Maxine A. Ginsberg

Maxine, formerly of Framingham, Massachusetts, had lived in Naples since 1984. She was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to Harold and Anna Ambush. She had a long career in journalism, most notably as Home & Real Estate editor for the Naples Daily News. As editor, she managed one of the largest real estate sections in the country, with weekly editions often exceeding 100 pages. She authored a weekly opinion column, profiled area homes, and sometimes wrote entertainment reviews for the arts section.

Earlier in her career Maxine was an independent public relations professional for organizations including a product testing lab, an insurance company, a clothing store and a girls ice hockey team.

She met her husband Michael Ginsberg, from Fall River, Massachusetts, and they married when she was a junior at Tufts University (Jackson College). Maxine graduated from Tufts in 1962 with four-month-old Caryn in attendance.

She and Michael later moved to Framingham. Together they founded and operated three bike shops. Michael’s younger brother Larry, who’d moved in with them years earlier after the death of his parents, was an important part of the operations.

Maxine was renowned for never forgetting a face – or a bike. When someone came back years later, she usually knew not only their name, but also which model they’d purchased.

At home she was known for gracious entertaining, including elaborate Thanksgivings for the extended family, with dishes started months in advance. She also created intricate decorated cakes and engaged in other creative pursuits.

After Michael's passing in 2007, Maxine remained resilient and continued to visit their cherished Horseneck Beach in Westport, Massachusetts annually. She was fortunate to enjoy not only her extended family but also friends from every stage of her life.

Maxine was characteristically upbeat and largely in control through a three-and-a-half year journey with cancer. The family expresses deep gratitude to Dr. Steven Newman, and the staff of Florida Cancer Specialists, the Avow hospice team and the Home Instead caregivers for their hard work and compassionate care, especially in Maxine’s final days.

In addition to Caryn and Steven, Maxine was also beloved mother-in-law to Ingrid Overgard of San Francisco and Michael Levitin of Arlington, Virginia as well as sister-in-law to Larry and Rena Ginsberg of Pocasset, Massachusetts.

In accordance with Maxine’s wishes, a private family service will be held in New Bedford, Massachusetts. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to PBS or Compassion & Choices