Gary J. Rosenberg, longtime MPI member and past president of the MPI Southern California Chapter, passed away peacefully on Aug. 9 at the age of 78. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Geri; their two daughters, Michelle and Cheri; grandchildren Heather, Ryan, Gabriel and Justin; and his sister, Phyllis.

According to his daughter, Cheri, Rosenberg had an “amazing smile and the best dimples” and was loved by many for his loyalty, honesty and integrity. He and his wife, Geri, have been considered soulmates since high school and their love for one another was one-of-a-kind.

Rosenberg valued his temple (Temple Isaiah) and his family above all, but he also had a passion for music and would often “sing with gusto.” His hobbies were jogging and journaling weather, a pastime that he passed onto his children and grandchildren. Cheri says he was a man of simple pleasures, taking hot dogs, potato chips and ice cream over steak any day.

Before his time with MPI, Rosenberg served in the Navy. Afterward, he spent decades in the music industry and began his meeting planning career at Billboard magazine. After discovering his love for meetings and events, he co-founded Rosenberg and Risinger. 

An MPI member since 1980, Gary was a past president of the Southern California Chapter, served on the International Board of Directors, served as chapter manager and was president of the PCMA Southwest & Pacific Chapter. Marjorie Risinger says he was the go-to person for all things MPI.

Rosenberg received almost every honor the Southern California Chapter can bestow and was responsible for creating the Past President’s Award for commitment to the industry. Due to his long-term commitment and outstanding service with MPI, the Southern California Chapter created a scholarship in his honor, which is awarded twice a year.