STEPHEN D. MANSHEL, a real estate developer and hotelier with a lifelong connection to Zionism and the State of Israel, passed away on Sunday, November 23. He was 85.

Manshel made New Orleans his home for the past 60 years—a city he deeply loved and championed throughout his life. He took great pride in helping shape the landscape of the city through the development of numerous hotels and other notable projects.

Known for his strong work ethic and his devotion to “The Three F’s”— family, food, and true friendships—Stephen lived life with passion and purpose. His many interests included snow skiing, sailing, tennis, golf, and traveling.

He was generous with his time and committed to supporting causes close to his heart. His community involvement included serving on the Audubon Park Building Commission for the creation of various new exhibits and serving as a Friends of Music Board Member.

A connected member of the local Jewish community and to his affiliation to Touro Synagogue, he contributed to the Touro Synagogue Forgotson Chapel Building Committee campaign and acted as the president of AIPAC of Louisiana, the political action caucus that supports Israel.

Manshel will be remembered for the many ways he embraced life in the Big Easy—his love of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, his enthusiasm for Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras as a proud member of the Krewe of Hermes, and his enjoyment of the Food and Wine Society and the Chaîne de Rôtisseurs.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Ellen Manshel; his daughters, Wendy Manshel Weinman and Julie Edwards-Manshel; and two grandchildren.

A private burial took place on Tuesday, November 25. Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. A memorial service is being planned at a later date at the Touro Synagogue Chapel.

The family requests that donations be made in his memory to either Jewish Family Services or Second Harvest Food Bank.