Don Soffer Obituary-Death News; South Florida Developer Donald Soffer Passes Away At 92
The real estate and development world is mourning the loss of Donald Soffer, a visionary developer and founder of Aventura, Florida, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 92 following a brief illness. Don Soffer’s name has long been synonymous with the transformation of South Florida’s landscape, but his journey began far from the palm trees and high-rises of Miami-Dade County. He was born in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, on September 20, 1932, into a working-class family rooted in the steel town traditions of Western Pennsylvania.
Soffer’s remarkable story is one of ambition, foresight, and perseverance. His father, Harold “Red” Soffer, was a successful steelworker turned real estate investor, which undoubtedly influenced Don’s early interest in business and development. After attending Brandeis University and later the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned his MBA, Soffer went on to work in his father’s real estate business. However, it would be his bold move to Florida that would cement his legacy as one of the most influential figures in American real estate development.
In the late 1960s, Don Soffer, alongside partner Arthur G. Cohen, purchased 785 acres of largely undeveloped swampland in North Miami-Dade County. At the time, few could have envisioned the transformation that was to come. Where others saw unusable marshland, Soffer saw the potential for something extraordinary. Through determination, strategic planning, and a keen understanding of luxury market trends, Soffer spearheaded the creation of what is now known as Aventura, a master-planned community that became a shining example of luxury living, fine shopping, and upscale urban development.
The crown jewel of his development vision was the creation of the Turnberry Isle Resort & Country Club, a project that helped shape Aventura into a destination synonymous with affluence, recreation, and world-class living. Under his leadership, Aventura grew into a thriving city known for its luxury condominiums, championship golf courses, marinas, and the renowned Aventura Mall, one of the largest and most successful shopping malls in the United States.
Throughout his decades-long career, Soffer remained a towering figure in South Florida’s development circles. He had an uncanny ability to anticipate market trends and build properties that catered to the evolving demands of affluent buyers. His work not only changed the physical landscape of Florida but also boosted the region’s economy, bringing jobs, tourism, and investment.
Though he became a prominent figure in Florida, Soffer never forgot his roots in Duquesne, Pennsylvania. He often spoke about the values of hard work, resilience, and community he learned growing up there — values that guided his life and career.
Don Soffer’s impact extended beyond real estate. He was known for his philanthropy, supporting numerous charitable organizations, educational institutions, and cultural initiatives throughout his life. His generosity touched countless lives and further solidified his legacy as not just a builder of cities, but a builder of communities.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his family, particularly his children, including Jeffrey Soffer and Jackie Soffer, who have continued in their father’s footsteps, shaping South Florida’s skyline and luxury lifestyle offerings through their own successful ventures.
Donald Soffer’s vision, leadership, and contributions will be remembered for generations to come. He is survived by his family, including his beloved children and grandchildren, and by the city of Aventura itself — a living tribute to his extraordinary life and work. Funeral and memorial service details will be shared by the family in the coming days.
