ForeverMissed
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It is with both tremendous sadness and a great sense of pride that we say farewell to our husband, our dad, our grampy, our great-grampy, our friend, our dance partner, and our mentor.  Irv lived such a long life, one full of meaning and purpose, and meant so much to so many different people, that it’s impossible to summarize his life in a few paragraphs.  

Although Irv spent 28 years working as a railroad mechanic and inspector, his passion in life was political activism. There were many movements that he was involved with along the way, and in many cases as a leader or founder of an organization. From the civil rights era, to the anti-Vietnam War movement, to the anti-nuclear movement, to his unwavering support of the United Nations – Irv was always fighting for (or against) something, and always on the side of peace, justice and equality for all the peoples of the world. Irv truly lived and breathed his commitment to serving humanity and to making a positive difference on our world.

And while this website is a memorial to Irv’s life, we feel it is critical to note that so much of what Irv accomplished was done with the amazing support of Ruth as his wife, his comrade, his partner, and his friend. While they lived apart for many years, they always took care of each other, and neither ever missed a Sarnoff family Thanksgiving.  Over the last decade, they once again lived together, continuing to care for each other as they had always done, and continuing to ‘debate’ politics — right up until his very last day.

We know that many of you reading this tribute were Irv and Ruth’s partners in these efforts, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all you have done to make our world better, and for your support of our family along the way.

For the past 40 years, Irv was never happier, or more at peace, than spending time with his second family: the passionate tribes of dancers in Santa Monica, Culver City and Pasadena.  He loved his kindred-spirits — sharing a playful and nurturing space that energized him and touched his soul. This ever-growing circle of friends over time became a central source of connection and inspiration for this eternal optimist.

In this website, we have provided video links, photos, and a timeline of Irv’s life achievements and defining moments. If there are important events we missed, please send us a note and let us know! It is only with your collective help that we can fill in those important moments that we have forgotten…..or perhaps never knew about in the first place!  

Also, we know Irv worked with and touched many people, and that many of you have great Irv stories to share.  We invite you to share them in the STORIES section of this website.  And if you have any videos or pictures you would like to post, please do so. This is a celebration of his life and a way to memorialize these stories so that Irv’s spirit might live on.

We think Irv lived a pretty full life, and that the world is much better off because of his leadership and dedication to the causes of peace, justice and equality for all people. We hope that reading through Irv’s achievements, and listening to his words, will help to inspire you to follow your own passion, and to commit yourself to that higher purpose of making our world a better place.  Nothing would honor Irv’s legacy more than continuing to inspire others to action!

We love you Grandpa!


June 19, 2023
June 19, 2023
Hey dad…a day late for Father’s Day, but since you/we are inter-dimensional beings of this incomprehensible grandiose universe, I figure if it’s even a possibility…you’ll get my message one way or the other. You were in my thoughts so much yesterday…but it didn’t occur to me then to go to this platform for a possible meet-up with you (or at least a meet-up with the most sentient parts of myself, my memories of us connecting in our special ways…). I miss you sooo much dad! The waves are less frequent, but more intense…as the importance of moments spent with you are illuminated more emotionally as I age. Thank you for all your precious gifts dad…You know what they are. I love you forever and always Susan

PS…Sending a big hug and thank you to my brother Herb who spent who knows how many hours/days/weeks??? to set up this website. I so appreciate that labor of love, it means a lot to me. Love you brother ❤️
May 25, 2023
May 25, 2023
Hey Dad -- This week your comadre, Mama Lucy, passed away. We were remembering the times you and Lucia Mercado forgot the language barrier and just enjoyed a dance together. You two were the bomb at our wedding in 1992! I'm imagining you two getting a chance to dance together once again. 

Dad - Your spirit continues to live in all of us -- pushing us all to make the world a little better than we found it. I am really missing you today......come visit anytime!
May 26, 2022
May 26, 2022
I will always remember Irv fondly and honorably! He was a most dedicated and inspirational activist for peace!
May 25, 2022
May 25, 2022
I love you dad ❤️!
I miss you very much…our talks about the world, dancing with you, and your loving kindness. Your soul lives on in my heart. ☮️
May 25, 2022
May 25, 2022
I miss dear Irv SO much. I think about him often, especially because he was such a deep thinker with a huge lifetime of experience & perspective. Today, I can't believe anyone or anything. If Irv were here to chat with? ..... we'd surely figure out what is real, and the right action to take in the highest light. Love you man, dance on!
May 25, 2021
May 25, 2021
Thinking of you sweet dad, as I often do...on this special day, your birthday. I don’t know if, or how or where souls go after the body dies, but I feel a calmness, despite tears of sadness reminded, that yours is at peace. Despite the heat, today I’m wearing the original often (always?) danced-in turquoise sweat shirt. In my mind’s eye, I can see you...us...dancing together...and connecting in a way that was special, without words...moments of love, compassion and acceptance that thrived in the company of the Dance. 
You gave me some precious gifts throughout the years...but the one I am thinking of today is that of having agency. Agency to initiate change when one believes change is needed...and agency to be creative in that process. Thank you for your sense of agency and persistent actions to try to make the world a better and more humane place for all beings.

I’m working on reviving an ecstatic dance here in Chico post Covid restrictions...and I’m using some of that sense of agency right now. 

Thank you dad. I love you, and miss you!

Susan

"Bound only by birth and death, life is both the ultimate mystery and the process of solving it. Life is a dance, a leap into the unknown. After you jump and before you land, is God. God is ecstasy; that state of being when everything comes together, nothing is missing, and it's all vibrating and electric. Life is an excuse for ecstasy, any way you can get it - in bed, in church, in a song. Personally, I was born to die dancing."
--Gabrielle Roth

August 11, 2020
August 11, 2020
Irv Sarnoff is one of the greatest people I have ever met. I say "is" because his example still lives on in my heart and always will. I never met a more dedicated social activist for humanity who had less ego to get in the way. He reminds me of Mohandas Gandhi in this respect. His advocacy for truth and justice and world peace is a shining example for all those who knew him and many thousands who never met him but who benefited from his stalwart work to help all humanity. If there were more like him, there wouldn't be half the rubbish and corruption and exploitation we see today. Rest in peace, Irv, just long enough to fuel your next stand for the best in us all!
May 28, 2020
May 28, 2020
I can' t believe how fast time goes by, I was thinking of you but, I could not say any word, even I remember you in my heart full of love, you will turn 90 years old, so I want to celebrate you !by dancing with your spirit as I did many times after you pass away. In your memory I will hug you during this corona virus social distancing because nothing can separate us when the heart and soul of a wonderful being like you were present in part of my life, I will always be so thankful, I love you! be the light as you are, thank you so much, I still miss you!
May 27, 2020
May 27, 2020
Hi Irv,
We never could finish our journey to make a new film. But more important was that we had many things in common. I missed the dance with you and also our political discussions. In a way I am glad that you stepped out before Trump took power. I think even you would be surprised how quick he and his followers dismantle the democracy. Also racism has of course not stopped and is on the rise due to the current administration. I try to fight back but I am honest I do not know if I will stay here. Things getting really bad currently and I do not have a lot of hope for the time that is coming. Well I keep you posted;) . I believe your atoms are swirling around somewhere and perhaps some will surround me when I am dancing in my garden or house...yeap that has changed too, no dancing together with other people currently. I know you would have hated it, but probably would have accepted it as well. Would have been an interesting discussion as well. LOL
May 26, 2020
May 26, 2020
Hopefully we the people can cause Trump to exit his Fuehrership in November...I am 70 now!! I have been fighting for peace and justice since age 16. My 15 year old granddaughter verity who lives in Florida is in the good fight too..Hopefully my 5 year old grandson Aaron Thomas will follow suit!!! Irv you are my political guru!!!
You inspired me to pie fascist politicians...so as to perpetuate the cause!!!The cause continues!! Fight back
See www.geocities.ws/pieman420
May 26, 2020
May 26, 2020
Hey Dad --  The emotion I feel when I see a bright blue shirt or just think about how much I miss you, is surely proof of how your spirit lives on. I am working hard to find meaning and purpose in what I do, with your's (and mom's) influence as my north star. I do miss our chats and the warmth of your kiss. I hope you are in a great place and continuing to fight the good fight....whatever form that might take in the afterlife. Happy 90th Dad!

p.s. Julia and Eric both miss you a lot, so if you have the chance to visit, that would be great!

herbie
May 25, 2020
May 25, 2020
Happy birthday pop! Pray you are in a peaceful abode, in a splendor of teal and violet light, in a jungle with breathtaking sounds and beauty, perhaps somewhere peaceful and mostly a place that's perfect for you.

Thank you Herb and Jill for the amazing efforts to preserve dad's legacy and life-work.
May 25, 2020
May 25, 2020
Precious memories abound today as I look at photos and ponder our shared experiences over the years. Miss you very much dad. May your spiritual essence dance on into eternity! Love you always... Susan

And, to my brother Herb...who took the painstaking time to put this memorial site together, such a wonderful gift and resource... thank you so much!
 
May 25, 2020
May 25, 2020
Remembering Irv today on his birthday as well as today on Memorial Day. Irv's longtime dedication in promoting peace and an end to war was amazing!
May 25, 2020
May 25, 2020
Dear Ones, I know you are missing your extraordinary dad. Irv- What a guy? Sending Love and Many Blessings.
July 21, 2019
July 21, 2019
Irv was the quintessential "gitta nishuma". (a good soul) He was SO sincere, SO dedicated to Peace, Truth, & Beauty, SO passionate about the dance & quality music ... that his steadfast integrity sorta blew m'mind. Irv genuinely liked me. We would exchange visions at length. That someone of SUCH stature actually enjoyed my company? ... was one of the biggest compliments of my lifetime. And to try to better earn that acknowledgement, I was inspired to do EVERYTHING in "the Highest Light". Just knowing Irv, (and Ruthie!) made me a better human being. Thankfully, I told him that when I could.
May 26, 2019
May 26, 2019
I hope you know that you are missed by so many. I will always remember things you taught me that made me a better person. You taught me things about the world and how one can do something to help it. You taught me what socially conscious means. But I also just miss talking to you and I cherish all the times I got that gift.
May 25, 2019
May 25, 2019
happy birthday Irv...
please guide us in our struggle against the trumpdroids...we need your input and guidance now.......
May 25, 2019
May 25, 2019
Always remembering Irv Sarnoff and his dedication to world peace! He was a true mentor to many other peace activists. May the memory of his activism inspire us to continue to work for peace and a nuclear weapons-free future!
May 25, 2019
May 25, 2019
Happy Birthday Dear Irv. You are everywhere now. I think of you often especially at dance.
March 29, 2019
March 29, 2019
hi this is aron kay the yippie pie thrower.....where are you when we need your guidance in taking on the trumpies? times are crucial since a psycho is running the circus at the white house...the good fight for peace and justice still carries on....i miss the days of protests back in la when we took on the war machine and the lapd....you are still the greatest...in fact i remember hanging out with you at the 1972 antiwar conference at ucla...those were the daze
March 28, 2019
March 28, 2019
I am sorry I only today learned of Irv's passing. What a terrific person he was! We worked together on many UN and peace-related causes, and he was a joy to get to know after I left the UN and moved to LA. We launched the Art & Entertainment Council for the UN together and Irv was our fearless guide and inspiration! May his memory always be a blessing, and an inspiration to us all!
August 22, 2018
August 22, 2018
Irv dear- I still want to call you, get together - and wish I could see you at dance. "Those were the days, my friend..."
loving you always,
P
August 21, 2018
August 21, 2018
I love you and miss you so much! thank you my love!!! you were the shoulders when I needed to cry! you were a dancer when I need it to dance , you were a hugger when I need just your simple tender gesture!! you support my art, my soul, the way I am thinking , I will always love you from here to the eternity!!! You are in my heart for ever!!! Alejandra E
August 21, 2018
August 21, 2018
Thinking of you today dad. Remembering the feel of my hands in yours as we danced together...and your sweet smile. 
I miss you dad. I wish so much that you could be here with us to witness these amazing grandchildren and great grandchildren of yours grow up.
In mysterious and unpredictable ways...feeling your kind and caring presence still and forever in my life. 
Love you dad. (August 20, 2018)
August 14, 2018
August 14, 2018
Dear Irv, You come to mind often and I think about the times we sat together and I interviewed you for Westside Life Magazine. You taught my son Johnathan and I so much about understanding how one person can make the world a better place. You were such a perfect example of that. Love you always.
August 11, 2018
August 11, 2018
When my book came out in Nov. 2007, few months later I received an e-mail from Irving Sarnoff..." I am reading your incredible book! The last section should be printed into many leaflets and should be distributed to as many people as possible"! I was touched by Irving Sarnoff for his comments about my book. Later we had exchanged a few e-mails. He was such a nice man...he had touched my heart. God bless his noble soul.
Chaitanya Dave
August 7, 2018
August 7, 2018
Hi Irv,
I often dance and I think of you when I do this. Also, I think about our political discussions. I think it is good that you spirit moved on and has not to listen to the news anymore. ;) As long as I am around on this planet I will continue to fight for more justice and equality as you always did and will say my opinion loudly if necessary.
August 7, 2018
August 7, 2018
Hi Dad - I’m assuming you’re reading this - surerly the Internet is everywhere by now! What’s it like on the other side of the divide? 
We all miss you here at the asylum - you were right, planet earth is the insane asylum of the universe, I suppose you heard about our new commander-in-chief,
truly bizarre, a stranger than fiction reality.
I truly hope your next journey gets beyond politics and strife-and is all about dance, great friends and is love centric.
Looking forward to seeing you soon,  
Saschinka
May 5, 2018
May 5, 2018
hey irv...i continue to think of you...so hard to believe a lot of time has passed by since the days of vietnam....however you inspired me to snub the pigs by my having pied right wingers......peace now
May 4, 2018
May 4, 2018
We think of you and love you often Irving Sarnoff, Even though we all have Spiritual feeling`s of you always We Love You Irving Sarnoff...
May 4, 2018
May 4, 2018
We will all miss you Irving Sarnoff, We love you and we miss you always Forever Rest In Peace my friend.
August 7, 2017
August 7, 2017
We're all unique, but Irv even more so. We met in the early 80's around the peace movement, stayed in touch until the last few years. I was deeply saddened to hear recently he had died. He was a hero, a role model, a friend, and a lover of life. He was patient, passionate, and present. What a gift he was to so many -- family, friends and acquaintances. Knowing Irv was one of my great blessings!
May 25, 2017
May 25, 2017
Remembering is so important but more importantly we should seek out the same passion and energy for life as Irv. Thank You for your gifts and may they present themselves in the presence of others as we all walk along the path of life. Blessings to all!
May 25, 2017
May 25, 2017
We think of you often, Irv. I miss your pragmatic remarks, and your dry wit. I appreciate what you helped create in your children, all of whom I love dearly.
May 25, 2017
May 25, 2017
Today, on Irv's birthday, I am reflecting on and being inspired by his ongoing dedication to peace.
May 25, 2017
May 25, 2017
Happy Birthday Irv, we miss you. Thanks for everything you did for us at ProjectActive.org
May 25, 2017
May 25, 2017
What a wonderful surprise to receive this opportunity to honor Irv today! And, to see all the photographs of the life he lived so fully before I even met him.

I am a member of his Dance Tribe with years of Sundays, looking forward to my dances with Irv. He was clearly loved not only by me but our whole community.

And, Irv and I shared a deep commitment to community and global activism. We'd go off to lunch to talk about our passion of political and social activism.

He inspired me with his peace action efforts to stay the path of deep personal spiritual growth, celebration of life and community through dance, and the power and impact of 1 person's commitment to social justice and change. Joined together, citizen activists, become a movement, and movements grow and redesign the existing culture.

Irv showed me that you didn't need an invitation by the UN to be a global activist and ambassador for it's ideals!  Self-authorized, self empowered, he showed the path.

Thank you, and a deep bow to you my soul brother Irv!

Lina
May 25, 2017
May 25, 2017
Irv was my beloved cousin -- laid back, but so active for peace and a better world. An inspiration to me and all who knew him.
Roz Rosenbluth
May 25, 2017
May 25, 2017
Irv, ever creative! When living in Santa Monica he latched on to the idea of activating the U.S. yoga community by launching a voter registration campsign , reaching out to students through their yoga studios. Namaste, Irv. Shanti, shanti, peace peace.
March 14, 2017
March 14, 2017
irv was one of my political role models....i met irv in the late 60s during an anti war protest in la...i was working with green power at the time helping to give out free food to the protesters...
irv was a great person who helped make the world a better place due to his dedication for peace and justice
December 8, 2016
December 8, 2016
Irv was one of the biggest gifts in my life. I thanks him for a big amount of learning and also for giving me one of the most valuable opportunities in my life: Be part of the big force that placed 260 million people active, the same day around the globe for an action of PEACE
November 17, 2016
November 17, 2016
I had the honor of working with Irv at the Friends of the United Nations offices in Santa Monica over a year or two around the early 90's. I attended functions at the U.N. with him on behalf of the Environment Programme, where I met Richie Havens. Irv was the contact for many peace seekers world-wide. On the weekends he would dance. Literally. It was around that time that Irv was involved with the Peace Poles. There is a Peace Pole here in Monterey that I see nearly every day and think of Irv everytime I see it. Irv was an inspiration. PEACE!
November 12, 2016
November 12, 2016
Irv was a real shining light for all who encountered him. I was lucky to live close to Irv and Ruth for three years just recently and came to think of them as very loving and wise advisors. They both inspired so many through the decades by their action for a better world. I loved seeing the pictures of this wonderful man as he and Ruth fought for justice on many fronts, founded organizations, and influenced - in a positive way - people in a number of ways. Irv and I had some very deep discussions about hopes and dreams for a better world and best strategies to make that happen. Especially in this new political era (as of November 8, 2016) I know that people working for a just and sustainable future will continue to be inspired by his untiring dedication to the common good. I know I will. Many blessings to Irv, Ruth and their wonderful family!
November 9, 2016
November 9, 2016
My son and I were "fans" of Irv. He was a loving part of our family. We loved to listen to his life stories and applauded his achievements. He had a great sense of humor too. Not to mention his dance moves! Wow! Our lives were blessed by our friendship with Irv and yes, we do miss him. But his legacy and life will continue always and forever.
November 9, 2016
November 9, 2016
Hey Irv. I missed out on having that cup of coffee. I want to thank you for your constant support of my efforts to use art to develop a Memorial to those who fought and died in the Iraq and Afganistan wars: The Portraits of the Fallen Memorial. Since those first days years ago we now have over 200 painted portraits and they have been on display in several locations including USC Hillel and the Nixon Library. Peace to you and love and light to your loved ones.
November 8, 2016
November 8, 2016
When I returned from traveling to Europe, where I was impressed by how openly people discussed such matters as communism and anarchy as being part of the whole fabric of political thought relevant to people who wished to address the times they lived in, I was fortunate to run into Irv at a spiritual gathering in Pasadena where people danced together openly, without particular partners, just as I had experienced when I lived in Amsterdam. Then came the politics. Irv—and, later, Ruth—grounded me in the reality of a political life, which I have tried to live ever since. Today, as we elect our next president and important state and local offices, I will be taking it to the streets. When Irv and Ruth left the Westside for Highland Park, I attended Ruth's birthday party, where I felt welcomed into the Sarnoff family. Thank you for reaching out to me at this time so that I might be part of your tribute to Irv.
November 8, 2016
November 8, 2016
Irv was an inspiration to so many of us. He worked with the Topanga Peace Alliance to insure that we had a local program for UN International Peace Day. He always had energy, compassion and determination. He never gave up. He will be missed!
November 8, 2016
November 8, 2016
Oh, I am so sorry to learn that we have lost Irv. He & I go back to the late 70's and the Alliance for Survival. Irv was a frequent guest on my radio talk shows on KLOS-FM, KABC-AM and KPFK-FM. There is no doubt that his eloquence and sincerity in those interviews brought countless people into the peace & social justice movement. He certainly inspired me ... a lovely man with a warm & wonderful heart. See you on the other side, Irv.
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June 19, 2023
June 19, 2023
Hey dad…a day late for Father’s Day, but since you/we are inter-dimensional beings of this incomprehensible grandiose universe, I figure if it’s even a possibility…you’ll get my message one way or the other. You were in my thoughts so much yesterday…but it didn’t occur to me then to go to this platform for a possible meet-up with you (or at least a meet-up with the most sentient parts of myself, my memories of us connecting in our special ways…). I miss you sooo much dad! The waves are less frequent, but more intense…as the importance of moments spent with you are illuminated more emotionally as I age. Thank you for all your precious gifts dad…You know what they are. I love you forever and always Susan

PS…Sending a big hug and thank you to my brother Herb who spent who knows how many hours/days/weeks??? to set up this website. I so appreciate that labor of love, it means a lot to me. Love you brother ❤️
May 25, 2023
May 25, 2023
Hey Dad -- This week your comadre, Mama Lucy, passed away. We were remembering the times you and Lucia Mercado forgot the language barrier and just enjoyed a dance together. You two were the bomb at our wedding in 1992! I'm imagining you two getting a chance to dance together once again. 

Dad - Your spirit continues to live in all of us -- pushing us all to make the world a little better than we found it. I am really missing you today......come visit anytime!
May 26, 2022
May 26, 2022
I will always remember Irv fondly and honorably! He was a most dedicated and inspirational activist for peace!
Recent stories
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Alliance For Survival

March 26
I was one of the hundreds of people in the greater Los Angeles area that participated in affinity groups to stop the licensing and building of the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power plant and was involved in other activities the Sarnoff's championed. The Alliance for Survival was a significant experience in my development as a justice organizer. They created a democratic organization that embraced their values. I credit them with the development of my fledgling skills as a grass roots organizer and exemplifying the power of democracy that has informed my life. I am grateful to have been a distant satellite in the universe of their work.  

AMAZING SERENDIPITY IN NYC.

October 22, 2020
I know Irv Sarnof from dance home in Santa Monica. As a fellow networker and passionate person for peace (having produced for 10 years of the KidCast for Peace Solutions For A Better World project; that asks children what we should do with the world they will inherit?)

I was in NYC one year. While walking the streets of Manhattan, I noticed a Tibetan Bizarre and invited my GF to be to meet me there. I walked in and lo and behold, there was an old girlfriend...who just happened to be there! We were lovers in Key West thirteen years previous, and now here she was... but wait, there’s more. 

I shared that I was to meet the woman I have been dating here in a few minutes; then we are going dancing at Ballroom Boogie off Union Sq.

Darleen Took out a small scrap of paper and written on it was the name of the dance hall that she was going to that very night; it was the same place! when we arrived who should be there all the way from LA but IRV!
 
That was only the first serendipity on that trip. I was also at the united nations in support of some thing I don’t recall and Irv was there and we discovered that we would be sharing the same flight on the way back to Los Angeles.
I don’t think I’ve ever had such a good time on a plane as I had coming home on the same flight as Irv Sarnof. I don’t think that there is anyone else I know who would join me in the bathroom of the plane at 39,000 feet spending half an hour getting loaded on some pot that I had with me and it turned out that he had some as well. Boy, those were the good all days. Rest in peace Irv you crossed my mind a few days ago realizing that you may no longer be with us and now I know that it’s true physically speaking. You’ll always be in my heart and soul. God bless you brother-in-arms. >>>—Peter H Rosen—>
Pictured: Irv, Me, My Date, My old GF; Darleen RIP, her Friend Susa

Supporting with love my artistic photography and paints from Valerie Daval

August 21, 2017

I love you! for ever!!! in my heart, soul, and spirit!!!
 I was missing you terrible... He told me " You are an amazing strong woman"
You gave me the last ride from dance in Altadena back to my home on Monday night. "You told me I will always will give you a ride when you need it !!!"
If you move towards the north of California contact my daugther.. 
He was an angel to me when I needed to cry he gave me his shoulder, his arms to comfort me ,at dance ,we also had fun dancing.
Beautiful!!! I love you !!! I wish in my life I can find a real man to relay on. I remember I used to have a crush with a stupid guy.. I was broken heart.. I didn't know what to do.. he told me: " Don't do anything " the right person will come to you. 

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