Warren Gradus 1945 - 2023

Warren Gradus, of Yonkers, NY sadly passed away on October 29, 2023 at the age of 78. Warren was born August 24, 1945 in the Bronx, NY to the late Julius and Anna Gradus. By profession, Warren had two careers and was passionate about both. His deep love of music was evident in all he did, and especially as a 50 year member of the doo wop group, The Belmonts. During his time as a musician he also worked in various studios as a recording engineer, and ultimately opened Phantom Power recording studio in Mt. Vernon, NY in the 1980s. Though music remained a consistent passion, he made a mid-career shift in the 1990s and returned to college and graduate school, where he earned a Physician Assistant degree and subsequently worked at Riker’s Island in this role for 23 years. After retiring, Warren was a master at keeping himself busy with projects he loved including recording new music, starting a doo wop internet radio station (“Belmonts Internet Radio”), and generally enjoying visits to White Castle, his favorite hot dog truck, and Johnny’s Pizza. Warren was many things to many people – he was smart and wise, endlessly funny, compassionate, and brave. He loved life and lived every day to its fullest. In addition to his beloved wife Vivian, Warren is also survived by his cherished daughter Jaimie Gradus (husband Josh Lucas), his adoring granddaughter Avery Lucas (who calls him “Grapo”), his loving sister Sheila Cooper, his cousins and their families, and countless friends. Warren is predeceased by his brother Lawrence. A gathering of family and friends will take place on Thursday, November 2 from 2pm-6pm at WEINSTEIN MEMORIAL CHAPEL, in Yonkers, where a funeral service will begin at 2:15pm. Warren will be missed by all who knew him.