputation spread quickly. An affable, friendly and supportive colleague, she frequently shared the lessons learned in the rough and tumble world of retail with those professionals just beginning service programs in other industries. She was recognized by positions in, and awards from, numerous regional and national professional organizations including presidency of the NY Metropolitan chapter of the Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals (SOCAP) and invitations to appear on television and radio and to speak in the U.S. and abroad. She appeared in “Who’s Who of American Women” and “Who’s Who in Professional and Executive Women”.
Selma and Milton brought up their two children in Lynbrook and North Woodmere, NY and moved to Palm Beach following her retirement.
Selma is survived by her husband Milton, children Dr. Victor Baum (Dr. Lora Baum) of Charlottesville, VA and Dr. Cynthia Baum-Baicker (Mark Baicker) of Carversville, PA and four grandchildren, Emily and Sophie Baum and Sarah and Daniel Baicker.
Selma was the classiest person any of us ever knew. She defined the word class in a way that was a constant example for her children and grandchildren, who continue to aspire to be nearly as impressive.
The funeral will be held at Eternal Light Memorial Gardens, 11520 State Road #7, Boynton Beach on Tuesday, July 3, 11:30 am.
Donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
What’s your fondest memory of Selma?
What’s a lesson you learned from Selma?
Share a story where Selma's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Selma you’ll never forget.
How did Selma make you smile?