Michael Strunsky

1934 - 2024

Michael Strunsky
October 27, 1934 - February 24, 2024
Michael S. Strunsky, known for his stewardship of the Ira Gershwin Musical Estate and his notable contributions to the construction and arts sectors, passed away on February 24, 2024, at his residence in San Rafael, Calif., surrounded by his family. He was born in New York City on October 27, 1934, as the only child of English and Lucy "Stampleman" Strunsky.
With an educational background in Electrical Engineering and Construction Management from Cornell and Columbia Universities, Mike's career traversed multiple sectors. His executive roles included positions at the Port of New York Authority, the Boeing Company, and Morse Diesel Construction, prior to his relocation to the West Coast in the 1960s, where he joined Bechtel Corporation. In 1978, he established Apersey Construction, undertaking significant projects such as the first Moscone Convention Center expansion in San Francisco and the construction of the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View for Bill Graham, a project he affectionately referred to as his "third child."
Following the death of his uncle, Ira Gershwin, in 1983, Mike, alongside his aunt, Leonore, commenced the management of the Ira Gershwin Musical Estate. This endeavor became his primary focus after Leonore's death in 1991, leading to the production of numerous recordings and Broadway shows that celebrated the Gershwin legacy. These include Tony Award-winning shows Crazy For You (1992), Nice Work If You Can Get It (2012), The Gershwins' Porgy & Bess (2012), and An American In Paris (2015).
Mike demonstrated his enduring commitment to the arts and community service through his membership on the boards of the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, the San Francisco Symphony, the Great American Songbook Foundation, The Jewish Home, and the Goodspeed Opera House. As a zealous advocate for the arts, he was instrumental in founding the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song and managed the Leonore S. Gershwin Trust for the benefit of the Library of Congress. He also directed various projects in music, education, and healthcare via the Ira and Leonore Gershwin Philanthropic Fund, including the establishment of The Gershwin Initiative at the University of Michigan.
Mike also held various positions that showcased his adventurous spirit, including working as a college radio DJ, where he gave weather updates and sports scores, acting as a flag man at auto racing events, and serving for more than twenty years with the National Ski Patrol.
Moreover, Mike's talents extended to aviation; he was a licensed private pilot and served as a Commissioner on the San Francisco Airport Commission for 14 years, significantly contributing to the construction management of San Francisco Airport's International Terminal.
Mike is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jean; his daughter, LJ; his son, Burke; grandsons, Clark and Logan; and granddaughter, Emilie. His legacy, marked by a steadfast dedication to preserving cultural heritage, enhancing urban development, and extensive community service, has left an indelible impact on both those who knew him personally and the broader community that benefited from his life's work. His passing represents a profound loss to the cultural and community landscapes he greatly influenced.
A Celebration of Mike's life is scheduled for October 27, 2024, coinciding with what would have been his 90th birthday. Details regarding the location and time will be announced later.