ROBERT KAUFMAN

KAUFMAN--Robert, 89, of King's Point, Long Island passed away peacefully at his home on February 17, 2016. A renowned real estate owner/builder for 65 years, Robert is remembered by colleagues as "one of the giants of New York City real estate." He served as president of the William Kaufman Organization, one of the few remaining family-owned, multi-generational real estate firms in the city. His charitable works were highlighted by decades as a trustee and two terms as chairman of the board of North Shore Hospital, which he helped transform into a model health care system. Other endeavors included philanthropy for the arts, education, Israel, and wildlife conservation. He served in the United States Navy, is a graduate of New York University, and received an honorary doctorate from Hofstra University. Robert was the beloved husband of Florence Buck Kaufman for over 65 years. He was a devoted father to three accomplished daughters, Ronna, Cathy, and Julie, and was also the proud grandfather of Blaise, Alexander, Jonathan, Jacqueline, Shane, Derek, and Harlan. His two sons-in-law, Mark and Gordon, benefitted immeasurably from his wisdom and warmth. He fostered in those who knew him the importance of charity, an adventuresome spirit, and the value of family. His hobbies included travel, golf, tennis, fishing, theater, gin rummy, and breeding race horses. He touched the lives of many who will miss him greatly, including family, friends, colleagues, and employees. Services will be held on February 21, 2016 at 12pm at Temple Beth-El in Great Neck, New York. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to Northwell Hospital or the Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine.