David Maltz, 60

David Maltz, left, and his son, Richard, at Maltz Auctions.

Courtesy Maltz Auctions

David R. Maltz, who started an auction company in his parents’ Valley Stream home that grew to be worth more than $100 million, died of leukemia at his home in Woodbury on Dec. 21. He was 60.

Maltz was born in Brooklyn on Dec. 24, 1954, to Maurice and Shirley Maltz. He graduated from Valley Stream North High School in 1973 and earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing and business administration from the New York Institute of Technology.

Maltz’s son, Richard, 32, president of Maltz Auctions, described his father as “the life of the party” and “a true family man.” He said that getting the business started in Valley Stream was a long and grueling process for his father. “It took a lot to take even small steps in increasing business,” he said.

Maltz founded the company in 1979, calling it David R. Maltz & Co. He transformed the company into the nationally distinguished, full service firm it is today by bringing every class of asset to public auction. Many who were close to him said that Maltz was incredibly focused, and was often motivated by a hardnosed counselor he had in high school.

“He spoke about how his guidance counselor called his parents for a meeting at school to suggest they send him to trade school,” Richard said, adding that the counselor said he would “never amount to anything.”

“He had extreme confidence and comfort knowing I would continue to expand the empire he founded,” Richard said.

Rick Stern, a longtime friend, met Maltz through the auction business — which Maltz was gifted at conducting — and noticed his devotion to his wife and children.

“His commitment to his family was unbelievable,” Stern said.