Born on May 16, 1944, in Newark, David was the son of Eastern European immigrants and grew up steeped in the rich traditions of American Jewish life. A chess enthusiast, a master of brisket, and a man known for his wit and warmth, David embodied the values of family, heritage, and resilience.
David spent much of his youth and adult life vacationing in the Catskills—a region fondly known as the "Borscht Belt"—where Jewish families from across the Northeast would gather every summer to celebrate community, comedy, and culture. From childhood summers at the Brickman Hotel to later years bringing his own children to Grossinger’s, Kutsher’s, and other iconic resorts, David kept the spirit of those mountain retreats alive. He was often seen poolside, schmoozing with old friends, or leading a spirited game of Scrabble or mahjong with Deborah, his beloved wife of 55 years.
David and Deborah raised four children—Rachel, Eli, Miriam, and Jonah—instilling in them a love for storytelling, tzedakah (charity), and tradition. Holidays in the Grossinger home were a joyous blend of laughter, music, and heaping plates of kugel and challah, with David always at the head of the table, carving the turkey or telling a classic Catskills-style joke. Whether attending shul on High Holidays, cooking matzah ball soup from scratch, or capturing every family gathering with his ever-present camera, David was the glue that held generations together.
In his retirement, David found joy in quiet pleasures—fishing with his grandchildren, jazz piano at twilight, and even the occasional swim (much to everyone’s surprise). He leaves behind his wife Deborah, their children, and nine adoring grandchildren, each of whom knew “Zayde” as their biggest fan. David’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and the enduring rhythm of Jewish life—may his memory be for a blessing.
