Melvin Berkovitz
May 29, 1929 - April 30, 2026

MELVIN BERKOVITZ: Beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather on April 30, 2026 in Delray Florida, where he recently relocated. Mel was a month shy of his 97th birthday. Born in Pittsburgh, PA on May 29,1929 to Sadie (nee Lookman) Berkovitz and Samuel Berkovitz, both immigrants from Russia and Hungary respectively. Mel was predeceased by his parents and siblings, Morris, Ben, Albert and William Berkovitz, Gertrude Berkovitz Hollander, Blanche Berkovitz Hoffman and Edith Berkovitz. Survivors include the love of his life, Carolyn Girson, to whom he was married two days shy of 73 years. Mel and Carolyn were married May 3, 1953, at the Margaretta Street Shul. He was the dearly loved father of Sam (Deborah) Berkovitz, Sandra Tepper, and Cynthia (James) Goldstein. He was the proudest grandfather of Shaina (John) Anderson, Molly (Nick) Blicha, Eli Berkovitz, Noah Berkovitz, Lindsey (Steven) Shafer, Jordana Goldstein and Max Goldstein. Precious great-grandfather to Angelo Berkovitz, Norah Berkovitz, Quinn Anderson, and many grand-dogs. Mel served as a Corporal in the US Marine Corps, then went to business school. He worked at Gordon's Furniture for several years until he decided to branch out on his own to open an art and frame gallery which he started in 1972, in the basement of his Shady Avenue home. His idea of providing artwork to compliment the furniture in people's homes was ignited while at Gordon's, but then Mel took a leap of faith that became Concept Art Gallery; first on Forbes Avenue in Squirrel Hill, then relocating to the current Regent Square Gallery. Mel was owner and CEO of Concept until his retirement. Mel loved the Squirrel Hill JCC where he swam regularly for several years, and started an informal Friday Lunch group with his swimming friends. When he couldn't swim, he exercised in the gym with weights up until October when he moved. He was disciplined in his exercise, diet and lifestyle, and we are all certain that it led to this incredibly long and active life. Friends will be received at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 from 12 Noon to 1 PM. Interment Private. The family suggests donations in Mel's memory be made to the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh with the designation of either JCC Age Well or JCC Aquatics. www.schugar.com

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On behalf of the daughters of Helene ( Sissy) Rosenthal Ghinassi, we express our deepest sympathy to Carolyn and the entire family. Ann Ghinassi Judy Ghinassi Neville Eva Ghinassi Nucci

By Melvin Berkovitz - May 04, 2026

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My deepest sympathy to the entire Berkovitz family on the passing of their husband, father, grandfather Mel Berkovitz. Mel was the most gentle , loving man who was my friend at 1660. He was most interesting when he talked about the art he loved. Mel and Carolyn visited me in Florida last year just before they moved here for the winter. He was a good friend and will be missed by many.

By Elaine Levenson - May 02, 2026

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My condolences to you Carolyn and to Sam . Mel was a true gentle man and a fine neighbor. I will miss him at 1660/1680.

By Marlene Haus - May 02, 2026

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Dear family, We were sad to learn of Mel’s passing. He had a great long life. We were blessed to know him. He always seemed cheerful and we admired his quest to stay in the best of shape and staying close with his family. Big hugs to Carolyn and the rest of the family. Joyce and Randy

By Joyce Berk-Lippincott - May 01, 2026

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I am sorry to hear about the death of Mel. Over, the 50 years that I knew him from the business, he was always a consummate and knowledgable gentleman. My sincere condolences to Sam, Deborah and family.

By Erik Wagner - May 01, 2026

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