George Feldenkreis, the visionary founder of Perry Ellis International and a highly respected figure in both Miami’s business and philanthropic communities, passed away on February 21, 2025. His death marks the end of an era for a man whose legacy is built on an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to family, and profound generosity to his community. Born in Havana, Cuba, to Ukrainian immigrant parents, Elisa and Herman Feldenkreis, George’s life was a remarkable journey that embodied the pursuit of the American dream and left an indelible mark on the business world, the fashion industry, and numerous humanitarian causes.
George Feldenkreis’s story is one of resilience and triumph. His early life in Cuba was marked by the turbulent political climate of the 1950s, which led to his family’s decision to flee the country in 1961. Along with his wife, Dorita, and their young daughter, George sought refuge in the United States, driven by the hope for freedom and new opportunities. In the face of adversity, George’s entrepreneurial vision took shape as he set out to build a life for himself and his family. His commitment to hard work and dedication laid the foundation for his future successes.
George’s first business venture, Carfel, which later became GFX, Inc., was a company specializing in the manufacturing of automotive parts. It was through this venture that George began to solidify his reputation as a driven businessman. GFX, Inc., which is now managed by his daughter, Fanny Hanono, grew into a successful company and served as a stepping stone for the Feldenkreis family’s future business endeavors. This early success paved the way for what would later become a game-changing journey into the fashion industry.
In the 1970s, George transitioned from the automotive industry to fashion, founding Supreme International. His passion for entrepreneurship, coupled with his relentless determination, helped him grow the company into one of the most well-known names in the global apparel market. Supreme International eventually evolved into Perry Ellis International, a company that became synonymous with innovation, style, and quality. Under George’s leadership, the company flourished, and he remained actively engaged with the business for many years. He built a legacy of success alongside his son and business partner, Oscar Feldenkreis, inspiring countless colleagues and partners around the world.
Perry Ellis International became a leader in the fashion industry under George’s guidance, and his approach to business transformed the apparel market. His attention to detail, commitment to excellence, and visionary leadership helped shape the company into a household name. Even as George’s role in the company shifted, his influence remained strong, and he continued to inspire those who worked with him. The company’s success is a testament to his strategic thinking and business acumen.
Beyond his accomplishments in business, George was deeply committed to philanthropy. Known for his humility, kindness, and intellect, George’s generosity extended across various causes, and he was widely recognized for his efforts to make a positive impact in his community and beyond. A dedicated member of the Jewish community, George spent over two decades serving as a trustee of the University of Miami, where he played a crucial role in shaping the institution’s growth and development. His involvement in the Greater Miami Jewish Federation spanned more than four decades, during which time he served on the board and became a staunch advocate for the needs of the Jewish community.
George’s unwavering support for Israel was a defining aspect of his philanthropy. He worked tirelessly to promote unity and combat anti-Semitism, and his dedication to various humanitarian initiatives reflected his belief in the importance of fostering solidarity among diverse communities. His contributions to these causes were widely recognized, and his legacy of kindness and generosity will continue to inspire future generations.
George was also honored by the fashion industry for his exceptional contributions. He received the prestigious American Apparel & Footwear Association’s Man of the Year award, an acknowledgment of his outstanding achievements in the fashion business. In addition, George was the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from MR Magazine, which celebrated his decades of leadership and vision in the apparel industry. These accolades, while significant, were only a small reflection of the immense impact George had on both his industry and the people he mentored and worked with.
Throughout his life, George remained grounded in his values, always prioritizing his family and community. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mariita, as well as his children, Oscar and Ellen Feldenkreis, Fanny Hanono, Howard and Sharon Srebnick, Scott and Jessica Srebnick, and Eliza and Jon Weber. His legacy will also live on through his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were a constant source of pride and joy for him. George’s love for his family was immeasurable, and his relationships with those closest to him were at the heart of everything he did.
The Feldenkreis family’s dedication to supporting one another and maintaining a strong family bond is a reflection of George’s own values. He believed that family was everything, and this belief guided him throughout his life. His legacy of resilience, generosity, and leadership will continue to inspire all who knew him, from his family to his colleagues to the countless people whose lives he touched through his philanthropic efforts.
A temple service will be held on February 21, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Temple Menorah, located at 620 75th Street, Miami Beach, FL 33141. The service will offer family, friends, and community members a chance to pay their respects and honor George’s remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the Feldenkreis family has requested that donations in George’s memory be made to Temple Menorah, the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, or the Friends of Israel Defense Forces (FIDF). These organizations were important to George, and the family has chosen to continue his legacy of support for these causes.
George Feldenkreis’s life was a testament to perseverance, vision, and a deep commitment to family, community, and philanthropy. His impact on the fashion industry, his dedication to his loved ones, and his tireless work to give back to those in need are just a few of the many aspects that made him a remarkable individual. He was a man who never stopped striving to make the world a better place, and his legacy will continue to be felt for generations to come.
In remembering George, those who knew him will hold on to the lessons he taught through his actions: the importance of hard work, the power of generosity, and the strength of community. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the legacy of success and kindness that he leaves behind. Though George is no longer with us, his impact on the world will continue to shape the future, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps and make a difference in their own communities. His legacy will endure, and the values he upheld will continue to guide those who carry forward his remarkable work.
