Irwin Mandel, 83, of Stamford, CT died peacefully on June 12, 2023 surrounded by the immense love of his family.
Irwin Mandel
Irwin was born in Greenpoint, Brooklyn on December 23rd, 1939 where his parents owned a neighborhood staple Poultry Market. Some of his most formative childhood memories took place there serving his local community alongside his parents, Regina and Benjamin Mandel. He was the youngest of his four beloved sisters: Beatrice, Dorothy, Roslyn, and Edith. Sadly, he lost his father as a teenager and took on the role of providing for his family. He continued to do the same throughout the remainder of his life, ensuring that his family was always happy, healthy, and well-cared for.
Irwin was a fiercely loyal and motivated person who used every hardship in his life as an opportunity to grow. His experience helping at his parents’ Poultry Market taught him the values needed to be a successful business owner. He went on to open several successful dry cleaning stores in New York called Piermont Cleaners, and then moved to Connecticut where he eventually opened New Canaan Cleaners with his son, David. Even after retiring, Irwin would stop at the store weekly to see his friends and employees. He was more than just a business owner, he created a center of community and prided himself on helping others. Customers came back, not just because he was the best in the business, but because he connected with them and made them laugh.
Though Irwin lived near his family in Stamford, CT, he spent as many waking moments as possible in New York City, even traveling to the Upper West Side every weekend for shul. He was a lover of Zabar’s, Wall’s Bakery, well-toasted bagels, and espresso. He was fiercely devoted to his family and would drive his grandchildren into the city for a slice of pizza or a bagel any time they asked. He ensured that his entire family learned to love the ocean, knew how to discern a good bagel, and knew how to parallel park effortlessly. He loved to swim and made connections with everyone he met at the JCC. Even through his knee replacement, he bonded with all of his physical therapists and caretakers. He made everyone laugh with his unapologetic charisma and bold personality.
He spoke his heart and did not apologize for it, and though he could be fiercely headstrong, he empowered his entire family to stand up for themselves relentlessly. Despite the concern of his children, David and Bonnee, he even embarked alone on a safari to Kenya at 80 years old. He loved to travel, and wanted to see all of his grandchildren go off and explore the world as well. He was the biggest cheerleader when it came to the success and happiness of his family, and held deep reverence for his heritage and faith. He shared stories of his ancestors and his childhood to keep them alive, and studied the teachings of the Torah.
Irwin is survived by his wife, Simi Cohen, his children, Bonnee (Mandel) Pecquex and David Mandel, David’s wife, Melissa (Elmowitz) Mandel, and his grandchildren, Charlotte (Pecquex) Allen, Lindsay Mandel, Jacob Pecquex, Juliane Mandel, and Noah Pecquex. His memory will be cherished and kept alive vicariously through them and his stories will continue to be passed down through future generations.
Funeral services will take place at Mount Hebron Cemetery in Queens, NY at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, June 14th, 2023. Please contact the family regarding Shiva services to be held following the ceremony in Stamford, CT. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Irwin’s life.
Arrangements are under the direction of Sholom Chapel Stamford, CT (203)-324-4494. For more information, please visit www.sholomchapel.com.
In preparation for my son’s Bar Mitzvah in 2004, I took my grandfather’s Tallit (prayer shawl) to New Canaan Cleaners. I don’t know how long the Tallit had been folded in that cardboard box, decades perhaps. Both Judaism and family roots matter profoundly to my son; his putting on the Tallit for this ceremony would be resonant. When I picked up the Tallit after it had been cleaned and pressed, I will never forget how Mr. Mandel waved away my payment. “I could never charge for cleaning a Tallit,” he said. All those of us who were customers most likely share memories of his caring and excellent service. My condolences to the Mandel family and may his memory be for a blessing.
David, I am so sorry for the loss of your father. He was such a nice person and Joe & I always enjoyed talking to him at Zumbach’s. Just the other day I had asked Doug if he knew how your father was doing, and now I am reading this. He lived a full and wonderful life. Cherish the memories you have of him. My condolences to the family and may his soul rest in peace. Kathy
I remember Irwin as my family only used NC Cleaners. Wonderful write up. He was a caring loving person, down to earth simple modest personality. One of a kind. Sending my deepest condolences to the entire families.
Always a breath of fresh air and refreshing smile. Rest in peace 🙏
It may be worth mentioning that Irwin relished studying Talmud, which he did at Chabad of New Canaan and, perhaps, elsewhere. Talmud study is a group effort, and Irwin brought to the group his wonderful good humor and humanity.
Dear David,
Last time I saw you we talked about your dad. He was great, and we go back to the beginning of New Canaan Cleaners. He was the “spot” king. Absolutely amazing. He got 100% out.
He also had a warm and friendly way that made the whole encounter enjoyable….not the usual comment you hear about going to the Cleaners.
His son doesn’t fall far from the tree either.
All our love and prayers to you and yours at this difficult time. Take care, Harrison & Maggie Pierce