Eugene Melvin Gilenson

The son of Russian and Polish immigrants, he was born in Newark, NJ and raised in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, where his parents taught him the values of hard work, integrity, and service. His father, Harry, while not a religious man, was interested in Yiddish culture (“Yiddishkeit”), which became an important part of his life and his sense of humor. To further his Jewish identity he taught himself to read Hebrew. And though from Brooklyn, he became a life-long Yankees fan.

He earned a BS from Brooklyn College, and an MBA from New York University’s Graduate School of Business Administration which he attended on the GI Bill. While finalizing his MBA thesis, he met his wife, Barbara, who was studying for her MA at Brooklyn College. They enjoyed a loving, lifelong partnership of 61 years.

Prior to earning his MBA, he was drafted into the US Army at the tail end of the Korean War. Having passed a language competency test, he was posted to Germany and Metz, France, as a linguist in the Army’s supply chain to support aviation efforts. In addition to his prescribed duties, he also helped his unit’s softball team to the championship.

His working career began modestly, and he ultimately reached the level of corporate executive. Following his business career he shared his deep knowledge as an adjunct professor of business at Adelphi, Hofstra, and Nassau Community College. He was also active in public service, serving on the local PTA, as Mayor and Trustee of the Village of Russell Gardens in Great Neck, and helped establish Great Neck’s Auxiliary Police force.

In his limited free time he enjoyed playing tennis, fly-fishing, and biking. He loved socializing with friends and was known as a great “punster.”

He was always selfless and generous in his support of anyone who came to him in need of help or guidance. He was firm in instilling values by way-of-example. He was a modest man who never sought the spotlight but always took quiet pride in his family’s achievements and successes.

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara, and by his children Hugh, and Hal, his daughter-in-law, Amy, and his grandchildren, Ian and Alex.

For those wishing to make a donation in his memory, please contribute to the charity of your choice, or consider NYU’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center or one of the following, which he regularly supported over the years: American Cancer Society American Heart Association St. Jude Children's Hospital Wounded Warrior Project

Please see direct links for donation information below.