Howard J. Grossman

OBITUARY

Howard J. Grossman, 91, of Pittston, beloved husband of Miriam Tobi (Balin) Grossman, passed away on January 26, 2026. Born in New York City, he was the son of Max and Eva Grossman. He earned degrees in Economics and City Planning from Rutgers University and a Master of Public Administration from New York University.

Howard and Tobi were married in 1956 and shared 69 years of marriage marked by love, partnership, and devotion to family and community.

Howard dedicated his career to public service and economic development, serving as Deputy Director of the Montgomery County, PA Planning Commission and later as Executive Director of the Economic Development Council of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where he led major regional revitalization efforts. Following retirement, he served as Executive Director of Jewish Family Service of Greater Wilkes-Barre and most recently as Fundraising Director at the Pittston Memorial Library.

Deeply committed to civic life, Howard served on countless nonprofit boards including FM Kirby Center, Northeast Baseball, Pittston Arts Council, Wyoming Valley Art League and the Interfaith Council. Especially close to his heart was the organization he founded, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, for which he was recently honored by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

He is survived by his wife Tobi; his daughters, Ellen Topiel of Cherry Hill, Michele Smertz (Alan) of Clarks Summit, and Debra Hund (Ron) of Carmel; and his eight grandchildren: Carrie Topiel, Benjamin Topiel, Joshua Smertz (Audra), Michael Smertz (Natalie), Bradley Smertz (Gabi), Rachel Smertz, Ethan Hund, and Seth Hund.

Howard will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, love of family, and lifelong dedication to improving his community.

A memorial service will be held February 15 at 12 PM at Temple B’nai B’rith, 408 Wyoming Ave., Kingston, PA, with visitation beginning at 11:15 AM. Shiva will follow the service. Arrangements are under the direction of the Rosenberg Funeral Chapel, Inc., Wilkes-Barre. Memorial contributions may be made to Temple B’nai B’rith or Jewish Family Service of NEPA.

Howard J. Grossman

January 26, 2026