OBITUARY
Scott Owen Epstein
December 23, 1949 – December 27, 2013
Media man, professional wrestling agent and talent booker Scott Epstein of Oceanside, known to all as "M.A.C.H.O." died in an automobile accident on Friday, December 27th, 2013, 4 days after his 64th birthday. Epstein was responding to an emergency at the home of his children in Hewlett at approximately 1AM when his car turned over on a curved road. Doug Torbor, Ex-Captain of the East Rockaway Volunteer Fire Department told News 12 Long Island that accidents occur frequently at the crash location. He stated further that for over 30 years he has worked on victims that have been severely injured or killed as the result of multiple one-car accidents at that location on Main Street near the Hewlett/East Rockaway border. Epstein made his mark in the wrestling and body building communities as a published author, editor, photographer and respected promoter. His father-in-law, fitness pioneer Dan Lurie (who pre-deceased him by 7 weeks), gave him his start as Editor and Chief of Muscle Training Illustrated Magazine. Together, they then launched Wrestling Training Illustrated and many other genre publications. Epstein blazed a path in the industry during the 1970's and 80's, developing and setting trends that continue to this day. Along with writers/photographers George Napolitano, Bill Apter, and Frank Amato, Epstein was named one of the "Four Horseman": the only people allowed to take photos ringside at WWF/WWE Madison Square Garden events. During this era Epstein became a fixture on the pro bodybuilding and wrestling circuit forging indelible ties between the two industries. Remarkably, Scott balanced his role in wrestling entertainment while maintaining a teaching career in New York CIty for over 30 years. He officially retired in 2002 after working primarily in Far Rockaway and other Queens areas as a teacher and Asst. Principal.
Since his retirement in 2002 Epstein was a beloved and constant fixture on the celebrity and fan fest circuit of autograph signings at huge events such as Wizard World and ComicCon. Universally he was admired in the industry as a man with a heart of gold who "could be trusted with other peoples money". Macho looked out for everyone. He was “the man in the suit”, known for his striking smile, big mustache, flamboyant style and raspy voice. In 2008, Epstein was a consultant on the Academy Award nominated film "The Wrestler" produced by Darren Aronofsky and he can be seen in in a cameo role in the movie. He frequently appeared at events with iconic wrestlers including Superstar Billy Graham, Tony Atlas, Bob Backlund, Superfly Jimmy Snukka, Seargent Slaughter, Greg the Hammer Valentine, Terry Funk, The Iron Sheik, and Hulk Hogan.
For the last 30 years MACHO was an icon of Coleman Country Day Camp in Merrick, NY, volunteering with children as a certified Challenge Course Instructor empowering children to go outside their comfort zones to build their self esteem and personal power. He was famous for his "leap of faith", diving several stories off the rock climbing wall, suspended by a harness and ropes. As MACHO-MAN (a nickname he first borrowed in jest from his buddy Randy Savage) he inspired generations of campers using the acronym for M.A.C.H.O. "My Actions Can Help Others". Though it is customary for people "in the program" to remain anonymous, Scott spoke for decades against the use of drugs and alcohol. Epstein was a proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous, who maintained his sobriety for more than 30 years. At times, he served as director of youth groups at Temple Israel in Lawrence, Hewlett-East Rockaway Jewish Center and South Baldwin Jewish Center where he mentored teenagers. Scott was the Public Relations Director for "We're Kickin' It" a national campaign to end bullying across America. Inspired by his friend "Superstar" Billy Graham Macho was a passionate advocate for organ donation.
The stunning impact he had on others can be seen in the thousands of posts on all social media sites. Heartbroken, Epstein's wife and children say the outpouring of love and support expressed on line has been uplifting for the family. The common theme of support, trust, and tireless energy can be read in every line written about Scott by his clients and friends including famed WWE announcer Howard Finkel, Sean "Xpac" Waltman, Matt Hardy, Diamond Dallas Page, Bruno Sammartino, Baywatch star Brande Roderick, Gregory "Sugar" Shane Helms, Andrew "The Reinforcer" Anderson, Traci Brookes, Jay Lethal, Mick Fowly, Alicia Nicole aka Ryan Shamrock, Kevin Nash, Actor Jose Hernandez Jr, Brutus The Barber Beefcake and many others. Epstein is survived by his wife Ash Mills-Epstein, his three children Ian, Cary and Ilissa, his step children Jennifer and Schuyler (wife Valerie), his grandchildren Tristan & Ryland Mills & Brittany and Kaylee Belcher. Scott's ex-wife Shelly Lurie is also grieving his loss. He is survived by his mentor and Uncle Hal Margulies and Aunt Anita Margulies, Aunts Ida Levine, and Marion Margulies. Scott's many cousins will miss his daily phone calls. Scott's children follow in his footsteps in the fields of entertainment, education, camping, and volunteer work. The entire family is inspired by Scott to live passionately and carry his legacy forward by doing as much for others as he did.
Services
- Memorial Service Sunday, January 5, 2014
REMEMBERING
Scott Owen Epstein
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RECEIVE UPDATESAlexander Ortiz
January 14, 2015
Mr. Epstein,
I had to take a moment to think back to how you shaped and influenced lives during my time at PS43. I remember way back to kindergarten when the second graders pushed down a mobile volleyball pole. Somehow everyone agreed to blame the kindergarten since we wouldn't get punished. Little did we know that day your lesson plan was to demonstrate tough love. We had to sit and watch the others play with the rainbow parachute. This seems so surreal. Reading the comments before mine just tell me how much you loved during your time with us. We can only hope to emulate that lifestyle.
anonymous
February 26, 2014
MACHO,
Thank you for everything brother. You saved my life and more and it is my mission to carry on your kindness and legacy. I still cannot believe you are gone. I wish I had that chance to give you a hug thanking you for being my superhero always looking over. RIP my brother.
- Macho Diamond up in the sky
Amy Baumgarten
January 7, 2014
I still don't have the words to say. Scott was an inspiration. Growing up in camp and knowing Scott was an honor. He was a hero to so many people. I am so sadden at the loss. My deepest condolences to Scott Epsteins Family. I'm very sorry for your loss.
Jo Anne Ellis
January 5, 2014
It seems like yesterday you stopped by my house asking me to paint a bucking bronco on your wrestling belt. You always had something way out there to tell me, something to laugh about. I never saw you without a smile. Not even in the toughest of times teaching together in Far Rockaway. Now I will remember you always with that smile- and that laugh!
Michael Bierman
January 5, 2014
Scott was the "uncle" that watched over my daughter Gaby for many years at Coleman. He was a very dear and close friend of my wife Ilene and Gaby who are both devastated by by the loss of Scott. There was never a time that Scott's giving nature didn't stop him for being there for either Gaby or Ilene. I remember the time I went to a wrestling event at Nassau Coliseum and took the time to introduce me to the wrestlers, it was a great time. For the 30 some years that I knew him he always had time to help anyone. Ash - the world has lost a very special man and you have lost your husband. He will be with you in your memories forever.
Eric Rosen
January 5, 2014
Scott, I cant believe that In a few hours I will be saying goodbye to you. It has been a little over a week now and I still cant believe that I will never get to see you again. Even know I wasnt a night owl like you. I will miss the phone calls (after 10pm & you saying sorry if its to late) and texts and of course the company at all the shows. The wrestling world has a huge void in it now and it will never be the same. I know that you will be looking down watching all of us along with the others that we lost. Say hello to Georgie for me.. Rest In Peace my friend :-( Eric"wrestling maven" Rosen
Bobby Riedel
January 4, 2014
Scott....Since I heard about your death, my life has changed. I sure wish I had you here. You were one of the few ppl I could talk too about our mutual bouts with anxiety. You were always so kind, giving, and supportive if everything I did. I appreciate the way you looked out and protected me. You left a much bigger dent in this business and in the lives of many. I love you very much. You will be missed.
Ken G
January 4, 2014
Scott came into my life years before I met him. He was my angel, and in large measure is responsible for saving my life. My prayers for all who knew him. You are of blessed memory: ??????? ?????
zikhrono livrakha
Shana Gallardo
January 4, 2014
Scott, your love of life and your kindness towards others will never be forgotten. I'm going to miss your phone calls, your raspy voice, your large laugh and your sweet words. You are gone way before your time. You are an angel in heaven now with your parents and mine. Whenever I hear the word wrestling or jimbroynee I will always think of you. I love you cuz!!
BUD MOFFETT
January 4, 2014
Scott,
We have never met face to face, and have spoken only a few times, but I feel like I have known you for YEARS. You married one of my BEST friends, so I KNOW how "special" you ARE. One day we shall all meet again and celebrate being together. Until then, I wish you peace, and know that we will take care of Sandy (Ash) and always be there for her. You just "hold the fort down" for us, and know you have "made a difference" in the MANY lives of the people you knew and loved... Rest in peace my brother... BUD
Rita Blickstein
January 4, 2014
How do you sum up a person's life. Some have a husband or wife, some have kids, some have a mother or father that is deceased. Most are simple. But Scott's life was not simple. He had a wife, Ash, three kids that he adored. Grandkids through Ash. A life that cannot be summed up in just an obituary. He was a teacher, a mentor, a counselor, a business man, a buddy, a mensch, a brother to many, a friend. We could all get on here and talk for days about Scott. It wouldn't be enough to get rid of the grief in our hearts. You all know what I mean. There are no words to say how much I, personally, will miss you. We may not have seen each other often but our chats on the phone will be missed so much. You helped me through such tough times in my life, Scotty. No one will know how deeply you touched my life. We had fun times and sad times together. Love you Man.
Adrienne Millstein
January 2, 2014
I met Scott many years ago when we both worked at P.S.43.We became friends after we found out that we knew people in common.
My fondest memories of him were his unexpected ,out of the blue ,phone calls where I would hear the ever embarrassing greeting “Yo , Adrienne”. Of course with Scott, that was not limited to phone calls. There were many times he would pop into a classroom or call down a hall with the same salutation,-not stopping until I was red in the face !
Scott always made an effort to keep in touch, and I still smile hearing his voice in my head with that ever resounding greeting.
He was so proud of his children -always keeping me up on their latest news.
Ash, he spoke endearingly of you all the time.
My deepest condolences to all of Scott's family . The tributes to him are so heart warming ;I hope it offers you some small comfort during this awful time.
Rich & Cindy Thiboutot
January 2, 2014
Ash and family, our hearts are with you... so very sorry for your loss.
charlie adorno
January 2, 2014
Sorry for your loss.Scott will be missed by many.
January 1, 2014
Ash, Josh and I are so sorry for your loss. We will be thinking of you.
Beth Bochnak and Joshua Roth
Mike Lano
December 31, 2013
Scott, I don't know if any of us can do you justice. Still trying to make arrangements there but the card I sent with the flowers says something to the effect that you were the nicest and most honest person in the biz. So hard working for all the talent starting with SBGraham and everyone. Was an honor to call you boss and friend from 1977 on with the magazines you deftly edited to current. And all the work you did each day for not just the boys but to bring about honesty in and at conventions/fanfests for the fans, etc. Evan properly called you a mensch which defines you. Good in heart and spirit always, kind to everyone(a rarity in our biz). Marlene and I loved you like a brother and can't begin to tell you how much you are missed by everyone. Thanks for being Scott Epstein and for the privileged time we all had with you.
Mike Lano/Dr Mike
Janice & Ken Gursky
December 31, 2013
Ash, we were so very sorry to hear about Scott. Know that you are loved and in our prayers.
December 31, 2013
Sorry for your loss Ash my prayers go out to you & the family! Lil K
kurt lessenger
December 31, 2013
A homesick, quiet and sheltered teenager from Eastern Connecticut met a larger than life both is stature & personality, 6" high hair, rather loud New Yorker 46 years ago at Monmouth College (University). Sadly I lost touch with him and never got the chance to reconnect. I never forgot him and how he was a "good friend" during a special time of my life. My prayers go out to Scotts family and to Scott thanks for the memories!!!!! Kurt Lessenger, Columbia, CT
Vincent S. DiBenedetto
December 31, 2013
Rest In Peace - R.I.P. To My Dear Friend For Many Years "Scott Epstein" !!!
Scott, you were such a great friend to my dad and I, and we will miss you very much. You were a great man and you had a great heart. My dad and I will never forget you and I will certainly remember the great times we had together. We will certainly miss you my friend, you were one of the greats that died too soon !!! Rest Peacefully My Friend !!!
My condolences go out to the entire Epstein family and Scott's friends, and may Scott Epstein rest peacefully.
Sincerely,
Vincent S. DiBenedetto & Family
----
Solomon Chertok
December 31, 2013
I was introduced to Scott Epstein by Evan Ginzburg at a wrestling convention in 2010. Since then, I was proud to call him a friend. Scott had a big heart and was very supportive of all of his friends. Scott was a big fan of my film work. He attended a couple of film festival screenings for my films and attended 2 of my film parties at Gizzi's. I casted Scott in the film, "The Cost of Living," which I co-produced, in the Fall of 2011. I don't know if he saw the finished film, but he loved the clips that I showed him, especially of his scenes in the film. We had planned to work on other films. Last time I saw Scott, was at the Big Event in Queens last month. I was stunned when a friend of mine called me on Friday and told me of Scott's death. I could not believe it. Scott was a great friend and I will miss him. He will always be a shinning star to me.
DOMINICK VALENTI
December 31, 2013
NOT SURE IF MY 1ST MESSAGE GOT IN HERE, SO I'LL SAY GOOD BY AGAIN. GOD MUST HAVE NEEDED YOU IN HEAVEN, BUT I GUESS HE DIDN'T REALISE WE STILL NEEDED YOU HERE. YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.
December 30, 2013
my thoughts and prayers are with your family. you were one of the good guys. I will miss you
Eric Simms
Christopher Marquette
December 30, 2013
I am saddened by the loss of such a good man. Scott was a terrific friend and all ways kind to me. Going to the wrestling events will not be the same without him there.
Carol Garofalo
December 30, 2013
I am still very saddened over the fact that Scott is gone. Every time I saw him at a convention he always had a smile, a hug, and a kiss for me. One of the nicest, if not THE nicest man I have or will ever meet on the convention circuit. It certainly won't be the same going to a convention and not seeing him there. RIP Scott. Love you and God Speed.
kirk white
December 30, 2013
Heard alot of good things about Scott, glad we finally met in Los Angeles in 2010. RIP Scott.Kirk White San Fran Calif
David DeCicco
December 30, 2013
You can't possibly be or meet a better or nicer person than Scott. A legend like him NEVER really goes away. R.I.P. Buddy. God is lucky to have you <3
December 30, 2013
there is so little we can say solittle we can do,but may it help somehow to know our hearts go out to you. WITH SINCEREST SYMPATHIG SAY HALLO TO GIEORGIANN MY FRIEND SCOTT EPSTEIN MAY GODCOMFORT YOU
December 30, 2013
Can't believe he is gone. He was one of the true gentleman in the wrestling business, and always kept me in mind and always looked out for me. I'm shocked, myself and the whole wrestling community lost a great friend, and the world lost a great individual.
I was with him just nov 10 at his father in laws funeral.
Now he's gone. Cherish life .
Rest in peace. With love.
Ronnie. Atlas security
Dixie Carter
December 30, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with Scott's family. So very sorry for your loss.
Ken "Zoltan" Jugan
December 30, 2013
Hard to believe that Scott is no longer with us. He was always friendly and helpful. Will miss seeing him at the PWHF weekends in Amsterdam, New York. May God grant him eternal rest! Sure gonna miss him.
missy hyatt
December 30, 2013
Loved Scott like family. He was a friend in the crazy wrestling world and a better friend in life. My thoughts & love go out to his amazing wife & kids.
Dan Martone
December 30, 2013
Great friend even better person, you will be missed dearly
Scott Finkelstein
December 29, 2013
Reading about Scott on Facebook was like taking a kick in the teeth. But reading about the effect his passing had on such a diverse and eclectic group of people only added to the pride I felt for knowing and befriending this man. To be so well loved and respected is testament to the man Mr. Epstein is. I am so proud to have known him and wish him and his family godspeed. Thank you Scott for many years of friendship.
Karen Simpson
December 29, 2013
Your life will be celebrated by many as you touched the lives of so many people who honor you. I enjoyed our talks and the times we spent laughing. Thank you so much for believing in me and being a wonderful friend. God bless.
Larry Freda
December 29, 2013
I have known Scott for around the last ten years. He always was nice to EVERYONE. Always made sure the talent got paid and the fans got what they wanted. I am proud to have had Scott as a friend. My deepest sympathies go out to his family. I miss him already!
Kevin Laufer
December 29, 2013
Scott was a great man and a friend I met vending at the Pro Wrestling Hall Of Fame in Amsterdam NY. He was always nice to me and wished me great luck with my clothing business Waster Entertainment. He knew my wrestling hero was Superstar Billy Graham and took time with me talking about him and explaining some of the wrestling booking business. Once in a while I would receive and email from him and when Superstar got very ill last year had me call him and asked me to pray for his dear friend. Last time I saw Scott was at Wrestlecon in NJ Wrestlemania weekend. I couldn't believe it when I read this horrible news on wrestlingfigs.com. Reading the tragic news and seeing the picture of it really put life in perspective for me. I hope the family is ok, Scott rest in peace . You were a great inspiration to me and thank you for your time.
December 29, 2013
He has left a void in our hearts that cannot be replaced but the memories of him will live forever.--Bill Apter
Michael Potter
December 29, 2013
Scott was a wonderful person who was respected by his peers and friends. He was our friend. We will miss him.
April Hunter
December 29, 2013
Death ends a life, not a relationship. Scott is someone who really LIVED. He had an enthusiasm for wrestling and fitness that was pretty much unmatched and was very good to me, helpful in every way he could be. I don't meet many like him...at all. I will truly miss him, but I will also strive to be LIKE him. Giving back to others, helping along the way. He inspired. I wish strength for his family and hope when time passes that they will find peace in the fact that it's better to have lived a full, shorter life than a longer, uninspiring one.
Ziggie Stern
December 29, 2013
During my Presidency of the South Baldwin Jewish Center, Scott worked tirelessly as the Youth Director. Under Scott's direction the youth group won awards of distinction and members of the youth group were elected to prominent positions in USY. Scott became a friend of our family.
He was always full of enthusiasm, life and generosity of spirit. We will remember him fondly. May his loved ones have sweet memories and strength. Rest in peace, Scott.
Timothy Knerr
December 29, 2013
Heaven just got the best pro wrestling agent. You will be missed Scott much Love and Respect.
FROM THE FAMILY
IN THE CARE OF