Archive: December, 2023

Sara Sherman-Of Brighton on December 22, 2023. Graveside service will be private.

Irv Lemack, son of the late David and Bess Lemack, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.

Irv adored his wife Cynthia of 66 years and together they built a life filled with love, joy, and shared accomplishments. Cherishing family above all else, Irv treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating lasting memories.

Irv’s thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a BS in Chemistry and a Master’s in food technology. Education was a cornerstone of Irv’s values, and he tirelessly shared his knowledge with the generations that followed. Whether tutoring his own children or his beloved grandchildren, Irv excelled at instilling a love for learning in those around him. His legacy lives on in the academic achievements of those he influenced, a testament to the impact of his guidance.

Although his professional achievements were notable, Irv’s 15 minutes of fame came in the spotlight of the community musical “The King and I.” His portrayal of “The King” was unforgettable, earning him enduring recognition and endearment. To this day, he is fondly referred to as “The King”.

Irv is survived by his loving wife Cynthia, his children Karen and Jack, Kevin and Laurie, and Lauren and Bruce; his grandchildren Jonathan and Samantha, Jillian and Ivan, Andrew and Steph, Jason and Lindsey, Kyle, Jeremy, Austin and Harrison; and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers and their spouses, Alvin and Phyllis and Bert and Terry, his sister-in-law Elinor, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, December 24, at 9:00 AM at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave., Needham, MA. Burial to follow at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Holz-Jackie, of Stow, MA passed away December 20, 2023, the 8th day of Tevet. Beloved daughter of Carole Perla and John Holz. Loving sister of David Holz. Jackie leaves beloved step-mother Ann Katan.

Graveside service at Framingham-Natick Hebrew Cemetery, 40 Windsor Ave., Natick, MA on Friday, December 22, 2023 at 11:30 am.

Memorial observance at the home of Carole Perla, Saturday 7 – 9 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Congregation Or Atid, c/o Light of the Future Fund, or the George Perla Library Fund, 97 Concord Rd., Wayland, MA 01778.

Mathew “Max” Rosenberg of Milford MA, formerly of Natick MA, passed away Saturday December 16th 2023 after a brief illness. He is the beloved son of Cheryle (Sims) Rosenberg and the late Andrew Rosenberg and brother of the late Mickey Rosenberg.  He is survived by sons Sam and Eli Rosenberg of Milford.  He is the nephew of Leslie Sims and his wife Nancy Thompson of Portland Oregon. As well as his cousin Jennifer Sims of Nebraska.  Joel and Gayle Schindler of Cincinnati Ohio. He is also survived by his nephews Graham and AJ. His beloved friend Ellen Howard, cousins Bob and Brenda, David, Alexander, Scott and Emily of Stoughton, MA. Services will be held Thursday, December 21, at 11:00 am at the Italian American Veterans Post 40, 4 Hayward Field, Milford, MA 01757.  Donations in his memory can be sent to Milford High School c/o School Athletics, 31 West Fountain St., Milford, MA 01757.

Graveside service at Boylston Lodge Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue, or St. Jude’s Hospital.

Bruce David Rosenblum, 64, of Somerville, Massachusetts, and Phippsburg, Maine, passed away in the early morning of December 13, 2023, after living with ALS for 6.5 years. Bruce was a devoted and loving step-father and father to Jeff (Melissa) and Aaron, an adoring grandfather to Evan, Hannah, and Caleb, and a loving husband of 29 years to Irina Golfman Rosenblum. Bruce is survived by his mother Sandra Rosenblum and sister Laurie Rosenblum.

In 1981, Bruce graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in English and History. He then travelled around the world for 27 months, including a computer consulting stint in India and 6 months on an Israeli Kibbutz. Upon return, Bruce settled in the Boston area and started his career as a software developer, working for Turning Point Software where he eventually rose to the position of Vice President. Bruce and Irina married in 1994. In their early years they traveled through Western Europe, including their honeymoon in Sicily, toured the Caribbean Islands, skied in Colorado and New England, and enjoyed spending time with friends and family. After Aaron’s birth in 1997 Bruce joined Inera, the company Irina started in 1992, to help Irina manage the business and take care of the newborn. Bruce liked this new arrangement so much that instead of staying at Inera for the planned 12 months, he settled in and became a lifer. Under Bruce’s tireless guidance, Inera became a leading developer of tools and services in the scientific, medical, and academic publishing fields, and Bruce rose to be recognized worldwide as a leading authority on publishing tools and workflows.

Bruce’s first career as a photojournalist started in high school and continued through college and while traveling the world, and it has inspired Aaron to follow in his father’s footsteps.

Bruce was diagnosed with ALS in 2017. Since the diagnosis he dedicated his time and energy to advancing ALS research by participating in every clinical trial and study he could be accepted into, lecturing to trial coordinators and medical students on ALS patient perspectives, creating ALS resources for publications including UpToDate, and many other forms of ALS advocacy. Bruce loved his care team at Massachusetts General Hospital and, in turn, they loved his dedication and genuine interest in their research. Bruce found the intersection of his professional work and ALS advocacy both fascinating and stimulating.

Bruce continued his professional work for Wiley (the new owner of Inera) and his involvement in advocacy way past the point at which most people would have decided to quit. He participated in a Wiley team meeting on the morning of Thursday, December 7, and was scheduled to talk to medical school students that evening. When his oxygen saturation plummeted while his heart rate and blood pressure skyrocketed on Thursday afternoon, he asked for the talk to be cancelled and, operating his wheelchair with the gyroscopic glasses, drove himself to the nearest emergency room around the corner. Bruce died less than 5 days later at his beloved Massachusetts General Hospital where he was surely happy to have his entire care team visit.

Donations in Bruce’s honor can be made to Compassionate Care ALS, an organization that stood shoulder to shoulder with us through the challenging ALS journey, and the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Funeral Services will be held at 1 pm on Sunday December 17, 2023, at Beth El Temple Center, 2 Concord Ave, Belmont, MA. The interment at Amos Lodge in Wakefield to follow. The family will be observing Shiva at Beth El Temple Center on Sunday evening from 6:30 until 9 pm, and on Monday from 7 pm until 9 pm, with service on both nights. Shiva will continue in Bruce and Irina’s home on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday with visitation hours between 6 pm and 8 pm, with an informal service at 7:00pm.

Michael Godes, 85, passed away on December 11, 2023, peacefully in his sleep at home, with his daughter by his side. He was born on April 27, 1938 in Boston, MA, grew up in Mattapan, MA and was a long-time resident of Randolph, MA and Boca Raton, FL.

He is survived by his sister Rhonda (Arnold) Schaffer; his daughter, Dayna (David) Gardner; his son, David (Jodi) Godes; and his eight grandchildren, Griffin Gardner, Dexter Gardner, Bellamy Godes, Tyler Gardner, Grace Godes, Sydney Gardner, Bailey Gardner and Kylie Gardner.

Michael was a Certified Public Accountant and an alumnus of Roxbury Memorial High School, Boston University and Bentley University. He was founder and long-time partner of the accounting firm Godes, Schaffer & Company and later Kesner, Godes & Morrissey.

Michael was the devoted and loving husband of Jeri (Hurley) Godes and cherished his children and grandchildren. He had many friends whom he loved dearly, and was proud of his participation in, and support for, numerous organizations including the Knights of Pythias and the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company.

May his memory be a blessing to all who loved and knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing in Michael’s name to Shriner’s Hospital for Children.

Funeral services for Michael will be held at Sharon Memorial Park at 1:00 pm on Friday December 15. The family will receive visitors following the service from 4:00 – 8:00.

Elsa (Cohen) Robbins, devoted wife of the late Stanley Robbins for 62 years, died peaceably in her sleep on December 11^th, 2023 at age 87.

She was the loving mother of Jonathan Robbins and his wife Deborah, and Kenneth Robbins and his wife Debra. Dear grandmother of Laura Eichenhorn, Melanie Robbins, Noah Robbins, Michelle Beth Herman, Justin Robbins, Connor Robbins, Colton Robbins and a proud great-grandmother of Ezra Robbins-Omer, Netaniel Robbins-Omer, Lillian Rose Moss and Vera Leigh Moss. She was also a loving sister of Shepard Cohen and his wife Linda, and Aunt and Great Aunt to Elizabeth Cohen and Nina Rose Cohen.

Beyond her family, Elsa leaves a legacy of friends old and new who enjoyed her intellect, warmth and wry sense of humor. While some of her friendships have lasted decades, Elsa had a way of making new friends with almost everyone she met.

A graduate of Brandeis University, she had a lifelong devotion to reading, lasting even to her final weeks as part of her community’s book club. Besides being a close follower of current events, her interests ranged from “Grey’s Anatomy” to tennis to dining with Stanley and their friends around Newton where they lived for decades.

Elsa’s most-enduring legacy will be her unconditional loving adoration of every individual member of her family be they kin or part of the extended family.

Graveside service at Crawford St. Memorial Park (776 Baker St., West Roxbury) on Thursday, December 14th at 3:00 pm. Memorial observance will be at the Wingate Residences, Needham, MA following services. In lieu of flowers, donations in Elsa’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association MA Chapter  309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452.

To view the livestream please click here.

Denise Taber Finard-Of Boston, on December 10, 2023.Beloved wife of William Finard. Dear stepmother of Todd Finard and his wife Andrea Goldman-Finard and their children Jacob, Murray Rose and Benjamin Finard, and Jacqueline Finard Hughes and her husband Robert and their children Molly and Izzie Hughes. Loving sister of Diane Jones, and David Taber and his wife Marie. Services at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave., Boston (parking on The Riverway) on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 11:00 am. Following interment at Temple Israel Cemetery, Wakefield, memorial observance will be at the home of Jacqueline and Robert Hughes until 5:00 pm and Friday 1-4 pm. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to The Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Research Center, 55 Fruit St., Boston, MA 02114.

Robert Henry  Bode-Of Dedham, on December 10, 2023.

Sarel Kromer, 84, of Arlington, MA, passed away after a straight set loss (7-6, 7-6) to leukemia.  She was preceded in death by husband Philip Frederick Kromer III (“PF”), and is survived by her three children (Philip, Mark, and Matthew), seven grandchildren, and innumerable found family: five married couples she first introduced, and dozens of mentees who regard her as an adopted mother.

Sarel was born in 1939 in Pawling, NY to Erwin and Leah Kandell.  Her childhood blended elements of small-town post-war life (working as a soda jerk at her father’s pharmacy, maintaining her family’s rental property at Whaley Lake); a Jewish-American upbringing (weekend trips to the city to visit family, lunch at Sardi’s); and precocious signs of the intellect that would define her professional life (she often reminisced about how as 14-year old she got permission to skip school to watch the Army-McCarthy hearings).  Sarel attended Smith College, and then, in her words, “talked her way into Cornell Law School the week before school started in September, 1960” at a time when the campus was brimming with political fervor.

She spent the next decade as a pioneer in the field of public interest law, advocating for the causes she was passionate about: migrant rights, voting rights, women’s rights, civil rights, housing, court administration, and pursuing economic and social justice in Appalachia during stints with the New York Attorney General’s office, the Migrant Legal Action Network, the Ford Foundation, and the League of Women’s Voters, where she helped establish the National Women’s Vote Center.  She married Philip Frederick Kromer III (“PF”) in 1973 after a decade-long friendship that started at Cornell, followed by a rapid courtship.  Three children — Philip, Mark, and Matthew — followed quickly, and raising her children became the focus of her life for the next two decades.

Her passions included travel, tennis, scrabble, connecting people, photography, and public advocacy.  She traveled to more than 100 countries, with a specific proclivity for talking her way into countries on the State Department’s “travel advisory” list. A friend could throw a wedding anywhere in the world at any time (Vietnam, India, England, France, Portugal, New Zealand, Kazakhstan, ….) and she’d be there in elegant style. She found ways to leverage her travel into something more meaningful.  A 2005 trip to Rwanda inspired her to write and teach extensively on the post-genocide healing process, culminating in her contribution to the development of the Rwanda Peace Narratives Toolkit, a model curriculum for teaching the principles of non-violent conflict resolution published by the Center for Peace Building International.  She also traveled extensively to the former Soviet Republics through her volunteer work with American Councils FLEX program, whose mission is to foster international understanding through foreign exchanges with future leaders.

To the end, Sarel did what she loved: in the month prior to checking into the hospital, she traveled to Kazakhstan for a friend’s wedding, played tennis with and watched her grandchildren for the weekend, and ate a lot of ice cream.  She passed away in her hospital surrounded by friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Search for Common Ground or the American Councils.

To view the service click here

Selma Ann Slotnick Lait was born on February 18, 1936 at Boston Lying In Hospital to the late Celina Cooper and Isadore “Ike” Slotnick.   She passed away peacefully, December 9, 2023 at Newton Wellesley Hospital following a sudden decline in her health.  Her daughters, Marci Lait and Beth Lait Harris spent her final days with her.

Selma graduated from Barnard College in NYC in 1957 with a degree in fine arts.  After returning to Boston, where she married the late Robert L Lait, Selma enjoyed a long career in teaching.  She started out at Spalding Elementary in Newton and continued for years in more schools than you can name throughout Framingham, where she and Bob had settled and raised their girls.  She mostly taught reading, spanning all levels from remedial to exceptional.  Her tenure as a teacher was only interrupted by bringing up her kids in their formative years and by the tragic illness she suffered in 1979.  Not only did she recover from the brinks, she did so as a pioneering patient under the care of her revolutionary surgeon, the late Dr Michael Scott.  Following this chapter, she heroically returned to the classroom and courageously continued to teach young children in spite of her speech impairment.

Selma (or Sunny to many of her friends) was an avid patron of the arts, befitting her education.  Perhaps what many would remember her best for was her love of the opera.  She would routinely travel to NYC to attend the Met; when she was no longer able, she would attend Met broadcasts that had popped up in movie theaters.  She talked about The Barber of Seville and Lucia di Lammermoor up to the end, and fittingly, as all who knew her well, in her own attempt at Italian.

Selma leaves behind her daughters, Marci Lait of Manteo NC and Beth Harris of Somerset England as well as her two grandsons, Kai Harris of London England and Yul Harris of Indonesia.  She was predeceased by her husband Robert, way too early, and by her parents, Celena and Ike Slotnick, her sister and brother-in-law Dotti and Gene Green and her brother and sister-in-law Eileen and Hale Lait.  She has so many loving family members on both sides who have supported her over the years not to mention friends near and far, new and old, who have continued to stand by her and help her in her later years.

It is hard to pick out any one place to memorialize her, however, given that her most consistent limitation in life, and particularly in her final months, was her speech, the family would like to suggest that they consider helping others afflicted with aphasia, a problem that can devastate expressive and/or receptive language, by making a donation to the National Aphasia Association at aphasia.org.  Selma supported many causes, however, in her memory we would like to honor her by helping others who have been similarly robbed of their voice.

Graveside services will be held at Beth Israel Cemetery in Everett on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 12:30 pm.  Those who would like to but are unable to attend can contact the family to join us virtually. Shiva will be held at 2:45 pm on Thursday, December 14, 2023 in the Palanquin Room, Heritage Assisted Living, 747 Water St., Framingham, MA 01701.

To view the recording please click here.

Celia Savitz Strauss (1967-2023)

Celia Savitz Strauss, who died peacefully at home on December 7th, prized the most important things in life—her family, her close friendships, and love. First and foremost and above all else, Celia loved her husband Adam and their son Kalman. She filled their lives with adventure and nature, music and stillness, tight hugs and ample space. For Celia, creating a stable and loving family with Adam and Kalman was her greatest accomplishment.

Celia lived her values. By personal example, she showed all who knew her how to turn judgment into empathy, how to be vulnerable without shame, how to apologize and how to forgive. She spoke truthfully and eschewed small talk. She was grateful for simple things and cherished love as the greatest gift of all.

Celia noticed. She looked at people with x-ray vision, seeing each one’s essence often before they could see it for themselves. Those who met her only once felt that she understood them. Celia also noticed the natural world. She saw individual leaves where others saw trees; she detected the undetectable opening of a flower. Even when walking in the woods became difficult, it was Celia who spotted the new mushroom, who saw the face in the tree trunk, who found the heart-shaped leaf. Celia’s eye—for the best in people and for the beauty in nature—invited others to look more carefully and to notice more.

Celia was a fearless chooser of life. She fought for her own life after her premature birth. She fought for her son’s life during her high-risk pregnancy.  And her valiant fight with cancer was a master class. Perhaps because of those battles, Celia believed deeply in the power of choice—choosing happiness, choosing gratitude, choosing meaning, choosing how to learn from setbacks and loss. Toward the end of her life she wrote, “Some think only those who have it easy can make choices. This is not the case. Choosing is really and truly hard. It is active. It is work. It is possible.”

Celia was an educator. At Harvard, where she ran CityStep, and for the next 35 years—formally and informally—Celia helped schools offer children the education they deserve, which she regarded as the civil rights issue of our time.

Celia died as she lived—with incomparable strength, with gratitude and with love. She was preceded in death by her father David Savitz and is survived by Adam Strauss, her husband of 26 years, and their beloved son Kalman Strauss; her mother Roberta Apfel (Bennett Simon) and stepmother Libby Keller; her brother Michael Savitz (Karin) and sister Molly Savitz (Jeff Merkowitz); her half-brother Paul Savitz and half-sister Emma Savitz (Sam Crawford); her stepbrother Jonathan Simon (Cherie Rosenblum) and stepsister Amy Simon; her beloved uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, nieces, and in-laws; and scores of friends, old and new.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, December 10th at 10:30 am at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington Street in Newton, and live streamed at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83755409947. The burial will follow the service at the Beit Olam Cemetery, 60 Old Sudbury Road in Wayland. Shiva will be at the Strauss home, 2 Kelley Lane in Wayland: following the burial until 6 pm; Monday, December 11th and Tuesday, December 12th,  5-8 pm.

In lieu of flowers, Celia requested that you please express your love to somebody for the unique person that they are.

Messages to the family can be posted on the Boston Globe Legacy Site.

Stephan R. Blacher-Of Bailey, Colorado, Formerly of Boston, on December 7, 2023.Beloved husband of Gaetane (Bernard) Blacher. Beloved son of Constance Blacher and the late David Blacher.

Graveside services at Sharon Memorial Park on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 1:45pm

Of Boston, December 7, 2023.  Beloved wife of the late Wallace Yaffe and beloved sister of the late Charles Shaw. Loving mother of Peter and Jeff Yaffe. Devoted aunt of Jacob Abrams, Peter, Michael and Eric Shaw. Also survived by her sister-in-law Linda Shaw. Funeral service will be private. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in memory of Doris may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center, at splcenter.org, or the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.

Charlotte Chiten, 96, passed away on December 6, 2023, peacefully in her home.

She was born on January 4, 1927 in Mattapan, MA. She grew up in Mattapan, as did her future husband, Howard, who just happened to live right across the street. Very romantic.

The word “lively” could have been invented for Charlotte. She could charm anybody with her effervescent and playful personality. Her dry wit was second to none. Her singular sense of humor stayed strong to the very end.

Charlotte had an amazing memory. She outlived everyone of her generation of  the family. The next generation of cousins would always call her to get historic information about the family, as she was the only one left. She regularly referred to herself as “The last of the Mohicans.”

Charlotte had a passion for antiques. She loved how it bridged the past with the present.

Charlotte will be greatly missed by all of those whose lives she touched.

She is survived by her son, Paul Chiten and her daughter Laurel Chiten.

To view the funeral recording please click here.

Greenberg, Julie Michel, of Weston, MA, formerly of Poughkeepsie, NY, passed away on December 5, 2023, after battling a long illness. Beloved wife of Jim Greenberg. Dear daughter of the late Richard and Ada Michel. Proud mother of Douglas Greenberg and his wife Talia Waskin, Hilary Greenberg, William Greenberg, and their dog Nellie. Loving sister of Lisa Michel and Jane Cohen. Funeral service at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Rd., Wellesley, MA on Friday, December 8, 2023 at 10:30 am. Following interment at Or Emet Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, memorial observance will be at the Greenberg residence through Friday night. Memorial observance will continue Saturday and Sunday beginning at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations in Julie’s memory may be made to JF&CS, 1430 Main St., Waltham, MA 02451.

To view the livestream please click here.

Lisa Dawn Teeter-Of Needham, on December 3, 2023.Beloved wife of Joshua Teeter. Devoted mother of Elliot and David Teeter. Dear daughter of Judith Keone and the late Charles. Dear sister of Lori and Deborah. Services at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Avenue, Needham, on Wednesday, December 6,2023 at 10:00 am. Interment will be at a later date in Virginia. Following service family and friends are invited to the Teeter Residence 106 Windsor Rd. Needham until 2:00 pm. Remembrances may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, PO Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284( www.dana-farber.org)

Miichael Kaiser, kind and loving husband of Dora, died on December 1, 2023.  He had a long and difficult struggle with primary progressive aphasia, which robbed him of the many languages he loved.  He was born in England just after World War 2 and enjoyed living in several countries with his loving wife.  He made dear friends wherever he lived.  He enjoyed music, especially late 19^th century composers.  He was an avid and eclectic reader.  His smile was contagious, and he charmed everyone with his laughter. Graveside Service on Monday, December 4, 2023 at I:00 pm in King Solomon Cemetery, 2659 Centre St., West Roxbury, MA. 

To view the livestream, click here.

Sinofsky, Ethel (Chase), of Newton, MA, passed away on November 24, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Louis H. Sinofsky. Devoted mother of late Dr. Kalman Sinofsky (Mildred), Susan Surabian, and Amy Mestancik (David Hardwick). Cherished grandmother of Laura Sinofsky-Bohm (Stu), Michelle Sinofsky-Eshbaugh (Jay), and David Sinofsky (Heather), Alexis Surabian, Elissa Everly (Pavi), Jeremy Mestancik, Jason Mestancik (Lorin). Ethel is predeceased by her late partner Dr. Isidor Tolpin. Inspiration to Barbara Vinick (the late Arnold), Daniel Tolpin (Harriet), and their children Jeffrey Vinick (Jani), Anne Garrity (Dan), Alison McCormick (Myles). And proud great grandmother of 16. Funeral service at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington St., Newton, MA on Monday, November 27, 2023 at 11:30 am Following interment at Sharon Memorial Park, memorial observance will be at Ethel’s late residence until 8 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington St., Newton, MA 02466.

Elliot Silverstein -Of Los Angeles, CA, formerly of Boston, passed on November 24, 2023 in Los Angeles at age 96.He directed films such as Cat Ballou and A Man Called Horse as well as multiple television episodes. The news was announced by his family (via The Hollywood Reporter). He was 96.

Prior to directing his first feature film, Silverstein had a long career in television, helming episodes of series like Suspicion, The Twilight Zone, The Further Adventures of Ellery Queen, Route 66, Have Gun—Will Travel, Naked City, Dr. Kildare, and The Defenders. He also directed plays for Brandeis University in his native state of Massachusetts, including one conducted by Leonard Bernstein.

Silverstein also impacted Hollywood away from the camera. For six months from November 1963 to April 1964, Silverstein chaired a Directors Guild of America committee that drafted what would become the Bill of Creative Rights, a landmark document regarding directors’ creative control. Within the Bill of Creative Rights is a declaration specifically concerning the Director’s Cut, which Silverstein is also credited with. “The arrangement of the recorded images and sounds in a relationship the Director considers proper shall be known as the ‘Director’s Cut,’” the declaration reads. “It is the Director’s creative right and obligation to prepare this cut, and he must be given the time he deems necessary to fulfill this function.” In 1990, Silverstein was named an honorary life member of the guild for his contributions.

Upon learning of Silverstein’s death, DGA president Leslie Linka Glatter issued the following statement:

Every director today owes a debt of gratitude to Elliot Silverstein. No one ever worked harder or was more passionate about protecting artists from having their work and vision altered than Elliot. He knew how deeply intertwined the end product was with a director’s authority to execute their vision, and that these rights were essential for their best work to shine through. Almost sixty years ago, Elliot successfully led the charge to secure the right to a director’s cut –something that had been a DGA goal for years. And through his work and determination he helped codify and negotiate a list of creative necessities with producers through the development of the Bill of Creative Rights – something which governs the rights of DGA members to this day.

Elliott’s commitment to the needs of directors knew no bounds. He once purposely made a spectacle in the middle of the Universal Studios lot, dragging a chair into the street as his ‘office’ to draw attention to the fact that producers refused to provide workspaces for directors. Thanks to him, that changed in the next round of negotiations. Elliot went on to serve in Guild leadership for four decades, and his tremendous impact earned him almost every service Award the Guild could bestow, including the Robert B. Aldrich Award in 1985, Honorary Life Membership in 1990, and the DGA Honors John Huston Award in 2002. His legacy endures in every director’s chair today. He will be deeply missed. Private service was held on Thursday, November 30 at Mishkan Tefila Memorial Park, West Roxbury,MA.

He is survived by his brother, Jason.

Nancy (Risman) Comenitz of Boston lived a beautiful life full of adventure, family, and love. Whether she was working side by side and traveling the world with her late husband Elliot Comenitz or doing countless quiet hours of volunteer work or playing with her grandchildren, she did it all with gusto, style, grace, and beauty, Nancy was elegant in everything she did.

Nancy was a force to be reckoned with. She was a strong woman who knew exactly what she wanted and knew how to get it. If you were a friend of Nancy’s, you were a friend for life. She was loyal and true and she would protect her family and loved ones at all costs.

Nancy was the kind of mother to her seven children who always made sure they knew they were loved. Her pride was evident – she taught by example. She walked the walk every day of her life.

Nancy was mom to Jamie Miller and her husband Richard, Jon Pressman and his wife Linda, Julie Carter and her husband Edward, Nancy Comenitz, Bruce Comenitz and his wife Roslyn, Linda Gelda and her husband Steven, and her late son Jay Comenitz and his wife Debbie.

Nancy was also a nana – the best nana any kid could ask for. She made each of her grandchildren feel like they were her favorite. She was nana to Scott Chaloff and his partner Matthew Broggini, Alex Chaloff and his wife Annika, Courtney Todesco and her husband Charles, Andrew Pressman and his partner Hannah Lyons, Nicole Pressman, Allison Carter, Abby Carter, Brian Comenitz and his wife Dana, Michael Comenitz, Elizabeth Gelda and her husband Bismarck Dangla, Jennifer Gelda and her husband Adam Johnson, Matthew Comenitz and his wife Caitlin, and Corey Comenitz.

Nancy had the good fortune to be a great-grandmother several times over. Maeve Chaloff, Aria Todesco, Ellie Dangla, Koby Dangla, Tali Johnson, Jonah Johnson and Jayson Comenitz were so loved by nana.

Her family is so grateful for the love, compassion and companionship of Mary Prempeh and Kathleen Mulkerrins. Nancy was never alone.

Nancy died comfortably on November 23, 2023, with her kids by her side. She was such an indomitable figure in the lives of all she touched. She will be so missed, more than words can say. We Love you!

Funeral Service at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton, MA on Sunday, November 26, 2023 at 10:00 am. Following interment at Crawford St. Memorial Park, memorial observance will be at the home of Jamie and Richard Miller until 7 pm, and Monday 2-7 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Nancy’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, MA Chapter, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452.

To view the recorded funeral service please click here.

Shapiro, Arthur (Ari) Shapiro of Sarasota, Florida, formerly of Newton, Massachusetts passed away on November 21, 2023 at the age of 88. Loving father of Sharon Kamowitz and her husband Marvin Getman, Michelle Glickman and her husband Norman Glickman, and Joel Shapiro and his wife, Carol Lethaby. Devoted grandfather of Joshua and Becky Kamowitz, Gabriella Glickman, Amanda Glickman, Abby Getman, and Emily and Jon Balbarin. Proud great-grandfather of Caleb, Anton, and Wiley.  Brother of Elaine Bloom and the late Susan Lipper.  Graveside services at the Koretz Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury on Sunday, November 26, at 2:00 pm.  Shiva at the home of Sharon Kamowitz and Marvin Getman on November 26 from 7-9 pm, and on November 27 from 2-4 pm.  Shiva continues at the home of Michelle and Norman Glickman on November 27 from 7-9 pm.  In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Reb Ari Shapiro Adult Education Fund of Temple Sinai in Sarasota; the Pan Mass Challenge (Team Sunshine); and/or to the charity of your choice.

Herbert J. Litchman 94, of Kingston, formally of Randolph, passed away on November 21, 2023. He was the beloved husband of the late Vivian (Chandler) for 62 years. Herbert is survived by his two children, Gary Litchman and wife Kathleen and Sharon Carabba and husband Michael. He was a devoted grandfather to Connor and Sean Litchman and Caitlin and Dean Carabba. Brother of the late Stanley and Joseph Litchman. Graveside service at Custom Tailors Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA., on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at 11:00 AM. Remembrances in memory of Herbert may be made to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, The American Heart Association or a charity of your choice.

Helen (nee Schecter, born January 13, 1930) Adelman, who passed away peacefully in her sleep the morning of November 18, 2023, was one of those rare 93-year-olds of whom it was universally thought: “she died too soon.” For her entire life she was much beloved by family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Her husband of 55 years, Phil Adelman, passed away in 2007. Phil proudly called Helen the “love of his life” and would tell anyone who would listen that he told Helen he loved her every single day of his life.

Helen was one of those relatives who you looked forward to seeing. It was not an obligation but a joy. She was very unassuming and pleasant but had a quick wit and could use colorful language if the situation called for it. Even in her last days at the Waltham Crossings Senior Living Community, the staff remarked that they had never seen a resident with so many visitors.

She worked for 45 years for Burton-Rogers Inc., a “value-added reseller” of diagnostic devices, like electrical meters. Her role there evolved from secretary to vice president of sales. After retiring, she was a volunteer for the Boston Symphony for two decades.

Helen and Phil lived on Longfellow Road in Cambridge for most of their married life. They lived upstairs and Phil’s parents lived downstairs. Helen made dinner for the Adelman’s every single night. When they were younger, they loved to travel to Europe and other international destinations. Their walls were covered with pictures from Greece, Italy, and Israel. They often hosted Thanksgiving, Passover, and Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur meals. Her brother Bernie did the carving and led the service, hurried along by their mother, Rebecca. Everyone was always welcome; chairs could always be added. There was also an annual trivia contest and, for many years, trips to the Celtics games with seats just off the floor. Later, the couple moved to Newton where they famously hosted Chanukah parties with fiercely competitive Yankee Swaps.

Though they had no biological children, many, many young people considered Helen their mom-away-from-mom. It has been said that she received more Mother’s Day cards than anyone else, with or without biological children.

Helen loved to make London Broil and rice pilaf, a favorite of some of her Cambridge “children” who were in school in the area. She also loved Frank Pepe’s pizza, chocolate and butter pecan ice cream. She had one of the most extensive rubber ducky collections in Massachusetts. She also loved cats and had a number over the years.

She is survived by more loving relatives and friends than can fit in this article.

A funeral service will be held in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, MA on Friday, November 24, 2023 at 10:00 am. Burial to follow.

Donations may be made to Helen’s favorite charity, Mazon – A Jewish Response to Hunger. https://mazon.org/

FINNERTY, PAUL DENNIS

Of Newton. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a cherished husband, devoted dog dad, and beloved uncle. Paul passed away unexpectedly on November 20, 2023 after bravely battling complications from cancer.

Beloved son of the late Robert G. and Mary (Carroll) Finnerty and son-in-law of the late Saul A. and Sybil Sherman. Cherished husband of Suzanne Sherman-Finnerty for 40 years and devoted dog Dad of his beloved Annie.

Paul is survived by his loving siblings: Jack (Caryl), Robert (Richard Cullen) and Carolyn Parks.

He was a dear brother-in-law to Judy and Ricky Oriel and his late sister-in-law Janey Sherman.  He was also a loving Uncle to many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Preceded by retirement in 2019, Paul dedicated his career to mechanical engineering, specializing in plumbing and fire protection, with the majority of his professional life spent at Architectural Engineers in Boston.

An avid animal lover, Paul found joy in accompanying his Annie to the park, where he made connections with fellow dog parents. He was a passionate reader, a devoted fan of The Beatles since the 1960s, and an all-around great guy who left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. Paul’s love for sports and his warm personality endeared him to all who knew him.

As an uncle, Paul was a source of inspiration and guidance to his nieces and nephews, creating lasting memories and providing unwavering support. His impact extended to the next generation, with many great nieces and nephews benefiting from his wisdom, humor and love.

He maintained enduring relationships with his college buddies who live around the globe, Paul was deeply devoted to his family, earning him the title of a great friend to many. His absence will be keenly felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Glenn Hanna at Dana Farber Institute in Boston and his dedicated team, including Ronnie, Michelle, and Taylor in the Head and Neck Oncology Division for their compassionate care of Paul.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held on Monday, November 27 at 12:15PM, at The Newton Cemetery Chapel, 791 Walnut Street, Newton. Friends, Family, and those whose lives were touched by Paul are invited to join in remembering and honoring a remarkable man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul’s memory to: MSPCA-Angell, Attn: Donations, 350 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02130 or on line at MSPCA.org or Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Division of Head and Neck Oncology, Friends of Dana Farber, 450 Brookline Ave, SW 120, Boston, MA 02215 or online at www.dana-farber.org.

Marcia Sue Robinson, 79, died suddenly yet peacefully on Friday, November 17, 2023 with her loving family surrounding her.

Marcia was born in Toronto, Canada to Dr. Samuel Norris and Jimmie Norris.  She later moved to the Boston area where she attended Tufts University and received a master’s degree of Education in Psychology.

Marcia was married to Joel Krinsky and had one loving son Todd Keith Krinsky.  Later in life Marcia remarried Peter Robinson and became the dedicated stepmother of Matthew Robinson.  Sadly, Marcia leaves behind her devoted life partner of many years, Elliot Gerberg.

Marcia also leaves behind her six grandchildren, whom she adored.  She will be lovingly remembered as “Grammy Marsh” by Peyton, Sophia, Zach, and Chase Krinsky, and Shira and Ava Robinson.

Marcia leaves behind loving daughter in laws, Darcy Krinsky and Emily Robinson.  Cherished sister Francie and her husband Dr. Stuart Klein and their children Sherri and Justin Klein.  Also, niece Jodi LeBlanc and nephew Andy Dell.

As a child psychologist, Marcia enjoyed a lifelong career helping children in school systems and hospitals.  Most recently, Marcia devoted her time to Association for Autism (AANE), where she supported adults and families.

Marcia was an active community member; her schedule was always filled with tennis, golf, bridge, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.

Funeral services will be held at the Chapel of Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Monday November 20, 2023 at 1:00pm, burial to follow.  The family will receive their guests from 3:00-5:00pm at Nosh and Grog. In the evening Shiva will be observed at Marcia’s residence from 7:00-9:00pm with prayers at 8:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made on Marcia’s behalf, to the AANE (Association of Autism and Neurodiversity Donate to AANE.)

Dr. Stephen A. Sohn of Newton, Mass., born May 19, 1944, died peacefully at 79 on November 15, 2023, at his home in Newton, with family by his side. He is survived by his wife Eileen (Ladieu), his son Bradford, his daughter-in-law Rachel (Schwartz), his three grandchildren Marlo, Ozzie, and Moe, and his sister, Ivy Lessin. He was predeceased by his brother Dr. Roger Sohn MD., of Pacific Palisades, CA. Funeral Service on Monday, November 20, 2023, at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington St., Newton, MA., at 12 o’clock. Shiva to follow the service at Dr. Sohn’s late residence from 1 pm to 5 pm and 7pm to 9pm. Complications from a degenerative neurological disease were the cause. Dr. Sohn was a prominent plastic surgeon in Boston for many years, with many patients flying in to see him from overseas, including numerous celebrities and even several heads of state. In 1992, Dr. Sohn suspended his practice and attempted a run for public office, winning the Republican nomination for Massachusetts’ seventh congressional district before coming up short in the general election in his bid to unseat then-Representative Ed Markey. He attended Browne & Nichols for high school, received an A.B. from Harvard, received an M.D. from Duke, and later in life, received an M.B.A. from Babson. Dr. Sohn loved watching the New England Patriots, taking trips to his long-time home on Nantucket, cooking delicious meals, and spending time with loved ones. His life was full of unique experiences, from traveling to dozens of countries around the world, to operating on Afghan rebels catastrophically injured by explosives in the 1990s, to running the Boston marathon, to going on fishing trips, to being able to hold each of his young grandchildren. Those closest to him have been forever impacted by his kind heart and gentle demeanor. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Temple Judea Coral Gables, FL; Friends of Harvard Football; the Laura Cushman Academy; and the Ransom Everglades Scholarship Fund.

Eugene “Gene” Salb, 89 passed away peacefully at his home of 43 years in Peabody, MA surrounded by his loved ones. Gene was born November, 13th 1934 on Staten Island NY. Son of the late Louis & Sally Salb and pre-deceased brother Neil Salb of Brooklyn NY.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years Elaine (Berg) Salb, and their 3 sons Ron and his wife Angela Salb (fondly known as the daughter he always wanted) of Raymond, NH, Doug of Peabody, MA, and Dana, of Barrington, NH.

Gene was a family man through and through. His children all felt his unwavering love and support throughout their lives. Some of Gene’s fondest memories are from trips he took with his wife Elaine to Italy and Florida trips with the kids. All three boys looked up to Gene as a father and also considered him one of their very best friends.

Gene grew up Canarsie, Brooklyn NY and received his associates degree from New York City Community College. He was also a reservist in the United States Army.

He began his professional career in retail sales & management for the Gertz Allied corporation in Jamaica, NY as manager of ladies sportswear. After almost 10yrs he took a manager’s position with Lerner Shops retail clothing stores PA in 1967. During that time Gene met the love of his life on a vacation retreat to the Lake Tarleton Club Resort in NH. However, it wasn’t until he took a position managing the Lerner Shops clothing store in Revere MA later that year that their paths would cross again. Gene & Elaine married on February 2nd 1969. Later he took on managing role in the Berg family air compressor business, Berg Dimare & Berg on Brookline Ave., Boston. Gene loved the art of negotiation and sales, something his son Doug would mimic in his advertising sales career. After many years in retail and distribution, Gene along with his wife Elaine and eventually along with their youngest son Dana ran a successful Sir Speedy Printing center in One Kendall Square, Cambridge for 20yrs.

Never one to sit still, Gene held interests in finance, current events, history, science and more. He and his wife Elaine attended Explorer’s Life Long Leaning Institute all the way up until 2020. Gene read the Wall Street Journal and gave his favorite daughter articles to read on AI so she could stay in the know. He had a real passion for cars and boats & loved to watch action movies. His love of cars actually rubbed off on his 3 son’s. So much so, that Ron and Dana opened an automotive performance business in 2006 that continues to present day. He always loved to talk about new cars coming out or his love of the antiques. He was reading about all the advancements in electric cars as of late. We would discuss the poor mileage estimates and outrageous prices!

He spent his retirement years attending the YMCA for exercise and social enjoyment. Dad loved to engage in conversation, and people always seemed to light up in his presence. He will be remembered for his warm outgoing personality and his desire to be out and about connecting to the world around him.

A graveside service will take place at the Beth Israel Cemetery, 232 Fuller St., Everett, MA, on Sunday, November 19th, at 11 am. Family and friends are welcome to gather following interment at Capone’s Restaurant, 147 Summit St, Peabody MA

In lieu of Flowers donations can be made in his name to the following Charities/Institutions:

Lahey clinic

https://giving.bilh.org/laheyhospitalmedicalcenter/

Jeffrey and Susan Brudnick Center for Living

https://chelseajewish.org/donate/

Temple Ner Tamid

Jewish Religious Organization, Peabody, MA (templenertamid.org)

To view the service recording please click here.

A beloved educator, dedicated daughter, devoted wife, loving mother and cherished grandmother passed away November 14, 2023. She was surrounded by her adoring husband, Carl, their loving children and four grandchildren. Joan brought her quiet inner strength to a grateful life leaving behind a legacy of wonderful achievements in all she undertook.
Joan was born on August 2, 1945 in Providence, RI. She went to public schools in Providence and graduated from Classical High School. She then went to Wheelock College where she got both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Education. She had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and she knew that her purpose in life was to share that knowledge with others. She taught for 36 years in the Quincy Public School system where she specialized in math and language arts at the elementary level. She made a significant difference in countless lives, instilling in her students a love for learning that would stay with them for a lifetime. Many of her students referred to her as “their best teacher ever. “
Joan met her husband Carl Youngman in 1971 and they were married in 1974. They have two children, Andrew, born in 1978 and Julie, born in 1980. The family loved to travel and Joan enjoyed planning their trips to the National Parks, California, Idaho, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. She loved skiing both out West and at their home on Sugarloaf Mountain in Maine. And even while teaching, raising two children along with her avid love of tennis at The Hazel Hotchkiss Wightman Tennis Center and skiing, she managed to continue her love for gardening. For that she won a special Beautification Award from the City of Newton.

After her retirement, Joan and Carl traveled extensively in Europe and Asia. Joan enjoyed planning her children’s weddings and taking regular “culture” trips to NYC for theatre, museums, concerts and to be with family and friends. In addition, the couple bought a home in Harwich on Cape Cod which became the focal point each summer for spending time with family and friends but mainly to relish time with her heart’s delight, her grandchildren.
Joan leaves her husband, Carl Youngman of Newton and her two children, Andrew Youngman and his wife Heather Youngman of Newton, and their two children Trevor and Nolan, and Julie Goldberg, her husband Andrew Goldberg of Sharon and their two children Sara and Lindsay Goldberg. Also, her sister Linda Feldman of Scarsdale, New York, her brother Kenneth Blackman of New York City, and her brother Richard Blackman of Warwick, Rhode Island and their families mourn her passing.

The funeral will be held Friday morning, November 17 at 10:30 am at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Road in Wellesley, MA. Interment at Beit Olam Cemetery, Wayland, MA.  A shiva will follow at the temple from 1 pm to 4 pm. The family is planning a Celebration of Life for Joan in the Spring of 2024.
In lieu of flowers, acknowledge of Joan can be made by sending a donation to Dr. Matulonis Gynecologic Cancer Fund. C/O The Dana Farber Cancer Institute, YCCC 1420; and mailed to: Dr. Ursula Matulonis, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215.

Arthur Joseph Berke, 88, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend passed away peacefully on November 2, 2023, at his home in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. He was born on December 7, 1934, in Everett, Massachusetts.
He was predeceased by his parents, Sadie (Levine) Berkowitz and Jack Berkowitz; and his sister Charlotte Gustin.
Beloved husband of 39 years to Murielle (Michaud) Berke,
devoted father of Eric (Sheryl) and Peter (Patty), cherished & proud grandfather “gramps” of Aron (Garam), Jeremy (Devika), Hana & Carly. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws.
The family kindly requests contributions be made to Good Shepherd Community Care, a cherished organization that provides compassionate care. Donations can be sent to 160 Wells Avenue, Newton, Massachusetts 02459 OR The Pine Street Inn, 444 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, a place of hope and transformation for men and women experiencing homelessness.
Arthur’s family gathered together on November 6, 2023, to honor his memory in a private service.
Arthur will be deeply missed by his loved ones and all those whose lives he touched. His memory will forever remain in our hearts as a testament to his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love.

Of Canton, formerly of Framingham, on November 13, 2023.Beloved wife of the late Paul Witty. Devoted mother of Michael Witty and Robert Witty and his wife Wendy and the late Richard Witty. Dear grandmother of Evan Witty and his wife Emily, Joshua Witty and his fiancé Erika, Arria, Aaron, Danielle and Jeremy Witty. Loving sister of Dianne Winer Malliaros and her husband Dean, and David Winer and his wife Barbara. Services in The Chapel in the Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 1: 00pm.Following interment a memorial observance will be held at Orchard Cove until 4:30 pm and will continue Wednesday evening at the home of Robert and Wendy Witty 6:30-9:00pm and Thursday 1-4pm, and 7-9pm.In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Dana Farber Dana-Farber Cancer Institute,450 Brookline Ave.Boston, MA 02215-5450

Richard ‘Richie’ Tanz,  passed away peacefully on November 13, 2023 with his family by his side.

Richie was born to Viola and Harry Tanz on July 6, 1951, and wonderfully cared for by his stepmother Sonya Tanz. He worked in the hospitality industry for his entire career and loved the experiences he had and people he met along the way.

Richie was a devoted father and husband who took pride in providing a beautiful life for his family. He enjoyed spending time with them on vacations, Wednesday night Chinese food, holiday celebrations, watching movies, and playing with their dogs.

He was a dedicated Jets fan despite their lack of success and being a New Englander for 45 years. He adopted Red Sox and Celtics when he moved to Massachusetts but wouldn’t give up on “his” Jets.

Richie loved to golf as well. He would be the first person to tell you the more he played the worse he got but he loved the excuse to get outdoors and walk around for 4 hours on a nice day.

He spent several nights a week for many years in various men’s basketball leagues which he loved doing.

He is survived by his wife, Evelyn Tanz, his children Jared Tanz (Amanda) and Esther Taylor (Jay), his grandsons Knox and Jackson, his dog Yogi, and many family and friends. Services are being privately held with family and friends. In lieu of flowers please donate to Good Shepard Community Care, 160 Wells Avenue Newton, MA 02459 or Massachusetts American Parkinson’s Association.

Katz-Bernice “Bunny”, of Stoughton, MA formerly of Sharon, MA passed away November 10, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Paul Katz and the late Albert Kerstein. Devoted mother of Lynne Katz, Randi Katz, and THE LATE Larry Katz. Cherished nana of Elizabeth, Benjamin, Ryan, Nathan, Michael, and Maxwell. Proud great nana of Jacob, Jocelyn, and Greyson, Samuel and Daniel, and Logan. Funeral services at Sharon Memorial Park on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bunny’s memory may be made to The Boston Home, 2049 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02124

To view the livestream, please click here.

Margery Bailit, 89, of Auburndale, and long-time resident of Needham, died on November 9, 2023.

Margery was born in June 1934 in New Britain, Connecticut to George and Nellie (Kotkin) Katz.  She graduated from Smith College in 1956 with a major in art history and then moved to Boston, where she worked as a textbook art editor for Ginn and Company.

Margery married Irving Bailit. They settled in Needham and  lovingly  raised their children, Michael, David and Rachel.

Margery was a life-long artist, painting in oil and watercolor, and working with stained glass.  She greatly enjoyed travel and adventure, and found beauty in everything  that surrounded her. She founded her business Golden Fleece Antiques in 1967 and operated it for several decades. She cherished her children, her grandchildren, her dear cousins and the many friendships she formed over her long life.

Margery is survived by her children Michael (Julie) and Rachel, and her grandchildren David and Eli.

She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Alan and her son David Eric.

The funeral will take place on Monday, November 13th at 10am at Temple Beth Shalom, Needham, followed by interment at Sharon Memorial Park. Family and friends are welcome to visit on Monday, following the interment until 3:00 pm and from 6:00 pm — 8:00 pm, and on Tuesday from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Julie and Michael Bailit’s home.

Donations in her memory can be made to Mazon. www.mazon.org

For the livestream please click the link below and select stream for Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary.

https://www.templeemanuel.com/livestream-links/

Of Boca Raton, FL, formerly of Newton, MA, on November 8, 2023. Beloved wife of 54 years to the late Hebert Josiah Lushan. Loving Partner (wife) of Walter Lipsett. Born on October 3, 1932. Daughter of the late Milton & Pauline Gordon and youngest sibling of the late Elaine Kaplan, Harriette Goldman , Ira (Sonny) Gordon. Beloved Mother of Rhonda Lushan, Robert Lushan (deceased), Nancy Lushan Nesvet (Andy), Rachel Lushan Solomons (Tony). Loving Grammy of Douglas Housman (Anna), Elizabeth Housman (Jonah), Sarah Housman (Joe), Rebecca Solomons, Ilana Solomons (Jonny), Jacob Solomons, Jared Nesvet, Daniel Nesvet. Cherished “GG” of Hannah, Sofia, Sasha, Noah, Avi, Arielle, Ella, Mila, Olivia. Dear Aunt to many nieces and nephews. Funeral will take place on Sunday, November 12 at 10:00AM at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton followed by interment at Congregation Mishkan Tefila Memorial Park, Centre Street, West Roxbury. Shiva will be held at the home of Rachel & Tony Solomons, 52 Walnut Rd., Weston, following interment until 4PM and from 6-8PM Sunday evening. “In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Rachel & Tony Solomons Family Fund for MS and Alzheimer’s Research at Brigham & Women’s Hospital, bwhgiving.org/bunnylushan, or Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at Dana Farber Cancer Center, danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto//BarbaraLushan.

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

Peter T. Reeves of Needham, Mass., passed away on November 8 due to complications from Parkinson’s Disease. He was 74. Born in Chicago to Robert E. and Pamela (Wilson) Reeves, Peter grew up in Cleveland. He attended Oberlin College, where he met the love of his life, Judy. After graduating in 1971, they moved to Rochester, NY, where Peter took a job as a computer programmer with Genesee Computing, while Judy pursued graduate studies. They married in 1973 and in 1975 moved to Needham, where they raised three sons and lived until the present. Peter worked in the software industry throughout his career, designing solutions and managing development teams. He loved music, playing clarinet and saxophone, singing in his congregation’s choir and Needham Interfaith Choir, and passing along his love of music to his children. He also enjoyed being outdoors, particularly canoeing and hiking in Acadia National Park, but most of all he loved being with his family. Peter is survived by his wife Judy Belgrade; sons Ari (Shira Reeves) of Silver Spring, MD, Evan (Christina Moraes) of Oakland, CA, and Daniel (Rebecca Byard) of Watertown, MA; six grandchildren; sisters Betsy (Diana Kuderna) and Margaret (Ray Santiago), both of CA; and three nieces. The funeral will take place graveside at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Friday, November 10, 2023, at 9:45 am. In lieu of flowers, we invite donations in Peter’s memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

To view the recording please click here.

Dr. Arthur Gelb, a prominent entrepreneur, scientist and philanthropist, who was devoted to his family, passed away on November 8, 2023 at his home in Belmont, MA.  A distinguished entrepreneur, who founded The Analytical Sciences Corporation or TASC, he leaves behind an amazing legacy of accomplishments that have advanced technology, higher education, medical research and culture.

Dr. Gelb was a man of many gifts. Among these tremendous qualities were his powerful intellect and curiosity, from mathematics and finance to music and politics. His quick mind and rational thinking made him highly sought out for advice on innumerable topics by countless family, friends, colleagues and leaders from many walks of life. His sense of humor, honesty and humanity endeared him to all.

Arthur Gelb was born on September 20, 1937 in Brooklyn, NY to his father, Charles Gelb, the child of immigrants from Galicia (now Poland), and his mother, Rose, an immigrant from Russia escaping the pogroms against Jews.  His father drove a delivery truck and later a taxicab. Both succumbed to cancer and Arthur was orphaned at the age of 16.  He attended City College of New York (CCNY), which he referred to as ‘the poor man’s Harvard’, and to which he later became a prominent donor. While at CCNY, Arthur met Linda Lewis, and they married soon after his graduation in 1958. That was the start of an incredible partnership and love story that spanned 65 years highlighted by three children and 10 grandchildren.

Following CCNY, Arthur received his S.M. in Applied Physics from Harvard University (NSF Fellow) in 1959 and went on to receive his ScD in Systems Engineering from MIT in 1961. A student in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics’ famed Instrumentation Program under Dr. Charles Draper, Arthur started what would become a lifelong relationship of learning with and giving back to MIT. He was a Life Member Emeritus of the MIT Corporation, a member of several MIT Visiting Committees; a member of the Lincoln Laboratory Advisory Board and a Member Emeritus of the C.S. Draper Laboratory Corporation.

In 1966, Dr. Gelb co-founded TASC and became its CEO and Chairman. Having worked on navigation systems at MIT and the Dynamic Research Corporation, Dr. Gelb quickly led TASC to become known for solving many of the most difficult problems in its industry. TASC’s activities included advanced navigation, guidance and communication systems for national defense; intelligence data collection, system design and operation; civilian weather data collection and distribution; and power utility software. Under his direction, TASC experienced 27 consecutive years of growth and employed over 2300 full-time employees in 25 locations worldwide.  In 1991, he received the Entrepreneur of the Year Award-Service Businesses, given by Inc. Magazine.

Following TASC’s acquisition by Primark Corporation, Dr. Gelb became president of Four Sigma Corporation which focused on development and use of quantitative trading methods for financial markets. While a seeming departure from advanced systems, Dr. Gelb had a long history of interest in financial markets, having even written a book in the 1960’s titled Making Money in Commodity Futures under a pen name.

A scientist by nature, Dr. Gelb published over 25 papers in technical journals, co-authored Multiple-Input Describing Functions and Nonlinear Systems Design (McGraw-Hill Book Company, 1968) and was editor and co-author of Applied Optimal Estimation (MIT Press, 1974; 22^nd printing in 2012). He also held a patent in the area of medical instrumentation.

Dr. Gelb was a philanthropist, giving both time and financial support to the organizations he believed in or where he felt that his contributions would do the most good.  As he wrote in his autobiography, Making My Way, “each of us must recognize our duty to work for the betterment of society by sharing our one truly priceless asset: our time.”  From the 1970s through 2000s, he served on multiple public sector boards including the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Port Authority and the Massachusetts Board of Regents of Higher Education. He had a lifelong love of music often saying “music moves me emotionally the way few things can” and was an Overseer Emeritus of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Throughout his multi-layered life of achievement, he was recognized by a wide range of organizations including as a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers, the American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics, and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, where he also chaired the Investment Committee.

His passion was truly solving difficult problems and he turned his great philanthropic focus towards curing cancer, a disease that was intensely personal for him. A member of the Executive Committee of the Board and later a Distinguished Trustee of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Dr. Gelb saw a rare opportunity to bring the talents of MIT’s Koch institute and the Harvard/Dana Farber Cancer Institute together in 2010 under The Bridge Project, which has become a highly successful collaboration attracting extensive funding.

Beyond his incredible accomplishments, Arthur Gelb will always be remembered as a caring husband, father, and grandfather. He was predeceased by his beloved son, Ronald Gelb. He and his devoted wife, Linda Gelb, raised their family in Lexington, MA: Ronald (Nanci Gelb), Caren (Gary Zakon), and Laurie (Richard Gliklich). He was a cherished grandfather to 10 grandchildren: Arielle, Andy, Sydney and Theodore Gelb; Meredith (Louis Arens), Allie and Daniel Zakon; and, Emily, Jennifer and Benjamin Gliklich.

A service will be held at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington St, Auburndale, MA on November 12, 2023 at 1P.M. Interment to follow at Beit Olam Cemetery in Wayland. Shiva will be held at his late residence, 135 Marsh St., Belmont, following the interment until 8:00 pm on Sunday, Monday 3:00-5:00 pm and 7:00 -9:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The Bridge Project, DFCI Philanthropy, 10 Brookline Place West, Brookline, MA 02445 or Good Shepherd Community Care, 160 Wells Avenue, Newton, MA 02459.                   .

Cleveland, Carol (Kossin), 92, of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, passed away November 7, 2023. Beloved mother of Elyse Eisenberg, Ellen Eisenberg (Neal), and Andrea Carla Michaels. Proud grandmother of Gabby and Tom Feigenson.  Loving twin sister of Fran Fuhrer. Adored aunt and cousin to many. Best friend of loyal longtime aide Ketline Oscar.  Predeceased by siblings Gertrude Krentz, Jack Kossin, Willie Kossin; parents Maurice and Sarah; husbands M. Michael Eisenberg and Richard Cleveland MD; and longtime companion of the late Mort Kaufman.  Service at Beit Olam Cemetery, 60 Old Sudbury Rd., Wayland, MA on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Planned Parenthood or a charity close to your heart.

Bruce H Young, age 72, of Foxborough passed peacefully November 4, 2023 with his family at his side. He was the son of Leonard and Eleanor (Bloomfield) and for 43 years, the husband of Patricia (Laurie) Young.

Bruce began his career as a tool and die maker/precision machinist at American Stamping Co., later working at Northrop Corp and retiring from HealthStar.

Bruce loved 60’s rock; the Beatles were his favorite band, and he enjoyed watching sports, especially his sons’ and grandsons’ games. He volunteered for Foxboro Midget Football, serving on the Board, maintaining the field and doing whatever was needed for a number of years. In his retirement he took piano lessons and joined a gym where he worked out regularly, gained a gym family and came to be in the best shape of his life. Bruce was always there to help family and friends but would never ask for help from others. He loved spending time with family doing anything or nothing, but there was nothing better than being Buppa to his grandsons.

Along with his wife Patty, Bruce is survived by two sons, Matthew and his wife Janine of Braintree and Brian and his partner Katie of Blackstone, three grandsons, Grayson, Camden and August, and his brother Noah.

Friends and family are invited to attend graveside services on Friday, November 10, 2023 at 11 AM at Rockhill Cemetery, 81 South St., Foxborough, MA. A reception will be held following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, donations in Bruce’s memory to Foxborough Discretionary Fund, P.O. Box 636, Foxborough, MA, 02035 or Friends of Dana-Farber, 450 Brookline Ave., SW120, Boston, MA 02215 would be welcomed.

Stephen P. Snyder -Of Dedham, formerly of Newton, Wellesley and Falmouth, on November 4, 2023.Beloved husband of Rosalie (Krasnoff) Snyder. Devoted father of Andrew Snyder and his wife Dana, and Jeffrey Snyder and his wife Lorraine. Dear grandfather of Gabriel, Benjamin, Jonathan and Jake. Stephen grew up in Brookline and attended Brookline High School and graduated from Manter-Hall School in Cambridge and Bard College. He was a leader in the Book Publishing industry. Stephen was President of Alpine Press, a book printing and binding company which was founded by his grandfather which he sold to the Courrier Corporation; he later became the Executive Director of the Book Manufacturers Institute. His charitable endeavors included Chairman of Jewish Community Housing for Elderly. Steve loved spending time with his family, especially when boating on the cape. He also enjoyed hiking and biking and had a great sense of humor. He and Rosalie loved cruising around the world. Services at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave, Boston, on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at 10:30 am. Parking on the Riverway. Following interment at Temple Israel Cemetery, Wakefield a memorial observance will be held at The Chapel at Newbridge on the Charles, 5000 Great Meadow Rd., Dedham 3:00-5:00pm and Thursday 6:30-8: 00pm.Remembrances in his memory may be made to BIDMC- The Bernice K. Snyder Fund ,300 Brookline Ave., Boston, MA 02215

Marcia Winik-Of Newton, On November 3,2023.Private services were held at Beit Olam East Cemetery, Wayland.

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

We are saddened to announce that Ninette Benayer Riesman, (Ninette bat Hanania v’Esther) passed away on November 2, 2023.

Ninette was born in Morocco in 1935, the youngest of eight siblings, and lived in Israel, where she met her late husband Martin (“Micky”). Ninette and Micky were married for forty-three years and lived in Newton, MA. She was the beloved mother of Elan Riesman and Nicole Riesman, mother-in-law of Cantor Sarra Spierer, and adoring grandmother of Julia Riesman and Matthew, Jacob, and Ally Rock, Ninette held many teaching and secretarial jobs over the years. She loved classical music, reading, cooking traditional holiday meals for friends and family as well as swimming and vacationing by the ocean. When her children left for college, she went on to Brandeis to earn a degree in French Literature. Every decade of her life she took on something new.  In her sixties, she began to study cello and in her seventies, she developed a passion for hiking that culminated in a trip to the French Alps. She was also devoted to the entire Riesman Family including her surviving brother-in-law Gene Riesman and her many nieces and nephews. Beloved by her children and grandchildren, she gave boundless love to them all.   As the matriarch of her family of origin, she will be missed terribly by her nieces and nephews in Israel, Morocco, Belgium, and Canada.

Graveside services will be held on Sunday, November 5, 2023, at 11:45 am at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, in Sharon, MA.

Shiva will be held at Congregation Beth Elohim on Sunday, November 5, 2023, from 6:30 pm-9 p.m., with a service at 7 p.m.
Donations can be made to the JNF’s Israel Resilience Campaign in Ninette’s memory.

Judith Rosalie Epstein Banks grew up in Dorchester on York Street and attended the Sarah Greenwood School as well as Girls Latin School and the Jeremiah Burke High School. She went on to Simmons College and what would become the Eliot Pearson Department of Child Study at Tufts University. She and her husband of 78 years, Dr. Henry H. Banks, who pre-deceased her, raised their three children in Brookline, Massachusetts. The daughter of Sarah and Harry Epstein, Mrs. Banks devoted her life to community service and her family. She served on committees at her children’s schools and was an early supporter of Jewish Family and Children’s Service. She was an avid volunteer at Temple Israel, the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital and Tufts Medical Center.

She was extremely proud of her children, her grandchildren, and her great grandchildren. She lived long enough to have relationships with each one of them. She loved letting people know that there were thirty people in her family: Dr. Curt and Nancy Civin of Baltimore and their children Joshua Civin and Katherine Newberger, and Marcus Civin, Betsy and David Epstein of Boston and their children Jessica and Shane Baron, Aron Epstein and Jacqueline Bell, and Jason and Cecily Epstein, Steven Banks and Judge Jean Schneider of Brooklyn and their children Harry and Katie Banks, and Susanna and Lloyd Lesperance Banks. Her ten great grandchildren are Marhall and Olivia, Simon, Asher, Miriam, Hal, Levi, Eli, Lydia and Noah.

Graveside service will be held at 1 PM, Friday, November 3, 2023 at Lindwood Memorial Park, 490 North St., Randolph, MA. Contributions may be made to the Judith R. and Henry H. Banks Scholarship Fund at Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111.

medicine-giving@tufts.edu

Deborah Anne Carter, 69, of Randolph, MA, Saturday, October 28, 2023. Beloved wife of Ken for 47 years. Devoted mother Vivienne M. Carter and Amanda E. (Joseph) Marotta. Loving sister of Jeffrey (Susan) Karon. Also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and friends.

Born in Boston, MA, June 25, 1954 to Robert H. Karon and Cynthia S. (Ossman) Karon.  She worked as medical technologist for many years as well as a teacher.

Funeral services will be held in the chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 10 AM. A reception will be held at the Canton Town Club following the burial.

Donations in her memory may be made to the American Heart Association, 300 5^th Ave., Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451. www.heart.org.

To view the recording please click here.

Samuel Jay Gateman, 89, of Las Vegas NV died on October 26, 2023. Sam was born in Boston MA to Frances (Hoffenberg) and Louis Gateman. He attended English High School. Sam was self-employed in the Auto Insurance Industry in many states over the course of many years. Sam semi-retired to Las Vegas in his 70’s and continued to work until his last day. He was a prolific artist and enjoyed his family, especially his grandchildren. Sam was quick-witted and fun loving. He is survived by his daughter Wendy Kraft (Laura Sussman) of Las Vegas; son Darin Gateman (Elizabeth Riede) of San Antonio TX; grandchildren Elyse Kraft, Leah Sussman, Emma Kraft (Rachel Seidman), Lilianna Gateman, Edward Gateman and Samantha Gateman; siblings Shirley Keselman of Reading MA and Jack Gateman of Swampscott MA; his nieces and nephews, Laura Keselman of Burlington, MA, Lori Gajewski (Michael) of Swampscott, MA, Ira Keselman (Shari) of Colts Neck, NJ and William Gateman (Jodi) of Swampscott, MA. He is preceded in death by his parents Frances and Louis Gateman; grandson, Eli Kraft, brother-in-law Carl Keselman and sister-in-law Enid Gateman. A funeral service will be held at 1 PM on November 2 at Millis Prospect Hill Cemetery, in Millis MA. Following Service Shiva will be held at the home of Jack Gateman,100 Phillips Beach Road , Swampscott Thursday only. Contributions may be made in Sam’s memory to Jewish Family Service Agency of Las Vegas, www.jfsalv.org; 5851 W. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89146

Janet Ellen Shapiro, 74, of West Roxbury MA passed away peacefully on October 24.  Born in Fall River to Florence and Harold Shapiro she graduated from Durfee High School and then nursing school. She became head operating room nurse at Faulkner Hospital in Jamaica Plain where she worked until she succumbed to a lifetime affliction of chronic fatigue syndrome.  It is a debilitating disease of which little is known and she lived with the lack of understanding from the majority of people she encountered.

She was a kind and very caring, thoughtful person with a sweet personality who had the most incredible dry sense of humor.  Janet was well loved by those who knew her.  In her early years, when healthy, she took up the sport of fencing.  She loved cats of which she had many over the years, animals, and outdoor birds.

Janet leaves one sister Claire Shapiro Soja of Littleton, MA and 6 cousins scattered throughout the US.

Graveside service will be held at Beit Olam East Cemetery, 44 Concord Street, Wayland, MA. Thursday October 26 at 11:00 AM.

Donations can be made in Janet’s memory to the Massachusetts ME / CFS & FM ASSOCIATION, PO Box 690305 Quincy, MA 02269-0305

Daniel Louis Grosser died at age  101 on October 24. 2023 after a wonderful 67  year marriage with his most beloved and devoted wife Selma (Cloper) Grosser.  Daniel was the father of 3 sons, Joel, (Jenny Grimes), David (Vivian Glassman) and Michael (Kate Birenbaum).   He was a very proud “Grandpa Dan” to his 8 grandchildren—Ondine, Arielle, Stefan, Laura, Anna, Sam, Emma and Eli Grosser.

Daniel was the cherished son of Jack and Katie Grosser and grew up in the West End of Boston until the family moved to Brookline.   He attended the Boston Public Schools and Boston Latin High School.  He was the loving brother of Bernard Grosser, MD of Utah and dear brother-in-law of Karen McArthur.

Upon graduating from Northeastern University as a Mechanical Engineer he enlisted in the Army Air  Corps in 1944 the predecessor to today’s U. S. Air Force where he helped in designing WWII Aircraft like the B17 Flying Fortress.   As a youth Dan loved the outdoors.  He enjoyed canoeing, hiking and camping.

Upon discharge he returned to school and  did his graduate work at the University of Michigan.  For over 30 years he worked for the Department of Defense.

Most importantly, Daniel was a family man always trying to instill values and love of knowledge  in his children. Dan was a voracious reader.   He loved reading westerns, especially books by Louis L’Amour.   Dan was a gentleman and a scholar who never had a harsh word about anyone.

Services were privately held with family from Virginia, Houston, Utah and California in attendance at the Grosser Family plot at Temple Mishkan Tefila  cemetery .   Daniel will be missed by his family and the few remaining friends as a kind and pleasant man with a sharp and low-keyed wit.  With sorrow we say Shalom to Daniel Grosser.

Contributions to a charity of choice will be welcomed.

To view the service recording please click here.

Elliot David Lobel, 75, of Weston, Massachusetts passed away on October 15 after being struck by a car in the Dordogne region of France doing what he loved—biking with his beloved wife, Lenore Zug Lobel, and friends while travelling the world.

Elliot was born in Boston in 1948 to Esther Freaman Lobel and Louis Lobel.  He grew up in Brighton and Newton with his sisters Merna Victor and Harriet Segal.  He attended Newton South High School before earning his B.A. from Tufts University in 1970, his J.D. from New York University School of Law in 1973, and his LL.M. in Taxation from Boston University Law School in 1977.

Elliot was one of the founding partners of the law firm, Prince Lobel Tye, and his pride in and loyalty to the firm never waned.  Prior to that, Elliot served as an Assistant United States Attorney and Middlesex County Assistant District Attorney. Elliot’s reputation as a zealous advocate and trustworthy counsellor was unparalleled, one of the main reasons he was asked to serve as special counsel to the Committee on Professional Responsibility for the Clerks of Court by the Supreme Judicial Court.

Elliot thrived on educating and mentoring youth.  He instructed a number of trial advocacy courses, including at the National Institute for Trial Advocacy, the United States Department of Justice, Harvard Law School, Suffolk University Law School, among others. Elliot was a proud alumnus of Tufts University and a past recipient of the Tufts University Citizen Lawyer of the Year Award for his efforts in creating a pro bono program offering support to low-income individuals in need of legal guidance.  For many years, he served on the Board of Advisors of the Tisch College of Civic Life at Tufts.

For all his accomplishments, Elliot cared most about his family and friends. He was married for 41 years to Lenore, sharing a thirst to love, laugh, learn and adventure together. Elliot loved his three children, Katie, Louis and Annie, and his two grandchildren, Sierra and Cardiff. Elliot remained a loyal friend and trusted confidante to so many in life who would seek him out for advice and help, which he generously provided. He had an infectious laugh and special ability to make people feel seen and heard. He left this world far too soon, but lived life to its absolute fullest to the very end.

A celebration of Elliot’s life will be held at 3:30 pm on Sunday October 29 at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Road, Wellesley, MA. The family will gather with friends and family at the temple following the service.  The family will also gather at the family home in Weston on Monday and Tuesday October 30-31 from 1-3 pm, and on Wednesday and Thursday November 1-2 from 5-7 pm, where friends and family are invited to share stories and memories of Elliot’s life. Friends and family are also invited to share photos, stories and memories to the email elliotstories48@gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers and in celebration of Elliot’s lifelong love of mentoring and engaging with young people, donations can be made in Elliot’s name to a non-profit supporting youth in your community.

Please register for the livestream here.

Michael Ralph Levy, 93, of Newton, passed away on Friday, October 20, surrounded by family.  A long-time resident of Wayland, Michael was born in Boston on January 2, 1930.  He was the only child of William and Eunice Isenberg Levy.  Michael’s long and rich life was filled with service:  to his country in war, to his community, to his faith, and to his family.  He was married for 67 wonderful years to Joyce (nee Sasson) and their partnership was a beautiful model of devotion, growth, learning, acceptance and love.

Michael grew up in Brookline, Massachusetts and graduated from Worcester Academy.  He received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from The College of William and Mary in 1951 and immediately joined the United States Navy, enrolling in Officers Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island.  Michael bravely served as Lieutenant J.G. on the destroyer USS McGowan (DD678) during combat in the Korean War, receiving four separate medals during his three years of service.  Michael was very proud of his service and credited his time in the Navy for one of his most enduring life skills: grace under pressure.

Michael served his community for several years as Chairman of the Wayland School Committee, a position he devoted countless hours to, having run his campaign as the “Prepared Candidate.”  Michael served his faith as a founder and president of Temple Beth Am in Framingham, and later as a trustee of Congregation Shirat HaYam in Nantucket.

Michael had a long and fruitful career in business, first as an engineer in the emerging electronics field of the 1950’s, where he designed components for the Apollo missions, and later as a ‘serial entrepreneur’ in the microprocessor and software industries.  Then later in his career, Michael was the founder and CEO of ProfitLogic of Cambridge, a venture-backed artificial intelligence company, eventually sold to Oracle in 2005.

Michael and Joyce enjoyed a productive retirement including attending the Harvard Institute for Learning (HILR), where Michael taught courses.  Michael traveled the world with Joyce and often with their grandchildren, from Alaska to Australia to Africa to India to China.  Michael’s final years were spent “learning, loving and laughing” with new friends at Lasell Village in Newton.

Michael was persistently curious and a life-long tinkerer.  He was a licensed pilot and an award-winning amateur photographer.  Then there was that wooden boat he just had to build by hand.  He never stopped.  As he entered his 10th decade, Michael taught himself how to craft high-quality fountain pens from scratch.  And the list of broken objects Michael fixed along the way is legendary.

For all his accomplishments, Michael will be mostly remembered by his friends and family for his limitless font of wisdom, knowledge, deep conversation, genuine warmth and authenticity.   He also shared his “loving” impatience when his family failed to do ‘it’ correctly or fiddled without purpose.

Michael shared a deep and special relationship with each of his six grandchildren: Alexandra, Isaac, Samuel, Gabriel, Shay and Maxwell, to whom he guided and doted on with devoted relish.  Family life was centered in Joyce and Michael’s beloved Nantucket, where they met by chance on Jetties Beach in 1955.  Many summer evenings were spent devouring Papa’s chicken along with his special Gin and Tonics and many days were spent enjoying the bucolic view from the deck that brought Michael solace and joy.  Michael and Joyce built many traditions with friends and family, which enriched their retirement years.

In addition to Joyce, Michael is also survived by his two sons, Adam and Joshua and daughters-in-law Marla and Rachel, and many loving nieces and nephews, extended family, and adoring friends all of whom were enriched by every conversation they had with Michael.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at 11:30AM on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Road, Wellesley, MA.  Burial to follow in Sharon Memorial Park.  Shiva will then be held at the home of Joshua Levy and Rachel Rock in Newton through 7:30 pm that day.  All friends and family are invited to come together to share stories and memories of Michael’s long and incredible life. Memorial donations may be made in Michael Levy’s name to the Adult Leukemia Program at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute where Michael received outstanding and compassionate care.