Frederick Mark Robins

Fred Robins, 90, of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and longtime resident of West Orange and Morris Township, NJ, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on December 23, 2023.

Frederick Mark Robins, known as Fred or Freddie, was born February 22, 1933 and raised in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn, NY to Eva and Murray Robins.  He attended Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn, NY and pursued higher education at SMU in Dallas, TX.  After completing his education, Fred served in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1955, specializing in Intelligence Operations during The Korean War at Carswell Air Force Base in Ft. Worth, TX.  He was honored with the National Defense Service Medal for his dedication and service.

Following his military service and the war's end, Fred embarked on a dynamic and successful career in the apparel industry.  He began his career in New York City's famed garment center in the late 50’s, quickly climbing its ranks, holding various senior executive and leadership roles at renowned sportswear brands such as Fliegelman, Bonjour Jeans, Blasswear, Ellen Tracy, and MaxMara. Fred concluded his career as the Executive Vice President of MaxMara, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the famed Italian brand's presence in North America.

Aside from his professional achievements, Fred was a founding member of The Needler's, an apparel industry not-for-profit organization that exclusively supports children's charities. For 50 years, Fred and his colleagues raised funds and awareness to benefit pediatric neurosurgery and help sick and underprivileged children through the work of The Needler’s.

To know Fred was to love him. Outside of work, Fred was a devoted husband, father and friend. He had a range of hobbies and interests including golf, collecting stamps and coins, and was a true lover of jazz. Fred often frequented NYC's renowned jazz clubs throughout the years. He had a knack for solving Sudoku puzzles in pen only, and he loved cards, especially Texas Hold 'Em and Gin. Fred had a gift for making people feel special with every interaction he had. He was the kindest soul with the biggest heart, leading his life with integrity, honesty, and love. 

Fred's kind, generous, and loving nature extended to his personal relationships. He was a doting father who took immense pride in his children's lives and accomplishments. His 62-year marriage to his beloved wife, Marylee, was the greatest love story of his life. Fred is survived by his wife Marylee, his daughter Dina, his sons Chris and Marc, and his grandchildren Griffin, Dylan, Olivia, and Jack. He was preceded in death by his mother Eva, father Murray, brother Everett, and sister Ruth.  Fred will be deeply missed by all who knew him - his kindness, generosity and love will forever be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Fred's life at The Church of Christ The King in New Vernon, New Jersey on December 29, 2023.  A viewing will take place from 10am to 10:45am, followed by a service at 11am.  Interment will immediately follow the service at Gate of Heaven Cemetery & Mausoleum in East Hanover, New Jersey.  A luncheon will be held at Luigi's Restaurant & Bar in East Hanover following the interment.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pave The Way Foundation by clicking here. Contributions will continue Fred's legacy of supporting great causes.

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