Celebrating the Life of

Dr. Marshall J. Burak

Photos & Memories

Obituary

Longtime Los Gatos resident Marshall Jay Burak, the former dean of San Jose State University’s business school, died September 29, 2026 at the age of 90.

Burak headed San Jose State University’s business school for 18 years, where expanded the M.B.A. program and led a successful campaign to modernize its facilities.

He was born in Los Angeles and attended the University of Southern California and the University of California, Los Angeles, where he received his undergraduate degree in 1958 and subsequently his Masters of Business Administration.

He married Marlene Leve in 1959, and they had three children together: Melissa (Ken) Toren, Matthew (Lainie) Burak and Mallorie (Mark) Davis.

After retiring from San Jose State University, Dr. Burak served as Provost and Chief Academic Officer for Lincoln University.

He was active in community affairs and was a member of the 2023 Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury.

Services were held at Congregation Sinai, located at 1532 Willowbrae Avenue in San Jose, at 12:30pm on Tuesday, October 6.

Guestbook

“May He Be a Blessing!”

Stu Ganz · Fellow Rotarian

“It was a privilege and a pleasure working with a Dean of such a high caliber. My condolences to Marlene and their 3 M's.
Respectfully
Dr. and Mrs. Stewart Karlinsky”

Stewart Karlinsky · Colleague

“Marshall had a vision for the COB at SJSU and heaven help anyone who obstructed achieving that vision. He worked tirelessly for his faculty and his students - promoting growth and development and making the hard decisions that allowed the COB to grow into a nationally recognized institution. As important as he saw the administrative side of life, he was also a "mensch" (also spelled mentsh), who was admired for his integrity, values and sense of honor. He was always available to talk and provide guidance - he was in all aspects a GOOD GUY.”

Jeff Kallis · Friend and employee

“Marshall was dean when I was hired at SJSU back in 1997 and I remember thinking he was everything you think a dean should be. Like a wise, kind-but-firm, father figure with tons of gravity that made me feel like the place was real and sound and secure--in good hands I could trust. He was like a rare, classic car that you love to see when you get the chance. I miss him being here still now, almost 30 years later. RIP.”

Tim Hill · employee

Services

Oct

Memorial Service

Held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026

Congregation Sinai

1532 Willowbrae Avenue, San Jose, CA ›