Melvin Rivkin
Born 1926 in Syracuse, NY
Died 5/17/2015 in Syracuse, NY

 Holocaust Survivor 
WWII
.



May 17, 2015
Melvin Rivkin, 89, passed away Sunday, May 17, 2015 at SUNY Upstate Medical Hospital. He was a graduate of Nottingham High School and Columbia University. He was a lifelong resident of Syracuse, born to the late Sophia and David Rivkin on May 5, 1926. He proudly served his country in WWII and received the Purple Heart, before going on to attend and graduate from Columbia University School of Pharmacy. As a pharmacist, he co-owned Bee Drug Co. of Baldwinsville, NY with his uncle, Charles Sable for many years, closing the store after his retirement. He was an avid photographer and sportsman. In retirement, Mel dedicated his time and expertise to the theater community, specifically the Syracuse Opera and The Talent Company with photography, set building and ushering. This culminated in Mel receiving the coveted annual SANDRA C. HAASE AWARD from Syracuse Area Live Theater (SALT). He was preceded in death by his mother, Sophia Rivkin, father, David Rivkin; and brother, Larry Rivkin. Survived by his children, Eric Rivkin, Diann Rivkin, and Les Rivkin; two grandchildren, Sean Rivkin and Elissa Rivkin; and his devoted caregiver, Lori Davis. Services and burial were conducted at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Mel\'s memory to Menorah Park Employee Fund or Temple Adath Yeshurun.

Date of Death: May 17, 2015
 
Burial Location
L1