Archive: June, 2023

Edward Myles Ginsburg, 90, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on June

24, 2023.  Eddie was larger than life. He was a Pied Piper attracting a following wherever he went. He brightened up every room he entered with his big smile, stylish vibrant bow ties, and contagious exuberance. He touched everyone he met with his warmth, kindness, and encouragement.

Eddie grew up in Newton, Massachusetts with his mother Esther Ginsburg, father William Ginsburg, and younger sister Lee Herbst.  He attended Shady Hill School, which he always credited with giving him a love of learning, Phillips Exeter Academy, Harvard College, and Harvard Law School.

He practiced law with his father as a trial lawyer in Boston for many years.  He proudly served as a Probate and Family Court judge for 25 years, working tirelessly to help lawyers and litigants through difficult times. He was a professor at Boston College Law School and Suffolk University Law School, and taught classes through Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education and Flaschner Judicial Institute. He volunteered on many boards. One of his favorites was Lawyers Weekly where he discussed current issues and controversies in the legal world with lawyers from across the state.

After retiring from the bench, Eddie formed Senior Partners for Justice which helped people in Probate and Family Court who were unable to afford a lawyer. He recruited volunteers everywhere he went and called each one personally to thank them for taking a case. He worked with his son-in-law, Jonathan Mannina, at Community Legal Aid, where he supervised family law lawyers in meetings, on Zoom, and, his favorite, at lunch!

In his lucky life, his luckiest find was his cherished wife, Julie. The story he told was that he saw Julie across a crowded room and knew instantly she was “The One.” They got engaged within three weeks and their love story continued as they held hands in the movies or at the theatre for almost 60 years. Together they raised their two daughters, Jennifer Ginsburg and Lauren Madden. He talked about them constantly and was their number one fan in all aspects of their lives. He welcomed to his family his sons-in-law, Jonathan Mannina and Matthew Madden, and enjoyed talking with them about sports, politics, and life. He adored his grandsons, Carlo and Max Mannina, going to all their games and performances. He always showed up. He was available for his entire extended family and was particularly close with his niece Elizabeth Herbst Brady.

Eddie was a long-suffering Red Sox fan. In 2005, he was recognized as Bostonian of the Year for his work at the Big Dig. He was proud of this accomplishment, mostly because he beat out David “Big Papi” Ortiz, who came in second. He loved all his dogs, particularly his beloved Pumpkin, who was always by his side wherever he went. He always wanted to hear the recent gossip, big or small. His Happy Place was his family home in Jaffrey, New Hampshire, where he spent each summer since his childhood enjoying the lake with his family, including his cousin Earl Silbert whom he considered to be his brother. Eddie loved a celebration and a good meal. He prided himself on being a great guest. Truth be told, he was always the life of the party! As he said, ”I have lived a full life. I have a wonderful family.” He made us all laugh and we will treasure memories of him forever and ever.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in his name may be made to Community Legal Aid (https://communitylegal.org/get-involved/donate).

Robert G. Gouterman, 1/10/1938-6/22/2023 of Edwards, Colorado, 85 yrs., passed surrounded by his loving family. Husband of Sheila L. (Levine) Gouterman. Father of Steven(Sherri Task) of Falls Church, VA, Richard (Cindy Exler) of Olney, MD and Jann (Chuck Strube) of Union City, NJ. Grandfather of Charles, Geoffrey, Chelsea, Michael, Hope, Taylor and Daniel. Funeral services were private. Remembrances may be made to Chabad of Vail, P.O. Box 6546, Vail, CO 81658.

Max A. Clary, 30, of Florida, formerly of Newton, Massachusetts, died unexpectedly, June 20, 2023. Max was born on April 29, 1993, to James M Clary III and Amy B. Altman. He is survived by his parents, his sister, Hannah R. Clary, his stepmother, Janet M. Clary, and his aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Barbara T. Widett and Edward M. Altman. He also leaves behind many friends in the Orlando area, and in and around his home state of Massachusetts. Funeral services were private. His family will hold a public memorial service to honor Max’s life at a later date.

A resident of the Harbour’s Edge community at Delray Beach, FL, originally of Brookline, MA passed away peacefully on June 18, 2023, at the age of 95.  Survivors include her husband of 74 years, Herbert Friedman; sons, Elliot Friedman and Larry Friedman; four grandchildren; Alison, Molly, Julie & Haley; two great-grandchildren Hattie (Harriet) & Finn. Harriet was a graduate of Brookline High School where she and Herb raised their family until 1979 when they moved to the North Shore, and later to Florida. Herb and Harriet along with Harriet’s brother Larry founded Economy Hardware on July 25, 1949. Harriet was fortunate to enjoy the continuation of the business and her family flourish. A graveside service will be held at Mishkan Tefila Memorial Park, 2605 Centre Street, West Roxbury, MA, on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 11:00 am. Contributions may be made in her loving memory to Hospice of Palm Beach County, 5300 East Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407. 

Fay Remis, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend, died at age 88 on June 18, 2023.  She was devoted to her family, generous in spirit, and helpful to anyone in need.  She was always considerate, caring, and kind.  Fay was born in Brooklyn, graduated from Brooklyn College and received a masters degree in community psychology from Marist College.

Fay worked with developmentally disabled individuals to determine appropriate community resources to meet their needs, and she also had worked to find employment opportunities for individuals who were newly released from prison. Fay was a problem-solver in both her professional life and in her personal relationships with family and friends.  

After Fay’s retirement, she moved with her husband to Brookline, Massachusetts.  Fay loved being active and enjoyed going to community theater, concerts, talks and attending art exhibits and museums.  She also loved listening to Broadway musicals. She would enter a room with a swirl of positive energy surrounding her.  She was predeceased by her devoted husband Basil Remis, her life partner of almost 60 years.  She is survived by her three loving children, Susan, Jay, and David, and their spouses Lee, Jane, and Priscilla, and by her ten grandchildren (Rebecca, Ari, Max, Andrew, Matthew, Sam, Emma, Eli, Celia, and Emmett). She is also survived by her great-grandchild Ryder. Fay was a glass-half-full person and always saw the sunny side of any situation.  She always had a complement to give or a kind word to share, and she always had a smile on her face.  She will be sorely missed.

Myra Weinstein (Markowitz) of Newton Centre on June 17, 2023 passed in her sleep at the age of 100.  Beloved wife of the late Albert Weinstein. Devoted and loving mother of Stephen Weinstein. Dear sister of the late Sylvia Nierman.  Adored aunt, great aunt, and great great aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Graveside service to be held at Sharon Memorial Park, ( Opposite 41 Dedham St. ) Sharon, MA  on Tuesday June 20, 2023 at 11;45 AM . Remembrances in Myra’s name may be made to Temple Reyim,1850 Washington St. West Newton, MA 02466.

Stephen Weinstein would like to thank Addie and Fila for the loving care they gave Myra in her final days.

Dr. Arthur L Herbst passed away peacefully at home on June 16, 2023.

Arthur was born to Jerome and Blanche (Vatz) Herbst in New York City in 1931. When he was two years old his family moved to Pittsburgh where he spent his youth. He was a strong student from the start and enjoyed playing sports. Later in life, he would tell the tale of how he got sent to the principal’s office for talking too much to his friends during class. This story always amused his children for their father was never one to be particularly chatty. In any case, he excelled in school which led him to Harvard for college, medical school and residency. At college he rowed light-weight crew and studied physics. While fulfilling his active-duty service requirement in the Navy as a line officer, he reconsidered his life path and shifted from law to medicine.  In medical school he won the Borden Research Award for work in endocrinology.

He started out in practice as an attending physician at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Always listening carefully to his patients, he noticed that a few young women who had a rare cervical cancer had mothers who had taken the drug diethylstilbesterol (DES) during pregnancy to help prevent miscarriage. This led to his research that yielded a seminal study in medicine for alerting doctors and patients to the potential health risks of prenatal exposure to drugs. He received the Francis Stone Burns Award from the American Cancer Society for this research.

In 1976, at age 45, Arthur became Chairman of the Department of OB/Gyn at the University of Chicago. Over the next 24 years he served on multiple medical boards, published over 180 articles and gave lectures around the world. Arthur was known to be intelligent, disciplined, hard-working, full of integrity and unfailingly reliable in all aspects of his life.  He could be counted upon to provide calm and helpful counsel. He took every call and always did his best to support anyone who needed medical care whether it was a patient, a family member or a friend-of-a-friend.

Arthur met and married Lee Ginsburg during his third year of medical school in 1958 and they had two children, Elizabeth and Arthur. His family was always important to him, but the daily demands of his work limited his availability for his children. As a result, he truly cherished the time spent with his grandchildren in retirement.

He loved to learn, achieve and compete. He was active playing tennis until he was 88, took Spanish lessons in his 70’s and swimming lessons in his 80’s. In retirement, he and Lee split their time between Chicago and Tucson, Arizona. He worked to support the University of Arizona by serving as Chair of the Visiting Committee of the Department of Science, leveraging his experience as a clinician, scientist and administrator. Having always felt grateful for the scholarships that enabled him to attend college and medical school, Arthur and Lee established scholarship funds at Harvard, the University of Chicago and the University of Arizona.

Arthur is survived by Lee Ginsburg Herbst, his wife of 64 years; his daughter, Elizabeth Herbst-Brady (Chris); his son, Arthur L. Herbst, Jr. (Nicole); and four grandchildren: Marina, Paula, Maggie and Patrick.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you give someone you love a hug.

A private family service will be held.

Barbara Lowenstein-Of Newton, MA passed away peacefully at home June 13, 2023, at 90 years of age.

Barbara was devoted to her family, friends, and community. Born on December 14, 1932, in Milford, MA.

She attended Milford High School and Mt. Ida College. Following graduation, Barbara embarked
on a career in retail at Filene’s. She is survived by her devoted husband, Harold, to whom she
was married for 67 years, by her devoted son, Jeffrey, and his wife, Robin and her devoted
daughter, Debra. Barbara was a larger-than-life grandmother to Adam and Marcie, Jason and his
wife, Jodi, Andrew and his wife, Jamie and proud great-grandmother to Zoe and Zac. She is also
survived by her wonderful sisters, Elaine and Claire and her husband, Sidney.

Funeral Service at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street Newton, MA was held on Friday, June 16,
2023 followed by interment at Natick-Framingham Hebrew Cemetery. In lieu of flowers,
donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to Temple Emanuel Hebrew School, 385 Ward
Street, Newton, MA 02459 or to Hebrew Senior Life, c/o Development Dept., 1200 Centre St.,
Roslindale, MA 02131.

To view the livestream, please click here.

Charlotte Michaelson Frank, age 101 ½ years,  died peacefully in Key Biscayne, Florida on June 11, 2023, surrounded by her family. She spent most of her life in Boston, where in addition to raising 4 sons with her husband Eliot, she evolved from a volunteer to a TV producer at WGBH, recorded books for the blind, opened the Shell Gallery in Newton Center, volunteered at many Boston Jewish organizations, including her pride in being one of the first female Board Members and first woman to get an aliyah at Temple Mishkan Tefila. She travelled the world for 19 years with her husband while he helped develop the textile industry in developing countries under the auspices of the United Nations and IESC. She was admired for her wit and wisdom, known for her dedication to her family and friends.  A world traveler, she was perpetually engaged and interested in the people and cultures she encountered.  She was an avid reader, tennis and bridge player. She always had a story to share and interest in others. She made everyone with whom she spoke feel they were important to her because they were.

She was predeceased by her husband of 49 years Eliot Michaelson in 1991. She was blessed to marry the second love of her life, Seymour (Sy) Frank in 1996, who predeceased her after 21 years of marriage in 2018.  She was also predeceased by her siblings Anne, Jeanette and Herbert, her son Phillip (Ronni), stepdaughter Betsy Cohen (Norman), and daughter in law Anne Taylor, and step grandchild Micah Rosenthal. She is survived by her three sons Martin (and his former wife Susan), Jim, and Richard (Allyn), grandchildren Andrew (Kate), Daniel (Tamara), Jane (Pete), Gail, David and Robyn, and great grandchildren Michael, Eva, Leah, Jackson, and Elliott. She is also survived by stepchildren Marcia, Bill (Christine), Matthew, and Ira (Robyn), step grandchildren Rachel Taylor (Christopher) Hannah Taylor (Colin), Aaron Rosenthal, Teddy Rosenthal (Chantal), Jake Rosenthal, Jeremy Kosh, Brianne Devine (Tom), Louis Cohen (Andrina), Michael Frank, Veronica Batchelor (Sean) and Michael Grossman, and step great grandchildren Josephine and Beatrice LeMon, Maeve Duggin, Garrett and Willa Kosh, Noah Eli and Olivia Devine, Luka and Haze Cohen, Lawson Batchelor.

Her graveside funeral is scheduled for Thursday morning at 11:00 am at Mishkan Tefila Cemetery at 2605 Centre Street, West Roxbury MA, and will be accessible via Zoom

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89481676787

The family invites Mom’s Florida friends to visit on Tuesday, June 13th, from 1:00-4:00pm when Martin, Richard and Allyn will be at 1121 Crandon Blvd, Apartment D108 in Key Biscayne.

Shiva will be observed after the funeral service on Thursday at the home of Ronni Michaelson, 83 Elmwood Road, Wellesley MA, from ~1:00 until 5:00pm, and from 7:00 to 9:00pm including minyan.

Shiva will continue on Friday afternoon on Cape Cod at the home of Richard and Allyn Michaelson, 12 Sheeps Crossing Lane, Woods Hole.

On Monday, June 19th, Richard and Allyn will be at the home of Robert and Michele Shaloff, 13-55 Lyle Terrace, Fair Lawn NJ from 1:00-5:00pm and from 7:00 to 9:00pm, including minyan.

If you wish to honor Charlotte’s life, please consider a donation to a non-profit, charitable organization of your own choosing, or one of Charlotte’s favorites, the Rosenstiel for the Ocean Kids program at UMiami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine Science.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round and listen up, because I’ve got some news to share. Mark Needleman, that son of a gun from Framingham, Massachusetts, kicked the bucket at the ripe old age of 74. Yeah, you heard me right. He passed away right there in his own home on June 11, 2023. Rest in peace, Mark.

Now, let’s talk about the poor souls who have to carry on without him. First up, we’ve got his wife, Debbie, or as she was known back in the day, Debbie Aronson. Then there’s his daughter, Lilly, and his son Alex, who managed to snag himself a wife named Melissa. And let’s not forget the apple of Mark’s eye, his granddaughter Rena. That girl’s got a lot to live up to, let me tell you.

But wait, there’s more! Mark’s got a brother named Stuart and a sister-in-law named Susan. Oh, and we can’t forget about Cindi Silverman and her hubby Rick. They’re part of the surviving crew too. Plus, there’s a bunch of nieces and nephews thrown into the mix. Talk about a full house.

Now, let me give you the lowdown on Mark’s life story. Born and raised in good ol’ Framingham, this guy knew how to make an impression. After he finished up college at Clark University, he made his way back to his hometown to settle down with Debbie. They wanted to start a family, you see. But Mark, he wasn’t content just raising kids. No, sir. He decided to dabble in interior design. Started off by opening up Wallpaper Warehouse in Natick, along with his father-in-law. That was just the beginning, though. Mark had bigger plans. He went on to create his own design firm, Signature Interiors. Boy, this guy had an eye for style.

But you know what really got Mark’s blood pumpin’? Family. Whether they were related by blood or by choice, this man valued his clan like no other. If there was an event happening, you better believe Mark and Debbie were gonna be there, no questions asked. They were the poster couple for attendance. And let me tell you, they didn’t discriminate when it came to occasions. Big or small, near or far, they showed up. And boy, did they celebrate. Every new addition to their circle was cause for a shindig. With friendships that spanned over fifty years, Mark and Debbie always had room at their table.

And here’s a fun fact about Mark: he was a baby whisperer. That’s right, folks. He had a way with those little bundles of joy. Parents would practically throw their babies at him just so they could have a moment of peace. Mark would proudly declare, “I got to play with a baby!” Can you imagine? The man had a gift.

Now, let’s talk about Mark’s involvement in the local Jewish community. He was quite the go-getter, serving on executive boards left and right. Temple Israel of Natick, the Metrowest Jewish Day School, JCAM—you name it, he was there. Oh, and he and his family even started the Needleman Fund for Passport to Israel. They were all about encouraging young folks to take a trip to the Holy Land. Talk about spreading the love.

But that’s not all there is to say about Mark. Oh, no. The man had some serious skills. He could tell a joke like nobody’s business. And let me tell you, his sock collection was a sight to behold. Plus, he had a predilection for good scotch. That’s a man who knew how to enjoy life’s little pleasures.

So, here’s the deal, folks. Mark Needleman is leaving behind one heck of a legacy. Those who had the pleasure of working with him, knowing him, and loving him will always remember him fondly. It’s a damn shame he’s gone, but hey, that’s life, ain’t it?

For those of you who want to pay your respects, the services will be held at Temple Israel of Natick. Be there on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 11 am sharp. After that, they’ll lay him to rest at the Framingham-Natick Hebrew Cemetery. And don’t worry, they’ve got a memorial reception lined up at Temple Israel of Natick right after the burial. If you’re up for it, head on over to the Needleman home in Framingham for the memorial observance on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings 7-9pm. Oh, and don’t forget about the afternoons. That’s when you can swing by from 2 to 4 pm Wednesday through Friday.

Now, in lieu of flowers, they’re asking for donations in Mark’s memory. You can contribute to the Metrowest Jewish Day School or Temple Israel of Natick. Just make sure you mention it’s for the Passport to Israel, part of the Needleman Fund. That’s the way to honor this man’s memory.

Rest in peace, Mark Needleman. You’ll be missed, buddy.

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

Of Dedham, MA passed away at NewBridge on the Charles on June 8, 2023, at 98 years of age. Buddy was devoted to family, friends, and community. Born on November 23, 1924, in Brookline, MA, he attended Brookline High School and Middlebury College. After graduation, Buddy embarked on a 40-year career at S. Cohen and Sons, his family’s furniture business. Preceded in death by his wife, Paula, to whom he was married for 55 years, he is survived by his devoted daughter, Marcia Cohen Brier, and her husband Ken. He was a larger-than-life grandfather to Michael Brier and Jennifer Chassin, and proud great-grandfather to Jacob, Max, Ezra, and Naomi. The family would like to thank Buddy’s longtime caregivers, Richard Ssewanyanaa and Jack Rutaigatirwa, for their constant love and devotion in Buddy’s final years.

Funeral Service at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave., Needham, MA on Monday, June 12, 2023, at 10:15 A.M. Following interment at Lindwood Memorial Park, memorial reception will be held at Newbridge until 3:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations in Buddy’s memory may be made to Hebrew Senior Life, Hospice Care, c/o Development Dept., 1200 Centre St., Roslindale, MA 02131.

To view the livestream please click here.

Joshua Michael, of Brookline, 41, died peacefully as we sang to him on June 6, 2023. He was surrounded by love and music at The Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, where he was treated due to acute illness.

Josh was born August 31, 1981 in NY, NY to Michael and Carol Michael. He loved people, music, coffee, and a good meal followed by a cookie. He spent many of his summers at Camp Jabberwocky on Martha’s Vineyard where he loved to swim, horseback ride, and sing with friends in a hammock. Josh had strong and loving connections with those who surrounded him, especially at his residence by caregivers Best, Yvrose, Rufus, Alex, Moses and others. Josh navigated the complexities of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex throughout his life, aided by his family and medical team at Massachusetts General Hospital.

He is survived by his loving family – mother Carol Michael, sister, Rachel Michael, brother in law Michael Hession, nieces Evie and Hazel Hession, aunts and uncles Karen and Bill Allen, Alan and Marion Brown, Bob and Bonny Brown, and Suzanne Michael.

He was preceded in death by his father Michael Michael in 2010.

Funeral service will be held at 10 am Friday, June 9, 2023 at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA (parking on riverway). Burial to follow at Temple Israel Cemetery, 492 North Ave., Wakefield, MA. Shiva at the home of Carol Michael following burial until 5 pm. Saturday 5-9 with Shiva minyan at 7 pm, continuing Sunday 1-8 pm with Shiva minyan at 7 pm. Donations can be made to Camp Jabberwocky, Temple Israel Boston, Mass General Hospital Division of Palliative Care, Mass General Hospital Center for Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.

Ellen Claire Siegel Offner,

December 28, 1940 – June 3, 2023

Kind, courageous, loving, beloved, and a passionate but modest champion of women’s and girls’ rights and empowerment, Ellen Claire Siegel was born on December 28, 1940, in the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY, to Jack and Lillian Siegel, and was welcomed with joy by her older sister, Toby.

Ellen passed away on June 3, 2023, after a courageous battle with anaplastic thyroid cancer, a rare but extremely aggressive cancer that was unable to repress Ellen’s positivity, warmth, love, optimism, beautiful smile, or enjoyment of the constant flow of friends and family visiting and sharing memories and love.

Ellen’s maternal grandparents were Nathan Lopatin and Jennie Goldin, who both fled Russia for the United States to escape Czarist oppression and antisemitism. Her paternal grandparents were Benjamin Siegel and Tillie (maiden name not known), who emigrated from Romania to the United States.

Ellen attended PS 167 and Prospect Heights High School, both in Brooklyn, and Barnard College in New York City, earning an A.B. in American Studies, despite some cultural and skepticism that a girl should go to college.

While at Barnard and working at a summer camp, she met Arnold Abraham Offner (“Arnie”), a Columbia University student. They fell in love and became a couple for life.

Ellen and Arnie ventured together from Barnard and Columbia to Indiana University, where Arnie earned his PhD in United States History. Ellen worked as an editor at Look Magazine and Indiana University Press. Ellen and Arnie married on April 22, 1962.

In 1963, Ellen and Arnie moved to Syracuse, NY, where Arnie began his first teaching job at Syracuse University. In 1967, Ellen and Arnie welcomed their first child, a daughter, Deborah Offner. In 1968, with Arnie accepting a teaching position at Boston University, the family of three moved to Newton, MA, where, they were told, Jewish families were reasonably welcome. In 1970, Ellen and Arnie welcomed their second child, a son, Michael Offner.

Ellen worked at Little Brown, Houghton Mifflin, and MIT Press, prior to earning her MBA from the Boston University School of Public Management in 1979 as part of the first class including women at the school, and developing cherished friendships with her study group of other women students.

Following her interest in public policy, Ellen worked for the MA State Legislature, including serving as a budget analyst for the MA Senate Ways & Means Committee under the leadership of Chester G. Atkins, learning the inside culture of the center of MA state government known as “Beacon Hill.”

From Beacon Hill, Ellen found her way to a small and young health care organization, Harvard Community Health Plan, later to become Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. She eventually became Vice President for Medicare Programs, creating the First Seniority Program, named the #1 program in the nation for both member satisfaction and clinical quality by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality, reflecting Ellen’s belief that seniors deserve the highest possible levels of medical care and resources.

After moving on from Harvard Pilgrim to spend four years as a Director at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Health Plans, serving MIT students, employees, and retirees, Ellen founded Offner Consulting, LLC, offering strategic planning and program development advice to health care and arts organizations globally.

Her healthcare clients included the University of Michigan; the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein in São Paulo, Brazil; and the USAID-supported JFK Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia.

Ellen served on the boards of nonprofits including Planned Parenthood Federation of America; the Mark Morris Dance Group, where she chaired the group’s Dance for PD program for individuals with Parkinson’s disease; and Lasell College of Newton, MA, along with its continuing care retirement community, Lasell Village. Ellen was also on the Boards of Overseers for the Celebrity Series of Boston and the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

In 2022, after living in Newton, MA for more than 50 years, Ellen and Arnie moved to Newbridge on the Charles in Dedham, MA, a continuing care retirement community affiliate of Hebrew Senior Life, where Ellen continued to develop countless and cherished new friendships for the two of them with her gregariousness, irrepressible cheerfulness.

In addition to Arnie, Ellen leaves her daughter, Deborah Offner; son, Mike Offner; son-in-law, Sam Roth; daughter-in-law, Lonna Steinberg; grandchildren Julia, Callie, Maddy and Jason; sister Toby Brickner; nieces and nephews Helen Ong, Dan Offner, Emily Hollidge, Stuart Offner, Stacy Offner, and Rocky Offner; and many other relatives along with an always growing collection of the greatest friends one could hope for.

If you wish to honor Ellen’s life, please consider a donation to a non-profit, charitable organization of your own choosing, or one of Ellen’s favorites, including the Mark Morris Dance Group, its Dance for PD (Parkinson’s Disease) affiliate, or Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

A link to view the recording of funeral click here

Myron Yale Cummins 80 of Delray Beach Florida formerly of Holliston passed away peacefully on Friday, June 2nd, 2023.
Myron was born in Boston, MA. To the late Gertrude (Grubert) and Louis Cummins.

In 1960, Myron graduated from Roxbury Memorial High School in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Shortly after earning his diploma, he began to work and later owned Cummins Wardrobe Service, a 3rd generation business in Waban, MA. In his free time, he enjoyed Swimming, Smoking Cigars, and Playing cards with his card group of over 40 years.

He leaves behind his devoted wife Marjorie of 59 years who lovingly cared for him throughout his life and especially as his health declined. He also leaves his loving children Lori Cummins, Robert, and Julie Cummins. He was a loving and proud Grandpa to Gabriella and William Cummins. In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren Myron is survived by his sister Toby (Stanley) Orel, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Mildred and his brother Herbert.

Myron and Margie lived many years in Holliston and truly enjoyed entertaining. His children, grandchildren, siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends, especially around his much-loved pool while smoking his trademark cigar and tending to his beautiful yard.

Graveside service at Shara T’Filo Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA, on June 6, 2023 at 11:00 am. Shiva to follow at 12 Ruthellen Rd., Holliston until 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 8:00 pm, continuing Wednesday from 1:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Donations can be made to the Diabetes Foundation or any charity for the Hearing Impaired

Vivian Hannah Lewis

Vivian Hannah Lewis, nee Oppenheim, died May 31^st, 2023, following a recent diagnosis of metastatic cancer. She was 81 years old.

She was predeceased by her husband, Paul Murray Lewis, in December 2022. They were married for 58 years and are survived by their daughter Malia Lewis (Margot Damaser), son Raphael (Ray) Lewis (Kathryn Sillman), and grandchildren Claude, Ella, Sophie, Theodore, and Jules.

Vivian was born in the Bronx in 1941, the only child of German-Jewish refugees, and raised in the Inwood neighborhood of Manhattan. She was educated at the Bronx High School of Science and Radcliffe College, from which she graduated Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa in 1962. She completed a master’s degree in History from UC Berkeley and her PhD coursework at the University of London.

Following her graduation from Radcliffe, Vivian traveled to Europe where she met Paul, assisting him in retrieving a lost suitcase containing a pair of red pajamas from the train station master in Vienna. There followed a peripatetic courtship, with Paul, at the time a cub reporter at The Financial Times of London, using the paper’s resources to send Vivian messages as she continued touring Europe. Vivian and Paul were wed in 1964 and initially lived in London. Their marriage was defined by Paul’s numerous postings, foreign and domestic, initially for the FT and then The New York Times: Brussels, Paris, Washington, DC; New York City, a return to Paris, and then back to New York.

Lacking funds to finish her dissertation, Vivian started working as a journalist for BusinessWeek magazine in the mid-60s. After moving to Washington, DC in 1971, she joined Senator Clifford Case as his staffer on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Upon returning to Paris in 1977 she resumed working as a journalist, initially for CBS’s 60 Minutes then as a freelance. In 1988, back in the United States, she founded a financial newsletter, Global Investing, that focused on American Depository Receipts, foreign companies listed on US exchanges, marrying her life-long passions for investing and all things international. She continued publishing her newsletter until 2022.

Vivian relished the nickname “Naughty Nana” given to her by her grandchildren and all through her life took delight in flaunting conventions when she saw them as excessively rigid. An adventurous cook, in Paris she learnt how to prepare authentic Indian food from the spouse of the Indian Ambassador to France and later introduced her grandchildren to the joys of multicolored matzah balls for Passover. Even as her body faded, Vivian’s spunky sense of humor, pink outfits, and bright smile continued to light up the room.

Shiva for Vivian will be held at Ray and Kathy’s home on Saturday, June 3^rd starting at 7pm.

Beloved husband, father, brother and friend 

Hal J. Strausberg, 68, of Newton, MA passed peacefully in his sleep on May 27, 2023 after a long illness. He was predeceased by his parents, Sam and Milly, and his sister Arlene. He is survived by his loving wife, Alison Husid Strausberg, and his three precious children, Andrew, Michael and Sophie. Hal is also survived by his sisters, Nana Stark (Alan) and Susan Tucker (Larry) and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Hal was raised in Brooklyn, NY, and Thousand Oaks, CA before finally settling in Massachusetts. He was a skilled software engineer whose career ended prematurely due to illness. Hal was a fighter. He consistently defied the medical odds, amazing everyone he encountered with his strong will to live. He loved his family immensely and was determined to be there for them.  He was also a man of knowledge. He loved science and history and gave many a lesson at the dinner table. Hal was a man of few words, but many actions. He touched everyone with his kind gestures, dry sense of humor and wide, dimpled smile and will be missed by all who knew him.

The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at 1pm at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington St, Auburndale, MA. Interment will follow at Mishkan Tefila Memorial Park, 2690 Centre Street, West Roxbury.  Shiva will be held at Hal’s home after interment, as well as Thursday through Sunday 5pm-9pm.  In lieu of flowers, please help a person in need. Donations may be made to American Friends of Magen David Adom, Fathers and Families Coalition of America or The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

On May 29, 2023, E. David Levy, 76, of Sharon, MA, passed away peacefully after a hard-fought battle with cancer and heart disease. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Wendy; loving children, Douglas (Jessica) Levy and Robin (Justin) Gray; adoring grandsons, Dylan Levy and Jacob Gray; and dear sister, Eleanor (Allan) Goldman. He was predeceased by his father, Jacob Levy, and mother, Ida Stone, as well as his sister Carol (Earl) Willens.

David was a highly respected attorney, who fought for those underrepresented as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney, as well as a civil servant. He served as an assistant district attorney for the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office from 1975 to 1981 before going into private practice. In 1999, he returned to the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office, where he proudly served as chief of Civil Rights and director of District Court Training until he retired in 2011. He also was a member of the Sharon Zoning Board of Appeals from 1985 until 2000, and he was active in the Norfolk County Bar Association and the Norfolk County Bar Advocates, as well as the Massachusetts Bar Association. In 2004, David was honored with the Timothy J. Spillane, Jr. Outstanding District Court Prosecutor Award. Passionate about the law with a strong moral compass, some of his proudest moments in his career involved standing up for the little guy and passing on his experience to aspiring attorneys. Even in his retirement, he spent his time volunteering as a legal advocate for the Women’s Lunch Place.

Despite the serious nature of his work, David found joy every day, and he was known to carry a kite in his suitcoat pocket or the trunk of his car, sometimes pulling over for an impromptu flight. A lifelong sailor, David spent the summers of his youth on the Charles River and off the shores of Cape Cod. In his later years, he spent many weekends and Wednesday nights at the Massapoag Yacht Club, leaving his children with such fond memories that his daughter chose it as the site of her wedding. A proud father, he drove miles to watch his son play baseball, and later across the country to see him umpire. The best photos ever taken of David are of him dancing with his wife. He passed the same jar of peanut butter back and forth with his Aunt Ruth every Hannukah to make her laugh. He told stories – real and fictionalized – of the Jordan Road Gang, his friends since elementary school, and in retirement he reunited with his best friends from law school for weekly “guys nights.” He wore his “Zayde” t-shirt proudly. He was the kind of guy who would set reminders for his adult kids’ pets’ birthdays and send dog treats in the mail.

David leaves a legacy of fidelity – to family, friends and community – and his light and laughter will live on in all who knew him. His funeral will take place at Temple Sinai in Sharon on Thursday, June 1 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at Sharon Memorial Park. Memorial observance will take place at Temple Sinai starting at 12:30.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Women’s Lunch Place, P.O. Box 170900, Boston, MA 02117 or the ACLU, Gift Processing Department, 125 Broad Street, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10004

To view the livestream please click here.

Samuel Stern of Needham and Dedham, MA, died on May 28, 2023 at age 84 after a brief battle with cancer.

Born in Furth, Germany in 1939, Sam was a child survivor of the Holocaust, and was liberated from Bergen-Belsen in 1945 with his mother and brother.  They moved to New York in 1947 to start a new life.  He graduated from City College of New York and went on to earn advanced degrees in biophysics and marine biology at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Miami.

After teaching at both Johns Hopkins University and Harvard University, Sam settled into a long academic career at Boston University, where he taught multiple subjects including biology, computer science, and math. In 1978, Sam received the prestigious Metcalf Teaching Award for excellence in teaching at BU.  He went on to become a Dean at BU’s Metropolitan College and at the College of General Studies and served as Special Assistant to the President.

Settling with his family in Needham in 1971, Sam enjoyed coaching baseball and spending time as a key member of the Friends of the Needham Public Library.  He and his loving partner, Charlotte, moved from Needham to Newbridge on the Charles in Dedham in 2018, where they quickly developed new friendships and became active members in the community.

Sam was known for his sardonic sense of humor, his extensive knowledge in many fields, his keen eye for rare books, and his love of fishing.  His son and grandchildren were his pride and joy.  Sam’s story of Holocaust survival has been recorded and shared as part of the USC Shoah Foundation video project, in the writings of Bernice Lerner (“The Triumph of Wounded Souls,” ©2004), and in the annals of the US Holocaust Memorial Museum. Sam often spoke at local schools and synagogues about his experiences during the war.

Sam was married for 42 years to Doris Naimark Stern, who passed away in 2004.  He was predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Karolina Stern, and by his stepfather, David Schneebalg (Ruth).  He is survived by his son, Alan (Lori Tenser), and their children, Reuben, Jeremy and Celia Stern, by his brother, Peter (Julie), and by his loving partner, Charlotte Chase, her children and grandchildren.

Services at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave., Needham, on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at 10:00 am. Interment to follow at Beit Olam Cemetery, 60 Old Sudbury Rd, Wayland (Enter through North Cemetery).

Donations can be made to the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Boston Bullpen Project, or Newbridge on the Charles Scholarship Fund.

To view the livestream please click here.

Alan Bruce Glou, age 89 of Needham, MA passed away peacefully on May 22, 2023, in his home.

Alan was born on October 4, 1933, to Jack and Cele Glou in Scranton, PA. He graduated from Central High School in Scranton, PA in 1951 where he organized and directed a 14-piece swing band, the “Stardusters”, and stayed close with many of his bandmates throughout his life. He graduated from Penn State University in 1955 and was a member of Beta Sigma Rho Fraternity.

Alan started his career as an Industrial Engineer at IBM in Endicott, New York. In 1956 he was drafted into the Army where he held the rank of Specialist (SP3) and completed his basic training at Fort Hood, in Texas. He was stationed outside Frankfurt, Germany during the Korean War, where he served in the 3^rd Armored tank Division.  He also acted as the assistant to the Commanding Officer before being honorably discharged in 1958.  Alan then returned to IBM for two years before moving to Boston in 1960 where he began working at the employment agency Snelling and Snelling and opened their Waltham Office.  He often said that he fell in love with the Charles River because it reminded him of the Rhine River in Germany.

In 1964, he established Glou Associates, headquartered in Needham, MA and later changed the name to Glou International because his clients and offices spanned across the globe including an office in London.  He had extensive experience in dealing with senior management in larger firms and start-up organizations in both the public and private sectors throughout North America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East.  He was well respected and admired by many and even after he retired in 2002, he continued to offer his wisdom and knowledge.

Alan took pride in “Making Good Companies Great”.  He was a recognized expert in international business and has been quoted in numerous publications including the Wall Street Journal and The Boston Globe.  He was often a guest on radio and television talk shows and was the keynote speaker at several conferences and conventions.  He also mentored international students in his capacity as an Executive in Residence at Brandeis University which he was extremely proud of.

Alan was married to Eleanor Stone Glou until she passed away at a young age on March 10, 1975. They had three children (Karen Joseph, Lori Shone and Brian Glou) and resided in Needham, MA.  He married Marjorie Glou in 1979 and was devoted to her two children (Lisa Tanzer, Kevin Tanzer) and their entire blended family.  Alan was an active and very involved father and grandfather of twelve.  He always prioritized family and made every effort to be present and involved in all activities, special occasions, and everyday life moments.

Alan was active in his retirement.  He was proud of his involvement with the Boston FBI Citizens’ Academy where he graduated from a special program and served as an active member for many years.  He was a leader and proud member of the Newton Swing Band where he entertained patients at the Roxbury VA and local nursing homes and was also an active member of the Needham Senior Center.

The family remembers many happy times together.  There are too many to recount but some of those happy times include skiing at Loon Mountain, swimming in the family pool, watching Alan perform with his senior band and his many musical theater performances. Most importantly, Alan had a great perspective on life and encouraged everyone around him to have a positive attitude and strive to live each day to the fullest.  He lived by the motto “Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda” and encouraged his family to do the same.  His impact will last for generations to come.

He is survived by his children Karen Joseph (Robert), Lori Shone (Rob), Lisa Tanzer (Chris), Brian Glou (Jodi) and Kevin Tanzer (Becky).  His memory lives on through his grandchildren; Melanie Joseph, Benjamin Lewis, Jarod Glou, Ryan Joseph, Justin Glou, Owen Tanzer, Jessica Lewis, Talia Joseph, Abby Tanzer, Ethan Shone, Jeremy Shone, Sam Tanzer and other special relationships: Harmon Lewis, Tara Conway.

Services will be held at Temple Beth Shalom of Needham on Monday, May 29 at 10 am. Following interment at Sharon Memorial Park the family will be receiving visitors at Temple Beth Shalom until 5pm and 7-9pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Chesed (Caring) Fund at Temple Beth Shalom of Needham, Hebrew Senior Life’s Hospice Fund or Hebrew Senior Life’s Power A Dream – both organizations that Margie has actively supported and help others in a time of need.

Barbara (Lief) Hurwitz passed away peacefully surrounded by family at home in Weymouth after a brief illness on May 27th 2023 . Barbara was born and raised in Dorchester before moving to Milton with her late parents, Abraham, (Al) and Beatrice Lief. She married the love of her life, the late Norman Hurwitz, in September 1963. Barbara was a homemaker and a mother to her two children, Robin Lee, and Karen MacLeod before taking on a marketing job at the South Shore Plaza, where she loved to meet people, take them to participate in various marketing surveys and shop when she was finished working for the day. She loved to spend her Saturdays with her sister Lois going shopping and out to lunch. Her greatest love and biggest pride was being a grandmother to her six grand children.

Barbara is survived by her sister, Lois Lief of Walpole, her daughter, Robin Lee, and son-in-law, Joseph Lee, and their three children Nicole, Austin, and Lindsay, all of Weymouth , Her daughter, Karen MacLeod, son-in-law, Duncan MacLeod, and their three children, Allyson, Jack, and Ben all of Virginia Beach as well as nieces and nephews. A private graveside service for family will be held on Thursday June 1st. Friends and family are welcome to pay their respects at the Sit Shiva which will be held at the home of Robin and Joe Lee at 73 Heather Lane Weymouth on Thursday June 1st between the hours of 1 p.m and 7 p.m. and on Friday June 2nd between the hours of 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Donations may be made in Barbara’s memory to  Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

To view the livestream please click here.

Sylvia (Smookler) Wolfson  entered eternal rest on Thursday May 25, 2023. Sylvia was predeceased by her husband Leonard G.

She is lovingly remembered by her son Kurt and daughter Hope (Steven) , her granddaughters Ilana and Jillian, and her extended family.

Sylvia was happiest in the gardens of her home in Waban and at Nantasket beach with her loved ones.

She is fondly remembered for her love of Broadway shows and her way around the kitchen.

Bubbie will be missed by the many friends, family and visitors to her gracious ways.

Graveside service will be held on Monday, May 29, 2023 at 10:00 am at Mohliver Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA.

To view the livestream please click here.

FIALKOW, Jay L.” Buddy” 95, of NewBridge on the Charles in Dedham, MA, passed away on Thursday, May 25, 2023.  Jay was born on November 20, 1927 in Brooklyn, NY and attended Brookline High and Lawrence Academy, later graduating from Harvard University in 1948.  After graduating from Boston University Law School in 1951, Jay embarked on a 50 year law career in which he got his start as a labor lawyer for the Garment Workers Union and Cohn, Reimer & Pollack.  Later, Jay became a founding member and managing partner of Kaye, Fialkow, Richmond & Rothstein in Boston and joined its successor, Stroock & Stroock & Lavan, serving as Managing Partner of its Boston office.  Jay also served the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as the Assistant Attorney General from 1963-1965, appointed by Senator Edward W. Brooke.

Jay’s philanthropic work was prolific as he served on the Board of Directors of the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, Israel Histradrut, Hebrew Senior Life, Jewish National Fund, and was former Chairman of Combined Jewish Philanthropies.  Jay continued to be heavily involved with the Finance Committee at Newbridge on the Charles (where he also served as the Mayor to all that knew him).

Jay was preceded in death by the love of his life, Jane Maretz to whom he was married  for 62 years. They are survived by three children, Linda Sternberg (the late Richard), David Fialkow (Nina) and Debby Zabludowski (the late Danny).  He was a larger-than-life grandfather to Michael (Vanessa), Matthew (McKay), Julian, Olivia (Streeter), Jason (Melanie), and the late Jamie and a proud great-grandfather to Logan and Avery.

The family wants to thank Jay’s long-time caregiver, our angel, Marie Alexandre for her constant love, positivity, and care.  Marie, we love you!

In addition to being a brilliant labor lawyer, grand problem solver, and the best father and grandfather, his dynamic and loving personality made him a favorite “go to” of his friend’s kids and his kid’s friends.

The burial will be private. A celebration of life will be held at Temple Ohabei Shalom, 1187 Beacon St., Brookline, on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at 11:30 am. Following the service a reception will be held at The Temple until 2:00 pm.

Gifts may be made in memory of Jay Fialkow to Hebrew Senior Life, Development Department, 1200 Centre Street, Boston, MA 02131, or via hebrewseniorlife.org/TributeGift.

To view the recording please click here.

Dr. Ralph Williams Levine of Lexington, MA died peacefully at his home on May 25,2023.  He was a 1959 Graduate of Michigan State Veterinary School and ran a small animal practice in Burlington, MA for over 5 decades.  He was born on March 21,1935 in Waterville, Maine. He was one of 10 children.

He leaves behind a loving wife of 65 years and 3 grown children: David, Jonathan and Rachael, and 4 grandchildren: Benjamin Levine, Max, Reina and Sam Ades.  Expressions of sympathy can be made in Ralph’s honor to the MSPCA Animal Care and Adoption Center.  350 S Huntington Ave, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130.

Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Tuesday, May 30 at 12:45 pm.

Shiva will be at the Levine residence Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday 7:00-9:00 pm.

Dr. Louis S. Bortnick of Hingham passed away peacefully at his home on May 24, 2023 after a brief illness.

He is survived by his wife Elaine, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage.  He was the beloved father of Karen Bortnick, Robert Bortnick and Lisa Bortnick Noble and cherished grandfather of Michael Bortnick, Anna Bortnick, Dana Noble and Isaac Noble.   Family meant everything to Lou.

Lou had a successful career as a general dentist serving the South Shore community.  He was a proud graduate of Williams College and Harvard School of Dental Medicine.  In addition to his role as a father, husband and dentist, he was also a longtime coach and mentor at Camp Alton in Wolfeboro, NH.

Louis was also an extraordinary advocate for animal rights and protection and was devoted to his golden retrievers.  It is the family’s wish that memorial tributes be made in the form of charitable donations to an animal charity of their choice.

Funeral services are private.

Ruth Siegle (Rubin), of Nashua, NH, formerly of West Newton, and West Peabody, MA, passed peacefully surrounded by family on May 24, 2023. Beloved wife of 55 years of the late Arnold Siegle. Devoted mother of Wendee Glick Curley and her husband Jim, Carol Muldoon and her late husband Ricky, and the late Vicki Siegle. Cherished grandmother of Scott Glick and his wife Mindy, Nicole Letourneau and her husband Tyler, and Hayden Muldoon and his fiancé Meghan Johnson. Proud great-grandmother of Maci and Cole Letourneau. Daughter of the late Etta and Jacob Rubin, Loving sister of the late Evelyn Chalfin and her late husband Alexander.

In her earlier years, Ruth and her husband Arnold were worldly travelers. Ruth appreciated music and the arts. She had a passion for collecting artwork from the local artisans in many countries throughout their travels. Family and friends fondly remember her passion for singing songs from The Great American Songbook and her days of Adagio dancing. She was a lifelong learner with a pivotal work ethic as a young woman. From a young age she worked for her parent’s family kosher catering company and later educating herself on the emerging technology of word processing and held a corporate training position for Stop and Shop companies.

When Ruth was not doting on her family during visits, she was filling in anyone who would listen on their latest accomplishments and her fond admiration. You could always rely on her as a warmhearted conversationalist, and it was predictable she would tell you a few of her best jokes. She was the queen of the bingo table, and as a naturally born fashionista it was expected if she was stepping out for a game, you would find her dressed to impress with jewels to match. It is easy to understand why her favorite television show was “The Bold and The Beautiful”, because she was simply that, exceptionally bold and extremely beautiful, and encouraged those around her to live the same way.

Funeral services will be held at the Allen Center, 35 Webster Street, Newton, MA on Sunday, May 28, 2023 promptly at 12:30pm. The family requests that in true Ruth fashion, and in appreciation for her sense of style and love of all things “bling” that those in attendance dress in lively colors to celebrate the beauty of her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Community Hospice House in Merrimack NH.

To view the recording of the service please click here.

Phyllis (Belsky) Feld of Gloucester passed away suddenly on May 23rd, 2023 surrounded by family and cherished friends.

Phyllis was born July 12th 1941 in Boston, raised on Blue Hill Ave in Mattapan with her older brothers Larry and Gerry. In her youth she spent countless summers camping at state parks along Cape Cod with her parents, Max and Ida.

She attended Jeremiah E Burke High School and continued her education at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn NY. She married Jerry Feld in 1970, living in Jamaica Way Tower before settling in Brookline MA, where she made many lifelong friendships. She had a lengthy career working for M Brown and Company, designing offices and commercial interiors for 17 years before starting her family, giving birth to her sons Jonah and Gabriel.

In her second career as an artist, she began her studies at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston with still life painting and later became a plein air painter travelling to France, Italy, and outer Cape Cod. Her passion for art led her to memberships of the Newton, Concord, and North Shore Arts Association and an associate member of the Rockport Arts Association.

She was a deeply devoted daughter, caring for her parents in their later years, especially her beloved mother Ida who lived to 104. She was an equally devoted grandmother to Miles, Maisy and Elliott, who brought her endless pride and joy.

Phyllis is survived by her brothers Larry and wife Elaine, Gerry and wife Evelyn, her son Jonah and wife Gillian, and her three grandchildren. She is predeceased by her parents, her husband Jerry, and her son Gabriel.

Services will be held on May 25, 2023 at Sharon Memorial Park at 1:45 followed by Shiva at her home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local arts association.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89639504270

Arthur J. Epstein, of Boca Raton, FL,  86 yrs, passed peacefully on May 21, 2023.  Arthur grew up in Malden, MA and married his high school sweetheart, Eunice (Sandler) z”l, in 1958.  They began their married life in Peabody before settling in Marblehead where they raised their three children Julie, Lauren and Jonathan.  While in high school Arthur worked in his father’s Wakefield factory, Mystic Enterprises.  After his father passed when Arthur was sixteen, he took on more responsibilities at Mystic.  He began his career with Midas Muffler in 1965 when a friend of his mother offered him the opportunity to buy his Malden Midas shop.  Eventually Arthur became the second largest franchise owner in the country.

In recent years Arthur focused much of his attention on philanthropy.  His particular but not exclusive, areas of interest were Jewish education and mental health.  In 2017 the Cohen Hillel Academy in Marblehead was renamed the Epstein Hillel School in recognition of his very generous gift.  In memory of his late wife, Eunice, who suffered with bipolar disorder for most of her adult life, he created The Epstein Center for Behavioral Health, a 120-bed unit caring for adults and children at North Shore Medical Center in Salem, MA.  He also prided himself on supporting young entrepreneurs pursuing their passions.  He invested in people and enjoyed seeing them flourish.

Arthur is survived by his wife, Bryna Litchman as well as his children, Julie and JB Nadal, Lauren and Mark Rubin and Linn and Jonathan Epstein.  Most dear to his heart were his six grandchildren, Jake, Grace, Zoe, Amy, Mathias and Noah, his “three kings and three queens”, whom he boasted about at every opportunity.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 24, 2023, 11 am, at Congregation Shirat Hayam of the North Shore, 55 Atlantic Ave., Swampscott, MA.  Burial will follow at Shirat Hayam Cemetery 506 Lowell St., Peabody, MA. Shiva will be observed on Thursday, May 25^th from 10-1PM at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton Ma. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Epstein Hillel School, 6 Community Rd., Marblehead, MA 01945.

Edith White, age 103 went home to her God on May 22, 2023.  Present for her journey were her son, David, and her devoted personal aide Marie Paul.  Edith is survived David White (Mary) of Brockton, granddaughters Sarah Woodard of Colorado and Debbie Hewes (Henry) of California, nephew Frankin Levy (Lynda) of California and nieces Barbara Arnold of Newton, Adele Miller (Marty) of Easton, Linda Shapiro (Steve) of Virginia, Susan Fine (David Bruckart) of New York and many great-nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her parents Louis and Rae Franklin of Brighton, beloved husband Aaron, daughter Joy Petitte (Michael Manheim) of Newton, grandson Tim Petitte of New York, and sisters Doris Levy and Winifred Franklin both of Newton.

Edie loved children and for several years volunteered to read to children in a local elementary school.  More recently, she enjoyed visits from her step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She was also an avid reader, loved to walk and was an exceptional gardener, wringing beauty out of a small, mostly shady yard.

Friends and family are invited to attend Edith’s funeral service on Wednesday, 5/24/23 at 1:00 PM at Temple Sinai, 25 Canton Street, in Sharon, with burial immediately following in Sharon Memorial Park.  There will be a catered Shiva at her home.  If unable to attend, please consider a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 465 Waverly Oaks Road, Suite 202, Waltham, MA, 02452, which would be greatly appreciated.

May his memory be for a blessing.

Funeral service at Temple Israel of Natick, 145 Hartford St., Natick, MA on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at 11 am. Interment to follow at Framingham-Natick Hebrew Cemetery.

Following interment, memorial observance will be at the home of Karen and Allen Block until 9 pm, Wednesday, 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm, and Thursday, 2-4 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory may be made to NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness

Jewish Family Services – Metrowest

or Temple Israel of Natick

Of West Roxbury, age 87, died on May 15, 2023 after period of declining health. Born in Rochester, NY, and raised in Windsor, Ontario. Merwyn was the son of the late Frank and Rose Bear. Husband to Marion Weiss Bear, father of Michael and his wife Julie, Susan and her husband Michael Hill, and Barry and his wife Anne Mavor. Loving grandfather of Kyle and his wife Sophia Conover, Caitlin Conover, Sydney, Hannah and Samantha Bear, Wyatt and Jessie Hill, Ronald, Frank and Rebecca Bear. Great Grandfather of Koufax and Fig Conover. Along with his biological family, Merwyn was honorary uncle and great uncle to the McCarthy and Shepherd clans. Graduate of University of Pennsylvania 1958, BSE Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut 1963, MSE Masters in Mechanical Engineering. Merwyn spent his professional career as a mechanical engineer founding his own company, Bear Engineering.  An early adopter of technology, he was ahead of his time in his appreciation for high fidelity electronics and computers. He was a loyal and steadfast friend with an adept ear at listening more than talking and a dry sense of humor.  He will be remembered for his wide smile, boisterous laugh and big hugs for friends and family. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, May 22, 2023 at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave., Boston at 11:00 am. Parking on the Riverway. Shiva on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at the home of Susan Bear and Michael Hill. Remembrances may be made to the Parkway Community YMCA, 1972 Centre St. West Roxbury, MA 02132.

In Loving Memory of Carol Comras (nee Goodman)

Carol Comras, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother, peacefully passed away on May 15, 2023, at the age of 70. She leaves behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy of friendship to those who knew her.

Born on May 16, 1952, Carol was the daughter of Margery and Jerome Goodman. She grew up in the warm embrace of her family home in Brookline, Massachusetts, alongside her sister Jane. Following in the footsteps of her father, Carol pursued a career in law, becoming an accomplished attorney and taking over her father’s practice. She married Marc Comras, and together they built a life brimming with happiness. Carol and Marc were blessed with two wonderful children, Daniel and Alison.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Carol found immense joy and fulfillment in her role as a mother and a dear friend to those around her.

Carol Comras is survived by her loving son, Daniel Comras, her beloved daughter, Alison Morrison, and her caring son-in-law, Derek Morrison. She will forever be remembered as a doting grandmother to her adored granddaughter, Emma Morrison. Carol’s memory will also be cherished by her sister, Jane, and the extended family and friends who had the privilege of sharing in her life.

Family and friends were always at the center of Carol’s world, and she treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchild, and longtime friends. Though Carol has left us, her legacy of resilience, care, and love will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her family and friends find solace in the beautiful memories they shared with her.

Funeral services will be held on May 18, 2023 in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park at 1 PM. Burial will follow. Friends and family are welcome to join in remembering and celebrating the remarkable life of Carol Comras.

Of Boston, May 13, 2023, Dr. Henry H. Banks lived to celebrate his 102^nd birthday with his wife of 78 years, Judith R. (Epstein) Banks. His story is a very American one. As the child of Isaac and Bessie Banks, immigrants from Lithuania, he grew up in Boston attending Boston Latin School, Harvard College (Class of 1942) and Tufts University Medical School (Class of 1945). Because his education happened during World War II, his medical school education was crammed into three years so that he could serve overseas. Always a student of American history, he was proud of being a veteran. He began his medical career at Children’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, Massachusetts General Hospital and what was at that time, the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital. In 1970, he was recruited by Tufts New England Medical Center to build their orthopedic department and other orthopedic departments throughout the Boston area. Always a believer in practicing the art of medicine, he was sought out as a speaker, a physician, a diagnostician and a supportive presence. He spoke all over the world and patients arrived in Boston from Asia and Europe to have the benefit of his expertise. He had a particular interest in children with cerebral palsy and was a key presence at the clinic that focused on this population at the Barnstable County Handicapped Children’s clinic in Pocasset, Massachusetts. When Dr. Banks became Dean of Tufts Medical School in 1983, staff members at the clinic guessed that he would be too important and too busy to continue helping the families that they served. They remember being very wrong about Dr. Banks. He always showed up for them. After Dr. Banks retired from being Dean in 1990, he continued writing books and consulting on cases. During his career, he served as President and Executive Director of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. He believed in the importance of protecting one’s reputation and of being loyal to his family. He embodied these values throughout his life. He and his wife, Judy have a large 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 Banks and Lloyd Lesperance. Their ten great grandchildren are: Marshall and Olivia, Simon, Asher, Miriam, Hal, Levi, Eli, Lydia and Noah. Always an avid photographer, Dr. Banks amassed a treasure trove of photographs of each family member.

Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at 11:30 am at Temple Israel 477 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA (parking on riverway). Burial will follow at Lindwood Memorial Park, 490 North St., Randolph, MA. Contributions may be made to the Judith R. and Henry H. Banks MD Scholarship Fund at Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111.  medicine-giving@tufts.edu

Shiva will be private.

John Marshall Cohen (1937-2023), a dedicated fixture in the Boston area pediatric community, died May 10th in Newton, Massachusetts.

Dr. Cohen’s mantra, uttered to patients and strangers alike, was “Babies are my people!” His gregarious nature and congenial bedside manner belied a steadfast commitment to pediatric care and to his friends and family.

Growing up in Providence, RI, Dr. Cohen attended Classical High School and then Brown University. Determined to be a pediatrician despite advice to pursue a more lucrative specialty, he graduated from Albany Medical College in New York. Dr. Cohen was a loyal and active alumnus, supporting Brown and Albany Medical College with his heart as well as his wallet.

After earning his Doctor of Medicine and serving two years overseas in the Air Force, Dr. Cohen settled in the Boston area.  As his reputation for care and compassion grew, his practice – pediatrics at Newton-Wellesley – grew with him. He touched generations of families, often caring for former patients’ children and, eventually, their grandchildren. Additionally, he ran Newton-Wellesley Hospitals’ Pediatric Department for many years. Never one to hold back, he was a fierce advocate of high-quality care and behavioral health.

Dr. Cohen’s expertise and familiar manner led him to anchor Channel 5’s noon-day call in segment “Ask the Pediatrician” for many years and, later, “America’s Health Network”. His presence on the airwaves enlivened his personal life – from Boston to Cape Cod, he was regularly greeted with a “Hey Dr. Cohen!” from the familiar and unfamiliar alike.  With his wide ranging impact on children’s medicine, at his truest essence john would earnestly say, “I’m a baby doc”. 

Dr. Cohen played as hard as he worked. On the Cape, he enjoyed bringing family and friends out on his boat, “John’s Excellent Adventure,” to pull lobster traps, fish, and have the occasional adventure when navigation became sketchy. He also loved giving fresh tomatoes from his hyper-productive Cape garden. He travelled extensively to all four points of the compass with his family and friends, documenting the adventures with compelling photography.  John’s joy was sharing his travel passion with his children and grandchildren. 

Dr. Cohen took an active role in organizations and causes he was passionate about. An avid fan of theater, he enthusiastically supported The Huntington Theater Company and its productions, also serving as a board member. He also served on the boards of Planned Parenthood of Massachusetts and The New England Aquarium.

Dr. Cohen is survived by his wife of 58 years, Bette (Levinger) Cohen, of Boston, MA. Beloved father of Deborah C. Friedman (Mark) and David P. Cohen (Jennifer), all of New York, NY. Cherished Grandfather of Sydney & Taylor Friedman and Gabrielle & Ryan Cohen. Adored brother of Richard (Flora) Cohen.

Graveside service will be private. The family will receive visitors Wednesday, May 17th from 5pm to 8pm at the Colonnade Hotel in Boston.

Donations in Dr. Cohen’s memory may be made the Huntington Theater Company and Planned Parenthood of MA.

To view recording of service click here

Nanci Sue Peters of Boston, formerly of Newton, age 75, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2023. Beloved daughter of the late George and Rebecca (Krongard) Peters. Dear sister of Jane Evans and the late Harvey Peters. Devoted aunt and great-aunt of Douglas, Craig, Laura, Joshua and Suzanne, Danielle, Sam, Stephanie, Rachel, Alison and Evey. Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 10:45 am.  In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Notre Dame Hospice, 555-559 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01605.

To register for the livestream, please click here.

Melvin Gondelman, formerly of Milton, MA has passed away after a long battle with health issues.  He was 86.
Born and raised in the West End of Boston, he moved to Dorchester as a teen.
Son of the late Aaron and Yetta Gondelman.
Devoted husband of his loving wife Myrna “Mikki” (Kobey) for 58 years.
Proud father of Adam and Jen Gondelman of Milton, Dana and Charlie Gondelman of Walpole, and Jay and Tracey Gondelman of Natick.
Loving Papa of Joshua, Zachary, Samantha, Jacob, Hannah, Jordyn, and Abbey.
Brother of the late Beatrice Lief and the late Samuel Gondelman
Uncle of Steven Gondelman, Rhona Pinta, Barbara Hurwitz, and Lois Lief
Great-uncle to Robin Lee, Karen Macleod, Marci Yazwinski, Shelley Dasilva, Lori Gondelman,Joel Gondelman, AJ Gondelman, Ian Pinta, Mitchell Pinta
Melvin graduated from Boston English HS in 1954 and then briefly attended Northeastern University.  Melvin was drafted into the U.S. Army and he was stationed in Germany during the late 1950’s.
Melvin and Mikki lived in Mattapan when they were first married, and then moved to Milton to start a family in 1970.
Melvin was a charismatic, charming, philanthropic, larger-than-life man.  He loved his family, and family always came before anything else.  He was a coach and mentor to many kids in Milton for many years.  There was nothing he would rather do than spend time with his 7 grandchildren.  Whether it was at a sporting event or a play, or time down the Cape, Papa always made the time to show his support and have fun with the kids.
Melvin was a salesman who started off his career after serving in the army by working at a chocolate factory, and then selling wire. He then realized  he wanted to be his own boss. So, back in 1968, Melvin took a chance and started selling electronic components out of his one-bedroom apartment in Mattapan, with his wife as his secretary.  A year or two later, he rented a small office in Cambridge, where he remained and grew his company to 20 employees over the years.  A few setbacks and a major fire destroyed his dreams, but Melvin didn’t give up.  He pulled up his bootstraps and regrouped.  He started another company with his sons and moved the business to Brighton.  Melvin worked up until he was forced to retire at 80 years old. Services will be held at Temple Beth Elohim,10 Bethel Rd., Wellesley, on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 11:00 am. Following interment at Sharon Memorial Park, family and friends are invited to a celebration of life at the Cape Club Sharon, 25 Toit St., Sharon. Memorial observance will be at his residence on Friday from 12 noon until 8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Temple Beth Elohim, Wellesley.

Harvey Chansky 89, of Randolph MA, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2023. Beloved son of the late Harry and Fanny Chansky and brother of the late Nathan Chansky, Lillian Andler, and Beatrice Katz. Harvey is lovingly survived by his wife Roberta (Siegel) Chansky and his sons: Howard Chansky, his wife Kari, Neal Chansky and his wife Cinzia. He was a loving Papa to his grandchildren Juliana, Alexander, Matthew, Joshua, Jacob, and Samuel. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Harvey was an avid sports fan and basketball player in his youth for which he received many trophies and awards, including an opportunity to play in the Boston Garden. He shared his experiences and passion for sports with all of his loved ones.

Harvey was a 45 year employee of Ben Elfman & Son. Post retirement Harvey focused his energy on helping others by volunteering for Meals on Wheels, Randolph for 11 years. In addition to the many accolades from those he serviced, he was awarded a Presidential Letter of Achievement acknowledging his long term contributions to supporting those in need in his community.

A graveside service will be held at 11:45 am on Sunday May 14, 2023 at Sharon Memorial Park, Dedham Street, Sharon, MA. Memorial observance following the service will be held at the home of Neal and Cinzia Chansky until 6:00 pm. The memorial observance will continue at the home of Roberta Chansky, Monday through Wednesday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to either Alzheimer’s Association,  309 Waverly Oaks Road, Waltham, MA 02452 or Hebrew Senior Life, 1200 Centre Street, Roslindale, MA 02131.

Michael Alan Drukman, 87, of Brookline, MA, passed away on May 3, of natural causes. Michael was born on November 9, 1935, and was the son of Max, who owned a butcher shop in Central Square, Cambridge, and Helen Comman. He attended Brookline High School and later graduated from Tufts University. He is survived by his wife of nearly 63 years, Roberta, and his sister Marjorie Effenson, his son Steven, and his daughter Linda.

Michael became something of a pioneer in the gift business, founding his company Madco, one of the largest agencies of its kind, with about 60 salespeople around the Northeast. At its peak it was the largest sales company in New England. Mickey, as he was known, loved children, dogs, food, travel, music (especially Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald), skiing and sightseeing in the state of Vermont. Most of all, he loved his many lifelong friends and his devoted family.  For these people, he will be remembered for his expansive nature, and by how he was ever-concerned about their well-being, and always unfailingly generous.

Donations in his memory may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.

Marilyn Bates, 86, of Waban and a resident at Hebrew Senior Life passed away on May 4th, 2023. Marilyn, was born on January 25th, 1937 in Brookline to Celia “Chickie” and Edward Masters. She attended Ward Elementary and Newton High School before attending and graduating Boston University. She was married for 43 years to Leonard Bates who pre-deceased her.

Marilyn always considered herself to be a very lucky person, she was a devoted and beloved wife, mom and grandmother. She loved flowers, playing mahjong and canasta, shmying, and enjoyed buying everything from tschotchkes to fine antiques in addition to many gifts for kids in her family. She took delight in spending time with her girlfriends. She was an excellent holiday parking spot finder and a funny storyteller. Marilyn also enjoyed playing tennis in her free time and looked forward to attending the US Open each year with her husband Lenny. She could always be counted on to bake wonderful challah, knishes, matzo ball soup and brisket for the Jewish high holidays.

Marilyn is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph and Debbie Bates of Nashua, her son David Bates and her 6 beloved grandchildren Julie, Josh, Elisabeth, Jack, Emma and Mia as well as her Brother Roy Masters of Marietta GA. Marilyn was a member of Temple Israel in Boston.

Rest in peace Mom. Graveside services will be held Sunday, May 7 at Lindwood Memorial Park,497 North St., Randolph at 1:30 in the afternoon. Shiva Sunday afternoon 3:30 to 8:00 at the home of Joe & Debbie Bates in Nashua. Remembrances may be made to Temple Israel, Boston

Edward Kantner (Canton, MA), age 94, died on May 1, 2023. Edward was the beloved husband of Carol Kantner. Edward was born in Munkacs, Hungary (now part of Ukraine), the son of Henrik Kantner (z”l) and Jenny Steinberger (z”l). He was a devoted father to Ronni Skerker and Paul Kantner (z”l) and the father-in-law to Paul Skerker. He also leaves behind granddaughters Jennifer Skerker and Abigail Skerker, and many nieces and nephews.

Edward was a Holocaust survivor who came to the United States following the war in 1947. Once in the US, he finished high school, went to college and graduate school, became a US citizen and met his wife, Carol. Edward and Carol were married for 61 ½ years! An oral history of his experiences before and during the war can be found here: https://collections.ushmm.org/search/catalog/irn701074

Funeral services will be on Wednesday, May 3, at 10:30 AM at Temple Emunah in Lexington and burial will follow immediately after at Congregation Shirat Hayam Cemetery (Temple Israel section) on Lowell Street in Peabody.

Shiva will be at the home of Ronni and Paul Skerker, in Lexington, on Wednesday, May 3, from 7 – 9 PM and Thursday, May 4, from 2-5 PM & 7-9 PM.  Minyan will be at 7:30 PM. Shiva will continue on Sunday, May 7, at Orchard Cove, 1 Del Pond Drive, Canton, from 2-4 PM.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances in his memory may be made to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (Washington, DC) or Hebrew Senior Life Hospice Care (Dedham, MA).

Lieb, Frances (Brody), of Newton, MA, passed away peacefully at her home at the age of 100! She was predeceased by her beloved husband David and her adored son Martin. She was the daughter of the late Sarah and Sigmund Brody, and one of five children, four who lived into their nineties.

Frances was the loving mother to her daughter Paula and her husband James Gould, and loving daughter-in-law Barbara. She leaves behind her grandchildren, Elliot and his wife Alicia, Stephanie, Scott, and Daniel. She also leaves behind four great-grandchildren. She was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She always had a positive, and loving word for everyone she met. She will be greatly missed.

Private services were held. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Friends of the IDF, PO Box 4224, NY, NY 10163, Yad Chessed, 440 Totten Pond Rd. #441, Waltham, MA 02451, Gateways: Access to Jewish Education, 333 Nahanton St., Newton, MA 02459, or Hebrew SeniorLife, 1200 Centre St., Boston, MA 02131.

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

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

Robert Rosen of Waltham, loving husband of Carolyn, formally of Norwood. Brother of Myrna Elkins and her husband Bill of Yarmouth port. Father of Joel and his wife Stacy of Natick, and Richard and his wife Claudia of Medfield. Grandfather of Sage, Madison, Tyler and Sam.  And uncle and great uncle to many loved nieces and nephews.

Bob was past President and Man of the Year Award of the Brotherhood of Temple Shaare Tefilah in Norwood. Graduated of Mass College of Pharmacy, Owner of Rosen Pharmacy and Belmont Medical which has been a pillar in the community for over 87 years.

Robert will be remembered for his kindness, his selflessness, sense of humor and his unwavering love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him. Funeral service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at 10 am. Livestream info can be found on funeral home website.

Following interment, memorial observance will be at the home of Rich and Claudia Rosen until 4 pm, and 6-8 pm. Memorial observance will continue Monday, 1-4 pm and 6-8 pm, and Tuesday 1-4 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to Temple Beth Elohim or Jewish Family and Children Services of Waltham.

To view livestream link click here

Attorney Robert Alan Faneuil of Needham, formerly of Newton, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2023, having just marked his 74th birthday.

He was the devoted husband of Leslie (Saidel) of more than 48 years and beloved father to his three Faneuil girls: Stacey of Needham, MA, Alicia of Westfield, NJ, and Jaclyn of Needham, MA. He was granted his lifelong wish of having sons when he became father-in-law to Simon Mann, Dr. Lee Gerson, and Matthew Gorman.  He was the cherished “Pa” of Jacob, Tyler, Scott, Jordan, Ryan, and his little princess, Olivia. Son of the late Phillip F. Faneuil and Irene (Grass), brother of Nancy F. King and the late Edward J. Faneuil, brother-in-law of Helene (Ostroff) and Marshall and Ellen (Taylor) Saidel. Uncle to Ari and Jesse Faneuil, Phillip and Michelle King, and Joshua, Matthew, and Daniel Saidel. He was a father figure to many.

Robert was the family’s patriarch.  He approached everything in life with passion and dedication.  He taught his children how to love without limits and that quitters never win, and winners never quit.  He was the ultimate, die-hard Boston sports fan with a knack for remembering the details of any and every sporting event of years past.  His legacy lives on through his guidance, silliness, and unwavering love that has touched so many.

Funeral service will be held at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave., Needham, MA on Sunday, April 30 at 12:30pm.  Burial at Sharon Memorial Park. Shiva to follow at Temple Beth Shalom from 4-6 pm. Shiva will continue at the home of Stacey and Simon Mann Monday and Tuesday 4-8 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert’s honor can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Cheryl W. Skura of Marlborough, MA, formerly of Brookline and Needham, MA, passed away on April 26^th, with her family by her side.  Beloved and devoted wife of Arthur Skura, mother of Sam Skura and his wife, Mindy Skura, Stacey Skura Zedeck and her husband, Jason Zedeck, and Rachel Burris and her husband, Brad Burris.  Cherished Nana to her grandchildren: Adam, Stephanie, Joey, Molly, Ella, Lilly, Sienna and Scarlett.  Dear sister to Sara Kane and the late Harry H. Wise, and sister-in-law to Brenda Skura.

Cheryl will be remembered for her love and loyalty to family and friends.  She was particularly proud of her eight grandchildren who brought her tremendous joy.  Cheryl was an avid sports fan and especially loved her Patriots and Red Sox.

A private graveside service will be held for the immediate family on Friday, April 28^th.  Cheryl enjoyed spending her mornings watching native birds through her kitchen window; in lieu of flowers, donations in her honor can be made to the National Audubon Society.

David A. Bailen, M.D.

David A. Bailen, of Dedham, formerly of Newton, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2023. Beloved and devoted husband of Helene Bailen of 57 years. Loving father of Laurence Bailen, M.D., and his wife Jennifer Weber, of Newton and Mark Bailen and his wife Jessica Rosenworcel, of Washington, DC. Cherished Papa of Daniel, Lily and Molly Bailen, of Newton, and Caroline and Emmett Bailen, of Washington, DC. Beloved uncle of Jeffrey Kateman and his wife Nam, Jonathan Kateman and his wife Millie, Jill Glashow and her husband Jason, Laurie Medvinsky and her husband Larry, and Eric Davidson and his wife Kelly, and brother-in-law of Kenneth Davidson. He will also be missed by numerous cousins. He was predeceased by his sister, Judy Bailen Kateman, brother-in-law Paul Kateman, and sister-in-law Arlene Davidson.

He was born in Boston on July 27, 1941 to Marion and Edward Bailen. A devoted son to his parents, David was also a cherished nephew to numerous aunts and uncles.  He was raised in Brookline and Newton.  He attended the Driscoll Elementary School in Brookline and Weeks Junior High School in Newton and graduated from Newton High School in 1959, Brown University in 1963, and Boston University School of Medicine in 1967, where he was an Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society graduate. He was Chief Resident in Medicine at University Hospital, Boston Medical Center and subsequently completed a fellowship in Rheumatology. He went on to develop a thriving primary care practice at Boston Medical Center spending his entire 40 year career there. He loved internal medicine and the relationships he formed with his patients.  He was known throughout the medical center as a superior diagnostician, an intelligent, dedicated, and, above all, kind individual and physician. He was beloved by hospital staff and patients alike.  He was a doctor’s doctor.

As an Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at BU School of Medicine and Instructor of Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine, David taught students and medical residents at Boston Medical Center and Faulkner Hospital for many years. He was President of the Medical-Dental Staff at Boston Medical Center and served as President of the medical staff at the former Jewish Memorial Hospital in Roxbury. He also served as Chair of the Patient Care Committee and other committees at Boston Medical Center. He was President of the BU School of Medicine Alumni Association, dedicating many hours to the medical school.

David was devoted to his synagogue, Temple Israel of Boston. He regularly attended weekly Torah study, Shabbat services, and many educational and musical programs. He served as Chair of the Music Committee. 

He was a voracious reader, constantly curious, loved making connections with everyone he encountered, and enjoyed teaching, especially his children and grandchildren.  His interests were as varied as classical, ragtime, and cajun music, politics, foreign affairs, public transportation, especially trains, and New England beaches. He loved walking, swimming, and music.  He was an eternal optimist and loved life.

Funeral services will be held at Temple Israel of Boston, 477 Longwood Ave, on Sunday April 23 at 1:30pm. Interment to follow at Temple Israel Cemetery in Wakefield.  Shiva will follow on Sunday, 7-9pm, Monday, 2-4pm and 7-9pm, and Tuesday 7-9pm at Jennifer and Laurence’s home. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in his name to the Fund for Music at Temple Israel of Boston (https://www.tisrael.org/make-ti-yours/give-to-temple-israel) and/or to the BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine (www.bu.edu/give2busm) under the “Dean’s Discretionary Fund” with a note that the gift is in memory of David A. Bailen, M.D

of Dedham, MA, formerly of Newton, MA on April 20, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Norman Lichtin. Devoted mother Harold Lichtin, Sara Boyd, Daniel Lichtin. Cherished grandmother of Karla Boyd, Sharon Boyd, Nathaniel Lichtin, Rebecca Lichtin, Joanna Lichtin, and Samantha Lichtin. Proud great grandmother of Yael Boyd, Liora Boyd, and Quentin Price. Graveside service at Temple Emanuel Memorial Park, 497 North Ave., Randolph, MA on Monday, April 24, 2023 at 2 pm. A memorial service will begin at NewBridge on the Charles, 5000 Greatmeadow Rd., Dedham at 4 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Phyllis’ memory may be made to the Boston Medical Center Grow Clinic.

Marian Chase Broder passed away on April 19th, 2023 at the age of 81 after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her family.

Marian was a passionate, creative, and engaged mother, wife, grandmother, and friend. Wherever she went in life she created meaningful connections and communities, inspiring those around her with unbounded optimism, playful humor, and a tireless pursuit of learning. To know Marian was to be pulled into the orbit of her relentless curiosity and her wholehearted love of life.

Marian grew up in Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of Bertha and Samuel Chase and sister to Audrey. She attended Sarah Lawrence College where she received her bachelor’s degree. In what would come to be a well-known feature of Marian’s personality, she continued to push forward in pursuit of education and meaningful contributions, graduating from Columbia University School of International Affairs and Case Western Reserve University School of Law.  Marian started her career working as a research assistant at The White House Conference on Civil Rights, in the Office of the Director of the National Institutes of Health and then in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health at the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, in Washington DC.

Though many vied for Marian’s affection while she lived in Bethesda, there were none who caught her eye until she agreed to a blind date with the handsome man who turned into her “bashert,” Martin. Martin asked Marian to marry him on their second date, only to be turned down. Little did he know, also consistent with Marian’s clarity of vision, she then went out and bought her wedding dress, a white minidress perfectly embodying her sassy and classy spirit in one elegant dress. Martin realized quickly after meeting Marian that a life with her meant he would never be bored. He did not need to propose again- it just became clear that they were meant to continue on together.

Marian and Martin married in 1969 and began a life that was a blessing and a constant adventure. They built a life together on the bedrock of shared values and intellectual pursuits, with their combined curiosity always broadening their horizons. They were blessed with four children: Sharon (David, Brookline, MA), Jennifer (Arlington, MA), Molly (Ed, New Rochelle, NY), and Sam (Alecia, Anchorage, AK) and seven grandchildren, Rayna, Adam, Jack, Charlie, Daniel, Beth, and Maggie. Marian felt that her primary job in life was to give her children and grandchildren “roots and wings,” imprinting in them fundamental values of love, decency, compassion, generosity, and the importance of family, so they could fly. Marian’s love for family was a guiding principle in her life. She made spending time with her family her number one priority, endlessly planning creative activities from salamander hunts to family Passover plays. In addition to involvement with her children and grandchildren, she avidly researched genealogy, updated family trees, planned and organized family reunions and other small gatherings to keep her family close and connected.

Professionally, Marian’s law career continued in Cleveland, OH, and Springfield, MA, where she worked for private law firms, was an attorney for nursing homes and taught health law and medical ethics at Western New England University School of Law. Though a lawyer by profession, Marian was an avid volunteer, especially in the Jewish community. She was proud of her Jewish identity and appreciated the values and wisdom offered to her by Judaism. She was an active member of Temple Beth El for over 40 years. Her community was enriched by her boundless energy, her creative spirit, and legendary attention to detail.

Additionally, she poured her skills, knowledge and dedication into projects at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, MA, as a member of its Ethics Committee, its Institutional Review Board and the Advisory Committee for the Comprehensive Breast Center. She was also the Chairman of the Board of the Jewish Nursing Home of Western Massachusetts and served on the Board of Temple Beth El. In 1998, she co-authored a book “Memories of Zionism: An oral history of residents of greater Springfield and the Pioneer Valley.”

Characteristically Marian threw herself into a range of hobbies that largely focused on bringing people together and sharing ideas. She participated in multiple book clubs, organized murder mystery games, wrote lively stories about her own memories, recorded oral histories of her family and friends, and enjoyed water aerobics. She passed on her love of nature walks, bird watching, and ocean vistas to her children.

Marian brought love and light to so many of her relationships. She found joy wherever she could and taught her family to do the same. She fostered creativity and loved unconditionally. Her unflagging determination to immerse herself in family, ideas, literature, culture, Judaism, and the natural world regularly amazed everyone who knew her.

Those wishing to honor Marian are welcome to donate to Rays of Hope at Baystate Health Foundation [https://secure2.convio.net/bayhf/site/TR?fr_id=1240&pg=entry], helping individuals in the fight against breast cancer. Or smile at someone, ask them about themselves, and listen to their story.

Entrepreneur, Devoted to Family and Friends

Henry D. Vara, Jr.

At age 85, of Holbrook, formerly of West Newton and Ft. Lauderdale, FL, passed away on April 18, 2023. Born in Brookline, he graduated from The Michael Driscoll Elementary School, maintaining  friendships with his classmates until his passing. Henry attended Bordentown Military Institute in New Jersey, Boston University, and the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. His entrepreneurial spirit was established as a young man. He began investing in real estate and development as the owner of Rocky Point and Crescent Park amusement parks in Rhode Island. He developed an interest in media by founding several television and radio stations across the country, among them KKCO, an NBC affiliate in Boulder, CO, WJTC in Pensacola, FL, WRCC in Ft. Myers, FL, WKGR in West Palm Beach, FL, and KSKI in Vail, CO.

Henry was President of The Boston Charitable Society. He was the owner of the famed Studio54 in New York City, The Kenmore Club, Jacques in Boston’s Bay Village, and clubs in New Hampshire, Texas, and California. At one time, he owned the most liquor licenses in the City of Boston. He owned and operated Crown and Anchor Motor Inn in Provincetown, Mill Hill Club in West Yarmouth, MaryAnn’s in Brighton, Beacon Hill Pub, and Fathers 1,2,3,& 4. He loved antique automobiles, including a rare 1937 Packard Super 8, one of only ten in the world. But with all his entrepreneurial projects, Henry was about family and endearing long-lasting  friendships.

Beloved husband of Patricia Nee and the late Virgina “Gini” (Gangi) Vara. Dear son of the late Henry Dante Vara and Angelina Riccio Vara. Devoted father of Holli Pauline Vara and her husband Tom Donnelly, Henry Dante Vara III, Christian Dante Vara and his wife Ellen and the late Lisa Ann Vara. Cherished grandfather of Lisa and Zachary McAuliffe, Nicholas, Mitchell, Jack-Henry, Scott-Christian, Eliza, and Isabel Vara. Dear brother of the late Carmine A. Vara. Dear brother-in-law of Louis P. Gangi and his wife Vincenza M., and Lawrence P. Gangi and his wife, Jesse.  A funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Bernard’s Church, 1523 Washington St., West Newton, on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 11:00 am. Interment  will follow at Newton Cemetery. Visiting hours at The Burke and Blackington Funeral Home, 1479 Washington St., West Newton, on Friday from 3-7 pm. Remembrances may be made to Shrinerschildrens.org.

Helene “Skippy” Izen-passed away on April 14, 2023, at the age of 91, loving widow of Eliott to whom she was married for 61 years.  Helene was the youngest child of John and Sarah Sweet of Providence, Rhode Island.  She was predeceased by her siblings Gustaf, Morris, Francis, Eleanor, and Evelyn.  Helene was a devoted mother to Richard (Cathie), Ronald (Anna) and Mark (Carol), adored nana to Allison (Brian), Eric, Daniel, Steven (Dylan) and Sydney, (Neil) and great nana to Leo, Olivia, Andres, and Mateo.   She was adored by everyone she met and leaves behind many wonderful friends and family.

Helene will be remembered for her ability to light up a room with her smile and her infectious laugh. Whether baking, arranging flowers, or throwing parties, her warmth shone through in everything she did and being with loved ones was the central pillar of her life. Her charisma drew people to her, and Helene brought beauty and love to all who knew her. Helene rests peacefully with her husband Eliott knowing that her life’s work is fulfilled: the family they built is full of light and love.

To view recording of funeral service click here

Nonnie Hamovitch

July 9, 1952-April 18, 2023

It is with great sadness that the family of Nonnie Hamovitch z”l announces her passing on Tuesday, April 18 in Brookline, Massachusetts. Beloved wife and partner of Bruce Cedar, deeply loved and loving mother of Tessa (Daniel Mark), Arielle ( David Duchovny) and Emma (Adam Shapiro), proud Bubbe of Maeve and Cleo Mark and Seth Shapiro.  Loving sister and sister-in-law of Greg Hamovitch and Pam Cappe Hamovitch, Jon Hamovitch and Bonnie Kirsh, Eric Hamovitch z”l and Gouedala Marius.

Born in Montreal, Quebec, Nonnie was the second child and only daughter of the late Evelyn and Sam Hamovitch. She attended French and English schools in Montreal before setting off for university in Ottawa, Aix-en Provence and Montreal, graduating with a degree in French Literature. She found her true calling working with people in crisis, a few years later. She completed a Masters Degree in Psychology at Boston University and worked in Greater Boston before joining Bruce at CMG Associates. There she specialized in providing emergency support to employees in critical need while setting up longer term services in their work and home communities.

Nonnie was enormously caring, perceptive, and dedicated to people in her orbit. She built community to celebrate togetherness and she was there for everyone in sickness or in health. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, in Boston, Toronto, California, New York, Montreal, Vancouver and Lake Patrick where she went every year to swim, play and relax in the outdoors.

She was thoughtful, opinionated, passionate about causes she cared about and thoroughly Canadian.

Funeral Services to be held at Temple Israel in Boston on Monday, April 24, 2023 at 11:00 AM.

Shiva will be held Monday and Tuesday evening 6:00 – 8:00 at the Cedar/Hamovitch home.

To view the livestream of service click here

To view the recording of the interment service, please click here.

Alfred L. Goldberg “Fred” died peacefully at his home in Brookline on April 18, 2023 after a long illness, at the age of 80.  Fred was a cell biologist-biochemist and a longstanding professor at Harvard Medical School.  He was the son of Philip and Mary Goldberg of Providence, RI, the husband of retired hematologist Joan Helpern Goldberg MD, the father of jazz pianist Aaron Goldberg of New York City, and the father of progressive political software engineer Julie Goldberg of Seattle.  He was predeceased by his brother, concert promoter Harris Goldberg of Woodstock, NY.

Fred graduated from Classical High School in Providence in 1959 and from Harvard College in 1963, magna cum laude in Biochemical Sciences.  As an undergraduate he worked in the lab of Nobel prize-winning geneticist James Watson and was a founding member of the short-lived Harvard Tiddlywinks team.  After graduation he spent a year as a Churchill Scholar at Cambridge University, and then two years as a medical student at Harvard Medical School before receiving a PhD in Physiology in 1968 and joining the HMS Faculty.  Fred became a full professor at Harvard Medical School in 1977, and emeritus professor in 2022.

His 60 years of research elucidated the key features of intracellular protein degradation, a field that he helped to found.  In the late 1970s he discovered the proteasome, a large multisubunit protease complex that is crucial in eliminating abnormal proteins (intracellular garbage disposal), and regulating the levels of normal ones. This mechanism has turned out to be fundamental to how cells rapidly regulate many physiological processes, including cell division, gene expression and other key biological events. His work showed that this was important in activation of the inflammatory response and immune defenses against viruses and cancer. His research has also had implications for the problem of muscle wasting, for neurologic diseases characterized by the accumulation of abnormal proteins, as well as for immunology and chemotherapy. He later helped start a small biotech company that, together with his lab,  ultimately developed the proteasome inhibitor Bortezomib/Velcade.  This drug has been used world-wide to treat multiple myeloma, a cancer of the bone marrow, in hundreds of thousands of patients and proteasome inhibitors have been widely used in biomedical research. .

Fred stayed highly active writing research papers, supervising his lab and interacting with colleagues up until his death.  Many of his former trainees went on to illustrious scientific careers worldwide, and he maintained close friendships and collaborations with peers, mentors and protegés alike.  His interests extended beyond science to society at large, including contemporary politics and world history.  An amateur poet and music lover, Fred was a true polymath as well as a joyous, warm and funny soul, specializing in doggerel for memorable occasions.

He was a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the National Academy of Medicine, The National Academy of Sciences, and a fellow of the American Physiological Society.

Donations in his name may be made to the Alfred and Joan Goldberg Education and Fellowship Fund for Cell Biology at Harvard Medical School, to the J Street Education Fund, or to Partners in Health.  His funeral will be at 11 AM at Temple Israel, Boston on Thursday, April 20, 2023 with interment at Mount Auburn Cemetery afterwards.