Manny Nosowsky, Crossword Puzzle Creator for The Times, Passes Away at 94

Manny Nosowsky, a celebrated creator of crossword puzzles for The New York Times, passed away in San Francisco at 94. Known for his clever and humorous puzzles, he captivated puzzle enthusiasts for nearly 20 years.

His passing was confirmed by his wife, Debby Nosowsky. Nosowsky’s journey into crossword puzzle creation began after spending two decades practicing urology. Due to health issues, he retired at 51 and found himself with time on his hands. His interest in crosswords grew when he began solving them with his wife.

Interested in the creative process, Nosowsky embarked on constructing his own puzzles. He contributed to the Crossworder’s OWN Newsletter before publishing his first puzzle in The Times in 1992, thanks to the crossword editor Eugene T. Maleska.

Nosowsky’s approach to puzzle-making was personal and hands-on. Initially, he crafted them by hand using graph paper. Although he later adopted constructing software, he preferred filling grids manually and always wrote his own clues. He believed that his personal touch was essential to infuse the puzzles with his signature wit and humor.