Sussan co-founder, philanthropist Marc Besen dies aged 99

Prominent Melbourne businessman and philanthropist Marc Besen, who co-founded the Sussan and Sportsgirl chains and developed Highpoint Shopping centre, has passed away at 99.

Marc and Eva Besen at the TarraWarra Museum of Art in 2003. Picture: Richard Cisar-Wright

Tributes have flowed for Sussan co-founder, philanthropist and Holocaust survivor Marc Besen, who has died aged 99.

The Melbourne-based billionaire was born in 1923 to a Jewish family in Romania and fled Europe during World War II to arrive in Australia in 1947.

Mr Besen was a key player in one of Victoria’s most prominent business families.

Along with his late wife Eva and his brother-in-law John Gandel, Mr Besen founded the Sussan, Sportsgirl and Suzanne Grae retail chains having taken over two lingerie shops first started by Eva’s parents in 1939.

Marc and Eva Besen at Mural Hall in 2011.

Mr Besen was one of the nation’s most successful businessmen.

He then developed the Highpoint Shopping Centre, while Mr Gandel has a 50 per cent stake in Chadstone.

Mr Besen and his wife also developed the TarraWarra Estate winery and museum of art in the Yarra Valley.

Mr Besen dedicated his life to helping others and was previously recognised – as a Companion in the General Division of the Order of Australia for his eminent service to the visual and performing arts and contribution to a range of social welfare initiatives – in the 2015 Australia Day honours.

His children include prominent business figures and philanthropists Naomi Milgrom, Carol Schwartz, Debbie Dadon and David Besen.

Former Victorian premier Jeff Kennett was among the first to issue a tribute on Wednesday.

“The community has lost perhaps one of the most humane, humble, and generous individuals I have had the pleasure of knowing,” he said.

Mount Scopus Memorial College took to Facebook to pay their respects to their longstanding supporter.

“Marc’s philanthropy knew no bounds and his contributions to the College and Foundation continue to ensure the growth and learning of many thousands of students today,” the tribute read.