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When the Rochester Fringe Festival became a nonprofit in 2011, distinguished attorney Justin Vigdor led the charge to raise funds. In September, the festival marked its 13th season and ranks among the region’s top annual events.
Vigdor, who died Dec. 26 at age 95, is remembered for many such defining moments in the community. His dedication to the legal profession is also a symbol of his life’s work.
“The world is a richer place because Justin existed,” says Erica Fee, founding producer and CEO of the Fringe Festival. “He was key to our success as board chair since Fringe’s inception and was proof that one person can indeed make a massive difference.”
In October, Vigdor was honored with the Rochester Rotary Award, which recognizes people who put “service above self,” the Rotary’s motto. Honorees share exceptional community spirit and are positive role models. Vigdor’s service to the community spans decades—he helped found the Al Sigl Community of Agencies and the Telesca Center for Justice, which houses civil legal service providers for the disadvantaged. His board service included the Alzheimer’s Association, Quad A for Kids, Mary Cariola Center, the Hochstein School, Jewish Family Center, Special Olympics of Genesee and Western N.Y., and United Way of Greater Rochester.
When Rabbi Peter Stein of Temple B’rith Kodesh, nominated Vigdor for the Rotary award, he wrote: “Justin possesses a unique and extraordinary combination of generosity, humility and passion. He is always eager to help and to lend his wisdom and his talents. … Justin is a visionary leader whose impact cannot be fully expressed.”
Until his passing, Vidgor was of counsel at Bond, Schoeneck & King, bringing more than seven decades of a legal career to bear.
“This community lost one of its most committed public servants in Justin Vigdor. His indelible legacy lives on in the many not-for-profit organizations he helped create. He was a rare gentleman and we are better for knowing him,” says Ed Hourihan, managing member of Bond, Schoneck & King’s Rochester office.
A New York City native, Vigdor moved to Rochester in 1954, after serving in the U.S. Army at the Pentagon. His legal career spanned various areas including business and he was known for his expertise with public companies. Later in his life, he focused on general corporate law, nonprofits and alternative dispute resolution.
Vigdor is survived by his children Jill Vigdor Feldman, Lisa Vigdor Peck, Wendy Vigdor Hess, and Robert Vigdor.; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his wife, Louise, who died in January.
“Our father was a true humanitarian and a shining light in this community. He will be greatly missed by all of us,” family members said in a statement.
Smriti Jacob is Rochester Beacon managing editor. The Beacon welcomes comments and letters from readers who adhere to our comment policy including use of their full, real name. See “Leave a Reply” below to discuss on this post. Comments of a general nature may be submitted to the Letters page by emailing [email protected].
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A shing light, indeed. He was brilliant, hardworking, decent and kind. Godspeed to his great spirt.