Locals Mourn Loss Of Sunny Kellerman

From The Queens Tribune: By Jason Banrey

Area residents are mourning the loss of a dedicated resident, community activist and a voice of the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Sunny Kellerman, 84, died in January after dedicating the last decade of her life to
the community she actively served and with which was so closely involved.

Serving as the Chamber's office manager and outreach representative, Kellerman interacted with local businesses.

Known to some shopkeepers as "the ladywith the big sunglasses," Kellerman had her own style and a spirited attitude that helped get the job done.

More than 15 years ago, Kellerman's feisty character helped rid Forest Hills of an exotic establishment that had neighborhood residents hot and bothered.

After spearheading a 2-1/2-month campaign to close the neighborhood's all-nude strip club, Runway 69, Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz (D-Forest Hills) recalls Kellerman standing by her side at many community protests.

"She was there no matter what," said Koslowitz. "Rain or shine she was there protesting. She was very committed to the cause."

After noticing Kellerman's dedication to the community, Koslowitz helped her get a job at the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce in 1994 - where she stayed until her death.

"She will be sorely missed in the community," said Koslowitz. "We thank her for all the work she's done throughout the years."

Leslie Brown, President of the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce, knew Kellerman for more than 15 years. Brown spent all of her years at the Chamber working with Kellerman, addressing the needs of its members.

"Sunny was my right hand," said Brown. "She was the day-to-day voice of the Chamber. When you called us, it was she who pointed you in the right direction."

Kellerman's vast knowledge of the community, past and present, surpassed any
search engine that contained information about Forest Hills, said Brown.

"She didn't use the computer much," said Brown. "She had all the information about the neighborhood in her head."

Kellerman's untimely death came as a shock to some community residents.

Frank Gulluscio, District Manager of Community Board 6, admired the motivation she emanated while serving under her post at the Chamber.

"She was always there and effervescent," said Gulluscio. "This loss was a surprise to us. We can't believe it."