It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Stephen Edward Weintraub (Simcha ben Gad Asher v’Freidl), a resident of Yorktown Heights for 53 years. Steve died suddenly at home on February 22, 2025, in the presence of his beloved wife, Deena, to whom he was married for nearly 60 years. Steve was universally described as loving, generous, and deeply proud of the family he co-created. Always quick to crack a silly joke, Steve loved laughter (his own and others’), and was devoted utterly to his wife, daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. He was 85 years old.
Steve was born in Brooklyn, NY on October 29, 1939, and grew up in Crown Heights and Forest Hills (Queens). He spoke fondly of his upbringing, remembering his parents’ love and devotion to each other and their family. He lost his father as a teenager, and became responsible for supporting his mother and sister while juggling school and other demands. From a young age, Steve knew firsthand that community support and mutual aid were vital to everyone’s well-being.
After graduating from Queens College and doing graduate work at Columbia University Teachers College, Steve became a skilled and beloved teacher, supporting countless marginalized and disabled students whom he could see had been chronically underestimated. Steve was also profoundly impacted by his teaching at University Heights High School in the Bronx, where he advocated for his students wholeheartedly. At his core, Steve believed that everyone was deserving of love and empathy, and that will be his legacy.
He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Frances (Schwartz) Weintraub, and his dear father, Arthur Weintraub, who had been high school sweethearts.
He is survived by his wife, Deena (Kaufman) Weintraub; his daughters, Bess (Weintraub) Shannon and Abby Weintraub; his sons-in-law, Chris Shannon and Elliot Kukla; his grandchildren, Ira Libby, Nonny Shannon, Noah Shannon, and Moss Kukla; and his sister, Toby (Weintraub) Fisher. He will be remembered with great love, gratitude, and grief.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Steve’s name to the U.S. Memorial Holocaust Museum in Washington D.C., or to Doctors Without Borders.
