Robert Congel, developer of Destiny USA, dies at 85

Destiny USA is New York’s largest shopping center and the 8th largest in the U.S., as noted on the Pyramid website.

A spokesman for Pyramid Management Group forwarded to CNYBJ a statement from company CEO Stephen J. Congel on his father’s death.

“He passed away very peacefully at home with his wife and 5 children at his side,” Stephen Congel said. “Those that knew him know he was a force of nature, a visionary who saw many of his dreams realized, while challenging us constantly with many more to fulfill. He changed many lives. Having been his son and also having the privilege of working with him for so many years, I know he was most proud of all the people he employed and whose careers he helped along the way. He gained far more joy and pride from the people that made up our company, as well as all the Pyramid alumni, than any building he ever built. The world will not be the same without him. We deeply appreciate the expression of sympathy from friends and family, colleagues, the community and business partners during this difficult time.