Howard Ganek

Howard Ganek, beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle, and friend to many, died suddenly and peacefully on Thursday, November 17 at the age of 92. Howard was a man of honor and dignity, deeply respected by all who met him in the various facets of this life. Known for his dapper style, Howard loved life. Those who were lucky enough to know him are probably still hearing his boisterous laugh.

Howard enjoyed most of all spending time with friends and family. He was always interested in how and what the kids – everyone’s kids – were doing. He was there to provide advice bringing his decades of experience and perspective to provide counsel to both young and old, and was always open-minded.

Howard worked at Neuberger Berman for over 40 years, starting in 1972. He retired in 2010 and remained engaged as a retired Partner. Howard was beloved by all of his colleagues, and they were added to his vast collection of friends. He was universally respected and admired. Wall Street can be a rough-elbowed place, but Howard was always a gentleman and peacemaker.

Howard held a lifelong commitment to the Jewish experience and the history of the Jewish people. He and Judie were activists in tikkun olam, “repair of the world”. They were involved in the Soviet Jewry movement, assisting refuseniks. He participated actively in the Wall Street division of UJA, the Educational Alliance and the Parker Institute for Healthcare and Rehabilitation. One of his greatest honors was serving on the United States Holocaust Memorial Council by appointment of then President George W Bush. He also served as a National Co-Chair of the Museum’s National Campaign Committee

Howard was an avid collector and supporter of contemporary art, appreciating all medium – photo, sculpture, ceramics, painting – learning this appreciation from his mentor Roy Neuberger. His love of art started as a child, attending Saturday classes at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. He most recently served on the Board of Trustees of the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach where he and Judie were recently honored for gifting more than 100 works from their collection.

Howard enjoyed his time reading at least 4 newspapers a day. He loved to travel the world. He enjoyed playing tennis and golf in his prime but was also an avid fan of team sports. He was of that rare breed who cheered for both the New York Giants and Boston Red Sox but offended no one.

Howard was blessed with devoted caregivers that are family: Allison, Luki, Jamie, Jose, and Nicole

Howard is survived his loving family; his wife Judie of 61 years, children Tori (Chris), David (Danielle), grandchildren Oliver, Audrey, Harry, Nicky, Zoe, nieces Jackie (Peter), Debbie (Brett), and grand nephews and niece Tyler, Jared, Ashley, Reid.