The EastWest Institute respectfully acknowledges the passing of Frank Neuman, a respected international entrepreneur and philanthropist. Mr. Neuman died on April 7, 2019 at the age of 71.

“It was an absolute privilege and delight to know Frank both as a friend and as a colleague,” commented William Ide, Executive Committee Chairman of the EastWest Institute. “Contributing significantly to the institute’s mission, he was a major force in EWI’s efforts globally. We extend our sincerest thoughts and prayers to Frank’s family.”

Mr. Neuman was a member of the EastWest Institute Board of Directors from 2002 through 2011. 

Mr. Neuman was born in Arad, Romania.  An expert in the furniture and lumber industries, he served as President of the Abitare Group, CEO of Carpathian Atlantic Industries and President of FIMA Veneer & Plywood. Active in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), he owned seven lumber production facilities in the Ukraine and Russia as well as eight retail furniture operations in Moscow. He was fluent in English, Hungarian, Romanian, Spanish, Italian, French and Russian.

In addition, Mr. Neuman played an important philanthropic role in the communities in which he worked. For example, he was recognized by the United Jewish Federations of the CIS and the Russian Orthodox communities of Ukraine for his donation of a new church in Kostrino, Ukraine.

He is survived by his mother, three loving children and two grandchildren.