Chef, culinary historian, author and entrepreneur who enjoyed entertaining family and friends
NORTH READING — Louis Greenstein of North Reading passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024, at the age of 81.
Born on November 24, 1942, Lou grew up in Revere, Massachusetts, graduated from UMass Amherst, sailed the world as a cook on “The Westward,” one of the U.S. tall ships, before living in Beacon Hill when he met his wife, Zelma Cross, and settled down to build a family in North Reading, Massachusetts.
Lou had an extensive career in the food service and entertainment industries. He was featured on many local and national television shows as a chef and culinary historian, he ran food service operations for New Hampshire College for decades, he founded his company, “Epicurean Consulting,” and authored his book, “A La Carte: A Tour of Dining History.”
Lou was an avid collector of cooking, kitchen, and restaurant memorabilia. He loved to go on cruises, see movies, go to yard sales, visit the casino, and spend time with friends and family, entertaining pool-side at their North Reading home.
Lou leaves behind his loving wife of 50 years, Zelma Greenstein of North Reading; his daughter and son-in-law, Rachel Greenstein and Daniel Murray of Winthrop; his son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Allison Greenstein of Sandown, N.H., and their daughter (his granddaughter), Anna Greenstein.
Lou also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, cousins, and in-laws who he cared for deeply. In addition, he formed lifelong relationships with many friends, business colleagues, and clients, all of whom he considered family. His parents, Ruth and Joseph Greenstein, and his brothers, Norman and David Greenstein, predeceased Lou.
Family and friends were cordially invited to visiting hours on Wednesday, September 4 at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., North Reading at 11 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 12:30 p.m. A luncheon followed the service.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Community Boating Boston where Lou learned to sail in his youth [https://portal.community-boating.org/donate].
