OBITUARY

Murray Levin

Name: Babione Funeral Home
Address: Boca Raton, FL

February 28, 1928 – August 10, 2026

IN THE CARE OF

Babione Funeral Home

Murray Levin, 98, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 10, 2026, at his home in Boca Raton, Florida, where he lived for nearly 50 years. Born on February 28, 1928, in The Bronx, New York, Murray lived a remarkable life defined by family, service, achievement, generosity, and an enduring passion for weightlifting and philanthropy.

Murray proudly served his country as a World War II veteran in the United States Navy, serving as a Naval Destroyer Radio Operator. Following his military service, he built a successful career as a stockbroker. His lifelong commitment to the sport of weightlifting became another defining part of his life. Murray founded the Women's Weightlifting Federation and not only served as head of that organization but also President of the North American and Pan American Weightlifting Federations. . He was later inducted into the Weightlifting Hall of Fame in recognition of his significant contributions to the sport, the athletes and organizations he supported. Murray was an ambassador of the United States representing the worldwide Olympic committee as a judge and was himself a lifter in the USA Weightlifting Masters. Through this leadership and dedication, he made lasting contributions to the sport of weightlifting and to the athletes and organizations he supported. He was respected and admired by numerous countries and dignitaries throughout the world. Murray leaves behind an extraordinary legacy.

Murray was also a passionate philanthropist. He was the Founder, President, and CEO of the Saul & Theresa Esman Foundation (SATEF), established in honor of his close friends, Saul and Theresa Esman. Over the course of 15 years, SATEF awarded more than $15 million to over 30 charitable organizations, reflecting Murray's deep belief in helping others and strengthening the communities around him. Murray was an icon to many and a person who made the world a better place simply by being in it. He was always charitable and ready to help those in need, with a special emphasis on supporting children and children's charities. His generosity was not simply measured by the millions of dollars he gave, but by the lives he touched, the organizations he strengthened, and the hope he helped provide to countless people.

Beyond his monetary contributions, Murray was deeply engaged in his community. He brought joy to children during the holidays by dressing up as Santa Claus, purchased canes and sweaters for kids in need, and even donated his own bone marrow to save lives. A devoted supporter of Hispanic causes, he personally delivered food and medicine to people in need in Venezuela and Cuba. He also loved sharing the benefits of shark oil with the medical community and with all of his friends and family. His passion, determination, humor, and enthusiasm for life shone through in every cause he championed, in the many lives he touched, and in his wide-ranging personal interests — Civil War and American history, flamenco dancing, classic movies, dog rescue, and global travel.

Murray was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary L. Levin, who passed away three years ago; his parents, Fannie and Joseph Levin; and his sister, Miriam Drew Wayne. He is survived by his son Steven Levin and daughter Linda Forrester, as well as their families and the many relatives who loved him dearly. Steven's family includes his wife Joanne Levin and their sons Steven Christopher Levin and Erik Matthew Levin. Steven Christopher is married to Bryna Blank, and they are the parents of Brandon Levin, who is married to Jackie Levin. Linda's family includes her husband John Gerard Forrester II and their daughter, Mandy Fay Forrester, who is married to George Bernard Wald. Linda and John's two sons are John Gerard Forrester III and Bradley Murray Forrester. Bradley is married to Raquel Isabel Olivieri, and they are the parents of Rachael Lynn Forrester. Murray is also survived by his sister-in-law, Aida Seitz - widow of the late Joe Seitz - and their children, Joseph Seitz and Lisa Pearson. Lisa's husband is Mark Pearson, and their children are Cameron Pearson, married to Emma Pearson; and Danielle Smith, married to Andrew Smith. Danielle and Andrew are the parents of Luke Noah Smith.

Murray's life was long, accomplished, and generous. He leaves behind a loving family, lifelong friends, and a legacy of service and philanthropy that will continue through the people and organizations he supported.

The world was truly a better place because Murray Levin was in it. His generosity, compassion, determination, and commitment to helping others will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who benefited from his kindness. His memory will be cherished, and his legacy of giving will live on through the many lives he touched.

Charitable Donations in His Memory:

Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation- donate.brrh.com

Camp Boggy Creek- campboggycreek.org

Center for Child Counseling-centerforchildcounseling.org

Crohn's & Colitis Foundation- Southern FL Chapter crohnscolitisfoundation.org

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation- Florida Chapter- ccf.org

Florida International University- fiu.edu

Friendship House- bocafriendship.com

Golden Bell Education Foundation- goldenbelleducationfoundation.org

Intntl WAGR Syndrome Assoc- wagr.org

Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Foundation- mhs.net

Miami Lighthouse for the Blind & Visually Impaired- miamilighthouse.org