Mark Gushner, 80, former co-owner of Boyd's Phila.

Mark L. Gushner, 80, of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., a former co-owner and operator of Boyd's Philadelphia, died Thursday, Jan. 29, of Parkinson's disease and a blood cancer at the Hospice of Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center.

Mr. Gushner lived in Gladwyne before retiring to Florida in 2004.

Starting in 1968, Mr. Gushner was instrumental in the expansion and success of Boyd's, the clothing store founded by his father and two uncles in 1938.

Formerly at 1217 Market St., the store is now at 1818 Chestnut St.

"My father worked there from the time he was in high school," said son Jimmy. "The store was open Saturdays, so he worked six days a week."

Born in Philadelphia, Mr. Gushner graduated from Lower Merion High School, where he played basketball and developed a love of music.

Mr. Gushner graduated with honors from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. At Boyd's, he handled the financial side, while sharing the buying responsibilities with his brother.

"He was on the floor half the day, and half in the office," his son said.

Mr. Gushner also helped manage the store's then-200 employees.

"The employees there really loved my dad. He was not a bossy, flashy person. He was more of a people person," his son said. "He always had a smile on his face and remembered their faces. He asked questions about their wives, their children."

Mr. Gushner was community-minded and philanthropic. He was a former president of JEVS Human Services and a former board member of the Jewish Federation of Philadelphia. He enjoyed antique cars, golf, and world travel.

First and foremost, Mr. Gushner was devoted to family and friends. He was "cherished for his warmth, wisdom, and humor," said his family in a remembrance.

Surviving, beside his son, are his wife of 56 years, Marilyn Abrahams; a daughter, Julie Schroeder; and four grandchildren.

Services were Sunday, Feb. 1, in Jupiter, Fla.

Donations may be made to the MPN Research Foundation, 180 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1870, Chicago, Ill. 60601, or via www.mpnresearchfoundation.org.

610-313-8102