Gilbert Blum

Gilbert Blum of North Hills, NY passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 19, 2021. He was 95 years old. Gil was married to the love of his life, Sondra, for 66 years. His family, including four children and their spouses, six grandchildren and their spouses/significant others, two great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews are heartbroken by the loss of the patriarch of their family.

At an early age, Gil had chosen to build a life serving and bettering the lives of others. He loved being an educator. When he became a high school principal (Carey HS 1964-1969; Great Neck South HS 1969-1992) he was honored to have the opportunity to lead and mentor others. Throughout his career, Gil received many accolades and awards, but more important to him were the relationships he had with his colleagues, many of which continued until his death.

Gil’s friends were an essential part of his life and he treated each of them, old and new, the same, as if they were part of his family. Spending time with friends and being around people brought Gil boundless joy.

Gil took great pride in his service to his country as a WWII veteran. Becoming involved with Honor Flight became a central part of Gil’s later years. He loved being part of an organization that gives Veterans the opportunity to visit the memorials built in their honor, in Washington D.C. Over the years, Gil attended many events related to Honor Flight.

Gil also visited local schools on Long Island around Veteran’s Day to share his wartime experiences with students. This became a favorite annual event for him, as he was back in the educational environment he loved.

In 2018 Gil, Sondra, and three of their grandchildren had the privilege of travelling to Germany, primarily to return to Nordhausen, the concentration camp that Gil helped liberate. His Honor Flight friends, along with a film crew, documented the experience. Just two weeks ago, Gil, Sondra, and many of their family and friends gathered to attend a preview of the film “Aftermath”. Part of “Aftermath” highlights various interviews of Gil. A segment specifically dedicated to his return to Nordhausen is also included. This special event truly touched each person in attendance.

All who knew Gil were fortunate to have such a kind and loving man in their lives. He loved fully and unconditionally. He always said that he was “Born Under A Lucky Star”. In his book of remembrances with that title, Gil wrote that each day begins and ends with Sondra in his mind, his beautiful wife (BW) and life partner.

A private service will be held on Friday, December 3, 2021.

Donations in Gil’s honor can be made to Mission Margraten Plus, via text or through the mail. Please specify that your donation is in remembrance of Gil Blum.

Text: WW2GO to 243725

Mailing Address:

Mission Margraten Plus

C/O Roger Kilfoil

303 DeGraw Street

Brooklyn, NY 11231

If you would like information about Mission Margraten Plus, please go to

https://www.missionmargratenplus.org/about-us-the-purpose.html