Archive: September, 2024

Sandy Bloomberg lived life his way – the way he wanted.  He died peacefully surrounded by family on September 3rd.  He leaves his loving wife of 40 years, Carolina; his daughter, Mikaela; his son, Josh, and his wife, Julie; and his four grandchildren, Sid, Momo, Kal, and Sunny.

Sandy (Samuel) grew up on Beacon St. in Brookline, MA, with his parents, Harvey and Harriet, his brother Jeff, and his beloved grandmother Clara.  He graduated from Brookline High School in 1969, found college was not for him, and got right to work.

In 1972, he founded the local consumer electronics chain Tweeter Etc. with his cousin Michael, which grew to 180 stores at its peak. Sandy took great joy in pleasing his customers, marketing uniquely, and creating opportunities for his cherished employees. In 2011, he was recognized for his contributions to the industry by being inducted into the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame.

Despite being financially secure, Sandy never paid retail his entire life.  Indeed, he was the Tom Brady of coupons.

He had a big heart and, with his wife, generously supported countless charitable causes, including Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly (now known as 2Life Communities), the Boys and Girls Club, the Brookline Public Library, and Beaver Country Day School. He had a gregarious, charming, and witty personality and left a mark on every community he was a part of.

Sandy had an abundance of lifelong friends who became part of his extended family. Being friends with Sandy meant receiving spontaneous calls with offers of last-minute concert tickets, an extra 55” TV he had lying around, or help in a time of need. In his later years, Sandy loved playing golf, enjoying time with his grandchildren, eating foods specifically prohibited by his doctor, rooting for Boston sports teams, and discount shopping (RIP Filene’s Basement).

Sandy was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Services will be held at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton, MA 02459, on Friday, September 6th, at 11:30 a.m. Shiva will be held at the home of Josh and Julie Bloomberg directly after the service until 5 p.m. and on Sunday, September 8th, from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, charitable gifts may be made to 2Life Communities, 30 Wallingford Road, Brighton, MA 02135, or online at 2LifeCommunities.org.

Larry Mark Rodenstein, a beloved father, uncle, and friend, passed away on August 24, 2024 at the age of 72.

Larry was born in Boston, MA.  He was raised in Dorchester and Newton, attending Boston Latin High School and Newton South High School.  Larry graduated from Northeastern University with both a BS and Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and worked as a mechanical engineer and later as a consultant in the field of autism research.   Larry considered being a father to Keith Rodenstein the greatest gift of his life.  He was a devoted father and would do anything for his son.  Larry enjoyed the mountains, the South Shore and the Cape.  After spending much time there as a boy, Larry loved to be in Nantasket, especially at World’s End.  Larry is survived by his son, Keith Rodenstein.  He was predeceased by his parents, Florence and Gershon Rodenstein and his sister Barbara Skolnick.  He also leaves his brother-in-law Steven, niece Judith Kaufman and her son Brandon as well as his nephew and family Adam, Amy, Eliana, Harold and Isaac Skolnick.  Larry had many friends, including at the Elliot House in Needham and Golda Meir House in Newton.  He will be missed by his former spouse, Janice Axelrod. Funeral services will be private.

Harris Cohen, a beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at the age of 98. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Alida, his sisters Reena Appelberg and Dorothy (Devorah) Moten, and his parents Hyman (Herbert) and Anna Cohen.

Harris leaves behind his daughter Charlotte and son-in-law, Neil Sheer; and daughters Eileen and Barbara Cohen; his grandchildren Hannah and Michael Donovan, and Haley and Dan Glennan; his great-granddaughter Kellyanne Glennan; and his dear nephew William Asnes and his wife Ellen.

Harris was born on April 22, 1926, in Boston, MA.  He left high school to support his family, working several part-time jobs doing typesetting for a printer and selling newspapers, while continuing his high school work at night.  He proudly completed his studies to graduate with his senior class. On January 16, 1949, he married Alida, and their 71-year journey together began.

They were together through many business ventures, beginning with his work with Acorn Films and Back Bay Film Labs in Boston, where he managed a crew of cameramen and developed films for ABC, CBS, and NBC news.  One of his films was acclaimed for capturing the last view of the ill-fated luxury liner, the Andrea Doria, when it sank off the coast of Nantucket in 1956.  When videotape became the recording media of choice, Harris and Alida decided to retire his film business and they purchased a Kampgrounds of America (KOA) franchise, building a 100-site campground in Webster, MA.  In 1972, he sold the KOA and joined Lewis Duplicating Service, a Sharon-based printing and mail distribution company that he eventually purchased and moved into his home.  In addition to becoming known throughout the town for printing and mailing most of the temple and church bulletins, Harris also supported the Sharon town offices, Recreation Department, Rotary Club, and the Sharon Men’s Club.

Throughout his various business endeavors, Harris and Alida’s commitment to their children never waned.  There were annual camping trips in their travel trailer up and down the east coast.  They eventually purchased a motor home and traveled across the country.  They were very present in their daughters’ lives, especially admired for the unending support they provided to Barbara through her many life’s challenges.

Harris was involved in the start-up of Temple Sinai in 1958.  He was a member of the Building and Finance Committee and chaired the Ritual Committee at the Bell House.  As a member of the Board of Trustees, in 1961 he was elected President of the new synagogue on Ames Street.  He and Alida served as co-directors of the Sharon Federation of Temple Youth (SFTY), hosting a group of 29 teens on a bus trip to Expo ’67 in Montreal, Canada.  Over the years, Harris served on numerous committees, served again as temple President, was a member of the Brotherhood, and served as editor of the temple bulletin for many years.  He chaired the committee that built the Lester Bernstein Memorial Library, and the Holocaust Memorial.  Harris and Alida took tremendous pride in their participation in the Holocaust Stamps Project, founded by their daughter Charlotte, trimming and counting nearly a quarter million stamps over the course of many years.

Harris found incredible joy in sharing the lives of his granddaughters, Hannah and Haley, attending endless dance recitals, school events, gymnastics meets, and basketball games.  He and Hannah had weekly timeslots for cookies, tea, and movies. When the girls found their forever soul mates, their “Zaidy” took Michael and Dan into his heart, and we were all so blessed that he was able to attend their weddings in 2023.  He became a great-granddad in 2024 and enjoyed afternoon lunches and finger games with baby Kellyanne.  In the last four years, Harris — who had previously been named the “Mayor of Marie Avenue” by his loving neighbors — became an active participant in the BrightView Senior Living community in Canton, MA.

His family and friends will remember Harris for his warmth, kind and loving heart, determination, his infectious humor, his intelligence and magnetic personality.  He lived his life with sincerity, integrity, and dignity.

The funeral service will be at Temple Sinai of Sharon, 25 Canton Street, Sharon, MA on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.  Interment will follow at Sharon Memorial Park. Shiva (visiting hours) on Thursday will be in the social hall at Temple Sinai immediately following the burial from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., concluding with a prayer service at 3:00 p.m.  Remembrances in memory of Harris may be made to the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund, Temple Sinai of Sharon, 25 Canton St., Sharon, MA 02067 or to an animal rescue or shelter of your choice.

Jonathan Quentin Abrahms, age 80, born September 27, 1943 passed away peacefully on August 27, 2024. He was preceded in death by his daughter Jaimi Abrahms, his wife Gail Abrahms (nee Gold), and his parents and siblings. Jonathan leaves behind his son Nathaniel and daughter-in-law Natalie, as well as his daughter Tracy Gaudiano and her husband Fran. He was a proud grandfather to his five grandsons: Ben, Harrison, Maxwell, Sebastian, and Gabriel. In his later years, Jonathan resided at the Wesley Community, where he received great care and compassion. Before his retirement, he was a lifelong entrepreneur with a keen business sense and dedication. The first part of his career he managed retail clothing and in the second half, he was a bagel shop owner in Massachusetts and Florida. Jonathan will be deeply missed by his family, the Wesley Community and those few who truly knew and appreciated him over the years. His quiet presence and steadfast spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Marvin Paul Kosow passed away at JFK Hospital in Atlantis, Florida on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. He is survived by his loving wife Nancy (Schwartz); children Andrew, Keith (Dolly), Robyn, Scott, Susan (John) and Rob. He was the loving brother of Jeffrey, Robert, and Gerald. Adoring papa of Haley, Olivia, Campbell, Jordan, Aidan, Beckett and Ari. Marvin was born in Brookline, Massachusetts to Joseph and Barbara (Bond) Kosow and stepson to Ben Sack, who treated Marvin as his son. Marvin attended Belmont Hill School and then earned a Bachelor degree in Business from the University of Miami. He also attended Boston University Law School. Marvin was a success in the real estate industry. He started working in the mortgage business for his father, but later built his own residential and commercial real estate firm. Kosow Construction Corp. built numerous apartment complexes in Connecticut and Massachusetts, as well as owning and managing several shopping centers throughout the United States. He was known to be a very kind and generous man to his family, friends, and business associates. He loved playing golf with his wife Nancy on Sundays, as well as with his Bogey Boys at High Ridge Country Club in Palm Beach. He was also a member of Pine Brook Country Club in Weston. Marvin previously lived for many years in Newton, MA. A private funeral will take place in Sharon, MA. Shiva at Marvin and Nancy’s home on Sunday, 9/1 from 2-5pm and Monday, 9/2 from 1-6pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Marvin’s memory to the National Kidney Foundation.

                                                 Marcelle Watkin (née Woolf)
of Newton, MA, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2024. Daughter of the late Israel Woolf and the late Hilda Silberman. Beloved wife of Dr. Arnold Watkin of 55 years. Devoted mother of Heath Watkin of New York and Charla Turgel (née Watkin) of Needham. Adoring mother-in-law of Katie Watkin and Mike Turgel. Proud Mimi (grandmother) of Ella Watkin, Abigail Watkin, Jeremy Turgel, and Eli Turgel. Loving sister of Rena Lieberman (née Woolf) and Mervyn Woolf and cherished sister-in-law of Aubrey Lieberman.

Graveside service will be held at Lindwood Memorial Park, 490 North St., Randolph, MA (Temple Emanuel section) on Friday, August 30, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Following the funeral, Shiva will be immediately following at the home of Arnold Watkin 120 Rachel Road, Newton, MA with Minyan services starting at 4:30pm until 7pm. In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations in Marcelle’s memory may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380, or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.

To view livestream of funeral service at Temple Beth Shalom click here

To view livestream of burial at Newton Cemetery click here

Laurence “Larry” Koplan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away at his home on August 16, 2024, at the age of 81, after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Larry was surrounded by the love and care of his devoted wife, Beverly, and their children, Michelle and David, who stood by his side throughout his journey with this challenging illness.

Born in Boston, MA, and raised in Brookline by his parents, Selma and Herman Koplan, Larry grew up with a strong sense of determination and style. He was a distinguished gentleman, always sharply dressed with never a hair out of place. His attention to detail and refined taste were evident in every aspect of his life, from his career to his hobbies.

A graduate of Bentley College, Larry began his career in 1966 at a shoe factory in Marlboro, MA. Through hard work and dedication, he climbed the corporate ladder, eventually becoming Vice President, then President, and later the owner of the successful women’s shoe factory, Marlboro Footwear, Inc. In 1987, Larry made a pivotal decision to transition the business into importing women’s shoes, a venture he led with great success until his retirement due to his illness.

Larry was a man of many passions. He had a lifelong love for cars, boats, and traveling, particularly relishing his time on traditional annual family cruises and loved spending time at their Cape house in Falmouth and yearly 4^th of July vacations on their Snookiejoy boat to Nantucket.

Larry’s sharp eye for real estate and home construction led him to buy and flip houses, a hobby that brought him immense satisfaction. Yet, above all, Larry was devoted to his family. He had a great sense of humor with a contagious laugh. He and Beverly enjoyed fine dining and treasured time spent with their friends.

Larry’s deep love and admiration for his wife, Beverly, were evident throughout their 58 years of marriage. He always put her on a pedestal, and his frequent purchases of flowers no doubt helped the local floral business thrive. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones and friends left an indelible mark on them all. Larry’s generous spirit extended far beyond his immediate circle, as he was a passionate supporter of numerous charities, always striving to make a difference.

Larry is survived by his loving wife Beverly, his daughter Michelle and her husband Mark, his son David and his wife Elizabeth. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Zachary and his wife Hannah, Haley, Lily, and Drew. He also leaves behind his sister Lois and her husband Harry, his sister-in-law Bonnie and her husband Steven, as well as many loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and his beloved dog, Zoey.

Larry will be remembered for his warmth, kind and loving heart, determination, impeccable style, and his infectious humor. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Services at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 11 am.  Interment to follow at Newton Cemetery & Arboretum, 791 Walnut Street, Newton, MA. Shiva on Tuesday immediately following the burial at the home of Michelle and Mark Eagle until 6 pm and continuing on Wednesday August 21^st from 2-5 pm and 7-9 pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Larry Koplan’s memory may be made to Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road S.W., Lilburn, GA 30047 or www.lbda.org.

Dennis Greene, a retired attorney and cherished family man, passed away in his sleep on August 14, at the age of 80. Dennis is survived by his loving wife Eileen, daughters Alex and Beth, and brother Steve and his wife Sylvia. Born in New York and raised in Dartmouth and New Bedford MA, Dennis was a respected partner at Mintz Levin, where he practiced corporate law for more than 40 years. He earned an undergraduate degree from Lafayette College, followed by both an MBA and law degree from Boston University. Dennis was a gifted lawyer and writer, thoughtful, funny, and always ready to share a story or three. An eagle scout and avid fan of speculative fiction, Dennis was known for his unwavering kindness and loyalty. He was a pillar in both his professional and personal circles. Dennis resided in Wellesley for 45 years, where he was an active member of Nehoiden Golf Club, and served for a time as president of the Men’s Club. In addition to daily golf, Dennis enjoyed a fulfilling retirement of intellectual curiosity through teaching and learning in classes at Bolli. He loved his two daughters more than anything and was a beloved father and husband, always there to support his family. He is remembered fondly by friends and family for his generosity and goodness, and for his never-ending storytelling. Dennis’s unexpected passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who were touched by his life. A shiva will be held at the family’s home on Monday, August 19, 2024 from 7:00-9:00pm and a Memorial Service will be held at a later date, with details to follow.

Dr. Eileen Frances Wolf Feldman, daughter of Helen and Gerald Wolf of Natick, MA, died on August 11, 2024, at the age of 70. Despite the challenges she faced in life resulting from a chronic neurologic condition, transverse myelitis, that she developed at the age of 42 and later a progressive lung disease that ultimately took her life, she lived a life of courage and determination.

Eileen was born in Boston, MA on August 4, 1954. She was the product of Boston Public Schools including Girls Latin before her family moved to Natick, MA at the end of her 8^th grade. Eileen excelled academically graduating Valedictorian from Natick High School in 1972, Magna cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Tufts University in 1976 where she pursued her love of biology to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine (class of 1980). There she would meet and later marry Dr. James Feldman. She completed her residency at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Worcester, MA, because the author of the renal textbooks she loved, Dr. Bud Rose, who would develop UptoDate and change the practice of medicine, was a member of the faculty who became a lifelong mentor. She completed her renal fellowship at Boston University.

Following her renal training, she served as Chief of Nephrology at Worcester City Hospital, then was part of the Department of Nephrology at St. Vincent’s Hospital. Dr. Wolf was recognized for her excellence as a clinician and educator. She was outspoken in her advocacy for women in medicine.

After she retired from renal medicine because of her neurologic disabilities, she was a volunteer at Temple Beth Am in Framingham and co-leader for the Jewish Coalition for Literacy teaching math and reading to students in an elementary school in Framingham.

Eileen was gifted with an effervescent personality and an ability to engage people. Her Barbara Walter’s style of connecting with and interviewing people led her to lifelong relationships with many people. Once learned, she never would forget someone’s birthdate or details of their lives.

Eileen readily shared her knowledge of and love for flowers and her expertise informed the careful plantings of the home that she designed in Framingham and culminated in her visit to Monet’s Gardens at Giverny during a trip to Paris that she won from WBUR. She excelled at games and loved doing word and math puzzles. She was also passionate about Boston sports teams especially the Boston Red Sox and was among the fans who stayed up in 2004 and never gave up hope and then travelled to Florida to see “her boys” at spring training before beginning chemotherapy for breast cancer. When younger she loved playing tennis and remained an avid fan rooting for her favorites, Rafa and Serena, as well as watching her daughters Stephanie and Hope play tennis for Framingham High School.

Her wicked sense of humor carried her through even the most difficult of times and arduous treatments including the several life-threatening events that she endured over the last two years of her life. She was devoted to Judaism and its rituals and holidays and being a part of the lives of her large and extended family of cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Eileen said that of the many titles that she held in life, that of mother and grandmother were the ones she most valued. She took great pride in seeing her daughters Dr. Stephanie Feldman and Dr. Hope Feldman pursue their careers in medicine and in seeing the kind of patient centered and humanistic approach that they demonstrated. She welcomed son-in-law Dr. Joshua Allen Dicker into the family and above all she cherished being part of the lives of her grandchildren, Vivian and Zachary. Eileen especially treasured the deep bond that she shared with her sister Marcia and brother-in-law Barry Gilbert and nephew Joshua. Dr. Wolf also leaves her husband of 44 years, Dr. James Feldman and the blessing that was their life together and Hope’s beloved grand dog Dexter.

In lieu of flowers, Eileen has requested donations to a charity of choice, or consider Act Blue, Crohn’s Colitis and Arthritis Foundation, the American Lung Association, The Mass General Hospital Adult Cystic Fibrosis and Bronchiectasis Clinic, the Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association and the MSPCA. Funeral service at Temple Beth Am, 300 Pleasant St., Framingham, MA, on Tuesday, August 13 at 11 am. Burial at Beit Olam Cemetery, Wayland. Visiting hours at Eileen’s home following internment until 7pm and Wednesday and Thursday 1pm-3pm and 6pm-8pm.

GREIFF, Daniel Yehudi Died peacefully on August 7, 2024, at 85. He is survived by his wife, Deborah; their children, Jared, Zoe, and Joshua; and his sons, Andrew and Mitchel, from his first marriage. Their sister, Amanda, had predeceased her father. He also leaves his two grandsons, Jacob and Harrison. Daniel was buried on August 11, 2024, at a private graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park. Born in Brooklyn, NY, Daniel and his parents, Belle and Philip, along with his brother, Barrie, and sister, Barbara, moved to W. Hartford, CT, when Daniel was 16. A graduate of the University of Connecticut, Daniel began his illustrious work career after moving to the Boston area in 1960 at Bellesteel Industries, a distributor of flat-rolled steel located in E. Boston, and remained there until 2001, serving as its President and CEO beginning in 1986. From 2001 through 2024, Daniel remained successfully involved in various metal-related businesses. Daniel was involved with several nonprofit organizations, serving on the Board of The Brain Tumor Society, now the National Brain Tumor Society. Daniel was an avid tennis player and a huge Boston sports fan and loved a good poker game with friends. Instead of flowers, donations can be made to either The 100 Club of Massachusetts or The National Brain Tumor Society.

Larry  Marks, age 71. Of Brookline, formerly of Newton, on August 10, 2024. Loving son of the late Sidney and Nancy (Jacobson) Marks. Adored brother of Susan and Harvey Lazarus and Robert Marks. Larry faced his challenges with a positive attitude. He was beloved by his caretakers and all who knew him. A private burial was held at Sharon Memorial Park. There will be no memorial observance.

Of Newton, formerly of Chelsea, on Saturday, August 10, 2024. The beloved wife of the late Lawrence C. Zalcman. Loving mother of Amelia Zalcman & Lawrence Lewis of Newton, James Zalcman of Mamaroneck, NY, and Janey & Eric Goldberg of Merrimack, NH. Adored “Bobi” of Samantha, Theodore and Jackson Lewis & Madison Florence, and Tallin, Josephine and Lucas Goldberg. Dear sister of Ellen Boone Samuels and the late Fred Boone. She is also survived by many adoring nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Service at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington Street, Newton, on Wednesday, August 14, at 11:00 AM. Burial in Everett. Memorial observance at the residence of Amelia Zalcman following the Burial until 9pm, and continuing Thursday, from 12-5pm & 7-9pm. Please omit flowers. Remembrances would be appreciated to Days for Girls International, PO Box 2622, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.

To view the livestream please click here.

Barbara May Karas was a wife, mother, sister, aunt, bubbe and a much loved and respected member of every community she chose to join.

Born on September 22, 1930, in Chelsea, she spent her childhood in a small apartment with her mother, father, brother, grandparents and assorted uncles and aunts.

She would never call herself a feminist, but she was one.

Barbara was the first female president of Congregation Mishkan Tefila in Chestnut Hill. She was a sought-after public speaker, who spoke from her head and her heart, never from a script.

In her forties, she went to work at her family’s glass company, Karas & Karas Glass, but most of her years were spent volunteering for whatever struck her passion—as a ward manager for her friend Theodore Mann’s many successful campaigns for mayor of Newton, as a board member of the pioneering Newton Television Foundation, which funded original programming in the early years of cable TV, or operating the Mishkan Tefila gift shop with her best friend, Charlotte Kaitz.

When she saw a problem, she fixed it.

She spent days standing on the corner outside her house on Great Meadow and Brandeis Roads in Newton, lobbying for a stop sign. She got it—and it’s still there.

When she wasn’t running something or other, she was reading. The lending library at Lauriat’s bookstore would call whenever a new book was in. She would rush over and walk out with two or three books in her hands. A week later she’d be back for two or three more. She did her best to pass her love of reading on to her four children, some with more success than others.

When she wasn’t reading, she was at the stove in her Kosher kitchen. She was known by her family for her brisket and chicken soup, and by her kids’ friends and camp buddies for her brownies and blondies.

Her husband, Leo Karas, loved her for almost everything she did, but perhaps nothing more than the Hebrew National hot dogs she made for him every Thursday night for most of their 70-year marriage.

Barbara loved the beach. She grew up on it, but never learned to swim. She joined her family on skiing trips to Waterville Valley, but never left the lodge.

She loved throwing parties and was no stranger to the world of adult beverages.

Barbara loved fashion, and the Max Mara store on Newbury Street loved her. They called whenever something new came in, and she never hesitated. Any color would do, as long as it was black or beige.

She had a lifelong love of music, especially Frank Sinatra, whom she saw multiple times—starting in high school, when her great uncle, Max Tennis, persuaded her mother to let her go into to Boston unchaperoned to see her idol. She also saw the Beatles at Boston Garden, though not completely willingly.

After she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she continued to find joy in singing, and she was able to remember 70-year-old lyrics and melodies long after so much else had slipped away.

But above all else, Barbara loved Leo. She didn’t always agree with him, but she always supported and defended him, even when she knew he was wrong. If she happened to be voting for a Democrat, which she usually was, instead of one his favored moderate Republicans, she did the polite thing and didn’t tell him—until later in life, when he finally came around to her side.

Barbara and Leo loved to travel, especially to their beloved Israel, which they visited at least a dozen times and where they had many friends, not all of whom were Jewish.

They were philanthropists, giving generously to Jewish causes, educational institutions and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, whose New England chapter they founded with three other couples in 1969.

Barbara and Leo had a magical marriage, full of love and laughter and holding hands. Her only regret was that they wed on December 25 and therefore had to celebrate every anniversary at a (decidedly non-Kosher) Chinese restaurant, since nothing else was open.

In her last days on earth, she told her children she had no fear of dying and no idea what happens to us when we die. “But,” she always said, “I hope I can see Leo again.”

The passing of Barbara May Karas leaves a hole in the lives of her children, their spouses, her grandchildren and her great grandchild: Susan Karas, Claudia Beldengreen, Linda Karas, Joey Karas, Judi Karas, Matty Karas, Allix Karas, Robby Borowski, Ben Karas, Jess Marsh Karas, Ethan Beldengreen-Karas, Brandon Beldengreen-Karas, Julia Beldengreen-Karas and Charlie Karas.

Graveside service will be held at Mishkan Tefila Memorial Park, 2659 Centre St., West Roxbury, MA on Sunday, August 11, 2024 at noon. Shiva will be observed following services at Joseph and Judi Karas residence in Boston Sunday 2 pm- 8 pm and Monday  evening 6 pm-8 pm. Donations may be made to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, curealz.org, or to VNA of Boston, vnacare.org.

Graveside service on Friday, August 9, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Beth El Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA.

To view the livestream please click here.

In Loving Memory of Jack Rosenfield (Oct 18, 1925-Aug 3, 2024)

Jack Rosenfield (Yakov ben Zvi v’Sora), age 98, of Newton, MA, passed away peacefully with family by his side on August 3, 2024.

Born on October 18, 1925 in Boston, Massachusetts, Jack was the devoted father of Harvey Rosenfield and his wife Georgia Bragg, of Los Angeles, CA, and Robin (Rosenfield) Blatt and her husband Dr. Charles Blatt, of Newton, MA.

Loving grandfather of Hannah (Blatt) Strashun and her husband Cliff; Gideon Blatt and his wife Hanna Coxon; Zoe Blatt; Maisy (Bragg) Jones and her husband Ian; and Cody Rosenfield and his partner Katya English. Proud great grandfather of Penelope, Heidi, and Wyatt Jones; Bennett and Jackson Strashun; and Noah Blatt. He leaves his loved ones, including many nieces, nephews, and special friends with memories of the importance of family and family gatherings that lasted until the end of a life fully lived.

He is survived by his former wife, Sonya (Wexler) Rosenfield of Newton, MA. He is predeceased by his parents, Sarah (Pally) Rosenfield, of Romania, and Harry Rosenfield, of Russia. “Jackie” was also the loving youngest brother to three special sisters – the late Nina Shore, Grace Rubin, and Bea Katz.

Jack grew up in Dorchester and East Boston. He was raised with a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for family values and Jewish traditions.

As a Veteran, he graduated from the U.S. Naval Hospital Corps School and received an honorable discharge as a Navy Seaman.

He received his professional degree from Bentley College and throughout his career he worked independently as Certified Public Accountant, doing so well into retirement. He especially enjoyed working with student run non-profit organizations.

Outside of work, Jack had a wide range of interests and hobbies. Throughout his later life, he sang and performed with multiple choral societies. Among the most meaningful performance was a narrative concert with a local choral group commemorating the role of music and survival of the human spirit in Nazi concentration camps.

He was an avid tennis player and animal lover. He received great pleasure asking questions and learning about and connecting with others.

Most importantly, Jack always loved talking with and spending quality time with his children, grandchildren and extended family. Whether it was holiday celebrations, gathering around the dinner table or other events, he cherished these moments and created lasting memories.  At his 90th birthday celebration he remarked, “While I may not be here when my grandchildren have children, I am quite sure they will be both great & grand!” He experienced immense joy becoming a great grandfather and meeting each great-grandchild, and always spoke of them with pride.

His love for his family was immeasurable, his presence will be missed, and his legacy will forever remain in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and all who knew him.

A graveside service will take place at Polonnoe Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, on Monday, August 5, 2024 at 10 am.

Following services, shiva observance will be at the home of Robin and Charles Blatt, from 3-5pm and 7-9pm. The family will continue shiva observance together in Maine.

The Life and Times of Henrietta “Herky” Silton

Henrietta “Herky” Silton, of Newton, Massachusetts.  Born in Boston to the late Regis (Corkery) and Chester MacDonald.  Devoted mother to five sons: Michael (Andrea) of Westford, MA, Jeffrey (Norine) of Newton, MA, Richard (Simmee) of Newton, MA, Peter (Sidra) of Bel Air, MD, and Jonathan of Chichester, NH.  Survived by her sister Lois Ferreira of Nashua, New Hampshire.  Predeceased by her sisters Teresa Weiss of Norwood, MA, Edna Quint of Center Barnstead, NH and brother Chester W. MacDonald of Wellesley, MA.  She will also be remembered by 10 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces.

She graduated from the Boston City Hospital School of Nursing, in 1954 as a Registered Nurse. She put her nursing career on hold, after marrying the late Sumner Silton, to raise her sons.  She returned to nursing, settling in as the medical director for several rewarding and enjoyable years at the Carroll Center for the Blind in Newton.  After the Carroll Center, she returned to hospital nursing at the St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton, MA, where the bustle and variety was more her nature.  After mandatory retirement, she continued to work part-time for several years at “St. E’s” as a Discharge Planning Nurse, and a fierce advocate for patients. She fully retired from nursing at age 75, after over 50 years of nursing.

Herky is remembered by all as honest, loyal, steadfast, and loving.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Carroll Center for the Blind (www.carroll.org).

Funeral service will be held on Sunday, August 4^th at 10:30 am at Temple Shalom, 175 Temple St., West Newton, Ma. A graveside service will follow at Baker Street Cemetery, West Roxbury, MA. Shiva will be held immediately following the graveside service at the home of Richard and Simmee Silton.

Nancy Gail (Hill) Matza, beloved sister, mother of Evan (Karyn) and Lexi (Jamison) and grandmother. A bright, witty woman who prevailed against the social mores of her time, Nancy was blessed with thirty years of marriage to Brian Matza. Together, they raised two children and founded a technical school which trained air conditioning technicians.  When Brian died suddenly, Nancy was left a widow in her 50s. She set her prodigious intelligence and energy to attending law school, while working full-time as a technical writer. It was then that Nancy met her second husband, Martin Dropkin, and they went into practice together. After his death in 2019, Nancy continued to practice law and found great meaning and satisfaction in her work supporting people with their legal needs. Nancy was very active in the Medford chapter of Hadassah for many years and was most recently a member of Shir Tikva in Wayland.

Funeral Service at Framingham-Natick Hebrew Cemetery on Sunday, August 11, 2024 at 11:30 am. Following services, memorial observance will be at Nancy’s late residence. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to New England Justice for our Neighbors, or any other non profit of your choice.

To view the livestream, please click here.

Robert Terry “Bob” Snyder, of Sharon and Boca Raton, originally from Brighton, passed away on Friday, August 2^nd at the ripe old age of 83. Bob was the son of Morris and Blanche Snyder and the beloved husband of 56 years to Mary Butler Snyder. Father to Robbie (Monsey, NY) and Rebecca Snyder (Sharon, MA), Bob was fortunate enough to have 10 grandchildren—Zach and Julia Weiss and Sruli, Blumie , Gedalya, Menachem, Rochela, Hadassa, Yehudah and Moshe Chayim Snyder. More recently, Bob’s grandchildren in Jerusalem, Israel gave him the additional ‘nachas’ of 3 great grandchildren in Bassie and Dovid Axelrod and Eliyahu Snyder.

Bob grew up in Brighton as an only child where his father owned a pharmacy on Lake Street at the end of the streetcar line across from Boston College. With close proximity to Newton, Bob or “Terry” as he was often called, had a strong connection to the town and grew up with many of his friends being from Newton school system. He would often speak fondly about his memories working at the Sidney Hill Country Club in Newton. As for himself, Bob attended Lawrence Academy and the New Prep School, where he was the Manager of the Hockey team. He would then go on to attend Babson College as well. Perhaps because he was an only child, friendships were of supreme importance to Bob and as such, he was relentless in keeping up with old friends and classmates in a way which was uncommon. In some cases, making an effort to find lost friends from grade school!

Bob was grateful for the opportunities that he had to traverse the globe whether it was traveling to the Far East to open a factory in China, to Israel to serve as the ‘sandek’ at his grandson’s bris, to Cowpet Bay in St. Thomas to enjoy vacation with his family or to resorts around the US for business conferences where he insisted on bringing his wife and kids along. He also loved escaping to Ogunquit, ME with friends for a weekend or even for a quick lunch get away with this beloved wife Mary. And yet, his favorite places were his two homes—Sharon and Boca Raton. Despite having numerous business opportunities to move elsewhere, Bob somehow could never leave Sharon- a town that he loved both for its beauty, serenity and strong sense of community. “The lake”, Lake Massapoag, held a special place in Bob’s heart as a place where he raised his kids across many wonderful summers and as a place where he often went, even recently with Mary, to just sit and contemplate the great life that he had been given. He gave back to the Town of Sharon too, serving on the Capital Outlays and other committees where he shared his business acumen and ability to get things done with others. During his later years, Bob cherished the moments that he was able to spend at the Boca Woods Country Club where he developed friendships with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Bob’s work ethic and sales acumen were legendary. After a brief stint in the shoe industry, Bob made his way into the electrical industry working for Red Dot before spending most of his career growing Carol Cable, a significant North American manufacturer of wire and cable. Starting out as a regular salesman, Bob worked his way up in the company over a 25 year period eventually becoming an executive, a mentor to many and a part owner of the company. Along the way, he even managed to befriend Governor Mike Dukakis after meeting at industry event. Even after retiring, Bob continued working until his dying day—between cold calling electrical distributors to join a buying group that he worked for and selling cruises as part of his own travel business!

When he wasn’t working, Bob had a number of hobbies. He loved to cook and was a “foodie” in general. Bob was an avid Boston sports fan that took his kids Robbie and Rebecca to many iconic Celtics and Red Sox games that included the Celtics-Pistons series in the 80’s, the famous Carlton Fisk 1975 World Series game, the 1986 World Series against the Mets and more recently the 2012 World Series against the Cardinals.

But above all, if there was one hobby that defined Bob as a person it was “Ham”/Amateur Radio. As he considered different living arrangements over the last few years, one of his first concerns was always whether he would have the ability to put an antenna up. To the outsider this could seem like a selfish preoccupation with the technicalities of his hobby. But, in truth, Bob’s antenna was a manifestation of his love for connecting with people from all over the world regardless of background or geography. He also took pride in using his hobby to do good and was featured on Boston news stations for helping to pull together “phone patches” that were critical for communications during national disasters when standard land lines were down.

Bob’s strong personality could be overwhelming for those that didn’t know him well. And yet, those who stuck it out and gave Bob a chance were lucky to have had a son, a father, a grandfather, a brother-in-law, father-in-law, an uncle and a friend that would do everything and anything for those that he held close. In a certain sense, he truly believed that everyone was his best friend.

Bob is survived by his wife, Mary of 56 years who he loved dearly and took wonderful care of, his daughter Rebecca and son-in-law Matthew Weiss of Sharon, son Robbie and daughter-in-law Lea of Monsey, NY, his grandkids and great grandkids and his dog Roxie who he adored.

Chapel service at Sharon Memorial Park on Monday, August 5, 2024 at 10:00am. Shiva to follow at the Four Points Sheraton, 1125 Boston Providence Turnpike, Norwood, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the National Kidney Foundation 30 East 33^rd St. New York, NY 10016.

Stephen Smoller, long-time salesperson, soccer coach, and soccer referee, who resided in Framingham, Massachusetts, passed away on July 31, 2024, at the age of 79 after a short battle with cancer.

Stephen is survived by his wife Phyllis Smoller, his children Lisa Smoller and Michelle Smoller Supple, his son-in-law Scott Supple, and his beloved granddaughters Addison and Hadley Supple.  He was the adored son of the late Samuel and Sarah (Rutman) Smoller and the brother of the late Bunny Friedman.

Stephen was a devoted father and grandfather and family meant everything to him.  He most loved to watch his granddaughters do anything, but especially cheerleading.  He always had a smile on his face and a camera in his hand.  He was also involved with Framingham United and Massachusetts Youth soccer, as well as the Phi Alpha Tau fraternity at Emerson College.  He will be missed by all.

Funeral services will be at Temple Beth Sholom on Friday, August 2, 2024 at 11am.  A reception will follow the cemetery service at Temple Beth Sholom.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Stephen’s memory may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute at www.dana-farber.org.

Jacob Jehudi Baron, age 87, passed away on July 30, 2024. He was a hard-working man who gave his time and means to bless our lives. Jacob grew up in Winthrop, MA. He graduated from Bentley College as an accountant. He married Beverly Viner on June 26, 1966, in Rhode Island. Jacob served as a CPA for over 50 years in several different accounting firms and doing taxes for personal clients. Jacob is survived by his wife, Beverly, their children, Michelle (Brian) Seidling and Jeff (Kim) Baron, and their grandchildren Sarah Baron, Rachel Baron, Leah Baron, Elijah Baron, and Teagan Seidling. Funeral service will be held at Sharon Memorial Park on August 5 at 11:45AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.

March 15, 1946, Boston, Massachusetts

July 27, 2024, Ashland, Massachusetts

Age: 78

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ann Joyce (Park) Price, a beloved wife, mother,
grandmother, and friend. Ann passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Ann was the loyal wife of Richard Lawrence Price and the beloved daughter of the late Louis Park and
Mollie (Greenspan) Park. She was also the younger sister of Barry Park. She was the most perfect,
nurturing, and supportive mother to her three children: Marc Scott Price, married to Hillary Koritz Price;
Lori Beth Price, married to Yoni Kassar; and Stacey Jill Price, partner to Evan Duning. Annie was a doting
“Grammie” to Jared Price, Mila Kassar, Judah Kassar, and Bijoux Price Duning.

Her family meant the world to her, and she expressed her love through cooking, baking, crafting, and
gardening. Her home was always filled with the scent of delicious meals or freshly baked goods, and her
gardens were always bursting with color and warmth. Her grandchildren were the absolute light of her
life, and she cherished every moment spent with each of them. Annie had a deep love for all the
holidays, ensuring every celebration was filled with picture-perfect decorations, warmth for all, and joy.
Each holiday was always accompanied by her signature cards without fail.

Annie had a beautiful yet simple passion for life. She found immense pleasure in hunting for and
collecting sea glass, a hobby that symbolized her ability to find beauty in the smallest of things. Ann had
a special affinity for the beach, finding peace and happiness watching waves come and go as boats
drifted by.

Ann was fiercely devoted to her friends and family, always there with a helping hand and an
encouraging word. Her unwavering support and boundless love will be greatly missed by all who knew
her.

Services and burial will be held on Monday, July 29, at 10 a.m. at the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park
in Sharon, MA. There will be a celebration of life following the service at Pine Brook Country Club, 42
Newton St., Weston, MA, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for family and close friends. The celebration will
continue the following evening on Tuesday, July 30, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Cookingham Greene
Clubhouse, 50 Braeburn Lane, Ashland, MA 01721.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Ann’s memory may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
Our Annie J & Grammie will forever be remembered for her kind heart, loving spirit, and the joy she
brought into the lives of those around her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

May her memory be a blessing. Zichrona l’vracha.

To view service click here

On July 27, 2024, Dror Shalita peacefully passed away after a courageous battle against Cholangiocarcinoma. He is survived by his loving wife Susan, and his sons Elan, Oren and Arie.

Memorial services will be held at Temple Beth Shalom ,670 Highland Ave., Needham on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at 10:30 am.

Dror was a strong, loving son, husband, father, and friend, and will be dearly missed by all. His legacy will continue through his sons.

The family will be receiving visitors at their home on Tuesday and Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 pm.

Donations can be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation or Center of Traditional Taoist Studies, 41 Applecrest Road, Weston, MA 02493.

Judith Stone Sudalter, of Delray Beach, Florida, formerly of Newton, age 84 on July 26, 2024.

Devoted wife of Gerald Sudalter for 55 years. Dear daughter of the late Gloria and Max Stone. Proud mother of Dr. Randy Rich and wife Judy and Lauren Scribner and husband Ross. Adoring grandmother to Carley, Jacob, Cooper, Sam and Max. Aunt, cousin and special friend to many. Sister of Anne Stahl. Companion to four-legged son, Levi.

Graveside Service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Wednesday, July 31, at 11:45am. Reception following graveside service from 1-3 pm at Ledgebrook Club House, 261 Nahanton Street, Newton, MA.  Shiva at the home of Lauren and Ross on Wednesday evening 7-9pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Judith’s memory may be made to The Home for Little Wanderers or the American Heart Association.

Judy will be remembered by the beauty she radiated inside and out. She will leave behind a legacy of lifelong friends and family who will miss her.

To view the livestream click here.

Harvey Walker Allen

February 14, 1938 – July 25, 2024

A Life Lived to the Fullest

Harvey Walker Allen of Newton, Massachusetts, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and soon-to-be great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at 86 years old on July 25, 2024 at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, surrounded by his family.

Family, Philanthropy, Friendship, M.S. Walker, and athletics were the cornerstones of Harvey’s life. Harvey lived fully surrounded by family, friends, love, and laughter.

Harvey was born on Valentine’s Day,1938, in Newton, Massachusetts, to the late Ruth and Leo Allen, sister Nancy Shaw (and late brother-in-law Robert). Harvey’s legacy continues through his wife, Paula (Levine) Allen and his seven children: Scott Allen and wife Susie (Saitow), parents of Phoebe and Sydney; Robyn Stavis, who was married to the late Norman Stavis and is the mother of Barrie Stavis, Rachel Stevens and husband Nick Stevens, and Joshua Stavis; Brett Allen and wife Vicki (Kafka), who have two children Dylan and Alexa; Brooke Allen; Ross Allen and wife Lior (Alon); Max Allen and fiancé Olivia (Lapides); and Max Levine.

Harvey was raised in Newton, MA, attending Middlesex High School and Colby College. After college, he almost signed a contract to pitch for the Boston Red Sox but stayed in school and then joined M.S. Walker. At the time, Leo Allen told his son that “he’d be better off in business than in baseball.”

Harvey’s legacy continues as the fifth generation of his family leads M.S. Walker into its ninth decade. As Chairman and past President, Harvey profoundly influenced the business and life of M.S. Walker. Harvey was incredibly proud to witness the growth of the company and equally proud that the family carried on with the care and culture he embodied. Harvey was a leader and a source of joy and laughter. He was certainly the life of the party, and his humor, wit, and spirit brightened everyone’s days and created a unique atmosphere within the company. One only must remember his words at the company’s 90th celebration to know how much he loved the entire MSW family.

Harvey’s life stands as a monument to his unwavering commitment and loyalty to his family and friends. His memory will be cherished by his children, grandchildren, and legions of friends, who remember him as a pillar of strength and a source of endless love, wisdom, jokes, and stories. If you were a friend of Harvey’s, you were a friend for life.

He was the longest-standing Pine Brook Country Club member, his home away from home, where he won the club championship at least once in four decades. He was a proud member of the 1965 golf team in the Maccabiah Games (The Jewish Olympics) in Israel, which marked the first time he traveled there.

Another pillar of Harvey’s life was his dedication to the many charitable organizations he cherished. He was a giver, and if you knew him, you were also a giver. He was deeply committed to the State of Israel for his entire lifetime and served as a long-time President of Israel Bonds and as a major supporter of the CJP, FIDF, and Duvdevan. Closer to home, he was a long-standing board member of the Hillside School in Marlborough, Massachusetts.

Services at Congregation Mishkan Tefila in the KI main sanctuary, 384 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA, on Sunday, July 28 at noon. Burial will follow at Sharon Memorial Park, 120 Canton Street, Sharon, MA. Following the interment, his life will be celebrated at Pine Brook Country Club, 42 Newton St, Weston, MA, until 7:00 pm.

On Monday, July 29th, and Tuesday, July 30th, a memorial observance will be held at the Ledgebrook Clubhouse, 207 Nahanton Street, Newton, MA, from 4 to 7 PM.

Memorial Donations can be made to fund an ambulance for the civilians of the State of Israel by United Hazalah of Israel (Emergency Medical Service). Please view Harvey’s campaign at https://israelrescue.org/mymitzvah/harvey-walker-allen/, or also, please feel free to make a donation to Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston in his honor.

A link to view the livestream of the funeral service can be found here

STEINBERG, Harvey of Framingham, MA and Longboat Key, FL, on July 23, Beloved husband of the late Arline Steinberg. Devoted father of Brenda Steinberg of Framingham and Robert Steinberg of Boston, his late wife Wendy, and fiancee Jo-Ann. Cherished “Mumphf” to Melissa (Paul) Nixon of Watertown, Jonathan (Christyne) Kaufman of Lakeville, Lea Steinberg, and Jennifer Steinberg. Great-grandfather to Benjamin and Gabriel Kaufman. Proud alum of Cambridge Latin School, Brandeis University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1954). He led Beacon Construction Company for many decades, transforming the skyline of Boston and other cities. He served as a trustee of the MIT Museum, Fay School, and USS Constitution Museum where he lent his leadership, construction and management expertise. He is remembered for his forceful and sincere nature, sharp intellect and honesty. Funeral Service at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Rd., Wellesley, MA on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the MIT Class of ‘54 Mitzvah Fund, the MIT Museum, or the MIT Council for the Arts.

Dr. Stanley Ira Buchin, beloved friend, colleague, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away peacefully on July 23, 2024, at the age of 92.  He is survived by his loving wife Jacqueline, sister Eleanor, daughter Linda, two sons, David and Gordon, six grandchildren, and one great granddaughter.

Stan “the man”, as he was known to friends and colleagues, was born to Bertha and Kiva Buchin in 1931 in New York City.  In 1952, after graduating with high honors from MIT, he promptly enlisted as a Lieutenant in the Chemical Corps, serving during the Korean War.  After returning to civilian life in Massachusetts, he earned an MBA with distinction from Harvard Business School.  Fortunately for his future children, he did find some time for socializing, meeting and wooing Jacqueline Thurber Chase.  Jackie, who was attending Wellesley College at the time, would become his wife and soulmate in 1957.  Soon after, he began teaching at Harvard Business School, rising to the position of Associate Professor in 1965, while simultaneously receiving an IBM Fellowship and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Harvard University.  Capitalizing on his business chops, he set out into the commercial sector, founding Applied Decision Systems in 1969, and serving as President and Senior Management Consultant.  Nine years later, ADS was acquired and merged into Temple, Barker, and Sloane, Inc. where Stan served as Senior Vice President for more than a decade.  Fast forward to the 90s, Stan continued his consulting career with Arthur D Little but gradually returned to his first love – teaching.  Over the next 3 decades (yes, decades!), he nurtured the minds of students at Oxford University and the University of Paris (Visiting Lecturer), the Arthur D Little School of Management (Professor), Boston University (Professor of the Practice Emeritus), and Lasell College (Adjunct Lecturer).  Stan continued doing what he loved, teaching classes and publishing academic works, right up until his final hours.

His extensive family all loved him dearly and will cherish the many years of joyful memories that he gave us all.  While we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well-lived with kindness, levity, and passion.  We know that he has touched both the minds and hearts of all those that have had the pleasure of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Junior Achievement USA (https://jausa.ja.org/donate/index) or a charity of your choosing.

To view the livestream please click here.

Abraham David Schwartz (Abe), 41, died Monday, July 22, 2024, following an accident in Alabama where he was attending a motorcycle safety school.  He was tragically killed after being hit by another participant.

Born April 27, 1983, as the eldest child of Lawrence A. (Larry) and Gloria Schwartz, of Dover, MA, he is survived by his loving siblings, sister Julia, currently residing in Brookline, MA, brother Richard and his wife Caitlin and their son, Lawrence Anthony, and daughter, Grace Eugenia, of Duxbury, MA.

Abe had been employed at SharkNinja as a Senior Manager of Global Development & Supply Chain since July 2022. Prior to that he spent 17 years at Schick/Edgewell Personal Care in Milford, CT, where he started his career after graduation from college.  While in Connecticut, he meticulously set about restoring the 1923 home he purchased.  He moved back to MA, in 2022 to be closer to his family.

Abe was the quiet, gentle giant of the family:  strong, dependable and loyal.  If anybody needed a sure, dependable hand, he showed up to help.  He was able to fix anything and, if he had not done it before, he was methodical in learning how to do it and meticulous in its execution.  He showed this aptitude at an early age, so it was no surprise that he attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where he graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering in 2005.

Abe touched the lives of people from his fraternity at RPI, Pi Lambda Phi, where he found camaraderie and lifelong friends.  Abe was “Uncle Abe” to his fraternity brothers’ children and enjoyed spending special weekends with their families every year and going on an annual golf outing with the guys.

He graduated from Dover-Sherborn High School in 2001.   During his middle and high school years, he was an active member of Troop 1 Dover Boy Scouts.   The excellent troop leaders instilled the values of integrity, honor, and helpfulness as they led their packs on outdoor adventures. Abe earned many honors, including that of Eagle Scout, of which he was most proud.  He also attended Scout Diving School in Florida and trained at Philmont High Adventure Base in New Mexico.

Abe and his family are members of Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley, MA, where Abe attended religious school from age 6 through his Bar Mitzvah and confirmation in high school.

Abe had a commitment to personal fitness and took pride in his daily visits to the gym.  He was an outdoors guy, so during Covid he took up motor biking.  He so enjoyed solo sojourns on quiet roads.   His demise at a safety training school is tragically ironic, since he wanted to learn how to be safe at faster speeds.

To say Abe will be missed does not begin to capture the depth of our loss.   He was dearly loved by his parents and was a strong, helpful presence in our lives.   His sister and brother admired him deeply.  His nephew and niece enjoyed their afternoon baby naps nestled on his chest.

A funeral service will be held this Friday, July 26th, at 10:30am at Temple Beth Elohim,10 Bethel Road, Wellesley MA 02481.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Troop 1 Dover, Boy Scouts of America, 75 Second Avenue, Suite 605, Needham, MA 02494.

Bruce Hugh Wilson, age 66, died Sunday morning when he was out running in West Newton.  Born December 18, 1957 in Milwaukee, WI to Joseph Alton Wilson and Elizabeth “Betty”, (née Frelka) Wilson. His parents owned three Naked Furniture stores in the greater Milwaukee area.  Bruce was the youngest child, with siblings Maureen (Mark) Schloesser, Vicki (Dave) Splittgerber, and Russ (Cindy) Wilson, and 18 nieces and nephews, and more than 50 grand nieces and nephews.

Bruce graduated from University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, with a BS in Engineering, from University of Wisconsin, Madison, with a MA in Mechanical Engineering, from Southern Methodist University with a MA in Electrical Engineering, and from University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering.  Bruce worked as a General Engineer at the Volpe Transportation Systems Center in Cambridge, MA.

Bruce was an engineer, yet his passion lay in the many hobbies he pursued and explored throughout his adult life.  Fluent in Spanish; conversational in Hebrew, Bruce spent years growing vegetables in raised bed, looking into the night skies exploring astronomy, taking online classes to learn about weather forecasting, and playing singles and doubles tennis at The Neighborhood Club in West Newton.  Most recently, Bruce’s two passions were photography and learning French.  Bruce was active in the Newton Art Association, Newton Open Studios, and Galatea Fine Art Gallery.

Bruce married Elizabeth Hirschhorn in 1995. Together they raised three children: Josephine (Josie), a medical student at Harvard Medical School; Frederick (Freddie), a podcaster about college and professional sports; and Amalya (Molly), soon to enroll in a Nurse Practitioner Program at Colby-Sawyer College, NH.  Josie married Michael LaScaleia in June and Molly and her partner, George, welcomed their first child, August, in May.

Funeral service will take place at Temple Shir Tikva, 141 Boston Post Rd., Wayland on Wednesday, July 24^th at 1:00 pm. Shiva will be at the family’s home Wednesday and Thursday evening from 6:00pm–8:00pm. Remembrances in memory of Bruce may be made Artisan’s Asylum @ libby.masek@artisansasylum.com, Newton neighbors Helping Neighbors, @ newtonneighbors.org/donate, or CJP Israel Emergency Fund, @ give.cjp.org/israelemergencyfund.

Online Guestbook

To view the livestream please click here.

Dr. Dennis Markovitz (3/17/53-07/18/24) died in a fluke swimming accident doing what he loved, being outdoors in the waves after a morning of sailing, with all of his family about to join him, at age 71. He was the adored dad of Netana and Raviv Markovitz and inspired each of them to pursue careers in medicine. He was the soulmate of his wife Elana Kreinin Markovitz, always making her laugh for 35 years, from their first date when he pretended to be old grandparents with her. He adored his granddaughter, Arielle Markovitz, and when she was not physically present building castles out of blocks with her, he was watching videos of her on repeat. He loved his daughter in-law, Michal Latzer, and was so proud of her career in tech. He loved his nieces and nephews Noa and Lyla, Jake, Zev, and Alexandra. He was the engaged brother of Sherry Markovitz and Merilyn Salomon, and to Rhoda and Michael – who was like a brother to him. He was the dearest in-law of Doron and Yael Latzer, brother-in-law to Miriam and David Souccar and Tamara Kreinin and Rosalind Hinton, always ready for an adventure. He is predeceased by his parents, Rose Buckler Markovitz and Jack Markovitz, and his in-laws who adopted him like a son, Mordechai and Marlaina Kreinin. He is remembered by the thousands of patients whose lives he touched.

Dennis was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1953. After graduating from the University of Illinois, Champagne-Urbana, he attended medical school at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, where he graduated as a member of the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and cum laude. He went on to do his family medicine residency at Northridge Hospital Medical Center, a UCLA Affiliate Hospital, and a Fellowship in Faculty Development at the University of North Carolina. He worked as a staff physician for the United Farmworkers, as a teacher at University of Massachusetts Medical School, and on staff at Carney Hospital until he married Elana and started his own family medicine practice in Winchester, Massachusetts, affiliated with Winchester Hospital. During this time, Dr. Markovitz served as Chairman of the Department of Family Medicine at Winchester Hospital, and made the prestigious “Best Doctor in Massachusetts” list several times over. But most importantly, he was beloved by fellow physicians, other staff members, and his patients, spending hours at night and on weekends worrying about his patients, calling them to check in on them, and making sure they were okay.

He was also an accomplished musician and loved playing music with friends and family, whether it meant an impromptu concert at home or weekly band rehearsals. He also enjoyed playing and watching sports, cooking, traveling, being outside, sailing, exercising, playing fetch and going on walks with his child’s dog, drawing character of the day, and most of all, spending time with his family.

He made the most of life, and was the most incredible father, husband, grandfather, father-in-law, and friend any of us could’ve dreamed of. He will be missed dearly. We were all incredibly lucky to have him in our lives for as long as we did, and he shaped us all into the people we are today. We will carry him with us forever and he lives on in all of us.

His laughs lit up a room, he always saw the best in everyone, had the best sense of humor, and he said yes to life. To know Dennis was to love Dennis.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 22nd at 1:30pm at Temple Emunah, 9 Piper Road, in Lexington.

Those who wish may make memorial contributions, in Dennis’ memory, to the Parkinson’s Foundation, Temple Emunah in Lexington, or the Israeli Children’s Fund.

Robert Lewis Stearns (1941-2024)

Robert L. Stearns, 82, of Newton, MA, entered into rest at home on July 17, 2024.

Bob was born in Boston in 1941 to Dr. Samuel and Jeanette Stearns. After graduation from Newton High School, he earned a BA in psychology at the University of Rochester and his MBA at Boston University. He had a twenty-five year career at Bank of Boston, where he directed branch operations. He subsequently owned a small business and later worked as a senior management consultant for the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation. He formerly served as president of Boston Neighborhood Housing Services and the Boston Natural Areas Fund. He was an adjunct faculty member in the MBA program at Babson College and taught a capstone course at Newbury College. In retirement he enjoyed fishing, and remained an avid duplicate bridge player (Life Master). He was a valued member of the Board of Trustees at Cabot Estate where he lived for nineteen years before he and Barbara moved to Nahanton Woods.

Bob is survived by his cherished life-long partner Barbara Passman; children Daniel (Susan) and Debra (DJ) Watts and their mother, Harriet; his sister Ellen and her husband Steve; step-sons Jay (Amy) and Darin (Jessica) Goldberg; grandchildren Zach, Oscar, and Jacob; nieces Mara and Leah; other family members include Andrea Passman (Scot) Candell and their children Zach and Jake.

Graveside service to be held on Sunday, July 21, 2024 at 10:45 am at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street in Sharon. Shiva will be observed in the Activity Room at Nahanton Woods following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory can be made to Combined Jewish Philanthropies.

Miller, Michael W. (95) of North Hill, Needham, MA passed away July 16, 2024. Beloved husband of Sybil (Greenblatt) Miller. Devoted father of Dale and Geoffrey Norman, Lisa and Michael Wulfsohn, Richard and Tracey Miller, and Steven Miller and Rosie Ferris. Cherished grandfather of Rebecca and Rasmus, Ashley and Todd, Savannah, Alexander, Gideon, Gabriel, Jonah, Stefan, and Julia. Proud great grandfather of Noah, and Theo. Loving brother of the late Basil, Barbara, and David and many loving nieces and nephews.

Mike was born in Johannesburg South Africa in 1929 and emigrated to Providence, RI in 1979 with Sybil and their four children. Mike was an accountant in private practice in South Africa and became the Finance Director of Foster Parents Plan International in the States. Upon retirement, he joined his wife Sybil in a creative art business. Mike was the founder of the Johannesburg Jazz Club, which strove to make Jazz open and available to people of all races in then apartheid South Africa. A fine Jazz pianist, Mike performed in South Africa, Europe, and America. His music career continued and flourished during the 40+ years he lived in the Northeast. Mike was a true family man and was beloved by his old friends as well as all his treasured new friends.

Funeral Service will be at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Rd., Wellesley, MA, on Thursday, July 18 at 11:30 am. Interment will follow these services, at Temple Emeth Memorial Park, 776 Baker Street, Boston, MA.

For those of you who cannot attend the funeral of Michael Miller, but would like to be with us, there is a live link, please click here

Shiva will be at North Hill, 865 Central Avenue, Needham, MA. on the lower level, following the funeral, 2-6 pm. Additionally, there will be Shiva on Friday, July 19^th and on Sunday, July 21^st, 2-4 pm at North Hill also on the lower level.

Please check-in at the front desk for directions. In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s memory may be made to Donate | Ubuntu Pathways, or Friends of the IDF, Donate – Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (fidf.org).

Mike will be missed forever and always.

Rita Schuster died peacefully at Exeter Hospital on July 16^th, 2024, after a brief illness. Rita was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She was born on February 6^th, 1931 in New York City. She graduated from High School and attended a 2-year college in the Bronx, NY. She worked as a radiology practice receptionist.

Rita met her late husband Jack at Fu Manchu, a Chinese restaurant in New York. She was married on May 21^st, 1955. She raised 2 boys, Neal and Douglas. Rita led an active life in addition to being a homemaker. She was President of the local Bnei Brith Chapter in Rockland County, NY. She sang in the choir of Temple Beth El in Spring Valley, NY. She enjoyed playing the piano, bowling, and Mahjong. She was a wonderful and caring mother to her kids. Later in life Rita enjoyed golf with her family and eating out spending summers on Cape Cod and Winters in Florida. She loved spending time with her family, including Grandkids.

Rita is survived by her son Neal and his wife Mei of Middleton MA, daughter-in-law. Christine and her children, Kimberly and Kaitlin of Sudbury, MA. She was predeceased by her son Douglas and husband Jack.

Memorial Service is at Beit Olam east in Wayland MA on Friday July 19^th at 10:30 AM. A private reception for the family will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name can be made to Cape Cod Synagogue in Hyannis, MA or Exeter Hospital in Exeter, NH.

The Honorable Paul A. Chernoff (Ret.), of Newton, MA, died peacefully on July 15, 2024, at the age of 85. His passing was peaceful and without pain, with close family by his side.  He was a loving husband of 60 years, and a proud father and grandfather.

Born and raised in New Haven, CT, Paul received a mechanical engineering degree from Tufts University in 1961. Upon graduating, he became a Commissioned Officer in the Coast and Geodetic Survey (now the officer corps of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration), serving on ships in Pearl Harbor, Seattle and Anchorage.  After nearly four years of service, he earned a JD, with honors, from George Washington University Law School in 1967.  He then served as a Staff Attorney in the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia, representing indigent defendants during turbulent times of protest and political violence. Paul then moved with his family to Massachusetts, where he was appointed Chairman of the Parole Board by Governor Sargent.

Paul was first appointed to the judiciary in 1976, serving on the Newton District Court for eight years before being appointed by Governor Dukakis to the Massachusetts Superior Court where he served for three decades. During his illustrious career, he presided over more than one thousand jury trials and sat in every county and in the vast majority of the state’s district courthouses.  He handled high-profile cases with great skill and tact, including the trial of Dr. Dirk Greineder for the murder of his wife in 2001.  He was much beloved by court staff and was known for treating litigants, the accused, and families of victims with dignity and respect. He was also a strong believer in the American jury system, going out of his way to show gratitude toward jurors and to make them feel welcome and valued during what many might otherwise consider to be a burden and inconvenience.

After retirement, he was recalled to sit on the Superior Court as a judge and later as a special magistrate to resolve drug laboratory cases.  In 2014, he joined the law firm of Brody, Hardoon, Perkins & Kesten LLP, where he presided over mediations, conciliations and arbitration disputes. He was known for going above and beyond to assist the parties in reaching a resolution, for example, by visiting the scene of every dispute where feasible at no expense to the parties.  He also worked as an Access to Justice Fellow for Veterans Legal Services, helping fellow veterans in legal matters.  Just six weeks before his passing, he won a major legal victory on behalf of a 75-year-old veteran of the Tet Offensive, after selflessly logging hundreds of hours of work on a pro bono basis.

Paul was also an educator, teaching trial practice as an adjunct faculty member at Boston College Law School starting in 1990.  He was also a valued faculty member for the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) Trial Advocacy program as well as the National Judicial College.  Paul taught in these capacities for several decades, inspiring generations of young lawyers and judges.  He also helped design and run exchange programs with judges and lawyers from Japan, France, and Russia.

He used his office to bring joy to people, performing wedding ceremonies for dozens of couples, including one ceremony in Fenway Park.  He also welcomed new American citizens, performing naturalization ceremonies for people from all over the world.

In 2004, Paul received the Tufts University Career Achievement Award, and in 2007 he was presented with the Haskell Cohn Distinguished Judicial Service Award.

Paul was a marathoner as well as an avid and intrepid outdoorsman, leading family members and colleagues on hiking adventures through some of our country’s greatest natural treasures, including Glacier National Park, the Grand Canyon, Arches, Yellowstone and Yosemite. He was an enthusiastic international traveler and student of languages, taking his family to Quebec for a summer of French immersion and on several trips to Europe.  In later years, he developed a passion for writing, dedicating to his grandchildren three published books of life lessons from his own experience, titled “Bench Notes”.  Right up to his final days, he entertained and inspired family and friends with weekly essays providing his perspectives on current events and life’s challenges and absurdities.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Chernoff, his son David, his son Steven and his wife, Naina, and his grandchildren, Rayan, Dhillon and Aliya.

A memorial service will be held at Temple Shalom in Newton, MA on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul’s name to Inclusive Pathways to Success, a nonprofit trade school for young adults with differing abilities.

William David Terry, M.D. died peacefully at his home in Chestnut Hill, MA, on July 14, 2024 after a long battle with cancer and a much longer life filled with numerous professional accomplishments, innumerable warm and meaningful friendships, and a significant impact on the lives of others both here and abroad, including his large family who both loved and adored him, as he did them.

Bill was born in NY on October 22, 1933 to Pauline (nee Meltzer) and Herman Terashansky, and was raised in Queens, where he was educated in the public school system.  He was not only an excellent student, but also a member of the glee club and high school track team.  Summers were happiest at camp where he became proficient at horseback riding and was an active cast member of the weekly theatrical productions.

After graduating from Cornell University with a degree in Psychology in 1954, Bill went on to receive his MD from State University of New York, Downstate, in 1958.  He did his Internal Medicine clinical training at the Jewish Hospital of Brooklyn and the Department of Rheumatology at UCSF.  In 1962, Bill became a Research Associate at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Bethesda, Maryland.  At the NCI and for the rest of his career, Bill’s administrative mantra was “only hire people who are smarter than you” and he always strove to find the best and the brightest.  Bill became Chief of the Immunology Branch at the NCI, and from 1970 to 1980 built a superb immunology research unit that still operates today.

Dinah Singer, Deputy Director for Scientific Strategy and Development, NIH, NCI, in her toast to Bill on his 90^th birthday, commented, “In 1978, I was finishing my post-doc at NCI and looking for a job… Not only did you give me a job, you showed me what it takes to be a great scientific leader – you were willing to take risks on ideas and people, and then support them.  In the years since, as I’ve taken on administrative responsibilities, the example that you set has been my guiding principle.”

In 1980, Bill was asked to take over administration of two extramural programs, the National Cancer Center’s Program and the Cancer Control Program.   There, he oversaw a budget of over one hundred million dollars, dedicated to improving all aspects of cancer care and research across the country.  Bill was responsible for helping to establish the Wilmot Fellowship Program at the University of Rochester and sat on the Wilmot Foundation Board for over forty years.

Steve Rosenberg, Chief of Surgery at the National Cancer Institute, credits Bill with creating the first ever national program devoted to developing the field of immunotherapy and said Bill’s contributions played a major role in the ultimate progress of this field.  Steve said that Bill was “a brilliant visionary” and he was honored to call him a colleague and friend.

After his time at the NCI, Bill moved into the biotech/pharmaceutical industry fields, ultimately becoming the CEO of Damon Biotech, selling it to Abbot Labs three years later.  In 1991, Bill shifted into academia, and became the Senior Vice President, Research and Ventures, Brigham Medical Center in Boston.  In 1996, the Brigham and Mass General Hospital merged into Partners HealthCare where Bill became Vice President for Corporate Sponsored Research and Licensing for the Partners HealthCare System.

After a decade in that position, Bill returned to the Brigham in the Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine where he assisted Dr. Peter Libby and Dr. Masanori Aikawa in establishing the Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences, a research collaboration sponsored by the Japanese company, Kowa Industries, and where he continued to work until his retirement at the age of 90 in 2023.

Bill’s intelligence was far-reaching, both in medicine as well as numerous other disciplines and his political interests and activities contributed to the positive outcome of numerous campaigns.  He loved art and classical music, as well as Broadway (starting with “Oklahoma” and extending to the recent revival of “Company”), and he was no stranger on the tennis court.  His long time friend, Jonathan Katz, noted that Bill was “a renaissance man with love for sports, art, literature, and music”.  He added that “Bill also had a great sense of humor with a talent for telling a good joke and a keen interest in hearing new ones.” Sailing, time with family, collaborating with his many colleagues, reading extensively – all these filled his well-lived life – but it was his kindness and caring of others that was what others always remembered.

During Bill’s tenure as Chief of Immunology at the NCI, the US entered into a binational program with the USSR for collaboration in cancer research and Bill was responsible for immunology collaboration.  The program included visits to the Soviet Union during a period of time when Jewish scientists were being discriminated against in the USSR and many were trying, with great difficulty, to leave the country.  Bill wanted to make sure that the Russian Jewish scientists knew that despite his last name being “Terry”, he was Jewish.  On his first visit to Moscow, Bill used his speech at the welcoming dinner to thank his hosts for arranging a side visit to Kiev, “the city from which my grandparents fled the pogroms of the early 1900’s”.  That was his way of letting those in this audience know that he was Jewish and it began Bill’s long side career of helping those looking to emigrate abroad, however and whenever he could.

Bill was the “go-to” person for friends and family facing medical challenges, serving as a translator for all the medical terms that they were being barraged with and couldn’t make sense of.  His wide breadth of knowledge of numerous medical specialties went to good use when he was contacted by not just friends, but by friends of friends, as well.  And if he didn’t know the answer to something, he always approached one of his numerous colleagues for their expertise.  A natural at community building, upon moving to his Chestnut Hill condo seven years ago, he started a men’s book group which brought together over a dozen men on a monthly basis to not only review what they had read, but to also discuss things of mutual interest and importance.

Bill is survived by his adored and adoring wife, Jill Greenberg, and his first wife, Caryl Bernstein, of Alexandria, VA.  His second wife, Elizabeth Weller, predeceased him, as did his beloved third wife of 38 years, Honora Kaplan. He is also survived by his children, Ellen Terry (Walter Dunn), Mark Terry (Valerie Brooks), William Dan Terry, Karen Terry, and his grandchildren, Gus and Haley Passov, and Ryan Dunn, as well as his stepchildren, Jonathan Kaplan (Jill Wilkins), Shira Kaplan (Eric Kahan), Benjamin Kaplan (Orietta Barletta) and grandchildren, Harry, Ruby, and Stella Kaplan, Emmy and Max Kahan, and Giacomo and Francesca Kaplan).

Donations in Bill’s memory may be made to prostate cancer research at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115; Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115; and to the current capital campaign at Sportsmen’s Tennis and Enrichment Center, 950 Blue Hill Avenue, Dorchester, MA 02124.

Age 84, of Providence RI, entered into rest on July 13, 2024 after a brief illness. Richard was born on May 10,1940 and raised in Brookline MA. He attended the University of Virginia for undergraduate studies, and obtained a master’s degree in philosophy from Brown University.

A longtime resident of Providence, Richard was a world class numismatist, a first-rate runner and track coach, and a brilliant math teacher. Richard gave generously of himself during his lifetime as a coach and a tutor. He guided countless people in the Providence area to better math skills and faster running times. He was a passionate gardener who took great pride in tending to the gardens of his many friends.

He is survived by his beloved sister, Susan Allen, his niece Robyn Stavis and nephew Scott and wife Susie Allen, and five grandnieces and nephews of whom he was very proud.

The family would like to thank his many friends for their support and companionship over these many years.

Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 2:45 pm.

If you wish, you may consider a donation in Richard’s memory to a charity of your choice. To send a condolence message, or a fond recollection of being coached by Richard to his family, please visit obituary listing at Legacy.com.

Carol Fain Walters, of Needham, MA and Newton, MA, passed away surrounded by family on July 4, 2024, at the age of 88. Born in New York City in 1935, she was raised in Bronxville, NY by her parents, the late William and Pauline (Berger) Goldfine, along with her sister, the late Joyce Walzer (Richard).

She received her Bachelor of Arts from Goucher College and a Master of Social Work from Simmons College. She later raised a family in Warwick and Barrington, RI with her beloved husband the late Bernard I. Fain, while serving several terms on the Barrington School Committee and as a program administrator at the Miriam Hospital in Providence, RI. After the death of her husband in 1980, she spent the next decade in New York where she worked in administration at New York Medical College and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Her next 20 years were spent in Chestnut Hill, MA where she was a consultant to nonprofit organizations, including the Schwartz Center for Compassionate Healthcare, and served on the board of the League of Women Voters of Newton. In her retirement, she returned to New York City where she shared her love of poetry by teaching a popular series of courses on an eclectic range of poets at the Lenox Hill Neighborhood House. She was an accomplished coloratura soprano, avid world traveler, and lover of the many dogs in her life.

She is survived by daughter Barbara Fain and her husband Jason Gilbert of Newton, MA, son Eric Fain and his wife Sonali of Menlo Park and La Jolla, CA, and daughter Katherine Fain and her husband Roger Thomas of New York, NY. She was the loving grandmother of Jennifer Rutherford, Amber Powers and her husband Jason, Nathaniel Gilbert, and Rebecca Gilbert, and great-grandmother to Sloane and Holden Powers.

Memorial service at Temple Shalom in Newton, MA on Monday, July 15, 2024 at 11:00am. Visiting hours at the home of Barbara Fain and Jason Gilbert following the service until 5:00pm and on Tuesday, July 16 from 5:00-7:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind at  www.guidingeyes.org.

Eugene Achter of Lexington, MA passed away July 6, 2024 due to complications from ALS.

He was the beloved husband of Katherine Achter; devoted father of Michael Achter (Nancy Achter) and Jeff Achter (Rachel Pries); cherished grandfather of four; and loving brother of Sara Henken.

Gene was born to immigrant parents and grew up in their modest household in Buffalo, NY.  He attended college at Brown University where he met Kathy, who was his wife, best friend, and the love of his life.  The two of them moved to the University of Chicago, where he earned a PhD in Chemical Physics.  A scientist and engineer by trade and by passion, he had a varied career spanning the NIH, medical instrumentation and bomb detection. In retirement, he enjoyed volunteering in the MIT Venture Mentoring Service.  Outside of work he enjoyed family, music and singing, and hiking and snorkeling.  He loved telling stories, making puns, and helping others solve problems.

Services at Temple Emunah, 9 Piper Rd., Lexington, MA on Friday, July 12, 2024 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Beit Olam East Cemetery, 42 Concord Rd., Wayland, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations in Eugene’s memory may be made to the ALS Association.

Skolnick, Barbara Esther, of Needham, on July 6, 2024.  Better known by close family as “Bubbie,” Barbara was a cherished and adored mother and grandmother who left this world far too soon at age 76 after a valiant battle with cancer, with her husband Steven, son Adam, and daughter Judith by her side.  Throughout her life and including her cancer treatments, Barbara remained (in her words) an “eternal optimist.”  Even through the worst pain and suffering, Barbara always had a smile on her face and managed to find something good in every day.

Barbara is survived by her beloved husband Steven, children Adam and Judith, daughter- in- law Amy, and her grandchildren Brandon, Eliana, Harold, and Isaac, whom she idolized and were the center of her universe.  She loved them to the moon and back.  She is also survived by her brother Larry, nephew Keith, sisters and brothers-in-law Ellen and Steven Weiner and Gail and Leonard Burman, and much-loved friends and extended family.  She was predeceased by her mother Florence and her father Gershon.  As a mother, Barbara was a shining and selfless example of positivity, strength and resilience. Outside her family, Barbara also found joy in Deerfield Beach and in her summer home in Dennis Port.  When she wasn’t at the beach you could find her in her happy place at the gym, cooking with her grandchildren, or helping a family member or friend in need.  Everywhere she went Barbara exhibited grace and casual elegance.  She was an accomplished pianist who very much enjoyed music, theater arts and museums, a legacy that she passed down to her grandchildren. As a proud alumnus of Girls’ Latin School and Boston State College, Barbara was straight A student.  She was also equally proud of her career as a kindergarten teacher of 40-50 students that began at the Harrington School in Cambridge.  After five years of teaching, Barbara took a brief leave to raise her children.   Later in her career Barbara moved on to teach preschool then becoming Director of Preschool/Childcare centers in the local community.  Barbara loved helping children and the impact she had on her students will be remembered for years to come.  Many times, when Barbara was out in public she was approached and hugged by her former students and families thanking her for the inerasable mark she made in their lives.

She will always and forever be remembered as our family’s matriarch and her legacy will never be forgotten.   In honor of Barbara’s remarkable life, the funeral will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 10:00 am at Temple Beth Shalom, Needham. Interment will follow at Independent Pride of Boston Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury.

Family and friends are welcome to visit with the Skolnick family, following interment until 5:00 pm at Temple Beth Shalom.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Barbara’s memory may be made to The Home for Little Wanderers Child and Family Counseling Center,72-74 East Dedham St., Boston, MA 02118.  (In the memo write: “in honor of Dr. Josh Martin in memory of Barbara Skolnick”). Or Dr. Matulonis’ innovative research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Fl, Brookline, MA 02445 (In the memo write: ” Dr. Matulonis’ Giving Page in memory of Barbara Skolnick”).

May she rest in peace.  Barbara has gone to the beach.

The Simches family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Gerald R. Simches, of Newton, on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at the age of 89. His eternal love will be forever carried by his wife Deborah of 67 years.  Loving father to Michael Simches and his wife, Wendy, and Sue Levy and her husband, Randy.  Grandfather to Jason Simches and his wife, Martha, Emma Simches; Melanie Levy and her husband, Jeremy,  Adam Levy and his wife, Alison, David Levy and his wife Orit, April Levy, and their late father, George Levy.  Beloved Great Grandfather to six Great Grandchildren who adored their Papa. A pillar of strength and a true Patriarch of the family he held so dear.  We will miss you always. Services at Temple Shir Tikva, 141 Boston Post Rd (Rt 20), Wayland on Tuesday, July 9 at 1:00PM.   Remembrances may be made to Mass General Hospital to support the work of Hanna Gaggin, MD, MPH in the research of and treatment for Cardiac Amyloidosis.

Of Newton on July 6, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Albert J. Sinofsky. Loving mother of Ken “Ian” of Newton, Debra (Paul) Gibbons of Needham, the late Bruce Sinofsky and also survived by her daughter- in- law Florence of New Jersey.

Devoted grandmother of Alex (Nayla), Amanda, Emily, Tristan, Claire, Adeline and Luc.

Sister of Dorothy Albert of Boca Raton, FL. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

In Beebe’s earlier years, she was a professional singer performing in Boston Night Clubs and On-Air Radio Jingles. Beebe then pursued a successful career in Marketing and Advertising in the Automotive Industry for more than forty years. In retirement, ever the singer, Beebe continued to perform in the group Basically Broadway and local Theatre groups. Lastly and more importantly to Beebe, was her family, as she was a devoted daughter, sister, mother and grandmother.

Funeral Service at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington St., Newton, on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 10:30 AM. Interment to follow at Sharon Memorial Park.

Shiva will be observed at the home of Paul and Debra Gibbons on Wednesday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm.

Remembrances in memory of Beebe may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org or to MSPCA.org.

Toby Roover, beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on June 30th at the age of 82. Her life was a testament to love, creativity, and selfless service.

Born on June 3^rd 1942, Toby met the love of her life, Charlie Roover, when she was just 14 years old and he was 16. Their enduring love blossomed early, leading to their marriage at ages 19 and 21. For 62 wonderful years, they built a life filled with deep affection, mutual respect, world travel and countless treasured memories.

Toby was the devoted mother of David and Melissa, mother-in-law to Michelle Lecks Roover and to the late Paul Voynalovitch instilling in them the values of kindness, integrity, and honesty. She was also the adored grandmother of Benny and Hailey, who brought immense joy and light into her life.

Toby also leaves behind many dear friends, some of whom she had known since her childhood in Brighton. These lifelong friendships were a testament to her loyal and loving nature, and they brought her great joy and comfort throughout her life.

An avid painter, Toby’s artistic talent was a source of joy and expression throughout her adult life. Her beautiful works of art, often inspired by Martha’s Vineyard or other scenes from her travels reflected her vibrant spirit and creative soul.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Toby was a dedicated volunteer. She passionately supported the Wellness Community and the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Boston, offering her time, energy, and empathy to those in need. Her commitment to these causes exemplified her generous heart and unwavering dedication to making her community a better place.

A memorial service to celebrate Toby’s life will be held at 10am on July 2nd at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon, MA. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Toby’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.  Shiva will be held from 4pm to 7pm on both Tuesday and Wednesday at David and Michelle’s house in West Newton.

Graveside service at Pride of Lynn Cemetery, on Friday, June 28, 2024 at 12 Noon. Shiva at his late residence Friday 3-6 pm and Sunday, 10-2 pm and 4-6 pm.

Ina Friedman Starobin, formerly of Bethesda, MD and Brookline, MA, died peacefully at Goodwin House, Alexandria, VA on June 25.

Ina was born and raised in Chester, PA.  After graduating from Penn State U, she married Sol Friedman of Washington, DC.  She raised four children in Bethesda, by whom she is survived, Ronne Friedman (Irene), Wendy Friedman (Adam Bernstein), Lynn Friedman, Loren Friedman (Patricia Rodriguez); she is also survived by a step-daughter, Debra Pullen.  Ina was the author of four young adult books: Black Cop, a biography, and three non-fiction works about the Holocaust, Escape or Die, The Other Victims, and Flying Against The Wind. Ina also wrote a delightful book for young children, How My Parents Learned to Eat, illustrated by Allen Say, for which she won a Christopher Award and a spot on Reading Rainbow.

Ina met Colonel Sam Starobin in the mid-70’s; they were married in 1977 and delighted in one another until Sam’s death in 2019.

In addition to her children, Ina is survived by her sister, Barbara Roberts of Lincoln, MA and four grandchildren, Zachary Friedman (Lilian Tan), Rachel Lerch (Conor O’Hollaren), Amelia Friedman DeSorrento (Tonio), Joaquin Friedman (Alaina Van Slooten), a step-grandson, Phelan Pullen (Joan), three great-grandchildren, Emilio, Tiago and Luca, nieces, Beth Roberts, Susan Lubar (Ken), and nephew, Larry Harris (Phyllis), and their families. She also enjoyed a special relationship with her grand-niece, Allegra Lubar.

Ina’s eldest grandson, Jesse, cited as an editor of one of her books, predeceased her in 2010.

She will be buried next to Sam in a private family ceremony at the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY.

Contributions in her memory may be sent to: Jesse S. Friedman Fund, Temple Israel Riverway Project, 477 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA 02215

To view the livestream please click here.

Harriet (Cobrain) Brody, June 25, 2024, at 97 years of age. Predeceased by her loving husband of 51 yrs Solomon, and her treasured sister, the late Marilyn Cohen.  Beloved daughter of the late Dora (Lastoff) and Louis Cobrain. Survived by her Daughter Lois Marcus (Harvey), Daughter Enid Feingold (Alan) and Son Robert (Beth). Grandmother of 7 and the late Lisa Feingold, and Great-Grandmother to 12. Harriet was a graduate of Brighton High School and worked as a bookkeeper in the Boston area for many years. She was loved by all she met and never failed to share her humor and good nature with friends and strangers, and she created a home that was the central gathering point for relatives, and friends of all the family members. She brought that spirit with her to the Thomas Upham House in Medfield, MA where she spent her final few years, receiving compassionate care with great love and affection. Jewish holidays were celebrated with pride and great food, and her treasured recipes have been widely circulated within and outside the family.

A private graveside service of remembrance will be held for her family and friends on Friday, June 28, 2024 at 1:45 pm at Sharon Memorial Park, 120 Canton Street, Sharon, MA. Shiva will be observed immediately following internment at Temple Kol Tikvah, 9 Dunbar Street, Sharon. The service will also be live-streamed here.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: The Lisa Feingold Fund c/o Congregation Bnai Shalom, 117 East Main Street, Westborough, MA 01581.

Marcia (Freedman) Apatow, beloved wife to Bob, mother to Douglas, Steven, and Karen, and sister to Blossom, predeceased her husband Bob and passed on April 18, 2020 at Stone Senior Residence, Newton Upper Falls, MA

Robert (Bob) Jacob Apatow, beloved husband to Marcia, and father to Douglas, Steven, and Karen, passed on June 15, 2024 at Traditions Assisted Living, Dedham, MA

Fresh out of the Navy after WWII, Bob met Marcia at Apatow Pharmacy, Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY, and it was love at first sight. Marcia & Bob raised children Doug, Steve, and Karen, and built homes in: Brooklyn, NY; Valley Stream, NY; Levittown, PA; Greenwich Village, NYC; CT; Cape Cod, MA; Del Rey Beach, FL, and finally Dedham, MA.

Bob built successful careers as a sales executive in the pharmaceutical and beauty products industry, while Marcia was a Weight Watchers lecturer in Levittown, PA, teacher in NYC, and fabulous cook, never to be forgotten by her signature dish Shrimp Leylon.

Besides adoring their children and grandchildren, Bob & Marcia also loved travel to Europe, romantic dinners out, reading the Sunday NYT, and long, loving days at beaches on Cape Cod and Del Rey Beach, FL, Bob thereby earning his nickname Poppa Ocean aka Poppa O.

Marcia & Bob are survived by:

Marcia’s beloved sister Blossom, and Blossom’s & Blossom’s husband Irwin’s children Sandy, David, and Jane;

Bob’s brother Maury, and his sister Patricia;

Bob & Marcia’s son Doug & his wife Andrea and their children Lindsay & her partner Ariel, and son Ben and his partner Jocy;

Bob & Marcia’s son Steve & his partner Josie, and Steve’s children Amanda & her husband Leighton, daughter Emily & her fiancee Devontae, and son Josh; and

Bob & Marcia’s daughter Karen & her husband Ben, and their children Isabel, Libby, and Lex.

A memorial service for Marcia & Bob will be held for immediate family on Friday, June 21, 2024 at the MA Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, Buzzards Bay, Cape Cod, MA.

SCHULTZ, Stephen E., of Dedham, formerly of Jamaica Plain, June 19, 2024, at 79 years of age. The beloved son of the late Sadye and Jacob Schultz and beloved brother of the late Lorraine Rudnick, the late Rita Goldman and the late Allen Schultz. Beloved friend of Hadj Belgendouz (Lamia) whose children were like grandchildren to Steve. Beloved uncle to many nephews and nieces around the country and the world. Steve was a graduate of Brookline High School and Boston University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He later worked as a CPA for many years. Steve always tried to help people who do not have enough in this world. He felt passionately about assisting those seeking immigration and political asylum. He loved the Red Sox.

A private service of remembrance will be held for his family and friends on Sunday, June 23, 2024 at 2 pm at The Chapel at Newbridge on the Charles, 7000 Great Meadow Road, Dedham.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: De Novo (formerly Community Legal Services), www.denovo.org, 47 Thorndike St., Cambridge MA 02141 (617) 661-1010. Funds given in memory of Stephen Schultz should benefit those seeking political asylum in the United States.

Raynor Doris Caplan

1930-2024

Raynor Doris Caplan (Bornstein), age 93, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2024. Beloved wife of 72 years of childhood sweetheart Hubert Caplan; loving mother of Susan Caplan and husband Michael Kazenel of Canton, Jeanne Val and husband Luc Bernard Val of Milton, and Donna Caplan of Kauai. Loving grandmother of Kala Hagopian; Melanie Kazenel and Robert Buskirk-Lechner, Jessie Kazenel and Christopher Kaaria, and Daniel Kazenel; and Benjamin and Jeremy Val; great grandmother of Kai Williams.  She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Samuel and Anne Bornstein, sister Lillian Katz, and brother Merton Lamden.

Valedictorian of Winthrop High Class of 1948, Ray attended Wellesley College, where she graduated in 1952 with Bachelor of Arts in Zoology and was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa Society. She researched the thyroid, co-publishing a paper in Endocrinology with W. P. Vanderlaan.  Ray devoted her life to raising her children and grandchildren; later working in the medical office of her husband, Hu.

 Ray will be remembered as a nurturing, kind, humble mother, wife, grandmother, and friend.  She took care of everyone. Her kindness and affection were all encompassing. She was intelligent and had a quiet sense of humor and was dedicated to reading and to life-long learning.

Ray was passionate about nature and music.  She shared and instilled her passion for nature to her children and grandchildren – birds, plants, flowers, trees, and appreciating nature and the earth. Her musical passion started with playing piano, singing folk music, and then attending opera and orchestra performances.  She created a family tradition of singing with folk songs and lullabies.

Ray was buried at her beloved retreat in Harrison, Maine on June 19th.  A memorial service will be held on Sunday, June 23rd at 1:30pm at Temple Ohabei Shalom, 1187 Beacon St, Brookline, MA. Donations in Ray’s memory may be made to the Lakes Environmental Association Caplan Family Education Fund or to the Friends of Wellesley College Botanic Gardens.

Of Belmont, previously Brighton, on June 12 after long illness, at age 77.  Son of late parents Miriam and George Oshry.  Cherished brother of Deborah (Howard) Herzog and Jeanne (Jerry) Ashworth.  Beloved uncle to five nieces and nephews and their spouses, and eight grandnieces and nephews.

In past years, Richard worked for his family’s business, and volunteered at several community organizations.  His hobby was traveling about in search of antiques and collectibles. He was a kind and caring person who will be greatly missed.

Graveside services will be held at Sharon Memorial Park on Sunday, June 16 at 10:45 am.  Shiva will be held at the home of Deborah Herzog at 6:30 on Sunday evening.

Donations in Richard’s memory can be made to Hebrew SeniorLife or the charity of your choice.

Norma (Kazer) Brass-Of South Easton, on June 11, 2024. Beloved wife for 56 years to her high school sweetheart, David Brass. Daughter of the late Irving and Ida Kazer. Devoted and loving mother of Scott and his wife Susan and Jill and her husband Stephen. Cherished Nana of Ally and Shelby Brass and Ella and Evan Kramer.  Norma grew up in Brockton, MA, and graduated from American International College.  She taught third grade until settling into her favorite role of Mom.  Norma could often be found power walking, baking her highly coveted chocolate chip cookies, or scoping out the latest fashion for herself and others.  Nothing gave her greater joy than spending time spoiling her grandchildren. Funeral Service on Friday, June 14, 2024, at noon at Temple Sinai, 25 Canton St., Sharon, MA. Interment to follow at Sharon Memorial Park. Following services family and friends are invited to the home of Jill and Stephen Kramer until 6 pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in her memory may be made to Jewish National Fund.

Change of Date and Time of Service

January 14, 1925-June 10, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Morris Arnold Franklin, on
June 10, 2024, at the age of 99. Formerly of Webster and Natick, MA, and a long-time resident of
Miami Beach, FL. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn (Levinsky) Franklin, and brothers, William
Franklin and Jacob Franklin. He is survived by his children, Florence Silberman, Miriam McGettrick,
and David Franklin, as well as their spouses, his grandson Robert Tiger, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Morris, known as “Murray,” was the youngest of 3 brothers, who were lovingly referred to as the
Franklin “Boyus.” As a child, he was told he would need to learn to play an instrument even though
he had no initial interest, so he chose the saxophone, figuring it would be impossible to obtain one.
Much to his chagrin, his parents presented him with one. Turns out he was a natural – a musical
prodigy who went on to master not only the saxophone but also the bassoon, clarinet, and flute. He
started playing saxophone professionally at the age of 15 with the big band The Teddy Mack
Orchestra.
When WWII broke out, Morris was called to serve and did so valiantly in the Army Infantry in the
Philippines and then in the occupying forces in Japan. After the war, he attended the prestigious
New England Conservatory of Music to further develop his natural musical talent. He went on to a
successful musical career, playing bassoon for the Boston Symphony and multi-instruments for the
Shubert Theater House Band, among others. He garnered a reputation as one of the best and most
sought-after sight-readers on the East Coast.
After the passing of his beloved wife, Marilyn, Morris raised his 3 children in Miami Beach, Florida.
He was an avid reader and loved doing the puzzles (any and all kinds) in the newspaper, keeping his
mind sharp for 99 years. He had a wonderful sense of humor and wit that never dulled. And he
always had room for dessert.
There will be a graveside service at The Hebrew Cemetery at Chevra Kadisha Cemetery in
Worcester, MA, on Sunday June 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you send a Tribute Gift in his name to the New England Conservatory
of Music, where he studied music and went on to become a professional musician.
https://necmusic.edu/give