George Feldenkreis Death and Obituary – George Feldenkreis, the visionary founder and former CEO of Perry Ellis International, passed away on February 21, 2025. A dynamic force in both the business world and the philanthropic community, George’s death marks the loss of a remarkable entrepreneur whose legacy spans across industries and cultures.
Born in Havana, Cuba, George was the son of Ukrainian immigrants, Elisa and Herman Feldenkreis. His early life in Cuba was upended by political turmoil, and in 1961, seeking freedom and opportunity, George and his wife, Dorita, fled the country to start a new life in the United States. They arrived in Miami, where George quickly embraced the entrepreneurial spirit that would define his career.
Initially, he ventured into the automotive parts manufacturing business with his company Carfel, which is now known as GFX, Inc. Under his leadership, the company thrived and became a significant player in the industry. However, George’s entrepreneurial vision soon led him to the fashion world. In the 1970s, he founded Supreme International, which would later become Perry Ellis International—a company that revolutionized the fashion landscape. He expanded the brand globally, with his son Oscar Feldenkreis joining the business as a partner, cementing the company’s standing as a major force in the fashion industry.
Throughout his tenure at Perry Ellis International, George remained an active participant in the company’s operations, driving its innovation and success. He was known for his hands-on approach and for inspiring his associates and business partners worldwide with his leadership and passion. His dedication to the fashion industry was recognized by numerous awards, including the prestigious American Apparel & Footwear Association’s Man of the Year award and a Lifetime Achievement Award from MR Magazine, marking him as one of the industry’s most influential figures.
While George was best known for his business acumen, his philanthropic contributions were just as notable. He was deeply committed to the Miami community and dedicated much of his time to various causes. A proud member of the Jewish community, George’s support for Israel and efforts to combat anti-Semitism were foundational to his philanthropic work. He served as a trustee of the University of Miami for more than 20 years and was a board member of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation for over four decades. His efforts to promote civic engagement, humanitarian causes, and tolerance made him a respected figure both in Miami and beyond.
George’s life was a testament to resilience, generosity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and his family was always central to his heart. He is survived by his wife, Mariita, his children—Oscar and Ellen Feldenkreis, Fanny Hanono, Howard and Sharon Srebnick, Scott and Jessica Srebnick, Eliza and Jon Weber—and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew him, but his legacy endures through the countless lives he touched.
A service will be held in his honor on February 21, 2025, at Temple Menorah in Miami Beach, FL. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Temple Menorah, the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, or the Friends of Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) in George’s memory.
George Feldenkreis leaves behind a legacy that transcends business success; it is a legacy of compassion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good.