Obituary of A. Marvin Erlichman
Marvin Erlichman was born on February 26th 1952 in Rochester, New York to Virginia and David, two Holocaust survivors from Poland. He grew up with his two sisters, Ida and Gail and went to Hillel school. He graduated from West Irondequoit and later studied psychology at the University of Rochester. He resided in Pittsford in Bushnell’s Basin down the street from the Erie Canal, where he loved to spend his time. For about 30 years, he worked as a highly successful liquor salesman in the greater Rochester area. With his former wife, Lauren, he has two children, Rebecca “Beck” Erlichman and Gabriel “Gabe” Erlichman. He welcomed their spouses, Ross and Ashley as his children, as both of their weddings celebrated in 2019. He was deeply committed to his extended family members, the Fleissigs, Shechets, Piekarskis, Mariampolskis, Slomovics, amongst many other family members in Canada. He also loved his pet dogs over the years: Maya, Diesel and Cuse.
Throughout his life, Marvin was committed to his Jewish identity, honoring his family’s history and teaching his children traditions, celebrating the high holidays with family, contributing to Torah readings on Saturday mornings, and supporting Hillel school fundraisers. He always spoke fondly of his trip to Israel and always hoped to return with his children and their partners one day.
He was a dedicated father who was always there for his children who he adored. He attended all sports games, recitals, concerts and plays. He extended his fun-loving spirit, excitable energy and appreciation to all participants, establishing him as their number one fan.
Marvin was a deeply affectionate and sensitive man, always giving the best of himself to others. He connected with others in a way few could. There are countless friends that were made to be family members. Considered “the mayor,” he loved, listened to and was was well-known in the communities that meant most to him including the JCC, Temple Beth David, Light of Israel and Beth Shalom. He never turned down a challenge whether it be a physical one at the JCC, an eating contest at one of his favorite places, or learning a Torah portion the day before delivering one.
Marvin was known to light up a room with his chutzpah, humor and larger than life personality. Marvin was hilarious…Even during periods of struggle, he consistently raised others spirits. He was an incredible support system to his loved ones and strangers alike. He was always willing to lend an ear, drop off a meal, tell a joke, or make connections and share resources with people who needed him most.
He was a history buff. He had a deep love for the city of Rochester and all the food “that was not to be believed” that it offers. He was an avid collector of coins, stones and baseball cards. He loved the Red Sox and the Cleveland Browns. He was an animal lover that spent time at Lollipop Farm and the Seneca Park Zoo.
Marvin will be greatly missed by all that knew him but will leave a legacy of warmth, compassion, love and humor for all who knew and loved him. The JCC was a second home for Marvin and his family and his path to healing. We ask that you donate to JCC of Greater Rochester by selecting “other” and dedicating “In Loving Memory of Marvin Erlichman.” Please share a message or favorite memory in the notes for the family to share.
