Leanore “Leanie” Galinn Mendelsohn, Midwest Emmy award winning composer of music for film and television documentaries, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2023. Born in El Paso, Texas on August 30, 1939, to Joseph and Dorothy (Bellman) Galinn, Leanie was active in BBYO and President of District Seven B’nai B’rith Girls. She earned a degree in music composition from Texas Western College (now UTEP) in El Paso.
Leanie married Morton Mendelsohn in 1963 and together they lived around the world raising two children, Sharol and Ron, before settling in St. Louis in 1972. Leanie was an accomplished pianist and composer and was honored by the St. Louis Area Emmy Awards:
– 1988 winner of Outstanding Achievement as Composer for “On Site: Three St. Louis Sculptures”
– 1989 nominee for Outstanding Achievement as Composer for “A Strong Seed Planted”
– 1990 winner of Outstanding Achievement as Composer for “End of the Line – Orphan Trains”
In 2008, Leanie released her first CD, “Heartstrings,” an array of inspirational and soothing music that is still available on most streaming platforms.
After many years in St. Louis, Leanie and Mort returned to El Paso in 2019 and enjoyed music programs at UTEP. Leanie and Mort relocated one more time in March 2023 to a senior living community in Tucson, AZ.
Leanie is remembered for her love of music and the peaceful and natural way she expressed herself through the notes and sounds. Her music, her hearty laugh, sense of humor, and joy in exchanging stories will be missed.
Leanie is survived by Mort Mendelsohn, her beloved husband of over 60 years, her children, Sharol Brickman and Ron (Alison) Mendelsohn, and her cherished grandchildren Aaron and Daniel Brickman and Laurin Mendelsohn.
A virtual service will be held on Tuesday, October 24, at 8:00 pm eastern time and will be officiated by family friend Cantor Danielle Rodnizki. Memorial contributions in Leanie’s memory can be made to the UTEP Music Department at givingto.utep.edu/music. Donations will support student travel for competitions and conferences, equipment, and events such as the ones that Leanie enjoyed. Memorial contributions may also be made to a music program or music fund at a synagogue, church, or school of your choice.
