Arnold Greenberg, a prominent figure in the business community and a cherished resident of West Hartford, Connecticut, passed away on April 12, 2015, at the age of 82. His death marked the end of a remarkable journey characterized by entrepreneurial success, community involvement, and a deep commitment to family and philanthropy.
Born to Russian-Jewish immigrant parents, Arnold Greenberg was raised in an environment that valued hard work, education, and cultural heritage. His father, Maurice Greenberg, laid the foundation for what would become a family legacy in business. Arnold pursued higher education in law, a field that honed his analytical skills and prepared him for future business endeavors. He practiced law until 1966, when he made a pivotal decision to join the family business, Coleco, signaling the start of a transformative era f
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At Coleco, Arnold Greenberg’s vision and leadership propelled the company to new heights. Initially known for manufacturing leather goods and above-ground swimming pools, Coleco diversified under Arnold’s guidance. In 1975, recognizing the burgeoning potential of the video game industry, he spearheaded the development of the Telstar video game console, positioning Coleco as a significant player in the market. This move demonstrated his foresight and willingness to embrace innovation.
The early 1980s saw further bold initiatives. Arnold led the development of the ColecoVision home console, which gained acclaim for its arcade-quality games. Securing the licensing rights to Nintendo’s Donkey Kong was a strategic masterstroke, enhancing Coleco’s market position. However, not all ventures met with success. The introduction of the Adam Computer faced challenges due to rushed development, leading to financial setbacks. Despite these hurdles, Arnold’s resilience and commitment to innovation remained steadfast.
One of Arnold Greenberg’s most notable achievements was the acquisition and launch of the Cabbage Patch Kids doll line in 1983. Under his leadership, Coleco transformed these unique dolls into a cultural phenomenon. Each doll’s distinct appearance and the concept of “adoption” resonated deeply with consumers, leading to unprecedented demand. This success not only showcased Arnold’s marketing acumen but also highlighted his ability to connect with the public’s sentiments.
Beyond his business accomplishments, Arnold was deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors. In 1985, he founded the Maurice Greenberg Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Hartford, honoring his father’s legacy and enriching the community’s cultural and educational landscape. His commitment to the arts was evident through his support of institutions like the Hartford Stage, where he served as a Life Trustee. Arnold’s contributions extended to various civic and cultural organizations, reflecting his belief in giving back to society.
Arnold’s personal life was marked by enduring relationships and a strong sense of family. He was married to Beverly Greenberg for 53 years, a partnership that exemplified love and mutghters, Dana and Sara, and were proud grandparents to Joshua and Lily Shafer. Arnold’s brother, Leonard Greenberg, was not only a sibling but also a business collaborator and fellow philanthropist. Their combined efforts significantly impacted the Hartford community and beyond.
Arnold Greenberg’s legacy is multifaceted, encompassing entrepreneurial innovation, cultural enrichment, and unwavering community support. His ability to navigate the complexities of business while maintaining a commitment to ethical values earned him respect and admiration. The institutions and initiatives he supported continue to thrive, serving as enduring testaments to his vision and generosity.
His passing in 2015 was a profound loss to all who knew him. However, the impact of his life’s work ensures that his memory lives on, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence, embrace innovation, and contribute positively to their communities.
