IRVIN BERNSTEIN

BERNSTEIN, Irvin, 85, formerly of Richmond, died after a long illness Monday, July 19, 2010. Services were held July 22, 2010 at Beth Israel Memorial Chapel, Boynton Beach, Florida, with full military honors. Mr. Bernstein was a retired businessman, professional boxer, Golden Gloves Champion and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in the Pacific during World War II. He was a free mason and former Commander of American Legion Post 366. An inductee of the Richmond Jewish Athletic Hall of Fame, Bernstein knocked out 15 of his first 19 opponents after turning professional. One of his victories was over a local star who had defeated the former World's Welter-weight Champion the year before. He lost only one pro bout during his career (judges' unanimous decision). Mr. Bernstein graduated from Fork Union Military Academy and from the University of Miami with a degree in industrial management, coached on the school's boxing team, and was a member of Pi Lambda Phi Fraternity. He was fun-loving, adventurous, full of humility and good humor, and quite a prankster. He loved the people in his life, and he was greatly loved by all. He will be missed beyond expression. Although born in Baltimore, he was truly a Virginia gentleman. He was known for his friendliness, diplomacy, and easy smile. He was a benevolent mentor and friend to his children and those around him. Mr Bernstein is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret G. Bernstein; his sons, Stanley A. (Patricia), and Edward L. (Alys), sons of the late Myrna K. Bernstein; sons, William J. (Langley), and Andrew K. (Anita), sons of Florence C. Bernstein; brother, Hilbert J.; nephew, Mark; and niece Karon, children of the late Toby S.; grandchildren, Isaac and twins, Alexandra and Madeline; close cousins, Barbara Halvorson (Norman), and Ernest Bernstein (Minh); and a host of other relatives; stepdaughter, Dahlia B. Rehg (Tim); stepson, Jason Baer; and three step grandchildren. Donations may be made to the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Suite 1010, Rockville, Maryland 20852-9813.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.