Robert Mandelkern, a diamond wholesaler and leader of the Diamond Manufacturers and Importers Association, died Feb. 23 at age 87 of Parkinson’s disease.
“Bob was a leader among the generation of so many of our fathers who not only led the DMIA, but who also served as role models and mentors,” said DMIA vice president Rick Cohen in an email to members. “He rightfully takes his place among our esteemed leadership who took an active interest in us, and showed us the way. I will miss him dearly as a great friend throughout my career and life.”
Mandelkern owned a New York City diamond wholesaler until 1985, when he returned to school and earned a B.S. in exercise physiology, leading classes for seniors and in nursing homes. He was a member of the Connecticut chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association and served as a member of the Connecticut Stem Cell Research Advisory Committee.
He is survived by his wife, June; three sons; and five grandchildren.
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