Mitchell Meisler, 64, died suddenly on March 1, 2023, at his home in Woodstock. An exemplary husband, father, brother, and friend, Mitch was born in Massapequa, New York, the youngest child of Jack and Sylvia Schulman Meisler. He graduated from Plainedge High School and received a journalism degree in 1980 from SUNY Binghamton. Brash and ambitious, Mitch parlayed his first job as a gofer at a financial magazine into a prestigious position at Shearson Lehman Brothers There, he traveled the country advising clients on investment strategy while also studying for and receiving a master’s degree in business and journalism from New York University. Widely known and respected for his professionalism and financial acumen, he worked for several renowned financial institutions in New York City.
A weekender for 20 years, Mitch moved to Woodstock full time in 2002, becoming Senior Managing Director at CL King in Albany. Mitch adapted completely and passionately to the country life. Outgoing and charming, he made friends easily. He loved to laugh and to compliment people. And he would drop everything to come to the aid of a friend.
Mitch was diagnosed with leukemia at age 50 but insisted on turning his regular trips to Sloan Kettering for chemotherapy into “mini vacations” for him and his wife, complete with martinis and steak. Despite his illness, he never missed his boys’ soccer games. Mitch was so proud of his boys. He talked about them all the time and thought they could do no wrong. He also never missed work because of illness, rising at five every morning for the long trek to Albany.
Mitch went into remission. But hard times persisted. Seven and a half years ago, he lost his beloved son Evan to suicide. But Mitch’s strength helped the entire family to endure this tragedy.
Four years ago, Mitch decided he was ready for the next phase in his life: “retirement Mitch.” He wanted to spend more time with his family.
One of Mitch’s first projects after retirement was with his son Alex, rebuilding the engine of one of his sports cars. Mitch loved his antique Triumph convertibles. He would describe his rides through the Catskills as “transcendental” experiences. He was a longtime presence at the annual Woodstock British Car Show. His pride and joy was his “Peace, Love and Lucas” themed garage, probably the cleanest and best-organized garage in all of Woodstock. He loved planning special family vacations: deep sea fishing, skiing out west, seeing the Grand Canyon, Rome, and going to Alaska.
At age 60, Mitch became passionate about yoga. He said it let him express his gratitude and spirituality and helped him to become more present for his family. Just two days after he died, he was supposed to leave for a yoga retreat in Costa Rica. Cooking was also a passion. He was a gracious host and talented chef who made entertaining look easy. He felt his meals were nourishment for the body and soul. He would say, “This corned beef will change your life.” He had a habit of going to restaurants and asking the waiter which dish would change his life.
Mitch went swimming at least three times a week all year round, always plugged into the Grateful Dead. He loved Grateful Dead concerts and Midnight Rambles. Mitch was an avid skier; the day before his death, he spent the entire day skiing. He loved fine cigars, good bourbon, treasure hunting at local flea markets, and golf. He was a proud member of the Woodstock Golf Club. By all accounts, he wasn’t the best golfer, but that didn’t bother him. He volunteered as an auctioneer to help raise funds for Woodstock clubs or charities.
Mitch had many passions, but his greatest passion by far was family. He took great pride in his family. And family to him was all-inclusive. His former wife, Helene, and her partner Robert were among his closest friends.
Mitch was in fantastic shape, so it came as a complete shock to everyone when he went in for his daily afternoon nap and didn’t wake up.
Mitch is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Jeanine, adored sons Alexander and Daniel, devoted sister Meryl Meisler (Pattie O’Brien), big brother Kenneth (Laurie) Meisler, and faithful canine companion, Maverick. Cherished by his former wife and dear friend, Helene Gordon (Robert Straus), father-in-law Howard McComiskey, brother-in-law John (Merrilyn) McComiskey, sister-in-law Alison (Tom) Burke, nieces and nephews, and countless friends. Pre-deceased by sons Evan and Benjamin Meisler, his parents, and mother-in-law Diane McComiskey.
Donations honoring Mitchell Meisler’s memory can be made to Sandy Hook Promise or the charity of your choice.
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