Robert S. Levine
June 26, 1949 – July 7, 2024
Robert Stephen Levine, 75, Managing Partner at the law firm, Levine & Levine, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2024. He leaves behind his beloved wife, loving family, devoted staff, numerous friends, colleagues and business associates, and the legacy of a distinguished career. His departure marks a void that will never be filled.
Born third generation in the City of Poughkeepsie, NY, he was always proud to share its rich history. A high achiever and leader at a young age, Robert was elected Class President at Oakwood School, then attended American University, followed by the New England School of Law. After graduation, he joined his father, Herman A. Levine, at the firm Herman had founded in 1932. In the ensuing years, under Robert’s tutelage and, Levine & Levine, PLLC grew into a practice renowned through Dutchess County and beyond, with three partners, several branch offices and a staff of 25. The firm’s clients include public and privately held domestic and international corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, financial institutions, family businesses and individual clients, carrying forth Robert’s principles and practice.
Robert loved his city and his greater community and was devoted to their welfare, as evidenced by the many boards he served on and the charities he supported, including (but not limited to) the Board of Jewish Welfare Fund, Hudson Valley Film Council, Hospice Foundation, Bardavon, and Mill Street Loft Advisory Board. He served 10 years as Chairman of the City of Poughkeepsie Planning Board. He was General Counsel for the Poughkeepsie Farm Project, Advisor to DAY ONE Early Learning Community, and Adjunct Professor of Real Property at Marist College, to name a few.
Always curious and informed, Robert was an adventurer who wanted to give you the best experience whenever you were with him. He was a passionate and loyal friend, colleague and advisor. He showed the deepest respect for every client and for everyone who came in contact with him. He put his heart and soul into each individual matter. Attorney-client privilege was crucial to him and one of his final messages was that every secret he knew, he would take with him—a comment which showed both his wry sense of humor and his savvy diplomatic professionalism.
Robert’s interests were broad and varied. He loved golf and never stopped improving his game. He also loved birds and nature, and one of his family’s favorite activities was to see every bit of interaction in nature in his back yard. He listened to cool jazz music and read extensively in American History, particularly Revolutionary War history featuring his heroes Jefferson, Adams and Franklin.
Robert is survived by his wife, Sarah, his brother Richard and wife Jacqueline, niece Tamar and her partner Brandon Rae, nephew Jeremy and his wife Michelle, and grandnieces Zia and Gili. His family will devote themselves to celebrating what made him happy and remembering the wonderful man they loved.
Services will be held Wednesday, July 10th, 2024, at 2PM at Temple Beth-El, 118 S. Grand, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. Burial will follow at the family plot at Temple Beth-El Cemetery in Poughkeepsie.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Wm. G. Miller & Son FH, Inc. If you wish to send an online condolence, please visit our website at www.wmgmillerfuneralhome.com
