Arnold Greenberg Death & Obituary: Arnold Greenberg, a prominent businessman and philanthropist from West Hartford, Connecticut, passed away on April 12, 2015, at the age of 82. His life was a testament to entrepreneurial success, community involvement, and unwavering dedication to his family. Greenberg’s journey, marked by vision and leadership, left an indelible impact on both the business world and the cultural landscape of his community.
Peter Leroy Death & Obituary: A Cherished Member of the Braintree Community
Early Life and Education
Born to Russian-Jewish immigrant parents, Arnold Greenberg was instilled with a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for education and heritage. His father, Maurice Greenberg, laid the foundation for what would become a family business that Arnold would later lead. Arnold initially pursued law, honing analytical skills that proved invaluable in his later business career. After a successful stint in law, he made a pivotal career shift in 1966 by joining his family’s business, Coleco Industries.
Business Success and Leadership at Coleco Industries
Under Arnold Greenberg’s leadership, Coleco evolved from its beginnings as a manufacturer of leather goods and swimming pools into a major player in the video game industry. Recognizing the potential of the growing video game market, he led the company in the development of the Telstar video game console in 1975. This decision marked the beginning of a transformative era for Coleco.
In the early 1980s, ColecoVision, the company’s home video game console, became a significant success, offering consumers arcade-quality games. One of the crowning achievements of this period was securing the rights to Nintendo’s Donkey Kong, which helped propel Coleco to the forefront of the gaming industry.
The Cabbage Patch Kids Phenomenon
One of Arnold Greenberg’s most culturally significant achievements was the acquisition and launch of the Cabbage Patch Kids doll line in 1983. The unique concept behind the dolls, centered around adoption, captured the public’s imagination and turned them into a national sensation. This success demonstrated Greenberg’s exceptional marketing skills and his ability to deeply connect with consumers, leaving a lasting imprint on the toy industry.
Setbacks and Resilience
Despite these successes, Arnold faced challenges in the business world. The Adam Computer, launched in 1983, encountered difficulties due to rushed development, leading to significant financial setbacks for Coleco. However, Arnold’s resilience and commitment to innovation were evident as he continued to seek new opportunities for growth, underscoring his ability to adapt in the face of adversity.
Philanthropic Efforts and Community Involvement
Beyond business, Arnold Greenberg was dedicated to giving back to his community. He was a generous philanthropist, particularly in the fields of education and culture. In 1985, he founded the Maurice Greenberg Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Hartford in honor of his father, enriching the cultural fabric of his community. Greenberg was also a Life Trustee at the Hartford Stage and contributed to various civic organizations, further cementing his legacy of service.
A Family Man
On a personal level, Arnold’s life was marked by deep family bonds. He was married to Beverly Greenberg for 53 years, and together they raised two daughters, Dana and Sara. Arnold was also a proud grandfather to Joshua and Lily Shafer. He shared a close relationship with his brother, Leonard Greenberg, who played a significant role in both the business and philanthropic ventures that defined Arnold’s career.
Legacy and Conclusion
Arnold Greenberg’s legacy lives on through the institutions he helped establish, his philanthropic endeavors, and the lives he touched with his leadership and vision. His ability to innovate, his commitment to community, and his deep sense of family made him a respected figure in West Hartford and beyond. Although he passed away in 2015, Arnold’s impact continues to be felt, and his contributions to business, culture, and his community will not be forgotten.
