Leonard Kriegman

Leonard “Lenny” Kriegman, 91, of Mountainside died Nov. 6, 2015. Born and raised in Newark, he lived in Springfield before moving to Mountainside 38 years ago. 

A successful businessman before his retirement, Mr. Kriegman was the former owner and president of Newark Light Company in Belleville, his family’s business where he worked for 55 years. Prior to that he worked in industrial design. During his career he served as president of the Jersey Electrical Distributors Association and was appointed to the advisory board of Broad National Bank.

He attended Newark public schools, graduating from Weequahic High School and later the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts. He was an aviation student at Syracuse University, studying to become a pilot and flight officer for the U.S. Army Air Corps. 

During World War II he served as a lieutenant in the Army Air Corps, where he flew supply missions over the treacherous Himalayan mountain range. After completing 124 missions, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross among many other medals and citations, including the Air Medal and the Presidential Unit Citation.

Get New Jersey Jewish News's Newsletter by email and never miss our top stories Free Sign Up

An accomplished fine artist specializing in watercolor painting, over his lifetime he produced a large collection of still life and landscape paintings, many of which he gifted to his family and friends.

He was a founding member of Temple Sha’arey Shalom, Springfield, where he was active in the Brotherhood, the Renaissance Group, and the Jewish Seniors of Springfield. 

Predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Frances, and a daughter, Susan, he is survived by his son, Andrew (Elizabeth) of Summit; his daughter, Janice (Michael) Berger of Mount Tabor; and three grandchildren.

Services were held Nov. 8 with arrangements by Bernheim-Apter-Kreitzman Suburban Funeral Chapel, Livingston. Memorial contributions may be made to CurePSP.