Murray Zuckerman, Long Branch resident since 1952, passed away Thursday, March 4, at his home in Tinton Falls at the age of 94.
Born in Wierzbnik, Poland, Murray survived Auschwitz concentration camp, having escaped during the infamous Death March. He then survived by selling goods on the black market and eventually found his way on a ship bound for America. Upon stepping off the boat in NYC, he was handed a $10 bill with which to start a new life. He worked as a laborer at both a pen factory and a lampshade factory in Manhattan. One evening, while out on the town, he met the love of his life, Phyllis, whose family was in the glass business in Hoboken NJ where he learned this new trade.
While visiting relatives on the Jersey Shore in 1952, Murray saw a unique opportunity and along with his new bride, he then began a new chapter in his life as a business owner. Together they opened Third Avenue Glass, which served the Long Branch community for 40 years.
Murray worked hard for his community as a four term member of the planning and zoning board, a volunteer firefighter with the Long Branch Independent Fire Co, as well as numerous civic & religious organizations. A dedicated member of Congregation Brothers of Israel for 52 years, Murray served as President of both his synagogue and B’nai B’rith. An active advisor to various Jewish youth groups and basketball coach at the YM-YWHA he opened his Elberon home to host many Jersey Shore weekends for B’nai B’rith boys & girls groups.
Murray was proud and appreciative of his American citizenship and upon retirement, he and Phyllis drove cross country 5 times in a van, visiting every state at least once including Alaska. Their travels also took them to Canada with a final cross-country journey taking them to the Historic Route 66.
Murray was predeceased by his grandson Joshua Zuckerman. Surviving is his wife of 70 years Phyllis, his children David & Vickie Zuckerman, Jacksonville; FL, Sam & Ruth Zuckerman, Little Neck, NY; Abbie Zuckerman, Manhattan, NY; Steven & Yaffa Zuckerman, Oakhurst, NJ; and his grandchildren Jonathan, Omry, Jennie, Jason, Ariel, Adi, Alena & great grandson Theo.
For messages of condolence, please visit Murray’s tribute page at www.woolleyboglioli.com.