David Ferguson Greene

David F. Greene, 88, a long-time Westfield resident, died suddenly Saturday May 23 at his Fellowship Village residence in Basking Ridge. He was born in New Rochelle, NY on December 18, 1926 to Mertie and LeRoy Greene.Dr. Greene graduated from Columbia University with bachelor, masters and doctorate degrees in chemical engineering. While commuting to Columbia, he struck up a relationship with Beatrice Nissen, whom he married on Valentine's Day 1953. The newlyweds moved to Plainfield and later to Westfield in 1958, where they enjoyed a loving marriage for 62 years. They raised four sons, and became the proud grandparents of five granddaughters and two grandsons.After graduate school, Dr. Greene joined Esso (later Exxon), where he enjoyed a distinguished 33-year career, culminating in senior roles in Supply & Transportation. As successful as he was professionally, Dr. Greene was more passionate about his family and hobbies. He was an avid bridge and chess player, and regularly challenged his grandchildren to matches. He was a committed amateur pianist, favoring classical composers, and supported family members and friends in their musical pursuits. But he particularly enjoyed spending time with family, and he and Bea delighted in arranging trips and vacations for the extended family.Dr. Greene also gave back to his community. He served on the Compensation Committee of the Westfield Board of Education, the Board of Highland Swim Club in Fanwood, and the Residents Association at Fellowship Village, where he and Bea moved in 2010.A natty dresser renowned for his bow ties, Dr. Greene was a true gentle man. He will be sorely missed. He is survived by wife Bea of Basking Ridge, NJ; brother Paul and his wife Jeanne of Lady Lake, FL; son Mark and his wife Penelope of Minneapolis, and their children Kyle and Audrey; son Peter and his husband Kane O'Keefe of New York City; son James and his wife Mary Ellen of Madison, NJ, and their daughters Alexandra and Melanie; and son Steven and his wife Susan of Highland Park, IL, and their children Stefanie, Sarah and Scott. He was predeceased by his brother John.
A memorial service will be held at 11:30 am Saturday May 30 at Fellowship Village, 8000 Fellowship Road, Basking Ridge, NJ. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his honor to Community FoodBank of New Jersey in Hillside.
Arrangements by Gray Funeral Directors, Westfield. Please go to www.grayfuneralhomes.com to view a tribute of Dr. Greene's life.