Justin Bruce Israel was born in New York City on June 23, 1927 and died suddenly on March 21, 2016 in Southampton Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Emel Glicksman sharing 17 years of joyful adventure together. Justin was the devoted father of Johnny, Lynn and Jon, Diane and Lindsey, Rob and Renee. And loving stepfather of Cindy and Joseph, Sally and Nina. He was the grandfather extraordinaire of Jorin, Avi, Mason, Caden, and Kyla and stepgrandfather of Henry and Zoe. He is also survived by his brother, Charles Israel, wife Sandy and daughter, Linda. As well as nephew and nieces, Michael and Sara Ross, and Jenn Ross. Many of Justin's descendants reside in Boulder, CO. Justin grew up in New York's Upper West Side and was admitted to Yale University at the age of 16, graduating in 1949 after a hiatus of military service. His love for business and passion for quality along with his razor sharp mind, launched him from his start at Regal Knitwear into a stellar career of 50 years as the entrepreneurial dean and industry leader in the Children's apparel business. He was co-founder of Justin Charles (with his brother Charles), and after the company's sale founded another successful childrenswear business, Knitwaves (that he built and later sold with his son, Rob). As the father of a child with severe developmental disabilities, Justin was passionate about raising funds and awareness on behalf of those with development challenges. For Justin, there was no such thing as retirement. He was an extraordinary unrelenting public servant and fundraiser, a teacher of public service in his actions and deeds, and a leader and protector of the voiceless, the physically-challenged, and our endangered environment. Justin's second career as a volunteer fundraiser and philanthropist at numerous organizations was a privilege and joy , most notably Sierra Club, United Jewish Appeal, Fashion Institute of Technology and New York Public Media (WNET). The CEO of WNET described Justin as a dedicated volunteer for almost a decade. "At 88 years young, Justin was a critical member of the Development Department." His special fundraising strategy was telling donors, " I am celebrating my 39th birthday for the 49th time." We honor Justin as a role model and example of an avid athlete and lover of tennis, paddle tennis and biking, and a patron of the arts. Justin has a particular passion for Opera and the New York City Ballet, Carnegie Hall and Bridge and enjoyed traveling all over the world. He also cherished his family property in Vermont that he shared with his children since 1967. He will be remembered for his fearlessness, his love of life and the outdoors, his early care of the environment (he started recycling in the 1960's!) as well as his brilliant, razor-sharp mind, compassion and caring for others, willingness to take a stand, a passionate newspaper clipper and correspondent, deep caring for humanity and the good of the planet. His service and his concern for everyone around him knew no bounds and he never let up, not for a day. He was always thinking of ways to help others be their best selves. He loved, he gave, he taught, he shared, he lived, he was engaged, he made a difference, and his work will carry on. We love you forever and will miss you always. Donations can be made to Justin's most passionate causes at: www.arcwestchester.org/join and/or www.wnet.org
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Sponsored by Frank E. Campbell – The Funeral Chapel.
I knew Justin in the Childrenswear World. He was a "legend". I just happened to be doing a search on another issue and came across this obit. I always considered Justin as a friend. He was a warm outgoing person that everyone liked. My thoughts go out to Rob and the family.
Tadd Schwab
Friend
June 14, 2017
I was very lucky to be introduced to Justin when I was a student at FIT -- He was an incredible force in the children's wear advisory board, supporting students with his wisdom and kindness. He encouraged philanthropy in our young minds, planting seeds of starting charities, and making the world a better place through our passions. I received a scholarship from his family, and they helped to sponser a once in a lifetime trip to see how the industry runs in Italy, and i will be forever grateful for this man and his generosity. I flew my flight with his help, and his foundation supported me for a semester of my education. After I graduated, he was an active mentor to my bosses, and his inspiration has carried. I've been overseas and just heard of his passing. Only once before have i felt so much joy at knowing a life was lived so exceptionally well. Everyone he met was richer for it.
Susan T
April 11, 2016
I am an employee of WNET. Although I did not work closely with Justin I will really miss his wonderful kindness. He would always share his candy with us and he never missed greeting everyone. My prayers go out to his family....they lost someone very special.
Jeanne Collins
March 28, 2016
I am writing this note of condolence on behalf of the Wasser family from Scarsdale, NY., where Justin Israel played racquetball /platform tennis with my father Norman.
Justin is now joking around and smiling with my father who adored him.
My Mom, Donna Wasser, Andrea Wasser, Lauren Moreno Wasser and Michael Wasser all extend their deep sorrow for your loss and we know Justin was always bigger than life.
This is the way I will always remember him...!
Andrea & Donna Wasser
Donna Wasser
March 28, 2016
A great, fair and decent man, his passing is a great loss. My sympathies to his family.
Richard Haller
March 26, 2016
We remember Justin for his passion and strength in all of his endeavors. Our heartfelt sympathy to the entire family, Bernice & Stan Birken
March 26, 2016
Dearest Emel
We want to express our sympathy and let you know that our thoughts are with you.
Jessie, Freddy Salmona
March 26, 2016
Justin was incredible. He will be deeply missed.
William Baker
March 24, 2016
Justin will always be "Buzzy" to me, the smiling, funny and smart brother-in-law that I admired. He was a very special guy and will be missed.
Roberta Miller
March 24, 2016
We will miss our time together at the beach listening to Justin share his life stories. Sending our love and prayers to Emel and Cindy and the family. We are so very sorry for your loss. Love, Andrea & Alex
Andrea Ruskin Blum
March 23, 2016
My husband Steven and I met Justin as fellow board members at Arc of Westchester Foundation. Justin's passion and extraordinary generosity permeated the organization and were very inspirational to us on a personal level. He set a wonderful example of parental activism and brought so much energy, intelligence, and warmth to all that he did. He was one of a kind, and we feel privileged to have had the opportunity to learn from him. May he rest in peace.
Elaine and Steven Masket
March 23, 2016
Thoughts and prayers for the family. I was lucky to work for Justin for many years at Knitwaves. He was truly one of a kind. May he rest in peace.
Lucy Trapletti-Gratzon
March 23, 2016
Justin was a ball of energy! I always smiled when I saw him coming. We worked closely together at WNET. He would always give me greeting cards because he knows I appreciated them. He always passed out candy and made an afternoon bright. I'm going to miss Justin. Rest well my friend. -Kimberly Hayes
March 23, 2016
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the entire Israel family. We are thinking of you all and sending you our prayers.
With love, Mark and Karen Wilding
Mark Wilding
March 23, 2016
I was privileged to work closely with Justin Israel at Arc of Westchester, an organization he served faithfully for many years as a parent, Board President, and member of countless planning, program and fundraising committees. His great spirit will continue to be a guiding force at the Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center for many years to come. Anne Sweazey
March 22, 2016
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