Leslie Neilson

Posted 8/21/12

Leslie Neilson of Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn, New York and longtime weekend and holiday resident of Barryville, New York, died Monday, two days after celebrating his 76th birthday surrounded by family …

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Leslie Neilson

Posted

Leslie Neilson of Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn, New York and longtime weekend and holiday resident of Barryville, New York, died Monday, two days after celebrating his 76th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

His antique store, Barewood, was a fixture on Atlantic Avenue during the ‘70s and ‘80s—a resource for contractors and architects who sought his extensive inventory of salvaged entryways and doors. He went on to specialize in architectural detail, overseeing a staff of skilled craftsmen who created and reproduced intricate designs in woodwork for many notable New York City projects including the highly publicized restoration of the Hoboken Railroad terminal and the Manhattan Custom House. He and his wife, Pamela van den Berg, spent over two decades renovating and landscaping their vacation compound at the foot of a waterfall in Barryville—that became his legacy.

Les was a commanding presence with a deep infectious laugh. He made an impression on the people and places he encountered. He served four years in the United States Air Force, stationed in Japan. He loved good food, a great party, art, sports, music, and travel. He was a world champion pinochle and bridge player.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela; his son, Scott and daughter-in-law Beverly Neilson; his sister, Beverly Fowler; grandsons, Christopher and Leslie Neilson; great-grandchildren, Jayden, Aliyah and Tristan; many nieces and nephews; as well as his devoted Labrador companion, Halle.