William Ungar, Polish-American author and philanthropist, founded the National Envelope Corporation (d. 2013)

William Ungar (January 21, 1913 – September 19, 2013) was a truly remarkable figure, a Polish-born American whose life spanned an extraordinary century of resilience, entrepreneurship, and profound generosity. He was widely recognized as a distinguished author, an impactful philanthropist, a courageous Holocaust survivor, and the visionary founder of the National Envelope Corporation.

A Life Forged by Experience: From Polish Origins to Enduring Resilience

Born in Poland on January 21, 1913, William Ungar endured unimaginable hardship during his early life, profoundly shaped by the atrocities of World War II. As a Holocaust survivor, his experiences in Nazi concentration camps left an indelible mark, fueling a lifelong dedication to education, remembrance, and the preservation of historical truth. Ungar’s personal testimony and reflection on these harrowing years were compellingly chronicled in his memoir, "Destined to Live: A True Story of a Child's Survival During the Holocaust." This powerful account not only served as a vital historical record but also inspired countless readers with its profound message of perseverance and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Building an Industry Leader: The National Envelope Corporation

Upon his arrival in the United States, William Ungar embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that would culminate in the creation of a major American industry leader. In 1957, he founded the National Envelope Corporation. Through sheer determination, strategic vision, and relentless hard work, Ungar transformed a modest venture into what became, at its peak, the largest envelope manufacturer in the United States. The company played a significant role in the American stationery and mailing industry for decades, employing thousands and adapting to evolving market demands. While the company later faced challenges, including bankruptcy filings in 2013 and 2014, its period of dominance under Ungar's leadership remains a testament to his exceptional business acumen and embodiment of the American dream.

A Legacy of Giving: Philanthropy and Community Impact

Beyond his significant business achievements, William Ungar distinguished himself as a dedicated and impactful philanthropist. His formative experiences during the Holocaust instilled in him a profound sense of responsibility to give back and support causes that promoted human dignity, education, and remembrance. He was a particularly generous benefactor to numerous educational institutions, especially those focused on Jewish studies and heritage, such as Yeshiva University and Touro College. Additionally, Ungar was a substantial supporter of Holocaust remembrance initiatives and museums, including the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, ensuring that the lessons of history would never be forgotten. His philanthropic endeavors extended to various charitable organizations, reflecting his deep commitment to improving society and supporting the vulnerable.

William Ungar's Enduring Influence

William Ungar’s remarkable life, which concluded on September 19, 2013, just shy of his 101st birthday, represents a multifaceted legacy. He was not only a survivor of history's darkest chapter but also a highly successful entrepreneur who built an industrial giant, an acclaimed author who shared his profound story of survival, and a dedicated philanthropist whose generosity left an enduring mark on countless lives and institutions. His extraordinary journey stands as a powerful testament to human resilience, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to humanity.

Frequently Asked Questions about William Ungar

What was William Ungar primarily known for?

William Ungar was primarily known for his incredible resilience as a Holocaust survivor, his entrepreneurial success as the founder of the National Envelope Corporation (which became the largest envelope manufacturer in the U.S. at its peak), his impactful philanthropy, and his authorship of the memoir "Destined to Live."

What book did William Ungar write?

William Ungar authored the compelling memoir "Destined to Live: A True Story of a Child's Survival During the Holocaust," which recounts his harrowing experiences during World War II.

What was the National Envelope Corporation?

The National Envelope Corporation was a prominent company founded by William Ungar in 1957. Under his leadership, it grew to become the largest manufacturer of envelopes in the United States. While the company later faced financial difficulties, its period of dominance was a significant achievement in American industry.

How did William Ungar's experiences influence his life and philanthropy?

As a Holocaust survivor, William Ungar's traumatic experiences deeply shaped his worldview, fostering immense resilience, a strong work ethic, and a profound commitment to philanthropy, particularly in supporting education, Jewish heritage, and Holocaust remembrance initiatives to ensure historical lessons were preserved.