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Esther Mitgang Obituary

MITGANG--Esther, book editor, designer, independent publisher, died August 31 at her home in San Francisco. She is survived by her loving family: parents Shirley and Herbert Mitgang; sister Laura Mitgang and her husband David Goodman; brother Lee Mitgang and his wife Gina; nieces and nephew Caroline, Celia Mae and Noah Hart; and by devoted companion Michael Finholt. A Memorial will be held Tuesday, September 18 at 4:00pm at the Century Association, 7 West 43rd Street, NYC.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Sep. 9, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Esther Mitgang

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tracey geisler

September 3, 2020

still remembered by both me and my child Duncan, she gave him a much beloved orangatang and always had time to stop and say hello on her way to her office. her beautiful artwork will never be forgotten by me- such intricate detail and flawless design - truly a light on to the art world. you are missed!
again my sincere condolences to her family and friends. gone much too soon.

kathryn kates

October 10, 2007

Esther and I were friends in Great Neck, where we both grew up. I have not seen her in many many years. But, she made a lasting and remarkable impression on me; her tremendous intelligence, wit and fantastic grip on who she was, even at a young age. She was extraordinary then and, from the notes I am reading here, she continued to fascinate people throughout her life. Esther Mitgang; very special. I'm glad to have known her.

Bud Peen

September 29, 2007

It's so hard to encapsulate Esther Mitgang that I won't even try. She was so many things with a focus and a determination unlike any I have seen before or maybe will ever see. She hired me for my first book and I ended up working with her for 2 decades. We went to baseball games together and complained about politics. She was honest in everything she did and in every thing she said. We were all very lucky to have known her.

Dee Steinberg

September 29, 2007

Esther was a great friend during both of our years in NYC. She was a special member of our family and Jordy, Nicky and I will be retelling our favorite stories about Esther for years to come. We will miss her very much.

Alan Rinzler

September 24, 2007

Esther was so smart and funny, a clever publisher and savvy editor. I'll miss her and remember her fondly as a good friend from another era.

Peggy Fallon

September 21, 2007

I met Esther through our mutual friend Patricia, and we subsequently enjoyed several dinners together. I was drawn to her intelligence and wit, which knew no bounds--she could discuss classic literature with the same enthusiasm she reserved for silly television programs. She made me laugh. My deepest condolences go out to Michael and her family. Please know that many join you in your grief.

Sally Binard

September 19, 2007

Esther's family and friends, I am so sorry for your loss. Esther and I became friends when we bought the TIC in San Francisco seven years ago. She had a positive attitude about life and baseball. We rode the MUNI together to see the Stones! Esther was a fine friend and neighbor. I will miss her. Sally Binard

Sue Geisler

September 19, 2007

Esther and I were office neighbors for quite a few years. We shared lunches, books and giggles. Her kindness was without limit, especially to my daughter and grandson. She always found time for them.

we shared an affinity in what we read and enjoyed. We last spoke not lomg ago and now the promised lunch will not be enjoyed.

My heart aches for the sorrow her parents and other loved ones must feel.

tracey allyson Geisler

September 17, 2007

I am sorry Esther is gone< I had the pleasure of working on the same floor for some years.(1686 Union St) She had such wonderful book ideas, & true artistic flair. she was a warm & welcoming person who always had time for my son Duncan & me as well. She was a queen among women! Tracey Allyson & Duncan Alexander Geisler

Kim Finholt

September 9, 2007

My thoughts are with the Mitgang family at this time, I did not have the pleasure or honor of meeting Esther but was hoping to do so over this holiday season. She had my brother's love and made him so very happy, for that I am forever greatful. I'd like to leave you with my favorite quote from Albert Pine: "What we do for ourselves stays with us; what we do for others and the world remains and is immortal"

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