Mitchell Kaminsky ob"m 1949-2017
Mitchell (Moshe) Kaminsky ob”m was born on February 27, 1949 in Brooklyn, NY to Martin & Lorraine Kaminsky. He studied finance at the University of Michigan where he worked nights as a university security guard so he could have some spending money. Upon graduation he went to work in Federated Department Stores as a salesman and stocker. Early on he had his eyes set on learning the retail business, this would bode well for his storied career in creating the largest private pawnshop chain in the country.
Growing up in a lower middle income family in the aftermath of WW2, he learned firsthand the value of hard work, persistence and perseverance. He understood that he had to make things happen himself, no one would do it for him.
When his dad Martin bought a pawnshop in Manhattan, he asked Mitchell to be the managing partner. Mitchell took over the company when his dad retired in 2000.
Mitchell was a businessman to his core and he knew how to use his business acumen to bless all the people around him. He was incredibly loyal to his employees no matter what, and they reciprocated that loyalty. There are executives still with the company after 30 years.
The Land and People of Israel was a cause very near and dear to Mitchell, he generously supported Israel, especially those on the frontline defending the country, the members of the IDF. He believed in AIPAC’s mission of a strong US – Israel alliance and he invested in the Jewish communities he lived and worked in.
The pride and joy of his life however, was his two boys Ryan and Michael. He was their full time cheerleader, as they grew into young men, he reveled in their success and guided their growth. Mitchell would never be without his “Chai” necklace and when the kids began to take stronger interest in their Judaism he was fully supportive, attending synagogue with them in later years.
On August 10 (18 Av) 2017 Mitchell was suddenly taken from the world in a tragic car accident in Denver, Colorado. He was engaged in his two passions; motorcycling and spending time with his family.
Although he left his family, his company and his community in shock and without a leader, he planted the seeds for the next generation.
Ryan and Michael have taken over the leadership of Mitchell’s company, setting their sights on continuing his legacy. Investing in quality, loyal people and in causes that they believe in will be the guiding star of their next level growth into the future.
Today, Mitchell would be so proud that his boys are continuing in his ways and contributing to his legacy. This Sefer Torah is a bold and powerful example of what the future holds.
