Birth date: Dec 25, 1934 Death date: Jan 9, 2026
James A. Mandel, 91, of East Syracuse, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. James was born in Pittsburgh, PA to the late Isadore and Jennie (Fair) Mandel. He received his PhD from Syracuse U Read Obituary
Dr. James Mandel showed me, through his actions, the powerful and enduring impact of kindness. I will never forget my first interaction with him. As an immigrant woman newly arrived in the United States and determined to pursue a Ph.D. in engineering, I approached Dr. Mandel during my very first week. I deeply admired the Finite Elements course he was teaching, yet I was filled with anxiety as I asked whether I might be allowed to audit the class, even though I was not yet officially a Syracuse University student.
His response stays with me to this day. With a calm voice and a warm smile, he welcomed me into his classroom, encouraging me simply to listen and learn. That single moment set the tone for all that followed. Over time, I continued to be touched by both his kindness and Carolyn’s. They treated my husband and me, both Syracuse University students, as family, opening their home to us every holiday and welcoming us with extraordinary warmth. They even hosted a baby shower for me, a gift of love and generosity I will always cherish.
Through Dr. Mandel and Carolyn, I learned that kindness knows no limits. Their compassion shaped not only my academic journey, but the person I strive to be today. I will forever be grateful.
Nafis (and Javad and Emilia)
To me, Jim was not just a friend and close associate, but someone whom I admire, respect and revere. To his students, Jim was not just a professor, but a caring mentor and nurturing guardian. He was someone who genuinely loved his family, his relatives, his country, and all those around him. May you find peace and love in Olam Ha-Ba.
Eric Lui
