Richard Gershberg

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Richard Dean Gershberg (born July 1, 1968), on Sunday, December 18th. He died at home, surrounded by his loved ones, after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He is survived by his wife, Diana Liss; their daughter Avery Ursula Gershberg; his two brothers, Alec Gershberg and Nick Gershberg; his step-mother Raquel Gershberg; his nieces Carmen Celia Servon and Scarlet Liss; and his nephews Milo Servon and Owen Liss. He was predeceased by his parents Myron Gershberg and Naomi Leiter.

Throughout his life, Rich, a native New Yorker, was a thoughtful, creative, and artistic soul. His keen sense of humor and unconventional perspective always stood out, and colored whatever he did with a trademark flourish that was endearing, irreverent, and uniquely his own. An avid athlete and outdoorsman, Rich treasured travel, skiing, hiking, biking, canoeing, and kicking his heels up at the family cabin in Vermont. He often documented his excursions with stunning photography in which he took great pride -- images that endure as windows into his distinctive perspective.

Rich attended The Bank Street School for Children in Manhattan and The Harvey School in Katonah, NY. After studying theater arts at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Rich enrolled in the famed Actors Studio at the New School, graduating with an MFA and a specialty in directing. After working in the New York theater scene for some time, including productive periods with the New York Public Theater, he turned his attention to theatrical event technical production, and established himself as a talented and beloved member of his working community. He will be remembered as a tireless worker, ever dedicated to his team and his craft, who always sought to uplift and support those around him.

Never short on good advice, or a good wise crack, Rich gave his unvarnished truth. He met the challenges of life with intensity, persistence, and a wit that helped him enjoy life’s wonders, and that carried him through hardships and disappointment. An adoring father and loving husband, devoted brother and trustworthy friend, Rich will be profoundly missed by his family and community.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, January 28th, 2023, at the Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture (BSEC), located at 53 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215.

Donations can be made in his name to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, at pancan.org.