ROYAL PALM BEACH, FLORIDA
Alan Olinsky, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, born March 13, 1938, in Albany New York, died on September 21, 2021. Alan is survived by his daughter, Sheryl Olinsky Borg and grandchildren he adored, Nick and Nina. Alan was pre-deceased by his wife Arlene, parents Jacob and Sally Olinsky, and his beloved daughter, Beth Adrienne. as well as his son-in-law, Nicholas Borg.
Together with his father, Alan owned Jake’s Food Market in Albany, NY. Respected by his customers and all who came to know him, Alan was friendly and warm to everyone in the neighborhood who walked into the store for groceries, homemade salads by Sally, or Tofutti.
In later years Alan and Arlene moved to Chicago where Alan became Director of Extension Services at Chicago State University. He helped to grow the continuing education program and added extensive off-campus classes which provided numerous opportunities for higher education for minority students, an accomplishment of which he was extremely proud. Enjoying time with friends in Greektown and attending Chicago Bulls games were a highlight of his years in Chicago.
Alan retired to Florida in the wonderful community of Royal Palm Beach where he and Arlene made many new friends who quickly were drawn to Alan’s personality and became lifelong friends.
Active in local politics, Alan ran campaigns for local politicians and together with Arlene helped to ensure that the community they lived in remained a great place to live for all the residents. Pop-pop, as the kids called him, was an avid NY Yankees fan, often calling his grandkids to discuss the game. He was eager to hear the news of both of his grandkids’ stellar academics, as well as their successes on the baseball and soccer fields.
Alan will be missed by family and friends who should find comfort that he is reunited with his wife of 52 years, whom he missed dearly.
Services to be held graveside on Sunday, October 3, at 12 p.m., in the Independent Benevolent Society on Fuller Road, Albany. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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