Arthur Lawrence Altman

Arthur Lawrence Altman, a devoted husband, father, attorney, and proud son of the Bronx, passed away on Tuesday, February 17, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy defined by courage, humor, and a commitment to doing what was right.

Arthur was born on July 20, 1943, in New York City to Morris and Virginia Altman. The son of a Romanian Jewish father and an Italian-American mother, he grew up in a home shaped by perseverance, faith in education, and deep devotion to family. Though his father was denied the opportunity to complete high school, his mother proudly graduated, and both dreamed boldly for their sons - a dream fulfilled when Arthur pursued higher education at New York University, earned his law degree from St. John's University while working full-time, and his Masters of Law from NYU. Despite his accomplishments, the streets of the Bronx stayed with him throughout his life, instilling a toughness tempered by loyalty and an instinct to defend those who could not defend themselves. He carried its voice, humor, and resilience with him always, never forgetting the neighborhood and friendships that helped shape his character.

Arthur proudly served his country as an officer in the United States Army Military Police. Among his many responsibilities were the difficult duties of notifying families of loved ones lost in Vietnam - tasks he carried out with solemn dignity and patriotism. He also took great pride in his role with the Pershing Rifles, an honors society for college students devoted to military drill, whose ethos perfectly matched his discipline and deep respect for service.

Following his military service, Arthur returned to the Bronx to serve his community as an Assistant District Attorney, prosecuting challenging cases with determination and fairness. His experiences in the courtroom later inspired his novel Heaven and Hell, earning him recognition as the "John Grisham of Westchester County." He eventually established a private law practice devoted to tax, business, and real estate matters, where he became known as a fearless yet honorable counselor and litigator. Clients and colleagues alike respected Arthur's intellect and integrity; his deep principles and devotion to the law as a force for fairness sustained him as he practiced it throughout his life.

Despite the demands of his profession, Arthur's greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted father to his children, Elizabeth Cuccinello (Peter) and Raymond Altman (Pamela), whom he shared with his first wife, Sandra. Later in life, he found his soulmate in Sandy Lynn, with whom his twenty-nine years of marriage were marked by deep companionship and love; she predeceased him by only two weeks. Arthur's children and their families remained at his side at the time of his passing, a testament to the enduring bonds he nurtured.

Arthur was also a devoted and deeply engaged grandfather. He treasured his time with each of his grandchildren - Briana DelRosario (Jarell), Peter Cuccinello, Anthony Cuccinello, Angelina Cuccinello, Joshua Stephens (Dorrie), Jack Altman, Joseph Altman, and Jason Johnson - teaching them how to shoot, delighting in making them laugh, and taking genuine interest in their sports, schoolwork, and accomplishments. He was fully present with them - listening, encouraging, and guiding - and took immense pride in each grandchild as an individual. He was further blessed with beloved great-grandchildren, Wyatt Stephens, and Theo and Mikayla DelRosario, who brought him great joy.

Arthur is also survived by his devoted brother, Alan Altman (Sue), his nephews Alex (Missy) and Nick (Jeanne), and his niece Erica (James).

A man with an immense love of learning and a towering presence, Arthur was at heart a youthful spirit, equally remembered for his mischievous sense of humor and quick wit. A lifelong student of history and an admirer of the American West, he was drawn to wide open spaces and the camaraderie of friends in the outdoors. Though an avid hunter, he was known for his gentle soul and often preferred the fellowship of the journey over the taking of the shot. A notorious prankster who never lost his spark, he brought laughter and joy to those around him, balancing strength with warmth.

Arthur Lawrence Altman will be remembered for his integrity, his loyalty to family and friends, and the strength of character that guided him throughout his life.