Bennie Koretzky, hardware merchant, retailer dies at 96

BENNIE KORETZKY, a native New Orleanian who was both a hardware merchant and a retailer specializing in ceramics, died Wednesday, March 26, at East Jefferson General Hospital. He was 96.

For many years, Koretzky and his wife Ninnette (née Deiches) ran Bennie’s Hardware in the Carrollton area and Ninnette’s Ceramic Cottage on Metairie Road.

A World War II veteran, Koretzy served in the U. S. Army Air Corps and was stationed in India for the duration of the war. Following his return to the city, he opened up his hardware business. He was a past president of the Hardware Club. Among his many pursuits, he enjoyed traveling on the road in his recreation vehicles. After he retired, he would often travel as a fan in his RV to cheer LSU and the Saints on to victory.

Six years ago, Koretzky was was honored by Jefferson Parish on the occasion of his 90th birthday, with the designation of September 22, 2007 as “Bennie Koretzky Day in Jefferson Parish.”

He was pre-deceased by his wife and his son, David Koretzky. Survivors include his son, I. Harold Koretzky (Julie) and daughter-in-law Cheryl Penner Koretzky, a grandson, and two great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends attended the graveside services at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28 at Ahavas Shalom Cemetery, 4400 Elysian Fields. Rabbi David Polsky officiated.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the American Heart Association.