Alan Jay Nissenbaum

Alan Jay Nissenbaum, 78, died on May 3, 2026 at his home in Newton, Massachusetts.

Alan was born in Somerville, MA on March 17, 1948. He took great pride in being born on both St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day, and always insisted that the schools were closed for his birthday, not the evacuation of the British troops.

In Somerville, he was active at his temple, in the local chapter of B’nai B’rith Youth chapter, and as a young man was a nationally competitive judo athlete. He carried the values and experiences from these activities throughout his life.

He and his beloved wife of 49 years, Ellen (Zarrow-Nissenbaum), made their home in Newton, where they raised their two children and were active members of Temple Emanuel. Alan was a welcoming and dedicated leader of the Temple Emanuel Brotherhood, helping to grow its membership and spearheading programs that became lasting traditions, including the “Meeting After the Meeting” and the Brotherhood Book Group, and served on the board of Temple Emanuel for more than eighteen years.

Following his graduation from college, Alan joined Nissenbaum Realtors, working alongside his parents and two of his brothers for more than 56 years, serving the Somerville community he loved.  Alan was adored by his family. He will be remembered for his love of conversation, his joyful spirit, hearty laugh, and willingness to help anyone in need.

In addition to his wife Ellen, he is survived by his children, Alexis (Benjamin) Fish and Wyckoff (Melissa) Nissenbaum and his grandchildren, Louis, Aviva, Kenneth and Daniel; his brothers, Michael, Robert, and Jeremy (Lily) Nissenbaum and his sisters Joan and Susan, along with many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Alan was predeceased by his twin brother Kenneth, and his parents Joseph and Rhoda Nissenbaum.

Funeral Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 9:30 am at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton. Interment following at Lord Rothschild Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury.

Shiva will be at his late residence, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 1-5 pm and 7-9 pm with minyan at 7:30 pm.

Donations in his memory can be made to American Friends of Magen David Adom Boston or Temple Emanuel.