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PAUL LEEMAN Obituary
Paul A. Leeman's amazing life ended peacefully at age 86 in Newport Beach, CA, on July 1. Paul was born in New York City on October 30, 1930 to Estelle and Irving Leeman. He graduated from Horace Mann School and earned a degree in business administration from Syracuse University. After working in the family business, Ambassador Factors, he had a diverse eclectic career producing and promoting the visual, performing, and film arts. His film successes included "My Brilliant Career" and "Mephisto." He was an entrepreneurial investor across myriad businesses: hobby horses, small planes, real estate, and the Broadway play Annie. He loved fine food and drink, and was happiest with a Cuban cigar. Survived by his beloved wife of 16 years, Vernice Gabriel Leeman of Newport Beach, his cherished daughter Cathy Leeman "LG" Stiers (Rocky) of Nederland, CO and his dearly loved son Larry Leeman (Rebecca) of Albuquerque, NM, from his first marriage to Harriet Leeman, and grandchildren Samantha Stiers, Laura Stiers, the late Chai Isaac Leeman, Ariel Leeman and Eden Leeman. He treasured his sister-in-law Anita Leeman, nieces Lisa Leeman, Alison Clay-Duboff, Susanne Leeman Heim, nephew Jonathan Leeman, and great-niece Baxter Clay. Predeceased by his brother Morton H. Leeman. He deeply loved his son-in-law Michael Gabriel, Michael's wife Leann and their son Roman. He greatly appreciated his step-grand- daughter Kaleigh Acosta and her mother Kim Gabriel Acosta (Eric). The last years of Paul's life were enriched by the friendship of Kenneth Odegi. To meet Paul was to love him. A person could have no better friend. His family will miss him forever, and carry on his legacy of love, generosity, humor, and kindness. Memorial contributions in Paul's name can be made to the ACLU or Calvary Hospital's Calvary Fund, 1740 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY 10461.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for PAUL LEEMAN
Larry Leeman
July 11, 2017
My father was an amazing dad. Even today as I feel what it's like not to have him here with me I am filled with memories of his love of his family and love of life. Understanding that sometimes best way to support your children it to let them explore their passion without judgement or pressure but with encouragement to as Joseph Campbell would say follow your Bliss. During my wilder times coming back home on travels with my dad was filled with late night talks and adventuresome days. He taught me to live with gusto and to take risks to pursue one's dreams.
Hope you are at peace and enjoying one of your Cuban cigars in a distant Wally's restaurant. Love always.
Jon Leeman
July 11, 2017
Dearest Uncle Paul, you are greatly missed. You're larger than life and even though you lived in CA I feel like You were a true New Yorker. Rest in peace now and my sincerest condolences to Vernice,Larry, Cathy and all the family. Love, your nephew, Jon
Kaleigh Acosta
July 10, 2017
Oh how I will miss your dry sense of humor and your cheeky little remarks. I can still remember running around your apartment in New York as a little girl. Paul, you are one special man and I will be forever grateful for all of the joy and laughter you brought to my grandmother and our family. She loves you whole heartedly and always will. We will all miss you, but we will find comfort in knowing that you're watching over us and probably still cracking wise jokes! Love you so much.
Eric Acosta
July 9, 2017
Paul Leeman was a Mensch, always ready to greet with a smile and something to say.
He was a surrogate pop to our family, but more than that, a companion and loving husband to my dear Mother in Law, Vernice.
Paul lives in our hearts. Sincere condolences to family and loved ones.
"Paul's Rainbow" (1July 2017; Murfreesboro, TN)
Kim Gabriel Acosta
July 9, 2017
Dearest Paul - Thank You for all the wonderful talks. Your humor, wisdom & compassion, and the truths we shared over the years will forever remain in my heart. I will miss our cigars together! But, most of all... thank you for loving my mother - Vernice.
Our lives have all been blessed by your presence.
Know that you are appreciated & missed.
Jan Boettcher
July 8, 2017
You've always been such an important part of my life . I loved listening to your childhood memories of my dad , your Uncle Bob . You were so patient when I shed a few tears every May 6 !
I'm sure that you know how much I'll miss you and love you dear cousin!
Vernice Gabriel Leeman
July 8, 2017
My dearest Love ❤. You made my life complete and I will feel your love forever. I miss your warmth and companionship and your devotion to our life together. I feel your presence and know that you are in a better place without pain watching over me. Save a place for me next to you in heaven.
Kenneth Odegi
July 7, 2017
I will miss you Paul....
Rebecca Leeman
July 7, 2017
My wonderful father-in-law! I have the dearest memories of you telling stories about growing up in the big City and of your generosity and kindness with your family. There was nothing else in the world you put first other than family.
Samantha Stiers
July 7, 2017
To my dearest Grandfather,
I am so fortunate to have spent 31 years surrounded by your love, even when you were far away. Our connection continues...
Susanne Heim
July 7, 2017
My Uncle! My one and only Uncle! I will always miss you. I am comforted that you are reunited with my Daddy, who you spoke to almost every day until he passed.
Cathy Stiers
July 7, 2017
Rest in Peace my dear Daddy-o. I will miss you every day for the rest of my life,and will always be your " LG" ( little girl). My heart is broken but I know we will meet again. Love,Cathy-o
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Gutterman and Musicant Jewish Funeral Directors402 Park Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601
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