- Edward J. Lewis
Edward J. "Eddie" Lewis (
May 30 ,1937 –November 30 ,2006 ) was a Pittsburgh businessman,philanthropist , andreal estate developer. After graduating from theWharton School at theUniversity of Pennsylvania , Lewis joined his father in several small real estate ventures, which quickly flourished into the multi-faceted real estate development corporation that isOxford Development Company .Among his accomplishments, Eddie Lewis is credited for developing the first two-story enclosed
shopping mall in theUnited States ,South Hills Village inPittsburgh, PA , and virtually conceptualizing the modern American regional shopping mall thereafter. Additionally, Lewis was instrumental in developing much of what has becomeAventura, FL , a city which he named, inSouth Florida , with developments includingAventura Mall ,Turnberry Isle , and numerous high-end residential projects. Lewis' achievements in commercial real estate span numerous states and range from spiraling urban skyscrapers to suburban retail centers.Despite keeping a low profile with the press, Lewis' famed
yacht "Monkey Business" became an internationally-known household name after a visit byPresident ial-hopefulGary Hart sunk his political campaign.Lewis was the Chairman of the Board of his family-owned company, which continues to be a prominent player in commercial and
residential real estate.Edward J. Lewis died on Thursday, November 30, 2006 from complications related to lung cancer. He is survived by his wife Anne and his children John, Cathy, Benjamin, and Andy.
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