Obituary of Victor Cornelius
GERMANTOWN –
Victor Cornelius, 69 of Germantown, NY passed peacefully on August 31, 2024.
Victor was born in Pittsburgh, PA, grew up in Mt. Lebanon, PA and studied acting at Boston University in the late 1970's.
Victor then moved to Manhattan and after a few years as a graphics artist in advertising, he launched his own firm, Endeavor Municipal Development, Inc (EMD Inc.). As principal for EMD Inc., he interviewed community leaders, including former presidents and celebrities advocating to raise funds for a host of non-profit organizations. As a consummate Grant Writer, working with community leaders, philanthropic organizations and historical societies, he raised over 75 million dollars on behalf of communities throughout New York state, including those that served low-income families.
His love of Hudson Valley history and lore led him to his involvement with many of the grand historic properties in Columbia County, NY.
There he owned a home for 37 years, which was built prior to the revolutionary war, named "Teviotdale".
Victor was diagnosed as HIV positive in the 1980s and perhaps one of his greatest legacies was the ability and willingness to participate in various medical studies that led to successful treatments that have saved so many lives today.
Victor was a spectacular man - so generous in spirit, and always devoted to helping others. As a son, brother, cousin, advocate and friend, he will truly be missed!
Victor was predeceased by father, Edgar Franklin Cornelius Sr. (of Surfside Beach, SC), sister-in-law Marilyn (Geist) Cornelius (of Califon, NJ), brother-in-law Robert Simcic (of Pittsburgh, PA), partners John Wilson (of Manhattan), Richard Barker (of Germantown, NY) and Kermit Graf (of Sayville, NY).
Survived by Mother Natalie Cornelius (of Surfside Beach, SC), brother Edgar Franklin Cornelius Jr. (of Surfside Beach, SC), sister Ann (Cornelius) Simcic (of Pittsburgh, PA), dearest friend, Joshua Bronte (of Germantown, NY) and many loving cousins and friends.
There will be a Celebration of Life for family members.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Cornelius Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com
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