After graduating Fortier High School, he attended Tulane University and later moved from New Orleans to Houston, Texas with his parents and siblings. Reiner’s Fine Jewelry opened in February of 1945. Reiner’s was located downtown for over 50 years before moving to current location on Westheimer. Irvin was dedicated to Reiner’s Fine Jewelry and made his passion his business. He never worked a day in his life. The store was Irvin’s stage; you could find him holding court in his special chair until his final months. The only thing he loved more than his business was his loving family.
Irvin is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 43 years, Olivia Reiner and his children, Steven Reiner and wife Cindy; Howard Reiner and wife Abigail; Bert Reiner and wife Meredith; and nephew Lenny Reiner. He took great love and pride in helping raise Moses Reiner, Gary Avila, Elisa Reiner, and Keiry Reiner. Irvin was a proud grandfather to numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He looked forward to the conclusion of High Holy Day services with the blowing of the shofar with his granddaughters, Ashley and Brittany Reiner and his youngest grandchildren, Madeline and Nathan Reiner. He was a loving son and a selfless brother. He took exceptional care of his entire family, especially his parents and his ailing siblings until their passing.
Irvin loved his religion, family, a perfectly cooked steak, a fine glass of scotch, horse racing, and traveling. He traveled all over the world but there was no place like New York City to him; he loved every single trip he took to the city. Irvin never met a stranger and was a friend to all. He had a big heart, enjoyed helping others and was known to employ an honest man for an honest day’s work. On one occasion, he employed a walk-in off the street. Irvin was charismatic, witty, and had an infectious laugh. He will be remembered for his sincere generosity, wonderful sense of humor, exceptional wisdom, and his unique ability to tell you what you needed to hear with such a loving tone. He was proud of his lifelong membership of Arabia Shriners Mason Lodge. Irvin leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, leadership, and a superior work ethic.
Our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Elisa Reiner who stayed with Irvin Reiner in the hospital and at home with him throughout the Coronavirus lockdown providing around the clock care.
In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that donations be made to Shriners Hospital for Children.
Please share your remembrances of Irvin and messages of condolence below.
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Shriners Hospital for Children6977 Main St., Houston, Texas 77030
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