Stanley P. Goldstein, age 89, of Providence, passed away Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at his residence after a brief illness surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Merle F. (Katz) Goldstein, with whom he shared sixty four years of marriage.
Born in Woonsocket, a son of the late Israel and Etta (Halpern) Goldstein, he was a life-long resident of Rhode Island, spending summers on Chappaquiddick Island and winters in Florida.
A graduate of Dean Academy in Franklin, MA, Stanley graduated from the University Of Pennsylvania Wharton School Of Business in 1955 and served in the United States Army. After he and his brother Sid opened the first CVS in 1963 the company continued to evolve and grow under Goldstein's leadership, focusing on pharmacy, health and beauty care. The main idea of success in business, Goldstein thought, was to be aware at all times what consumers wanted and to give them value in the process. By the time he retired as CEO in 2006 it was the largest drugstore chain in the U.S. with more than 4,000 outlets.
Stanley always felt his other legacies were equally important, including philanthropy. Their Goldstein family foundation, called ELMS after the parents’ and sons' first names, gave away millions over the years, especially to education. He served for years as board chair of Providence’s Met School. An avid New England sports fan, Stanley loved his many golden retrievers over the years but he especially loved spending time with family.
In addition to his wife Merle he is survived by: two sons, Larry Goldstein and his wife Jill of Providence and Gene Goldstein and his wife Melina of Miami, FL; four grandchildren, Samuel, Liam and Elle; one niece, Nancy Dunn and her husband Charlie and two nephews, Mark Goldstein and his wife Sharon and Ricky Goldstein. He was the brother of the late Larry, Sidney and Jason Goldstein and uncle of the late Jimmy Goldstein.
His funeral and burial will be private.
Shiva will be observed at the Goldstein residence, Thursday, May 23rd from 7:00 to 9:00 PM and Friday, May 24th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM.
Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to HopeHealth Hospice, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904.
