Obituary of David M. Flaum
Passed away on August 20, 2020 at age 67. David was born in Neptune, New Jersey to survivors of the Holocaust, inspiring his commitment to justice, philanthropy and Judaism. He grew up in nearby Lakewood, where he pursued excellence as a state champion high school wrestler and football quarterback, he was recruited to Syracuse University in 1971 to wrestle. There he met his wife, Ilene. He received a law degree at Franklin Pierce Law Center in New Hampshire and attended George Washington University’s Graduate School of Business before settling in his wife’s hometown of Rochester.
David founded Flaum Management Company in 1986, driven by the vision of a comprehensive organization specializing in real estate ownership, leasing, management and construction. His successful career focused on the development of retail shopping centers, office buildings, call centers, high technology facilities, and farmland throughout the northeastern United States. He took pride in spotting the potential value of empty and underused spaces, turning them into vibrant centers of commerce.
Much like his real estate portfolio, his philanthropic interests took root and grew strong over his career. He received three presidential appointments: two by George W. Bush as member of the Holocaust Memorial Museum Council, and one by Donald Trump as member of the governing body of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Passionate about politics, he also served as longest National Chairman of the Republican Jewish Coalition for over 12 years. He and his wife, Ilene endowed the University of Rochester Flaum Eye Institute. He served on the Board of Trustees at the University of Rochester and at Syracuse University.
He was devoted to his family. Even in a life distinguished by awards and honors, he was most proud of the award he received jointly with his wife, children and grandchildren: the Multi-Generational Award for National Philanthropy Day given by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Genesee Valley Chapter.
David’s vigor and zest for life was manifest in his passion for cars, planes and boats -- anything that promised speed, thrill and motion.
He is survived by his wife, Ilene; his sons Asher (Monica) and Loren (Jamie); his daughter Sara Flaum Ressler (Darren), and seven grandchildren Ryder and Austin Flaum, Harrison and Jordana Flaum, Leo, Noah and Janis Ressler. His brother, Dr. Morris Flaum, and sister, Mildred Zackowitz.
His commitment to family, career, and community exemplifies the Jewish tradition of Tikkun Olam, or repairing the world -- bringing his life full circle. Donations may be made in his memory to the Flaum Eye Institute at University of Rochester and the US Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC.
