Edward Hirschberg

Edward Hirschberg

Thank you for taking time to support us during this very challenging time. Ed leaving this world during a hurricane is fitting since he created a whirlwind during his long, impactful, and dynamic life.

Edward Bernard Hirschberg was born on November 30, 1932 in New York City to his parents Paul & Minnie Hirschberg, both immigrants. Ed had an older sister, Sophie Greenglass, who he adored. Ed grew up in Secaucus, NJ, a suburb of NYC, where his parents owned a small delicatessen. Ed’s father passed away at a young age and his mother (Minnie) ran the deli and raised Ed and Sophie without being able to read or write English.

After graduating Hoboken High School, Ed enlisted in the Navy and served in the Korean War. After proudly serving our country, Ed took advantage of the GI Bill and graduated with an accounting degree from Pace University in NYC. After graduating from college, Ed went on to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Early in his long successful professional career, Ed met the love of his life, Barbara, during a routine accounting audit. They were married 56 wonderful years. Barbara and Ed complemented and balanced each other. Their love and respect for each other was evident every day. Barbara looked out and supported Ed everyday of their marriage. They had a son Paul and daughter Susan, which he loved deeply and unconditionally. Ed was especially close to his grandson, Robert. He had a special bond with Paul’s wife Natalie, who he had known since she was 16 years old. Ed was also an engaged and proud Uncle to Sharon, Stephen, Julie, and their children.

Even though Ed was dynamic in business, at times his attention to details were personally lacking. Birthdays, anniversaries, and vacations were largely an afterthought. One time he lost his wedding ring, instead of fessing up, he purchased the same ring to cover up his mishap. His master plan was going very well, until Barbara noticed that the engraving of the wedding date was not correct.

Ed was a dynamic businessperson. Ed had a successful 30 year plus career working for large corporations before becoming an entrepreneur. Ed’s ability to quickly read and understand financials and balance sheets were legendary. He also had an extreme passion for inventory, receivables, and cash flow, which his son Paul can attest to with late night and 5 am conversations on the subjects. Ed and Barbara and their long-term partners, Harry & Jane Centella and Bob & Nancy Leonetti built several successful companies starting in the early 80’s that continues today as a second-generation business. Ed, Harry, Jane, Bob, and Nancy also became life-long friends along the way.

The most surprising thing about Ed was his passion and caring for people, based on his tough and direct business persona. Money was secondary to him, more of a score card, encouraging people and their development brought him his greatest joy. He also received great joy from helping people in need and donating to local charities and his alma mater. He was a tremendous person and role model who will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Salvation Army Orlando 416 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32804, or to AdventHealth, Hospice Care (formerly Hospice of the Comforter), 480 W. Central Parkway, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714.