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Obituaries

Robert Leonard Goldberg

December 17, 2022

Although Robert Goldberg was born in the Bronx, NY in 1931, it is in Boston where he spent the majority of his life and considered Boston home. This included acquiring an education, developing an illustrious career, meeting and marrying his beloved wife Barbara, and raising a family. Soon after receiving an undergraduate degree from Harvard University and an MBA from Boston University, Robert served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and attained the rank of Major. Robert was also the commanding officer of Vieques Island off the coast of Puerto Rico and was put on alert for the Cuban Missile Crisis Robert followed up a successful military career with equally impressive positions in the private sector, including a long tenure at John Hancock Lite Insurance Company. There he held many positions and retired as Vice-President, Secretary & Treasurer of John Hancock Distributors, a company he helped found. Following retirement from John Hancock, Robert became President of NICA, a mutual fund association representing over 400 companies both domestic and international Robert was also ~ Vice Chairman of District 13 of the National Association of Securities Dealers. In 2002, Robert was named one of 10 legends in the Mutual Fund Industry along with Charles Schwab, Peter Lynch of Fidelity and John Bogle of Vanguard. During and after his career in the financial sector, Robert developed a secondary career as an educator. He was an Adjunct Professor at Northeastern University’s School of Business, teaching both undergraduates and graduate students. Having taught some 51 years, he impacted the lives of thousands of students and was often considered favorite professor among the student body, and highly respected by his colleagues.

When Robert was not working or teaching, he enjoyed downtime with his family. After his sons were grown, he and Barbara took to travel, including numerous excursions, both domestically and internationally. While Robert always loved following the Patriots and loyal to his Bronx roots, the Yankees, in more recent years, he developed a fondness for reading historical fiction. Robert became a foodie, frequenting favorite restaurants and always up tor discovering new ones. In this department he was best known for an insatiable appetite for fresh ginger with his sushi, could crack a whole lobster with the best of them, and topped almost every dinner off with Brigham’s Mocha Chip ice cream. Food, books and travel aside, without a doubt, one of Robert’s greatest delights were visits by his granddaughter and his great grandchildren. Robert is survived by his wife, Barbara, sons, Michael and David; granddaughter Nicolette Goldberg and great grandchildren Kenzie and Maverick.

Arlene Rita (Shneider) Ehrlich

December 17, 2022

Arlene Rita (Shneider) Ehrlich of Dedham formerly of Boynton Beach, Florida and Framingham. Daughter of the late Esther and Irving Shneider. Sister of Lois Caparco. Wife of the late Jacob Daniel (Danny) Ehrlich. Loving mother of the late Michael Ehrlich and Karen and Steven Rubin of Wellesley, MA. Proud grandmother to Sam and Emily Rubin and Lauren. She was a self-proclaimed “chocoholic”, lover of all things purple and sparkly, and had the most special “smiling eyes”.

 

Arlene was raised in Cambridge and Dorchester. At just ten years old, she lost her mother, Esther leaving a painful void that stayed with her for her entire life. She was married to J. Daniel Ehrlich in May of 1953 and together they raised their family in Framingham for many years. They were both involved in the community. Danny was master of Perfection Lodge in Framingham in 1970. Arlene was his biggest supporter and always proud of his accomplishments with the Masonic Masons and as a Jeweler. They enjoyed and cherished their time traveling the world. Every trip would be a new journey with wonderful experiences to share. Paris was one of her favorites…. but specifically in the springtime!

 

Arlene worked several years at Framingham Savings Bank and ultimately became its Manager of Collections. It was there she earned the nickname, “Sherlock Ehrloch”. Arlene treasured and embraced her friends from Framingham. So much so that she and Danny decided to move with their lifelong friends to Florida to retire and continue to build beautiful memories. And that they did! -In Boynton Beach, Arlene was voted to the Board of Directors of her community and President of the New England Club. She looked forward to the Framingham Breakfast Club every month. Her calendar was always filled with activities and her family felt fortunate that she enjoyed her well-deserved retirement time. Wonderful new friendships were made in Florida along with fostering old friends. Her children and grandchildren cherished spending vacation time in Florida. Sneaking Orios at night was one of Sam and Emily’s favorite memories, but nothing got past “Sherlock Ehrloch” especially all the crumbs left behind!

 

Arlene ultimately moved back to Massachusetts to be with her family in 2021. She enjoyed reacquainting herself with New England, including the weather! Special time was spent getting “primped” with Karen and taking drives down memory lane (aka Route 9) … but only when Steven had a full tank of gas. There’s a Chico’s calling her name and we know there’s a good discount coming her way. Arlene’s legacy will live on, and our love and appreciation will never fade.

 

Graveside services at Framingham-Natick Hebrew Cemetery, Fairview Ave and Windsor Ave, Natick, MA, Thursday, December 22, 2022 at 1:00pm

 

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in her memory sent to: -Lown Cardiovascular Group of Chestnut Hill of which her husband had been a patient for several years, Resolve National Infertility Association OR The Marcia Shapiro Fund, Friends of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA.

 

Burton Robinson

December 14, 2022

of Framingham, MA passed away peacefully December 14, 2022, having been surrounded by his children Andy Robinson, Lisa (Milinazzo) Robinson, Kimberly (Robinson) Duckworth, and Michelle Robinson, and his adored companion, Donna Levy.

Burt was cherished by his grandchildren Sebastian (deceased), Clara, and Elias Duckworth and is survived by the mother of his children, Dianne (Walk) Robinson.

Burt grew up in Dorchester, graduated from Boston College, Boston University, and Tufts Dental School, and remained in the area (Framingham) to raise his family and practice dentistry, until his retirement in 2010.

An avid sports fan, Burt followed professional and college leagues but was loyal to Boston teams and those of his alma mater, the Boston College Eagles. Burt loved the nice weather and enjoyed 40 years of golf at the Framingham Country Club.

Following a private graveside service at Framingham-Natick Jewish Cemetery, memorial observance will be at the home of Andy Robinson, 26 Cheryl Lane, Holliston MA on: Sunday December 18th from 5:30-8:30 pm and on Monday December 19th from 12-2 pm and from 5-8 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Burt’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.

Marjorie (Balick) Gruverman

December 13, 2022

Marjorie (Balick) Gruverman- Marge passed away peacefully, at home in Auburndale, on December 6th, at the age of 88. She was the beloved wife of Irwin Gruverman; devoted mother of Donna and Steve and his wife Marie Wendt; loving grandmother of Siona; and cherished aunt of Robin Balick. In her last years, Marge had a devoted caregiver team, very much appreciated by all of her family. Creativity was an important part of who Marge was, and she expressed herself though painting, printmaking and jewelry metalsmithing. She had a long association with the Wellesley Arts and Craft Guild and built many close friendships there. Community service was also important to Marge and she was involved with the League of Women Voters and the Needham Community Council for many years. Marge was grateful to have lived at Lasell Village for nearly twenty years. For most of that time she was active in the vibrant community there, serving on committees and enthusiastically taking classes and making good friends. Donations in Marge’s memory may be made to the American Civil Liberties Union or Good Shepherd Community Care, Newton, MA.

Arnold D. Vetstein

December 12, 2022

A link to view the funeral service can be found here.

Arnold D. Vetstein of Newton and Boston died on December 12, 2022, at the age of 96. Arnold was a long-time practicing dentist in Framingham, a major contributor to organized dentistry, a co-founder of the League School of Greater Boston, and a decorated Korean War veteran. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, sense of humor, thoughtfulness, and commitment to bettering the world.

Arnold grew up in humble beginnings in Roxbury, and through his determination and drive went to Boston Latin School and Tufts Dental School through his service with the Navy V-12 Program. He always said that Boston Latin was the most significant learning experience of his life. He began his military career as a dentist in the Army Dental Corps and was later a battalion dental surgeon during the Korean War. Because of the shortage of medical officers, he took on the dual assignment as battalion surgeon and dental surgeon. His battalion aided the U.S. Marines at the Chosin Reservoir as well as covered the withdrawal from North Korea. His unit was the last out of North Korea. During his time in Korea, he was awarded both the Silver Star for gallantry in action and the Bronze Star for meritorious service.

In 1955, Arnold opened his dental office in Framingham, where he practiced for 45 years. He also was an assistant clinical professor in prosthetics at Tufts University of Dental Medicine, where he taught for 17 years.

An active member of organized dentistry, Arnold was president of the Massachusetts Dental Society, the Greater Boston Dental Society, and the West Metropolitan Dental Society. He also was chairman of the Metropolitan District Dental Society. He was appointed to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry by Governor Michael Dukakis for two five-year terms and twice served as board chairman. For more than 20 years, he was an examiner for the Northeast Regional Board.

In 1966, Arnold co-founded the League School of Greater Boston with his wife, the late Leona Fine Vetstein, for children with autism. The school is one of the first in New England for students with autism and serves upward of 100 day and residential students on its Walpole campus.

Arnold is survived by his son, Richard A. Vetstein, of Newton; his daughter, Nancy J. Hershfield, and her husband, Robert S. Hershfield, of Falmouth; and his best pal and grandson, Andrew D. Hershfield of Falmouth. The love of his life, his wife, Leona Fine, predeceased him.

Funeral service at Temple B’Nai Tikvah, 1301 Washington Street, Canton, MA on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 12:30 pm. Interment to follow at Temple Emeth Memorial Park, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA.

Shiva will follow the service from 3-5 pm at the Beal Family Chapel, at Newbridge on the Charles, 5000 Great Meadow Rd., Dedham, MA 02026.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the League School of Greater Boston, 300 Boston-Providence Turnpike, East Walpole, MA 02032, or at Leagueschool.org.

 

 

 

 

Michael J. “Mike” Hurwitz

December 11, 2022

Michael J. “Mike” Hurwitz, age 84, of Natick formerly of Brookline and Newton. Mike was born on December 25, 1937, and passed with his family by his side on December 11, 2022. Beloved husband of Sherryl (Kaiser) Hurwitz. Loving Daddy of Lynne Robin Hurwitz and Scott Hurwitz Kaiser and his wife Michelle. Grandfather of Stacy, Jamie and Jodi. Also survived by 5 great-grandchildren. Devoted daddy to his twin fur babies Daisy and Tulip.

Mike graduated Boston University and Colby College.  His talents led him to become an Accounting Auditor at many car dealerships in the Boston and Metrowest Areas. With his retirement he enjoyed sitting in the back yard with his two pups enjoying the sun on his face.  Mike had an intense sweet tooth and could always find all the hidden treats in the house.  He hoped to have a BIG piece of chocolate cake when he got home from the hospital. Watching TV was also enjoyable for him.  Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy were some favorites. And he was a wiz at crossword puzzles.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Mike had a tremendous love for dogs especially his own and now will be reunited with the ones that passed before him Muffin, Toffee and Twinkle.  Remembrances to the Humane Society or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Elliot Kirschbaum DMD

December 5, 2022

KIRSCHBAUM, Elliot Passed peacefully at home, on December 5. Doctor Elliot Kirschbaum of Sharon, age ninety-eight. Born and raised in Boston, Dr. Kirschbaum attended Tufts University and later, graduated NYU Dental School. He was also an Army veteran rising to the rank of Lt. Colonel in the National Guard. Elliot practiced dentistry in Mansfield for nearly fifty years, as well as serving as president of the Rotary Club where he entertained members with his never-ending joke-telling. He was long regarded for his sense of humor and performed, as well, in local theater productions. Always active, Elliot played tennis until he was 91 and drove his car until 97. Survived by his devoted wife Ruth (Isaacson), with whom he recently celebrated his 72nd year of marriage; a match truly made in heaven. Additional survivors include sons, Bruce and Glenn Kirschbaum of Los Angeles; daughters-in-law, Joanne Silver and Cindy Craig; and grandchildren, Laura, Andrew and Benjamin Kirschbaum, whom he adored. Dr. Kirschbaum always found time to make people laugh or to offer a kind word or deed. He will be missed as a true “irreplaceable,” but will remain in our hearts forever. A gentleman and a gentle, wonderful man. Services were at Sharon Memorial Park.

ETTA EPSTEIN

December 4, 2022

People collect many things, and Etta Epstein collected friends. Throughout her 99 years, Etta was a magnet for people of all generations, as well as the center of a large and loving family. She will be held in the hearts of her children–Ann, Eugene, Alan and Barbara; their spouses–Pam, Margit, Louise, and Scott; her beloved grandchildren–Mason, Lily, Clara, Nicholas, Hannah and Jules; and countless nieces, nephews, cousins and friends from around the world.
A memorial service for Etta will be held at Congregation Dorshei Tzedek, 60 Highland Street, West Newton, on Thursday, December 8, 2022 at 1 pm.

Douglas C. “Doug” Schuster

December 4, 2022

Age 61, of Sudbury, passed away on December 4, 2022 peacefully surrounded by his loving family and close friends, after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. Doug is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Christine Schuster, his children, Kimberly Schuster of Boston, MA, and Kaitlin Schuster of Sudbury, MA. Beloved son of Rita Schuster and the late Jack Schuster of Exeter, NH and his brother and sister-in-law, Neal and Mei Schuster of Danvers, MA and many cousins and long-time friends he dearly loved.

Doug was born and raised in New York. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from Duke University and a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Michigan. He worked at Draeger Medical for 38 years, dedicated to designing patient monitoring systems. Doug enjoyed problem-solving with his dedicated colleagues. He had a deep passion for technology, always researching the latest innovations at work and at home. The greatest joy in Doug’s life was being father to Kimberly and Kaitlin. He took immense pride in their accomplishments in the classroom and beyond. He loved spending time with his family exploring the world on their vacations and enjoying time on Cape Cod. Doug left this world knowing his family is comforted by many memories of pride, love, and laughter. He will be greatly missed by all.

Funeral services are private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor can be made to the Cold Feet Warm Hearts Foundation. (www.coldfeetwarmhearts.org), c/o Middlesex Savings Bank, 7 Digital Way, Maynard, MA 01754.

Stephen Faberman

December 1, 2022

FABERMAN, Stephen, After a long illness, Steve Faberman, formerly of Needham and Leominster, age 53, died on December 1, 2022. Beloved husband of Wendy (Goldstein) Faberman, cherished father of Rachel and Allyson Faberman, loving son of Dorothy (Rosenbloom) Faberman and the late Matthew Faberman, cherished brother to Robert (Brenda) and Judy (Michael White) Faberman, uncle to Maris, Matthew & Hannah. Steve will be dearly missed by his family, friends and colleagues.

Steve was General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer at Progress Software, where he worked for over 14 years. Just last month, Steve was recognized by the Mass Technology Leadership Council (MassTLC) for his work in creating more diverse, equitable and inclusive leadership in the tech industry. Before working at Progress, Steve was Corporate Counsel at Heritage Property Investment Trust, Inc., and a Partner at Bingham McCutchen. He received a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in history at Tufts University and his Juris Doctor degree at Boston College Law School.

Services at Temple Beth Shalom, Needham, on December 5, 2022, at 11:00 am, with private interment to follow. Shiva also on Dec. 5 at 669 Highland Avenue, Needham, (formerly the 3 Squares Restaurant) near Temple Beth Shalom from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.   In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Steve’s memory may be made to Mass General Cancer Center, giving.massgeneral.org/donate, The Dana Farber Cancer Institute, or the charity of your choice.

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