Marvin S. Flowerman,
international entrepreneur, sportsman, artist
and public servant, died August 12, 2007 at his
home in Far Hills, NJ at age 82.
Born in NYC to Joseph and Bessie A. Flowerman,
Marvin graduated Brooklyn College at age
eighteen to join the army. Just before
departing, he married Leonora (Libby) Rosenberg,
to whom he was married for 62 years. He fought
in the Battle of the Bulge as a platoon sergeant
and translator, and served in military
government.
Marvin parlayed his language proficiency to
secure work in foreign trade and capitalized on
opportunities he observed to establish in 1952 a
business which more effectively served remote
suppliers and their clientele. He traveled
extensively, building decades-long friendships.
He began a twenty-seven year partnership with
Paul Greene in 1955, establishing PL Thomas
Inc., a sister paper trading company, and
several manufacturing companies. He also earned
a Masters degree in international economics from
the New School. He was joined in 1976 by his son
Paul and guided him for nine years before moving
on to pottery making, elected office and
philanthropy in Far Hills.
Building upon his previous studies of sculpting
with John Terkin, drawing with Edwin Lanning,
and ceramics at Raritan Valley Community
College, Marvin set up a ceramics studio in his
home with three kilns. After back problems
forced him to give up his beloved competitive
tennis (he served for many years as the tennis
chairman for Roxiticus Golf Club) he also led
the fund raising and construction of the greatly
expanded Bedminster/Far Hills Library. He served
six years as an elected Far Hills councilman, a
position he resumed this past year to work very
actively with the mayor and the police
department. He was preparing for reelection as
well as an art show.
Mr. Flowerman is survived by his widow,
Libby Flowerman, whose mutual love of piano
playing brought them together, his brother Ted
Flowerman, his daughter, Dr, Amy
Cades and her husband Lonny Cades, son Paul
Flowerman and his wife, Margot Jackler,
and six grandchildren: Lisa and David
Cades, Aviva Flowerman Vikstrom, and Josh, Seth,
and Zac Flowerman. He was courageous in many
facets of his life, and his accounts of his
exotic adventures captivated multiple
generations. He will be cherished for his
devotion and generosity to his extended family,
friends, and community.
Donations may be made to Metrowest
Jewish Foundation, Chromosome 18 Registry, or
Memorial Sloan Kettering.
Chromosome 18 Registry and Research Society
7155 Oakridge Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78229
www.chormosome18.org
