ALIVIN H. REISS

Alvin was my cousin, son to my mom’s brother Sam, whom she so loved and respected. It was during a visit to Sam’s home with my mom snd dad that Sam passed away in my arms. I tried all I could do to save him until paramedics arrived. This awful event always made me feel a special bond with Alvin and his family, despite not really being close with Alvin through the years. I recall how proud I was as a little boy telling my friends in the neighborhood that “six-foot four is coming to visit my home (Linden, NJ) on Sunday.” This was perhaps 1950, with me as an eight-year-old youngster and Alvin as a Badger at Wisconsin studying journalism. It’s funny the things we remember so well. I always liked Alvin’s presence and his deep resonant voice.

Dear Ellen - Lazar and I send you and your family our deepest sympathy. Lee Cwirn

Dear Ellen,

We deeply mourn the loss of Skip . His sudden death was a terrible blow to us. The shock must be resonating throughout the art and music community, of which he was such a vital part.

Skip was incredibly creative and talented. He had a zest for living, an intense appreciation for life's experiences, and a unique relationship with people. He was an extraordinarily sweet guy. All the wonderful things he represented has left an indelible impression on us.

For the past 6 years, we enjoyed the friendship of both of you. Your company was always a treat. We had grand times together at your homes in Manhattan and Somers, as well as when you visited us in White Plains.

We shall sorely miss him.

Our deepest condolences to you and your beautiful family.

Dear Ellen and family,
Our deepest and sincerest condolences. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to you and your family on the loss of a wonderful husband, dad and grandfather. We are here for you Ellen.

Our warmest regards,
Barbara Matzoros & Family
Nanzneen Joseph & Family

Steve, My thoughts and prayers is with you and your family.

My sincere condolences to all of Skip's family. I was a student of his at Marymount after my retirement in 1992 and went on to have a post-retirement "career" in Arts Management (fundraising research) -- thanks to him. Wonderful guy!

Steve, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We are so sorry for your loss.

Dear Ellen, Stephen, Robert, and Michael,

My brother Lenny just called me (Feb. 25) with the sad news about Alvin.

Alvin was bright, talented, and personable. I remember so well when he first visited Aunt Edna & Uncle Sid's home in NJ in 1952. I bragged to my 10-year-old friends that "6'4" is coming." His height always impressed me. (The Reiss family members were quite small in stature.)

Our last get-together at the Cousins' Club in NYC was a wonderful evening of passing photos and reminiscing. Alvin was so vibrant and enthusiastic about the Reiss family.

I know that he will be greatly missed by people from many walks of life.

With love to you all,
Cousin Bob Lipman

Steve my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Lainie Stueber

To Steve and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time.

Please except my condolences. I am very sorry for loss. May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time. Lean on God for support through prayer and reading his word the Bible daily.

To My Beloved Uncle Skip,

“Shanks for the Memories”...
...and I'm quoting,
Good-by to you, my beloved Uncle Skip…
The BEST Uncle ever, and the KING of Anecdoting!

P.S. In one of his last columns(the one about Gram and the lamb shanks)… “Shanks for the Memory” were his last 4 words!!
LOTS of LOVE to the entire Reiss family, Cousin Ellen