Glenn Markman, Commercial Broker With Bensonhurst Roots, Dies at 52

Glenn Markman, a commercial broker with clients like Spike Lee and the NBA, died at the age of 52 yesterday after a battle with cancer.

During his 28 years in brokerage, the Bensonhurst native succeeded in transforming his home borough. After joining the prestigious Cushman & Wakefield firm 12 years ago, Markman’s passion for basketball helped him score exclusive deals with the NBA and, eventually, the Brooklyn Nets. Most recently, he is credited for his role in the creation of a $45 million training center for the Nets in Sunset Park’s Industry City.

According to this lovely tribute to Markman in Real Estate Weekly, the philanthropist and businessman never forgot his Brooklyn roots–specifically, playing basketball at the Jewish Community House of Bensonhurst and at Kutscher’s Sports Academy:

Glenn often remarked that “being a successful broker is no different than playing point guard. You need to make your team better, keep your eye on the competition and make sure you see the entire floor – controlling the entire game. No different than completing a real estate transaction.”

He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Jan Testori-Markman, and their son Clio and daughter Edie Ray, as well as his parents Marty and Karen Markman. He is also survived by his brother Greg Markman and sister-in-law Margaret and their children, Nick, Andrew, and Joey; his mother- and father-in-law Christine and Edward Testori; and his brother- and sister-in-law Jay and Susan Testori and their children Gina, Julia, Scott, and Amber.