Martin J Friedman

Born on April 8, 1929, to Milton and Doris Friedman in Brooklyn, NY, Martin’s early years were spent in Kingston, where his family ran a grocery store. He worked there during his youth, learning the value of hard work and community. After graduating from Kingston High School in 1946, Martin pursued higher education at Syracuse University, earning his degree in 1950, followed by an MBA from NYU in 1964.

Martin’s career in marketing and advertising began humbly in the mailroom at Benton & Bowles Advertising Agency. His determination and talent saw him rise to Senior VP/Director at Dancer Fitzgerald Sample. He later founded New Product News, a monthly trade publication that for 40 years served as an essential resource for industry leaders, detailing the latest in food, beverage, and health and beauty products in the U.S.

In 1959, following a four-month world tour and his service in the Army during the Korean War, Martin met Pamela on a cruise from London to New York. They married and built a life together for almost 65 years, raising two sons, Mark (Valerie) and Adam (Heather), and were blessed with five grandchildren: Max (Charlotte), Alex, Rachel, Daniel, and Jenna.

Martin retired in 1974, fulfilling a dream of moving his family to the warmth of Florida, a place he cherished from childhood visits. He was predeceased by his younger sister Thelma and is survived by his sister Adele. As the patriarch of a large and loving family, Martin’s legacy endures through many cousins and loved ones.

Services will be held at Lakeside Memorial Park in Doral FL on Thursday, September 12, at 12:30pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either United Hatzalah or Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center in Martin’s honor.