Mark Ellis Lehman, age 72, of New York, NY, departed this life on August 27, 2023, surrounded by his loving family and his ever-dedicated team of home healthcare workers, following a valiant struggle with Parkinson's Disease, Lewy Body Dementia and Gaucher Disease.
Born on March 14, 1951, Mark was a man of uncommon resolve and integrity. He commanded respect, not merely through his accomplishments but through his unwavering commitment to fairness and sense of justice.
Though outwardly formidable, those who were privileged to know him well encountered a man of great kindness and boundless generosity.
Mark was a distinguished alumnus of Columbia University (CC ‘73) and NYU Law School (JD ‘76). He served with distinction as the General Counsel, Executive Vice President, and a Director of The Bear Stearns Companies, Inc., contributing significantly over his all too brief career in the financial services industry until his retirement in 2003. He was honored by Columbia University as a recipient of the prestigious John Jay Award for Professional Achievement that same year.
His civic contributions were equally noteworthy, including service on the committee to revitalize downtown New York in the wake of the 9/11 tragedy and on several committees focused on counter-terrorism and cyber-crime prevention.
Beyond his career accomplishments, Mark was a dedicated philanthropist, with a particular emphasis on Jewish causes, living out the values of a true mensch. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Aileen, and is survived by his brothers Bruce and Bob, and his most cherished treasures, his children, David and Abigail.
To those who knew him best, Mark was first and foremost a devoted father. He cherished the role, setting clear boundaries between his professional life and his role as a parent. His love for his children was the cornerstone upon which he built all else.
In his hours away from work, Mark enjoyed golf, tennis, good food, lively conversation, and better friends. The solace of his faith was manifested through active involvement in his temple's board and community service.
Mark’s legacy is not just one of professional accomplishment but of moral integrity, deep compassion, and an extraordinary capacity for love.
He leaves behind a world enriched by his presence and a void that can never be filled. He will be missed, but we are heartened that he is now at peace.
Funeral: Wednesday, August 30th at 9:30 a.m., Schwartz Brothers - Jeffers Memorial Funeral Home, 114-03 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills, NY – Webcast at: https://funeraweb.tv/diffusions/78768
In lieu of sending flowers, we ask that you consider making a donation to the Mount Sinai Movement Disorder Center Challenge, located at 10 E. Union Square, #5H, NY, NY 10003. Dr. Susan Bressman, Chair of the Department, has been caring for Mark with exceptional dedication for more than 20 years. Every dollar you donate will be matched up to $2 million, magnifying the impact of your generous contribution.
A funeral service for Mark will be held Wednesday, August 30, 2023 from 9:30 AM at Schwartz Brothers-Jeffer Memorial Chapels, 114-03 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Following the funeral service will be a committal service from at Mount Lebanon Cemetery, 7800 Myrtle Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385. Cantor David Katz will be officiating.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sbjmemorialchapel.com for the Lehman family.
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