Gilbert Chesnov

Surrounded by his loving family and devoted caregiver Tamar Lomidze, Gil Chesnov passed away at home on Saturday, September 19, 2026, after an incredibly full life. He and his wife, Elaine Simon-Chesnov lived in Rockaway, New Jersey for many years.

Gil was born in Brooklyn on April 8, 1928, to Jack and Bessy Chesnov. He met his wife of 74 years at the age of 16 when she was just 14 and they married in December of 1949. He was proud to be a member of the Brownsville Boys Club, which served an important philanthropic role for causes in need.

Gil survived his wife who passed away in 2024. She was the love of his life. They had three children: Jahn Chesnov (Andrea), Sheila Gudis (Steven), and Wendy Dratler (Richard). Grandchildren: Allison Jackson (Terence), Melissa Tucker (Eric), David Gudis (Charlotte), Amanda Stuart (Chase), Amy Salemno (Phil), Stephanie Rosenblum (Craig), Ryan and Joshua Dratler. Great grandchildren: Ava, Alex, Abigail, Sam, Isabelle, Eloise, Zac, Sienna, Leo, and Eliza.

Gil attended Brooklyn College and NYU graduate school. He served as a physicist and inventor at Picatinny Arsenal for 48 years. He was very committed to his work and enjoyed mentoring younger colleagues.

When asked what brought him and Elaine the most happiness in life, his response was time spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He found joy in loving them and watching them grow up and succeed in life. He lived to see three great grandchildren go to college.

Gil will be remembered for his love and commitment to family. He believed that education, ambition and drive are the keys to success.

The funeral took place at Bernheim-Apter-Kreitzman Suburban Funeral Chapel in Livingston, New Jersey on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

Charitable donations can be made to support research for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease which prevailed in his wife’s family.