Eli Maleh 
He was a kind soul.  He loved his life with George and there was no separating them.  I have the fondest memories of Eli. Going to Fire Island on weekends was a great experience.  George would “cook” meaning he would make bagels with cream cheese and lox!  Eli would then get ready for the beach.  He put together a full array of pieces and parts to bring to the beach.  At first, I wasn’t sure that he had in store for us. Once on the Sand he began to set up his array of kites.  This was the most amazing display of kites I had ever seen.  He wore gloves because the kites would pull on his hands.  He set up so many kites with bases in the sand.  It was an amazing array of kites.  It was a unique experience, and he loved every minute of the set-up of the kites. Once flying in the air.  The other beach goers would come by and talk with Eli.  In his gracious and gentle way he would be more than happy to talk with them.  While Eli was with the kites,  George had a whole feast of water, food etc on the beach.  This was a once in a lifetime experience.  Having dinner with George and Eli was always an experience at the best restaurants in New York City.  What he loved most was coming to my home for dinner.  We shared our Middle Eastern foods and loved to dip our bread in hummus and other treats.  I will miss his beautiful hugs and kisses.  He may have been quiet.  Because who could get a word in edgewise with George dominating the conversation.  I would stay up late in Fire Island with Eli because he loved talking about art, music, and food!  That was our time to talk about the arts.  He gentle ways will be missed.    Rest in Peace my dear friend.
Loved you so much...

Thinking of you now and forever.  You will always have a special place in my heart😘😘😘😘😘

Dear George,

I am so saddened to hear about Eli. What a wonderful human being. I love getting dinner with the both of you and hearing about how you both met on the Lower East Side playing baseball in the streets. I love you and Eli with all my heart. I loved your wedding. What a beautiful life the two of you had together and there is more to be grateful about than sad. Sending you lots of love.

George;
     Saddened to hear of your great loss. I have been friends with Eli and you for decades, and cherish your friendship.  So many dinners together, and so many adventures. He will truly be missed.
     Sincerely, David

Our last visit to New York - summer of 2023. 
Eli -  how he will always be remembered.
You touched our hearts and that is where you will always remain.

George - I am sorry we couldn't be there for you physically but you know our thoughts are with you and that we love you. 

Stanley, Jennifer and Jessica
Nathaniel and Sabrina
Samantha and Christopher

Eli lived a beautiful life with George. His only greater devotion was to kadesh barechu, both of which he taught by example. 

When not rapidly flipping pages, Eli would show worshipers his supersized font Sephardi prayer book, which he comfortably navigated in an Ashkenazi shul. He would look up with a warn smile and reliably land sharp jokes, opening the world of active Judaism to newcomers.  You knew you had been welcomed into the congregation after eye contact with Eli. His wisdom, cold war service in Europe, artistic talent, seamanship, adventures, travel, and devotion to George and Manhattan-scaled osher chaim inspired all who knew him to love and live fully. I'm so grateful to have learned from you.

Eli was truly the sweetest!  Maddy & I will miss our dinner adventures with you George and Michele. May you rest in peace.
Stephanie Beaudoin

Eli, a wonderful gentleman, brought wisdom and kindness to the congregation of Magen David. May all of his family and friends be comforted by warmest memories and love.  
-Elliot Haim

Eli was a kind person. George may the many years you spent with Eli serve as an example of true friendship and love. May Eli's memory be a blessing.
Love,
Lloyd

Eli was an incredible tour guide. He knew where everything was located and was always willing to help you get there.  During an important  Packer play off game Eli found a Packer bar put on a Packer hat and went with Doug and I to watch the game. He loved Art and always came along with us on our museum trips.  Eli was the quintessential photographer and was always taking pictures whether he was walking around New York or taking a trip to  Europe.  He was loved and will be greatly missed.  We love you uncle George and send you our deepest condolences and share your great loss. 
 
Ilana Strauch and Doug Hatch

OBITUARY

Eli Maleh

24 December, 1932 – 10 April, 2024

Riverside Memorial Chapel

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