Archive: May, 2023

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Irwin Michael Sallen, “Mike” died on April 18, 2023, in the presence of his daughters, Judith and Amy. He is predeceased by his wife Irene and his son Roy. He is survived by his children Judith, Bruce, and Amy, by his nephew Matthew Salovitz, by his grandchildren Harry and George, George’s wife Ceira, and by his children’s spouses and partners, James, Desiree, and Judy.

Mike was born Irwin Michael Salovitz in Boston on January 5, 1924. He was an excellent student, loved music and books, and grew up in the West End of Boston in a vibrant Jewish and Italian community. As a teenager, he enlisted in the US Army Air Core and served as a radio operator during World War II with the 449^th bomber group. His plane was shot down over Romania and he was the only member of his crew to survive. He was captured and spent 11 months as a prisoner of war. He was decorated with a purple heart for his service.

Mike attended Harvard University on the GI bill and majored in history. He reunited with his childhood sweetheart, Irene Shirley Freedman, they soon married, and had four children. They raised their family in Stoughton and Brookline MA.

Mike worked in education for all of his career. He started as a history teacher in the Boston Public Schools, where he was one of the first Jewish teachers hired. He then worked as an administrator. He was a popular assistant principal at the Curley School in Jamaica Plain, and a well-respected principal at the Agassiz School, now the Margarita Nunez. He was president of the BPS principal’s association and served as editor of the Principal’s Newsletter for Harvard University. He also taught religious school at Temple Israel in Boston and was an active member of the synagogue, especially in the Torah study groups.

Mike will be remembered as the writer and host of “The Fun Show,” one of Brookline cable’s longest running shows. He could often be found writing scripts in a notebook, reading several newspapers, or digging into a history book. He enjoyed playing the piano, especially Passover songs and “Goodnight Irene” for his wife. He was known for his love of slapstick, his wit, his intelligence, his appetite at the Chinese Buffet, and for a good argument about politics. His family is grateful for his long life and his many adventures.

Services will take place at 2:00 pm, Friday April 21 at the Kaminker Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury MA. Shiva will follow at the VFW, 386 Washington Street in Brookline.

Beverly Sherry Karp, age 83, passed away with her son Barry and daughter- in- law Cathy by her side on Friday, April 14, 2023 at Newton-Wellesley Hospital.  She was born in Pittsburgh, PA, the daughter of Helen and Benjamin Sherry.

Beverly attended the University of Pittsburgh. She was a lifelong teacher and loved working with children. She left a lasting impression on the students she taught with some of them reconnecting as adults later in life. Beverly and her husband enjoyed entertaining, making sure friends and family felt welcome in their home and was always friendly with their neighbors. Most recently she lived in the Avenu apartments in Natick. She had many great friends there with whom she enjoyed socializing, going out to eat and playing mahjong.

She married her best friend, Don. They were truly in love, spending time together, traveling together and being devoted parents.

Beverly was a loving wife to the late Donald Karp. She is survived by her son Barry Karp (Cathy) of Sutton. She is also survived by cousins and her best friends Carolyn and George Rosen whom she dearly loved.

Graveside service at the Framingham-Natick Hebrew Cemetery, 40 Fairview Ave., Natick, MA on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 11:00 am. Donations in Beverly’s memory may be made to your favorite charity.

   Leonard S. Hartog:    April 5, 2023

Leonard S. Hartog of Southborough passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 5, 2023. Proud son of the late Harry  and Charlotte Hartog. Beloved father of Douglas and Peter (Traci) Hartog. Devoted grandfather of Benjamin and Noah Hartog. Loving brother of  the late Howard, Stephen, and Robert Hartog.

Born in the Bronx before the Stone Age, Leonard remained an avid, if misguided New York Yankees fan. Despite his terrible taste in baseball teams, he also loved the Celtics and Patriots. Leonard proudly served in the Army for three years before spending much of his professional career in the hospitality services. He played softball, enjoyed the occasional drop of Canadian Club, and maintained an intense interest in both stamp collecting and Japanese culture.

Those who knew him best would agree—Leonard lived life his way. He was a man of character. And he also appreciated character. He never missed a chance to dole out pearls of valuable life lessons to anyone who would, or cared to listen. He proudly gave to a variety of charities, including the New England Aquarium, the Shriners Hospitals for Children, the Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the Wounded Warrior Project. While you won’t find his name on Wikipedia, in the Guinness Book of World Records or in a Who’s Who of Interesting People, Leonard left his indelible mark upon every person he met.

But most importantly, Leonard adored his family. He especially loved chatting up his grandchildren, hearing about their misadventures, trying (and failing) to turn Benjamin into a Yankees fan, and listening to Noah play the piano. He will be dearly missed.

Graveside service at New Hand in Hand Cemetery, 2659 Centre St., West Roxbury, MA on Friday, April 14, 2023 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Diane Joy Ceder-Of Framingham, on April 3, 2023.Services private.

Of Boston, formerly of Wellesley, on Thursday, March 30, 2023.  A healer extraordinaire.  Cherished husband of Phyllis (Goldberg) London.  Loving father of Jack & his wife Diane, and Jon & his wife Anne, all of Wellesley.  Adored grandfather of Emily, Julia, Benjamin, Emma & Jenna. Dear brother of Sara Libby Seletz.  Services were private.  In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Abram M. London, MD Fund, Tufts University School of Medicine, 80 George St., Medford, MA 02155.

A recording of the funeral service can be found here.

Henri-Ann Simon Sussman of Lincoln, MA, age 80, passed away peacefully in her home on April 1, 2023 after a period of declining health.  Born on February 7, 1943, Henri-Ann was the beloved daughter of Edward and Selma (Bacon) Simon.  Raised in Marblehead, she often spoke fondly of treasured days with her family on north shore beaches and in Ogunquit, ME.  She graduated from Marblehead High School in 1960 and earned a degree in Government from the University of New Hampshire in 1964.

A devoted wife and a mother, Henri-Ann will be remembered by her extended family and friends as someone who was always there.  She loved a full house and a full table on any day of the year.  She was passionate about antiques, buying and selling, and was known locally for her remarkable yard sales.  She thoughtfully filled her home with meaningful pieces of art, antique furniture and cultural relics acquired during her trips around the world with her beloved Joe.

Henri-Ann was often found in schools, theaters, poolside, game fields and in places of worship, watching her children, grandchildren, and extended family pursue their passions.  Henri-Ann’s open heart made friends easily that she kept for life.  She was a mother to all, and she will be remembered for her willingness to listen and her love of family, bunnies, and a good book.

Henri-Ann was predeceased by her husband of 54 years, Joseph M. Sussman and her daughter Kerri-Jae Sussman.
Henri-Ann is survived by her sister Jane Stricker and her husband Robert of Boston, MA; her sister-in-law, Toby Manke and her husband Terry of Fort Lauderdale, FL; her daughter-in-law Kimberly Coppenrath of Windham, ME; her son Andrew Sussman and his wife Kristina of Westford, MA and her son Craig Sussman and his wife Nadia of Lincoln, MA.  She was a proud Nana to Taylor, Leda, Ryan, Hailey, and Owen.  She was a beloved “Auntie” to her nieces and nephews – Eden (Bill), Trevor (Luba), Dan, and Jamison (Billy) and great- nieces and great- nephews – Sydney, Charlie, Jamie, Levi, and Sam.  Henri-Ann was cherished by her extended family with whom she spent countless hours.

We would like to extend gratitude and acknowledgement to all those who lovingly cared for her in her last years, especially her beloved caregivers, the “Sussman Team.”

The funeral will be held graveside at 2pm Monday April 3, 2023 at the Town of Lincoln Cemetery, 38 Lexington Road, Lincoln, MA.  Following interment, observance will be held at the home of Craig & Nadia Sussman from 3:30 to 7pm.  Shiva will be held at the home from 3pm to 7:30pm on Tuesday April 4, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Joseph and Henri-Ann Sussman Book Fund at the Lincoln Public Library, 3 Bedford Road, Lincoln, MA 01773.

Eleanor Budd-Of Boston, on April 1, 2023. Services are private.

Norton Fishman, a pioneer in Geriatric Dentistry, was born in Dorchester during the depression, in 1928. He attended public schools in Dorchester, until he enrolled in Boston Latin School in grade 7, graduating in 1945.

He attended Boston University, majoring in chemistry and pre-medical studies, graduating Phi Beta Kappa in 1948, at the age of 20. Too young to be accepted to medical school, he went to Northeastern University for two years, as a teaching fellow in chemistry, and earned a Master’s Degree in 1950. He was accepted at Harvard School of Dental Medicine and, after two years at the Medical School and two years at the Dental School, he graduated in 1954 with a D.M.D. and a prestigious silver medal.

Immediately after graduation, Uncle Sam called and Dr. Fishman spent two years during the Korean War at Sampson Air Force Base on Lake Seneca, in upstate New York. During that time he had the good fortune to meet his wife to-be, Carol, and they married in June, 1957. They bought a house in Norwood and converted it into a home-office.

Dr. Fishman taught part-time at Harvard Dental School as an Associate Clinical Professor and established his private practice in Norwood, Massachusetts, thereby allowing him to teach half time, see private patients, and be more available to family over the years.

Dr. Fishman was elected as a Fellow of the American College of Dentistry (FACD).

As one of the early founders of the American Society of Geriatric Dentistry, and a pioneer in the field, Dr. Fishman developed and directed dental clinics at both Hebrew Senior Life and New England Sinai Hospital. He organized the first international conference on geriatric dentistry and the subsequent publication of the Proceedings of the Conference on Dentistry and the Geriatric Patient.

He was an avid gardener, birder, world traveler, and amateur orchidist. He was a recreational skier and tennis player who had, more recently, taken up snow shoeing and bridge. He was always a voracious reader, but his greatest love was his family.

Dr. Fishman leaves behind his loving wife, Carol (Lowenberg) Fishman, as well as his children, Scott Fishman, Robin Borgestedt, and Lauren Petrie, as well as his most cherished grandchildren, Alexander, Sarena, Noa, Hanna, Jonah, Eliya, Solomon, and Bobby, and his great-grandchild, Elizabeth. He was preceded in death by his life-long friend and brother, Harrison Fishman, and his beloved son, Jeffrey Neil Fishman.

A graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at 1:45 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jeffrey Neil Fishman Endowment Fund at Boston Children’s Hospital

To view the service  recording please click here.

Margot Stern Strom, 81; with Facing History and Ourselves, taught students worldwide to reject bigotry and hatred

By Bryan Marquard Globe Staff,Updated March 28, 2023, 11:56 a.m.

Margot Stern Strom cofounded Facing History and Ourselves, the school curriculum that teaches students to reject bigotry and hatred.

To create Facing History and Ourselves, a curriculum that has helped millions of students around the world confront moral dilemmas while learning to reject hatred and bigotry, Margot Stern Strom drew inspiration from her Memphis childhood.

As a Jewish girl in a segregated southern state, she was told to not drink from water fountains marked “colored.” And in her classrooms, everyone seemed to know what could and couldn’t be said.

“There was a powerful silence about race and racism and no mention of antisemitism or the Holocaust,” she once wrote. “ ‘Bad history’ was best forgotten. The Civil War was the War Between the States and we were taught how the South won the major battles. In my Tennessee history class I did not learn who lost the Civil War.”

Ms. Strom cofounded Facing History in Brookline’s schools in 1976 and led the nonprofit for nearly 40 years while it expanded into classrooms in all 50 states and more than 100 countries. She was 81 when she died Tuesday in her Brookline home of pancreatic cancer.

In an era when violent acts of antisemitism and racism are increasing, and some politicians want to ban books and curtail courses that teach about bigotry’s history, Ms. Strom pioneering work is seen by many as more relevant than ever.

Margot had a drive and a vision to become a leader for teachers and students in a world in which too many people don’t acknowledge that there are patterns of hatred and prejudice that range from the playground to civil war,” said Martha Minow, a former dean of Harvard Law School who had served on the governing board of the nonprofit Facing History and Ourselves.

Nearly a half century ago, Ms. Strom and a colleague in the Brookline school system first discussed teaching students about the Holocaust, and that conversation led them to launch Facing History and Ourselves.

Throughout the nonprofit’s history, the organization and teachers have faced resistance from some educators and elected officials who want to ignore or barely mention certain disquieting historical subjects for political reasons, or simply because they worry about the impact the subjects will have on children.

“We’ve suggested in this curriculum and with this particular history and with the methods that we’re using that we have to allow for discomfort in the classroom,” Ms. Strom once said.

She believed that by studying how bigotry affected people in the past, and examining how hatred still roils today’s world, students could learn to make ethical and moral choices that will improve their lives.

“It’s scary to walk in someone else’s shoes,” Ms. Strom said in a 2015 interview with Harvard Ed., the alumni magazine of the Harvard Graduate School of Education. “But you can imagine it if you’re taught about it. There’s a need for truth telling and widening perspectives.”

Born in Chicago on Nov. 10, 1941, Margot Stern was 5 when her family moved to Memphis, where her parents — Lloyd Stern and Fannye Wener Stern, who was known as Fan – ran a furniture store.

“My mother brought priests, poets such as Randall Jarrell, lectures on Shakespeare, and books from college into our home,” Ms. Strom wrote in a history of her nonprofit. “My dad, an author and an artist, clipped and saved articles about people and topics that would inspire his children. He gardened, made scrapbooks about

Fan Stern, who had been a top student at the University of Alabama, was the household’s scholar and guiding light.

Gerald Stern, who was an attorney with the civil rights division of the US Justice Department under then-Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, said Ms. Strom “was very close to our mother, who led us: This is what you should be doing, this is what you should be reading, this is how you should be feeling.”

The middle child of three siblings, Ms. Strom went to Central High School in Memphis and studied history at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, graduating in 1964 with a bachelor’s degree.

While registering for classes with students lined up alphabetically, she met Terry Strom, who was standing next to her. They married in 1964, and he became a renowned researcher in organ transplant immunology.

“To know him was to adore him,” she said for his Globe obituary in 2018.

After college, Ms. Strom initially taught in Skokie, Ill.

“I knew that I did not want to be another link in a conspiracy of silence,” she wrote. “I wanted to honor my students’ potential to confront history in all of its complexity, to cope, and to make a positive difference in their school, community, nation, and the world.”

And in an approach that continued for the rest of her life, “I quickly discovered that although I was officially the teacher, I was learning about adolescents and myself from my students.”

After the Stroms moved to Brookline in 1970, she began teaching eighth-grade language arts and social studies at the Runkle School, and received a master’s from Harvard University in 1977.

In the early 1970s, some Brookline residents asked if the school system taught about the Holocaust.

Troubled by gaps in her own knowledge about the Holocaust, and by memories of how that history wasn’t mentioned when she was young, Ms. Strom and Brookline social studies teacher William Parsons launched Facing History and Ourselves in 1976.

Parsons, who later was chief of staff at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, died in 2016.

For Ms. Strom, “history was not something to be memorized. It was something to be ripped apart and fought with. The complexity was important, and not to be ducked,” said her son, Adam Strom of Brookline.

He worked with his mother for many years at Facing History and is now executive director and cofounder of the Boston nonprofit Re-Imagining Migration, of which Ms. Strom was a founding board member.

As a founder and the guiding force of Facing History for nearly four decades, until stepping down several years ago, Ms. Strom “was both a visionary and an incredible listener,” Adam said. “She got so engaged in everybody’s ideas, whether they were mine or my sister’s or anybody’s at work.”

At work and home with her children and four grandchildren, Ms. Strom “was the most present person in every aspect of what she was doing,” said her daughter, Rachel Fan Stern Strom of Brooklyn.

In addition to her son, daughter, brother, and grandchildren, Ms. Strom leaves her sister, Paula Stern of Washington, D.C., who formerly chaired the US International Trade Commission.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday in Temple Israel of Boston. Shiva will be held at her residence Thursday 4 – 8 p.m.

Friday 3 – 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Re-Imagining Migration.

Working alongside and becoming friends with Ms. Strom “certainly changed the trajectory of my life and my career,” said Minow, who counts herself among those inspired by her friend’s drive, compassion,

and ability to guide people of all ages to confront the complex ways bigotry and hatred have been powerful forces in history

At 100 years young.

Beloved wife of the late Louis Spero, formerly of Chestnut Hill, on March 28, 2023.   Devoted mother of Nathan (and Shelli) Koenig, Janet (and Steven) Kouroubacalis, Marjorie Spero, and Louise Becker. Cherished grandmother of Natasha Lohrer, Marisa and Michael Kouroubacalis, and Hope Umansky. Loving great-grandmother of Machia and Seth Lohrer and Molly Umansky.

Shirley grew up in Bridgeport, Connecticut where she attended business college and worked in the family business. After moving to Boston, she became involved in numerous charitable organizations as a dynamic leader. She was the guest of honor at the Greater Boston Israel Bond luncheon, a member of the Board of Directors of the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center (currently Hebrew Senior Life), the Beth Israel Hospital Women’s Auxiliary, and former vice president of the Brookline Hospital Women’s Auxiliary, and sisterhood of Temple Ohabei Shalom in Brookline. She was a lifetime member and contributor to New England Sinai Hospital, Hadassah, Boston Aid to the Blind, Brandeis University, and Jewish Memorial Hospital.

Shirley was known for her positivity, humor, generosity, and infectious smile.  She was a world traveler, avid bridge player, golfer, and horseback rider.  She enjoyed decades of summers at The Balsams in New Hampshire, playing golf and spending time with her family.

Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA, on Friday, March 31st, 2023 at 11:45 am. Memorial service will be held in the Chapel of Brooksby Village, 300 Brooksby Village Drive, Peabody, MA on Saturday April 1, 2023 at 1pm. Remembrances may be made to the Brooksby Staff Appreciation Fund. 100 Brooksby Village Drive, Peabody, MA 01960.

Marshall R. Spitz- Of Chestnut Hill, on March 28, 2023. Senior vice-president of investments. Beloved husband of Nancy Spitz for over 37 years. Devoted father of Preston Spitz, Sarah Spitz(David Jellinek) and Hilary Arens (Seth). Dear grandfather of Quinn and Willow Arens, Avalon, Sydney and Calla Jellinek. Loving brother of Robert Spitz and Malvina Feinswog. Dear brother in law  of Jay Rosoff. Marshall excelled in bridge and chess. He achieved the status of life master in bridge, and when he achieved the status, he was the youngest player ever to achieve that status. You can also find his name in the encyclopedia of bridge players. He was an avid golfer and lover of sports. He was a highly ranked tennis player. But most importantly, he was the most loving and giving human being. If anybody needed a hand, his was right there. He will be dearly missed. Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Sunday, April 2, 2023, at 12:45 pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Combined Jewish Philanthropies, 126 High St., Boston, MA 02110. www.cjp.org/ways-to-give.

Age 90, of Framingham and formerly of Needham, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on March 26, 2023.

Cherished wife of Richard Weiner for 70 years. Beloved mother of Amy Willinsky and her husband Jeff of Canton, David Weiner and his wife Linda of Ithaca NY, and Bruce Weiner and his wife Pam of Davie, FL.  Devoted “Nana” to Naomi, Ben and Elana Willinsky, Rachael and Meri (Matt) Weiner, Nadine Aigen, Dan Kelley, Lydia (Chris) Virino and Iyanna (Mike) Marshall, and proud great-grandmother of five. Sister of Ralph Levine and Seymour Levine.  Dear sister-in-law of Irma Zarinsky and beloved to many nieces, nephews and life-long friends.

Ellie was a long-time volunteer at WBZ’s Call for Action and later worked as a state ombudswoman for numerous nursing homes.  Her kugel, kneidel and soup were legendary, her green thumb admired, and her helmet hairdo envied.  She will be deeply missed for her good humor, and her love and devotion to family and friends.

Thank you to Home Helpers and Good Shepherd Hospice for their compassionate care.  The family would also like to express their thanks and gratitude to the Shillman House family for their love and support during this difficult time.

Graveside services will be at Quincy Hebrew Society Cemetery at 776 Baker Street in West Roxbury on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at 1 PM, followed by Shiva at Shillman House, 49 Edmands Road, Framingham MA from 3PM to 7 PM.  Shiva will continue at the home of Amy and Jeff Willinsky, 10 Shawnlee Rd, Canton, MA  02021 with visitation from 3 PM to 6 PM and Mincha at 6:15 PM on Wednesday, March 29 and Thursday, March 30.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to Prader-Willi Syndrome Association  https://www.pwsausa.org, or to Shillman House (2LifeCommunities), https://2lifecommunities.org/donate

To view the service please click here.

On March 25, 2023, Larry Gerber of Newton, MA, passed away at age 66. Beloved husband of Laurie (Tidor) Gerber. Dear son of Rebecca Gerber and the late Israel Gerber. Devoted father of Cheryl Gerber, Jennifer Gerber, Julie (Gerber) Rivera and her husband Yimi. Doting grandfather of Luna. Devoted brother of Steven Gerber and his wife Ellen, and Geoffrey Gerber and his wife Laurie. Larry earned his BS from The University of Pennsylvania and received his MBA from Harvard Business School.

He founded EPOCH Senior Living, specializing in memory care and independent living. He was an avid Boston sports fan and a long-time season ticket holder of the Boston Celtics. He loved his dog, Eala, spending time with his family and friends, and boating on Cape Cod.

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Services will be held at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Road, Wellesley, on Monday, March 27, 2023, at 10:30 am. Following interment at Or Emet Cemetery, Baker St., West Roxbury, a memorial gathering will be held at The Belmont Country Club, 181 Winter St., Belmont, until 6:00 pm. Shiva will be at his residence 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and Friday 1-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Temple Beth Elohim or Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

To view the service recording please click here.

Ruby Goldman, formerly of North Miami Beach, passed away on March 24, 2023 in Massachusetts, at age 79. Born in Boston, Ruby was the daughter of the late Sidney and Esther Goldman and the sister of Janice Marmer and the late Edward Marmer of Boynton Beach. She was the beloved aunt of Jeffrey Marmer and his wife Joan of Menasha, WI, and Karen Wald and her husband Rob of Sharon, MA. Proud Great Aunt of Steven (Morgan), Jennifer (Michael), Aaron (Rebecca), Amy, and Jonathan. Great-Great Aunt of Asher and Ruby. She will be missed by her friends and relatives.

Ruby had a prodigious career in travel as a tour operator in Israel for almost 30 years, residing in Tel Aviv. She moved to Philadelphia and then North Miami Beach, continuing her career specializing in Israel and then international cruises. Ruby traveled the world and lived life to its fullest. She loved music, cats, and Chinese food.

Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Monday, March 27, at 2:45 pm. Shiva will be observed immediately after the interment until 8 pm and on Tuesday from 6 pm – 8 pm at the home of Karen and Rob Wald. Donations can be made to the Sidney and Esther Goldman Fund at Temple Beth Sholom, 50 Pamela Road, Framingham, MA 01701.

To view the livestream of the service please click here.

of Sarasota, Florida, age 85, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2023.

Son of the late Harry and Jennie Michals. Brother of the late Myron Michals.

Beloved husband of Kathleen Michals. Compassionate father of Brad and wife Susan, Jim and wife Margaret, and Doug and wife Rebecca.

Proud grandfather— also known as Papa, of Drew, Matt, Mikayla, Ali, Jess, Madison, and Katelyn. Uncle of Jonathan, Jules, and Evan.

Former owner and president of the Bernard Michals Insurance Agency, Co-Founder of Massachusetts Youth Ice Hockey, USA Hockey Director and President of the Hockey Equipment Certification Council, Lieutenant in the Navy, and graduate of Union College.

Funeral service will be held on Monday, April 3, 2023 at 10:00am at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington St., Newton, followed by interment at Newton Cemetery. Shiva will be at the home of Susan and Brad on Monday, April 3 from 1-3 & 5-8 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bernie’s memory may be made to Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s of Sarasota (https://www.neurochallenge.org/about/sarasota-parkinsons-donations/), and Tidewell Foundation (https://tidewellfoundation.org/donate/).

Charles Oscar Mattingly, age 1, of Boston, MA, died on Thursday, March 23^rd, 2023 at Boston Children’s Hospital.  Charlie passed peacefully in his parents’ arms, one week after his first birthday and nine months after his initial infantile brain cancer diagnosis. He was the treasured son of Elliot Mattingly and Amy Flaster, and younger brother to sister Isabel Mattingly. He was the adored grandson of grandparents Patrick Mattingly and Jill Force, Moti Flaster, and Wendy Litwin and Morris Presser. He is survived by many adoring uncles, aunts, cousins, great-grandparents, and close friends.

In his short life, Charlie captured the hearts of everyone he met with a radiant smile, wet kisses, and a wonderful belly laugh. He was an outgoing, active, gregarious, and affectionate baby. His beautiful blue eyes, sandy blonde hair, and stature were striking. Charlie loved nothing more than being a part of the action and treasured every moment with his sister and family. He relished daily walks around his neighborhood in the South End, time on the beach in Scituate, and great family cuddles. He brought joy to every room and maintained the sweetest disposition despite the challenges thrown his way. Every day with Charlie was a gift.

Charles’ funeral will take place this Sunday March 26^th at 1 pm at Temple Israel in Boston ,477 Longwood Avenue, followed by burial at Or Emet Cemetery,776 Baker Street, West Roxbury, MA, with Shiva at 400 Stuart Street, 6^th floor (Club Room) immediately following. Shiva visitation will also take place at 400 Stuart Street, 6^th floor (Club Room), on Monday through Thursday of this week from 5-7 pm. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Flaster Mattingly Family Fund at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to support pediatric cancer research:

• Donate online: https://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/FlasterMattinglyFamilyFund
• Donate by phone: (617) 632-6099 and ask the staff to direct the gift to the Flaster Mattingly Family Fund
• Donate by mail: P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284

A link to view the Livestream can be found here.

Lois Belt passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 23, 2023, with her devoted son at her side.  She was the wife of the late Robert Belt and the beloved mother of Erik and his wife Debby and the loving and adored grandmother of Halley (Stephen), Olivia, and Emily. Lois, adored by everyone she met, leaves behind many wonderful friends. She was an artist and an art teacher and spent her career enchanting students at the Alcott School in Concord, MA. Services at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Rd., Wellesley on Monday, March 27, 2023 at 2 pm. Interment to follow at the Framingham/Natick Hebrew Cemetery. Shiva immediately following the burial until 9 pm at the home of Erik and Debby Belt. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lois’s name may be made to the New Art Center of Newton, MA.

Our beloved mother, Lynn Meyer of Framingham, MA passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 23, 2023, at the age of 87. A memorial gathering will take place on Friday, April 21st,  3:30 – 5pm in the Peloquin Room at Heritage Senior Living, 747 Water Street, Framingham, MA. All are welcome to stop by.

Marilynn Golden was born on July 24, 1935 to Ruth and Jack Golden of South River, N.J.  Lynn was loved by all who came into contact with her, especially her many friends and family.

She was the devoted mother to four children: Melinda (Steve) Moses, Josh (Michael Chandler) Meyer, Diana McCarthy, and David (Annalisa) Meyer.  Lynn was cherished “Nanny” to eight grandchildren who were the light of her life: RJ, Jason and Julia McCarthy, Jessica and Rebecca Moses, Sadie Meyer and Jonah and Norah Meyer. Lynn is also survived by her beloved sister Bonita Sue Miller of West Palm Beach, Fl and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

No matter how tough things got for Lynn, she always had a smile on her face, looked at the bright side, never complained and was always ready for a social gathering.

Our mother was a kind, caring and giving person who always put the needs of others ahead of her own, especially her family. Underneath her compassionate exterior, she was an exceptionally strong and resilient woman who faced every one of the many challenges in her life with courage and dignity.

Those who knew her well drew strength and inspiration from the way she lived her life, from the early years in New Jersey,  New York and Pittsburgh, to her home of the last 50 yeas in Framingham, Massachusetts, where she and our father George Meyer raised our family and built a comfortable life for us..

Lynn fondly remembered a childhood of piano lessons and sleepaway summer camp. She delighted in her father’s sense of humor and her mother’s devotion to faith and a Jewish temple, Anshe Emeth, in South River, NJ that her parents helped establish.

Recommended reading: The Story of Lynn Meyer (https://app.memorywell.com/story/477/memorywell/)

Growing up, Lynn was always there for us, whether we needed help with homework, a ride to tennis or, later on, someone to enjoy a good meal and a cocktail with at one of many local restaurants she loved so much.

Lynn instilled in all of us the importance of family, hard work, thoughtfulness, and doing what is right. She was a true role model who we have always looked up to.

Lynn was a model for catalogs during college at Elmira and then Tobe-Coburn Fashion School for Business. She became known for her good-natured mischievous streak. After graduating, she continued to model, worked as a shoe buyer and lived in an apartment with girlfriends at the famed Barbizon Hotel on the Upper East side. Her social life soared, as did her romantic life, which included some of Manhattan’s most eligible bachelors.

She went on to have a successful career as a Manufacturers Rep for toys and gifts,  traveling solo throughout New England – through rain, snow and the occasional car problems in the middle of nowhere. Her customers always looked forward to Lynn’s visits, and her grandchildren cherished her stories of life on the road and the toys and trinkets she never failed to bring them.

Lynn’s funeral service and burial took place at Anshe Emeth Cemetary in South River, NJ where she was buried in the family plot next to her mother and father and other close friends and relatives.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jewish Family Services of Metrowest.

Mom, you will always and forever be in our hearts and minds. We love you so much.