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Allan J. Zwerner

About

Columbia University Pace University

FUNERAL HOME

Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapels at Mount Nebo/Kendall Memorial Gardens

5900 SW 77th Ave

Miami, Florida

Allan Zwerner Obituary

ZWERNER, ALLAN The influential fashion leader Allan J. Zwerner passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 27, 2012 at his home in South Miami, Florida at the age of 68 following a six-year battle with cancer. A leader in shaping Men's and Children's sportswear trends for more than 40 years, Allan was responsible for championing industry leaders such as Tommy Hilfiger, Perry Ellis, J.Crew, Burdines, Macys and Federated Department Stores. He served as a President at both Tommy Hilfiger and Perry Ellis before launching his own consulting firm, A to Z Advisory. Known simply as "Z" by colleagues and friends, he was a mentor in his field. He graduated with a B.S. from Pace University and did his graduate studies at Baruch College. Allan began his career teaching at Brooklyn Lafayette High School and subsequently served as Adjunct faculty at Columbia University and on the Board of the YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund. He received the Donald J. Erb Professional Management Award at Burdines, was honored as Father of the Year by the Boy Scouts of America, received the NAA Achievement Award and was inducted into the Sheepshead High School (New York) Hall of Fame. Despite his countless achievements, Allan's greatest joys were derived from being "Z Papa" to his grandchildren and an accomplished and devoted marathon runner, including NYC, Boston and Miami. "Z Papa" is survived by Renee, his loving wife of 45 years, his children Brian (Jodie), and Michelle (Matt), and his four grandchildren, Alexander, Kensington, Jake and Ben. He was the son of Leon and Ruth Zwerner and brother of Mark. His devotion to family and friends as well as mentoring countless business associates earned him the respect and esteem with which he will be remembered. He will be missed. Funeral services will be held at Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapel at Mt. Nebo. 5900 S.W. 77th Avenue, Miami, FL 33143. Phone (305) 274-0641. Services are on Tuesday, October 30th at 2:00 PM. Shiva will follow at the Zwerner home on Tuesday and Wednesday evening. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center P.O. Box 016960 Miami, Florida 33101 Or YMA - Fashion Scholarship Fund 36 West 20th Street New York, New York 10011

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Published by Miami Herald on Oct. 30, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Allan Zwerner

15 Entries

Julio Martinez

July 15, 2018

Allan, Was the most amazing executive at Burdines, I worked at the Dadeland Store for 12 years. Allan would always treat everyone like the CEO. We had great conversations about the Celtics and we always talked about how we can make a positive difference in all that we did. He was always a step ahead. Burdines had amazing people like Howard Socal, David Schiner, George Corrigan. Alan you were part of the best management team ever in retail. I always enjoyed your wonderful family supporting you. Thanks for making a positive difference. Julio

December 11, 2012

Renee - I'm so sorry to hear of Allan's passing. I think you'll remember me - Marsha. I was married to Leon Chasanoff. I remember Allan as being a very fine and kind person.
Marsha Aber ([email protected])

November 27, 2012

ALLAN FROM LEONS BAKERY TO BURDINES TO EARLIER THIS YEAR.WE HAVE SHARED MANY SPECIL MOMENTS IN YOUTH AND ADULTHOOD.
IN FRIENDSHIP AND BUSINESS YOU WERE ONE OF THOSE VERY SPECIAL PEOPLE WHO HAVE TOUCHED MY LIFE.
I AM ONE OF MANY THAT WILL MISS YOUR WARM HEART AND GREAT PRESCENCE FOR THE REST OF THE JOURNEY.
TILL THE ULTIMATE MARATHON.
"ALWAYS AND FOREVERER"
WITH LOVE, STEVE GOLD

Janis Levine Ziffer

November 9, 2012

Allan was my boss for most of my professional life. He was so kind and very smart and it was an honor to work with him and learn from him. I am so sorry for his family's loss. He was a great man.

November 3, 2012

We are saddened to learn of your loss. We wish you strength at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With heartfelt sympathy.
Lynda and Alan Cohen

Beth Davis

October 31, 2012

The last time I saw Allan, was on south beach on a Sat morning- He was running his usual; I was with Ty, one of his Asst buyers, my step daughter. Allan was a boss, mentor, friend, dad- we all made eye contact , but did not stop- just enjoyed the nod,love and comeraderie. Blessings to his great life and friends everywhere. My husband , George, was at G Fox when Allan was at Jordan Marsh- both in the Mens business. We both send our sympathies, ,prayers and love.-

Becky Dannenfelser

October 31, 2012

Z was more than a boss, he was my hero. A man who always led by example, he was comfortable with the c-suite and at home hanging out and teaching assistant buyers. Devoted to his family, his job, and his community, this governed the way he led his life! His legacy will live forever in our hearts and minds!

Jennifer Vener Weiner

October 31, 2012

Renee, Brian, Michelle- My deepest condolences to you and the rest of the family. I have such wonderful memories... he was always so good to me. You are all in my thoughts. Sending you love, Jen

October 31, 2012

Allan was a wonderful indivual that lead by example and only wanted the very best for everyone! He was an inspirational leader and mentor to so very many. His spirit, drive and passion will remain in our hearts and minds forever! Bob Kapish, Naples

Lonnie Polsyn

October 31, 2012

Z was a great mentor and leader. He was instrumental in my personal and professional growth. I am honored to have known him, loved him, and worked with him. He was such a great, great man. He will never be forgotten.

Lonnie Polsyn

Jacqueline Frost

October 30, 2012

There will never be a man more devoted to both his personal family and his Burdines family. He was by far the best mentor anyone could have the opportunity to work for.
I wish peace for the family and am so sorry for their loss.

October 30, 2012

May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of sorrow. " Those who die God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes." (Psalms 116:15)

Meryll Katz

October 30, 2012

"Z" was great boss, mentor and friend to me and countless other fortunate people whose lives and careers were touched by this wonderful man. I know that we all miss him dearly, but are all so much better for having him in our lives.

Gayle and Mitch Porigow

October 29, 2012

Allan (Z Papa) will be remembered for his love and friendship for his family and friends.
We love you all and wish we could be with you.

Barbara Kushner

October 29, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

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