Hugh Greenberg
Interviewed by Charlotte Dubin
June 20, 2005
Max M. Fisher Federation Building, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
Hugh Greenberg
Video 01:22:00
Hugh Greenberg
Audio 01:22:00
Abstract
In this interview, Hugh Greenberg speaks of his parents and his grandparents’ immigration to Traverse City, Michigan from Bessarabia. He talks about what he remembers as a privileged childhood, growing up during the Great Depression.
He remembers his family not being that observant, but always celebrating the main holidays. Though they were not as religious, they were always active in the community; his father was on the board of the Home for the Aged, and his mother was active with Hadassah.
Greenberg remembers the anti-Semitism that was around and even directed at him personally during the time of World War II. Greenberg then mention those who have inspired him over the years and talks about his memories at public school, and the organizations he was a part of in college.
Greenberg briefly talks about his relationship with his wife, Carolyn, their work fundraising for Federation. He speaks about his experiences in the Army during the Korean War, and then speaks about his children and grandchildren.
Greenberg talks about how he got involved with the Federation through his father who was good friends with Isidore Sobeloff. He speaks about fundraising and the challenges the solicitors face today. He speaks about the Neighborhood Project and his work done as the first chair for this program. He also speaks about being a chair of the North American Youth Maccabees Games.
Lastly, Greenberg mentions the importance of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee and his involvement with the organization. The interview ends with Greenberg speaking about his thoughts on winning the Butzel award with his wife and leaves a legacy of giving back.
History of Narrator
Hugh William Greenberg was born in Detroit in 1930. He attended the University of Michigan and served in the U.S. Army. Greenberg formed Detroit Gauge & Tool Company, where he served as President and Chief Executive Officer for 45 years.
A devoted community member, Greenberg served a variety of causes, included the United Way, Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, Jewish Vocational Service and Detroit Symphony Orchestra. He had a passion for the Jewish Community Center, serving as president and board members. He also chaired the JCC Millennium Capital Campaign.
Along with his wife of over 60 years, Carolyn, Greenberg won the American Jewish Committee’s Human Relations Award and Federation’s prestigious Butzel Award.
Greenberg died on October 19, 2013 at the age of 83.
Transcript
Important Subjects
Important Names
Credit as: Leonard N. Simons Jewish Community Archives. Hugh Greenberg Oral History Interview, June 20, 2005.