Marvin Lein

Marvin “Marv” Lein, 91, of New York, NY, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2024, in Framingham, MA surrounded by family. He was born on May 26, 1932.

Marv served in the Army at Fort Knox, KY, from 1954 to 1956. Marv’s career began as a designer and salesperson for Arista, his family’s textile printing company, specializing in silk and chiffon fabrics for the dress industry.

As a young boy, Marv loved summer camp, and his dream was to open his own camp. In 1968 his dream was fulfilled when he founded Camp Emerson in Hinsdale, MA with his wife, Addie. It was there that he created 55 magical summers, a true home away from home, for thousands of children and adults.

Marv dedicated his life to building a nurturing and empowering environment at Camp Emerson built on Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “respect the child.” His impact on campers and staff was profound, instilling in them confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging that lasted well beyond their time at camp. For Marv, Camp Emerson was not a job but a calling and his greatest joy. Each day he would look for ways to make everyone smile and to facilitate friendships. Every person has a “Marv Story” whether it was a quiet moment where he made them feel loved, a time when he poured water on their heads to get them to laugh in a photo, gave a prized golf cart ride, or groomed staff to realize their life’s work. Marv was a man that never looked for credit, he was always focused on you.

Marv’s legacy would not be complete without sharing his love story with Addie, his wife of 65 years. Sweethearts from the day they met in college until Addie’s passing in 2019. Marv and Addie happily did everything together – working to grow Camp Emerson, raising their daughters, lavishing attention on their grandchildren, traveling, and spending time with their amazing friends.

Marv is survived by his daughters, Susan Lein and Debra Lein; son-in-law, Kevin McDonough; grandson, Alexander Lein-McDonough; granddaughter, Gemma Lein-McDonough; and Debra’s partner, Jeff Nelson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Adeline Rubin Lein; mother, Fay Lein; father, Harry Lein; and brother, Sherman Lein.

Marv and Addie were extremely generous and well-loved by everyone who knew them. Marvin Lein’s legacy as a caring and devoted camp director and his impact on the lives of those he touched will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.