Leslie Ann Guttman

Leslie Ann (Bangel) Guttman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on August 28, 2025, at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York, NY, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 79 years old, and in her final moments she was surrounded by her devoted husband, her three sons and their spouses, and all six of her cherished grandchildren.

Born on March 29, 1946, in Queens, NY, Leslie was the eldest child of Harry and Grace Bangel. She grew up in Queens with her younger brother, Alan Bangel, and her late sister, Janet Bangel.

In 1965, Leslie married the love of her life, Sam Guttman, and together they built a marriage of 60 years defined by deep devotion and love. They raised three sons, Evan (Marilyn), Rob (Amy), and Marc, and delighted in six grandchildren: Ayla, Todd, Abby, Max, Tara, and Liam. Family was always the center of Leslie's life, and every corner of her home reflected that devotion-covered with photographs of her loved ones.

Leslie's professional journey was as remarkable as her personal one. After surviving cancer when her sons were young, she embraced her second lease on life with determination and courage. Already an emergency room nurse, she returned to school, earning both a bachelor's and master's degree, and transitioned her career into the world of technology, where she led IT projects with skill and vision. Her story is one of resilience, accomplishment, and inspiration.

Beyond her career, Leslie gave generously of her time and heart. She volunteered tirelessly for the American Cancer Society, supporting patients and families through their most difficult journeys. She also dedicated herself to Hadassah and to her Heritage Hills community in Somers, NY, where she served on the Health & Safety Committee. She inspired many, including her son Rob, to take up the fight against cancer-creating a legacy of service and compassion that will live on.

Leslie will be remembered for her loving spirit, her selflessness, and her devotion to family. She created traditions that bound her family together, such as the cherished annual family "Beach Week," often called "the best week of the year." She also delighted in shopping-especially for purses and jewelry-and made a special tradition of taking her granddaughters on jewelry-shopping outings, where she joyfully let them choose pieces that would become keepsakes of their bond. She was proudest of her family, her academic and professional achievements, and her volunteer work, but above all, she will be remembered as a loving presence who always put others first.

Services

A graveside funeral will be held on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 12:00 pm at King David Memorial Gardens, 100 Mill St, Putnam Valley, NY 10579 (meet at the Rose Hill Office; GPS: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fa63RQjeDKNiGEM3A).

Shiva will be observed:

* Sunday, Aug 31, 1:30-5:30 pm at 59A Heritage Hills, Somers, NY 10598 (GPS: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jqkyaVULC7d4vLpN8)

* Monday, Sep 1, 12:00-4:00 pm at 63 Merriman Road, Stamford, CT 06905

Donations

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, an organization Leslie proudly supported and volunteered with for many years.