Eugene Zitwer was born on December 3, 1923 in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn. He was called Gene and Yuddy by his friends and family. Eugene attended local public schools, graduated from Boy's High School and attended the City College of New York. The advent of World War II, however, interrupted his studies.
Eugene entered the United States Army as an Infantry-Man in the E Company, 310th Infantry Regiment, 78th Division and fought in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. He was subsequently awarded the Bronze Star Combat Badge for Bravery. After Eugene's Honorable Discharge from the United States Army he continued with his education at New York University and graduated in June, 1947 with a Bachelor of Science degree.
Eugene began working in the field of public accounting and soon experienced the challenges and excitement of business. He left the accounting field to become the President of Season Mates, Inc. and was also affiliated with Sunrise Fashions, Inc.
Eugene married Edith Cohen on July 15, 1951 in New York City and was her devoted husband for thirty-nine years. Eugene and Edith had three daughters: Michelle, Barbara and Mary Sue. Eugene's warmth and love for humanity knew no bounds. Adults and children alike were embraced by him during his lifetime. His humor, love and charitable spirit touched all who knew him.
After a prolonged illness, Eugene passed away on October 4, 1990 at New York Hospital in New York City at the age of sixty-seven. The Eugene Zitwer Foundation was established on March 18, 1991.
Edith Zitwer passed away on October 8, 2006. The charity endures with her indomitable spirit and enduring love for children.