UFT Admin
- Retired teacher
Irwin Leventhal was a talented and dedicated high school social studies teacher who especially loved teaching law, government and American history during his 31-year teaching career in city schools. He taught at Bayside and Hillcrest HS, in Queens, with earlier stints at James Monroe, Adlai E. Stevenson and DeWitt Clinton HS in the Bronx. Irwin, who retired in 1990, died of pneumonia on July 22, 2025, at the age of 90.
“Irwin was a passionate educator who was devoted to his students. He also valued his teaching colleagues and found his career deeply rewarding. It enriched his life,” his sister Carole S. Wigdor said. “He was committed to empowering his students — believing in their potential and striving to give them the tools to succeed both academically and personally,” she added.
Irwin’s dedication was rooted in the belief that education could open the door to a meaningful life, as it had for him. He also worked at summer camps and afterschool programs.
Irwin was educated in New York City public schools, graduating from James Monroe HS and earning his college degree from Hunter College, City University of New York, where he also did his graduate work. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves.
He was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and New York Rangers and loved playing stickball, street hockey and touch football in his youth. Irwin enjoyed integrating sports into his teaching so that the subject matter would be more interesting for his students.
Another passion was music and Irwin had a deep appreciation for the Great American Songbook and had an extensive and treasured collection of recordings. He was known for his rich and expressive singing voice and music brought him endless joy.
Irwin was especially proud of his nephews and great-nephews, taking great satisfaction in watching them grow. Their success was his joy — he celebrated each of their milestones with pride. He was very generous and played a meaningful role in helping to provide for their education.
In addition to his sister, Irwin is survived by his brother-in-law, Irving Wigdor; his nephews, Seth Wigdor Robbins and David B. Wigdor; and his great-nephews, Aaron, Gabriel and Luca Robbins, and Matthew Wigdor.
Condolences can be sent to Carole Wigdor via her Facebook page or in the comments section of the UFT Honors website below.
He was a great man. Now he left having accomplished his mission here on earth. It seems like he was one of those well liked teachers. My deepest condolences to all his family.
I was a student of Mr Leventhal at JHS 135 X . Looking back, I remember him being a kind and caring teacher. I am a retired NYC teacher and proud to be a UFT member.
Mr. Leventhal was so talented in so many ways. He lived a great life for sure.