Robert “Bob” Ushman, a Newburgh Resident, Dies at 92
On July 9, Robert "Bob" Ushman of Newburgh, New York passed away unexpectedly at the age of 92 after living a full and vibrant life. Bob was loved by his family: his son Wayne Ushman (now ofNorthborough, Massachusetts), his daughter-in-law Suzan and his two grandsons, Benjamin and Dov. He was predeceased 11 years ago by his wife, Jeannette Gordon Ushman with whom he shared a loving marriage, nurtured their family and worked side by side at Ushman True Value in Cornwall. After his wife's death, he developed a significant and caring relationship with Carole Seneca of Newburgh. Both his immediate and extended family and large circle of friends will miss Bob — his intelligence, his humor and warmth. Bob was the youngest son of Louis and Esther Ushman. Growing up in Newburgh, he attended Newburgh Free Academy where he graduated as valedictorian. He went on to Clarkson University where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering and continued his postgraduate studies at John Hopkins University. Then Bob joined his two brothers Milton and John Ushman in founding and building Ushman Brothers Hardware and Lumber, of which he eventually became the sole owner. To local customers, he was the "go-to man" — his critical thinking skills helped solve their problems, both large and small. Bob always welcomed all into his store with his warmth and professionalism. Through the hardware store, he became involved with the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association, which honored him as Lumber Person of the Year in 1990. Bob's commitment to being an active participant in his community went beyond work. He was one of the founders of the Balmville Citizens Association and an elected local Republican Committeeman. Further, he was a founding member of the Otter Kill County Club and a current member of the Powelton Country Club where he enjoyed playing golf, bridge and socializing with his numerous friends. Another dimension of Bob's life was his Jewish identity. He was an active congregant of Congregation Agudas Israel, having served as secretary and treasurer. For 62 years, including the past fall of 2016, he chanted the Yom Kippur Haftarah (no small feat). Bob passed on to his son and grandsons a strong sense of Judaism. Music was also an important part of Bob's life. He joined the musician's union at age 13 and was a talented pianist. For many years, he was the co-owner of the Ray Nelson Band, which played for decades at the Bear Mountain Inn. Even at his 90fr birthday party, he entertained his guests with his piano playing and storytelling. Bob Ushman will be missed, but he leaves a legacy which stresses the importance of hard work, community engagement, family and enjoying life to its fullest. As Bob often said, "L' Chalm• " - "To Life." His family will be remembering Bob at his funeral on Wednesday on July 12 at 10 AM at Congregation Agudas Israel, Newburgh. Burial will follow at the Beth El Cemetery in West Roxbury Massachusetts, 3:30 PM. Shiva ("visiting hours") will be at his Newburgh home on Sunday and Monday, July 16 and 17, at 2-8 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Congregation Agudas Israel.