Marlene Libby Kantor's Obituary
Marlene Libby Kantor (née Goldberg), a trailblazing entrepreneur, devoted mother, and cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, in Boca Raton, Florida. She was 90 years old.
Born on November 3, 1935, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to Joseph and Gussie Goldberg, Marlene grew up with an innate drive for success and a deep love for her family. Her early career began as a bookkeeper for car dealerships and medical offices, where her determination and work ethic quickly became evident. These qualities would later define her remarkable journey as a businesswoman.
Marlene’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to found a family book import/export company, Van Reimsdyck, in New York that her husband Harold and brother-in-law Marvin grew into a publicly held conglomerate. Her innovative vision didn’t stop there; she went on to establish Marani Party Consultants on Long Island’s South Shore, an event planning business that reflected her creativity and organizational prowess. Later in life, alongside her son Steven, she co-founded and operated Tri-Star Industries, a refreshment vending and office coffee service company in South Florida. Under their leadership, Tri-Star expanded into a thriving full-service enterprise serving Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties before being sold in 1987.
A true pioneer of her time, Marlene was not only a successful entrepreneur but also an adventurer at heart. She traveled the world extensively, embracing new cultures and experiences with enthusiasm. An avid card player and fashionista with an impeccable sense of style, she brought energy and elegance to every room she entered. Her philanthropic endeavors further demonstrated her compassion and commitment to making a difference.
Marlene’s life was defined by her unique combination of strength and tenderness. She was smart, gritty, energetic, and driven - qualities that earned her admiration from all who knew her. Yet beneath her formidable exterior was a heart full of love. For Marlene, family was everything. She cherished the time spent with her loved ones and took immense pride in their accomplishments.
She is survived by her beloved children, daughter Susan, son Steven (Lucy Hamilton Kantor); grandsons Robert and Zachary (Sari Kantor); and great-granddaughter Isabella. Marlene was predeceased by her parents Joseph and Gussie Goldberg; brother Eugene Goldberg; and sister Charlotte Milgram.
Marlene’s legacy is one of resilience, love, and boundless determination. She exemplified the adage “big things come in small packages,” leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched through both her professional achievements and personal connections.
May Marlene Libby Kantor’s memory serve as a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew her.
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