Michael Kushner (1919 - 2010)

Michael Kushner, of Binghamton, passed away on Tuesday, September 28, 2010. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank Kushner and Susan Maczan; wife, Virginia; siblings, Frank Kushner, Agnes Valada, Anne Tanch, and Mary Miller. He is survived by his favorite pet Benji; son and daughter-in-law, Frank and Jeanette Kushner, daughter, Karen Leiser; grandchildren; Nick Kushner, Jenny Kushner, Christy Kushner, Mike Kushner, Courtney Kushner, Ethen Leiser, and Katarina Leiser. Michael was baptized on November 23, 1919 and married Virginia Osbourne on February 15, 1947 at St. Michael's Church by Father Michael Tidick. He served in the US AirForce as a sergeant during WWII with many combat recognition awards. He was president of Campbell Distributing Company distributing beer, soda and other assorted beverages for over 30 years. He was a 4th degree black belt in karate, which he practiced for over 30 years. He was very generous to his family, neighbors and business associates. Mike served on the board of Directors of many organizations including his favorite the original commission to build the NYSEG stadium in the city of Binghamton. He was responsible for the building of recognition and popularity of Hidy Ochai's Karate during the late 1960's and 1970's due to his public relations and business expertise, later doing the same for his son's FMK Karate. The family would like to express a sincere thanks to Mike's neighbors on Delmar Street for their help and helping oversee his care for many years. A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 4, 2010 at 11:00 am at the Wm. R. Chase & Son Funeral Home, 737 Chenango Street, Port Dickinson, with Father James Dutko, officiating. Burial will take place at St. Michael's Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until the time of service on Monday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Michael Church, 280 Clinton Street, Binghamton, NY 13905.