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Archive: February, 2022

Marcia B. Hearst

February 27, 2022

Hearst Marcia B. (Alpert)  of Framingham died very peacefully on Sunday Feb 27 at age 101, four days short of her 102nd birthday. Beloved wife of the late Martin D. Hearst. Beloved mother of Nancy Hearst, Judy Hearst Wei and her late husband Dr. Nathan Wei, Ellen Hearst Gilman and her partner Bill Gittler. Adored grandmother of Matthew and his wife Mandy Gilman, Alex and his wife Julie Gilman and Danny Gilman. Becky Wei Piper and her husband Jack Piper, Jeffrey Wei, Benjamin Wei and his wife Megan Wei, and Emily Wei, and loving great grandmother of Henry and Jacob Gilman, Maya and Caleb Gilman, Evan Wei and Beatrice Piper. Marcia enjoyed much happiness and joy from her entire family. She did not retire until age 100, but still continued to sew and knit. Remembrances may be given to McAuliffe Branch Library, 746 Water St., Framingham 01701.

Charlotte Krentzel

February 23, 2022

Krentzel, Charlotte (Shapiro), 97, of Lasell Village in Auburndale, MA, passed away on February 23, 2022. She was born to Emma Shapiro and Alex Shapiro, on 10 September 1924 in Manchester, NH.

She graduated from Manchester Central High in 1941, received an associates degree from Colby Sawyer College in 1943 and graduated the University of Michigan in 1946 with a bachelor’s degree in social work.

Charlotte was a strong and devoted woman giving of herself to her family, the community, and social causes, in New Hampshire and throughout New England.

Growing of age during a time when traditional women’s activities was mostly centered around the home, Charlotte did that and more.  Her activism for social justice and concerns for the rights of the less fortunate caused her to enlist as a volunteer for New Hampshire Legal Assistance in the organization’s formative years in the 1970s. She interviewed clients, engaged in problem solving and served as an advocate in the confident and outspoken style for which she was well known. The staff, in which she was quickly integrated, affectionately referred to Charlotte as “Chuck”.  She worked long hours as a reliable legal assistant, along with her good friend and co-worker volunteer, Maxine Morse.  Later, Charlotte became a volunteer at Eliot Hospital. Charlotte grew up in the Temple Adath Yeshurun family married Ted Krentzel and remained within that extended family throughout her life.

Charlotte was famous for being a “straight shooter,” and woman of strong opinions, characteristics that endeared her too many people.  She was also a philanthropist and dedicated supporter of many non-profit organizations.  In recent years, Charlotte was outspoken in supporter of Media Power Youth, a Manchester, NH based organization dedicated to guiding young people to lead healthy, active lives by understanding the influence of, and how to smartly interpret today’s media, especially social media in all of its forms.

In 2007, Charlotte relocated from Manchester, NH to Lasell Village in Auburndale, MA, a Boston suburb, where she enjoyed a very productive life as part of a college based community.

She was predeceased by her loving husband Theodore Krentzel, a prominent Manchester business leader and partner in one of the State’s largest meat packing companies, and her dear son Alan Krentzel.

Charlotte was an awesome Wife, Mom, Gram and Gigi, Aunt, and friend. She is survived by her daughter Lee Krentzel Forgosh and husband Jeffrey Forgosh. Her grandchildren Lauren Forgosh Brooks and husband David Brooks, Karen Forgosh Cooper and husband Lee Cooper, Alyssa Krentzel and fiancé David Hoffman and Evan Krentzel. She has 4 great grandchildren, Sydney Brooks, Ella Brooks , Phoenix Cooper, and Lily Cooper.

She was interred February 23, 2022 at Manchester Hebrew Cemetery. Rabbi Beth Davidson officiated.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Adath Yeshurun, 152 Prospect St., Manchester, NH 03104 or online https://taynh.org/ or the Jewish Federation of New Hampshire, 273 South River Rd., #5, Bedford, NH 03110 or online jewishnh.org.

Shirley C. Less

February 21, 2022

Shirley C. Less, of Chestnut Hill, MA, February 21, 2022.  Beloved wife of the late William C. Less. Loving mother of David A. Less and Joseph S. Less. Devoted grandmother of Isabelle Less. Sister of the late Sterling “Sonny” Shapiro. Private graveside service will be held at Mishkan Tefila Memorial Park. Remembrances in memory of Shirley may be made to a charity of your choice.

George H. Berkowitz

February 20, 2022

George Berkowitz, Founder of Legal Sea Foods. Of Dedham, MA, formerly of Boston, on February 20, 2022. Beloved husband of Harriet (Wiskind) Berkowitz. Devoted father of Roger Berkowitz and his wife Lynne, Marc Berkowitz and his wife Elizabeth, Richard Berkowitz and his wife Hadley. Dear grandfather of Matthew and his wife Pascale, Scott and his wife Sara, Jacklyn and her husband Sean Holmes, Ben and his wife Lindsay, and Max, Hannah, Madeline and Claire. Loving great-grandfather of Lucia, Jack, Daniel, Teddy, and Archer. Dear brother of Donald and the late Stanley, Leonard, and Ethel Cantor. Services will be private. Remembrances in his memory may be made to  Mass Eye and Ear at giving.masseyeandear.org or to Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

Minna C. Katz

February 19, 2022

Minna C. Katz, 95 of E. Walpole, MA, formerly of Sharon, MA, passed away on February 19, 2022. Minna was born in Fitchburg, MA on November 24, 1924, to Benjamin and Florence Cofman. She was a graduate of Simmons College with a degree in Nutrition. She was happily married for 68 years to Sidney Katz until his death in 2019.

She is survived by her sons Andy, Gerry and his wife Nichole Cirillo, and Ron and his wife Diane, as well as his grandchildren Jen, Ben, Alex and Mark Katz,  her loving sister Lucille (Babsy) Krichmar and loving brother Burton and his wife Alice Cofman. A longtime resident of Sharon, MA and Newton Centre, MA, she’ll be missed by countless individuals whose lives she knew and touched.

A graveside service will be held at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA, on February 22, 2022, at 1:45pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Minna’s memory may be made to the Friends of Sharon Public Library.

Vivian Goldberg

February 19, 2022

Goldberg, Vivian Clayton, Age 98, of Hull, MA, passed away February 19, 2022. Beloved wife for 58 years of the late Herbert Goldberg. Adored mother of Debra Goldberg, and Norman Goldberg and his wife Suzanne. Inspiring grandmother of two, and great-grandmother of four. Viv was a child of the roaring 20’s, with a spirit that matched the era. Upheavals of the Great Depression and World War II further shaped her intrepid yet gentle devotion to family, work, and community. After raising her family she defied her generation’s expectations that a woman’s place was solely in the home and by her husband’s side. She managed all that, while also managing a large residential apartment building. For decades, she deftly made better her tenants’ lives, only semi-retiring in her 90’s. Viv will be remembered as a role model-showing rather than just telling all that is possible, and good-naturedly daring us to match her energy and wit, determination, and common sense. Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at 1:45 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Viv’s memory may be made to Emmaus Inc., 127 How St., Haverhill, MA 01830, or to the Lenny Zakim Fund, 33 Arch St., Boston, MA 02110.

Jerome Bloom

February 15, 2022

To view the service recording please click here.

Bloom, Jerome “Jerry” of Canton, formerly of Newton, on February 15, 2022. Predeceased by his wife, Ella (Bootin) Bloom. Father of Jonathan Bloom (Frances Goldstein), and Shelah Bloom. Stepfather of Arnee Winshall (Walter), Janice Goldstein (Stanley) and Julie Tolkin. Grandfather of Jacob Bloom, Hasan and Rehan Bhatti, Sarah and Aaron Winshall, Aaron Goldstein (Jessica), Louis Goldstein (Melissa), Joshua Goldstein (Traci), Aaron Tolkin (Dena), Corey Tolkin, Danielle Tolkin, and Samuel Tolkin and his wife Jackie. Great-grandfather of Elizabeth, Alexandra, Isaac and Oliver Tolkin, and Ethan, Zachary, Lev and Cameron Goldstein. Brother of the late Stanley Bloom and his wife Arlene. Uncle of Valerie Bloomberg (Mark) and Evan Bloom (Susan). Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, Thursday, February 17, 2022, at 10:45 am. Masks required. No in-person shiva. Donations may be made to Jewish Community Day School, Attn: JCDS Boston, 57 Stanley Ave., Watertown, MA 02472, Chabad of Canton, 580 Washington St., Canton, MA 02021, or Orchard Cove, C/O Staff Engagement Fund, 1 Del Pond Dr., Canton, MA 02021.

SHIVA MINYAN ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17  FROM 7:30-8:30 p.m.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8322754888?pwd=ZDl4YjRkZEtISTBESVlHV05qMEg3Zz09

Edith Huddie Ravelson

February 13, 2022

Edith Huddie Ravelson, 95, of Milton, MA, formerly of Worcester, MA, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2022, surrounded by her loving family.  She was born June 16, 1926, to Samuel and Anna Lyon.  She is survived by her older brother Irving Lyon and was the sister of the late Sumner Lyon and Sylvia Lyon.  She was happily married for 66 years to Harold Ravelson until his death in 2014.

She is survived by her sons Bob Ravelson and his wife Maxine Milstein and Bruce Ravelson and his wife Francine. Dear Bubbie of Kai Madden and her husband Sean Madden, Tyler Ravelson and his wife Rosemary Ravelson, and Sam Ravelson and his wife Kerrie O’Brien. Loving great-grandmother of Matthew and Ellie Ravelson.

She was famous for her hospitality and her door was always open to family and friends. Edith was well known for her beautiful outfits and her fabulous food and pastries.  She was a lifelong MahJong player, an avid gardener, and a cultivator of orchids. She brightened the laundry room at Fuller Village with all the extra orchids she couldn’t fit into her apartment.  She managed a men’s clothing store in Worcester for 20 years, was a volunteer at the Red Cross in Worcester for 18 years, and was a lifelong member of Beth Israel Synagogue.

Edith requested that any donations should be made to the charity of one’s choice.  Private services will be held.

 

 

 

 

Ronna L. Kaplan

February 13, 2022

Ronna L. Kaplan, nee Small, age 69.  Beloved wife of Edward S. Kaplan; devoted daughter of Naomi (Newman) and the late Melvin Small; cherished mother of Adam (Colleen) and Matthew (Julia) Kaplan; loving grandmother of Jordan, Andrew and Harriet; dear sister of Jane (John) Devecis, Debra Small, Howard (Diane) Small, and Joseph (Judy) Small; fond aunt of many nieces and nephews.  Graveside funeral Wednesday, February 16, 2022, 12:00 noon, at Congregation B’nai Brith Cemetery, MA-128, Peabody, MA.   Contributions in Ronna’s name to the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin, would be appreciated.

Melissa Beth Stuchins

February 10, 2022

To view livestream of funeral service on Monday, February 14, 2022 at 2pm click here

Melissa Stuchins passed away peacefully on February 10, at the age of 47 with her parents and brother at her side.  She was a resident of Framingham, Massachusetts and formally of Natick, Massachusetts.  Melissa was a graduate of Natick High School class of 1992 and a graduate of Framingham State College class of 1996.  She was born with Neurofibromatosis and was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at age 5 undergoing numerous surgeries, procedures and shunt revisions in her lifetime.  Throughout all these challenges she was respected and admired by family and friends for her grit, tenacity, and her ability to fight.

Melissa was an avid reader, learning how to read at a very young age, she never could put a good book down.  She was a compassionate and caring daughter, sister, aunt and friend who found a passion for food and cooking later in life. Losing her older brother to cancer when she was just twelve years old, Melissa took tremendous pride in participating in numerous Jimmy Fund walks, walking half marathons to raise money and awareness for Cancer Fundraising and Research.  She loved being an 80’s kid, watching her favorite shows, listening to Billy Joel and taking pride in attending nineteen of his concerts.  She loved her nieces and nephew, and they will always remember her wanting to play games, take selfies and show them new games on her phone.

Melissa was preceded in death by her brother Alan and is survived by her parents Marion and Burt, brother Michael, his wife Melissa, nieces Abby and Izzy and nephew Ethan.  Melissa will forever be remembered and missed by all who loved her.

A private funeral service will be held for immediate family only on Monday, February 14, 2022 at 2pm. Donations may be made to The Jimmy Fund P.O Box 849168 Boston, MA 02284 or charity of your choice.

Judge David H. Kopelman

February 8, 2022

To view the service recording please click here.

Retired First Justice of The Norfolk County Probate and Family Court

David H. Kopelman of Chestnut Hill passed away peacefully at home on February 8, 2022 from complications of leukemia at age 83. Born in Cambridge, MA, to Ruth (Koritsky) Kopelman and Judge Frank Kopelman, David was a graduate of Boston Latin School, Harvard College, and Harvard Law School.

David Kopelman was the First Justice of the Norfolk Probate and Family Court. He was appointed to the bench in 1981 by Governor King. Prior to his appointment, Judge Kopelman worked for Herlihy and O’Brien where he specialized in family and probate law. Few other judges authored as many landmark decisions as Judge Kopelman over his nearly thirty years on the bench. His decisions in cutting-edge cases, whether upheld or reversed, established legal principles that endure and will guide lawyers and litigants in the Commonwealth into the future.

He is remembered as a judge for his fairness, his infallible sense of humor, his ability to clearly explain his reasoning in his written decisions, and his mastery of both domestic and probate sides of the court. Even more so, he will be remembered for his dedication to countless other judges, lawyers, and co-workers whom he took great pride in mentoring over the years. His retirement banquet was attended by over 500 people and he was a much-loved figure in Boston legal circles, serving as a mediator for Bams mediation service after retirement from the bench.

His devotion to his profession and peers was only eclipsed by his devotion to his family. He leaves behind his loving wife Susan Heifetz Kopelman; his three adoring children: Dr. Elizabeth Kopelman Borgwardt and Kurt Borgwardt, Dr. Gail Kopelman Serruya and Dr. Mijail Serruya, Dr. Andrew Kopelman and Dr. Mona Jain; seven grandchildren Eva Borgwardt, Jay Borgwardt, Sophie Serruya, Samuel Serruya, Lyla Serruya, Nava Kopelman and Ravi Kopelman; his twin brother Arie L. Kopelman, and numerous nieces and nephews. A younger brother, Robert Kopelman predeceased Judge Kopelman.

David loved studying and caring for animals, including legions of family pets. A highlight for him was a trip to South Africa where he could observe many of the species that had always fascinated him in the wild. He loved skiing in Colorado, golfing in Florida, and eating any kind of crustacean – especially shrimp and lobster.

David brought his sense of humor to most of his interactions. Some good friends date back to elementary school and junior counselor days at camp Tevya. They knew they could count on David for anything, and David knew he could count on them to continue laughing at his retold jokes.

As his wife of 53 years, there are so many things I will miss about my husband. His mind was incredibly clever and insightful, and so we engaged in countless provocative conversations. Perhaps most of all, I will miss David’s sense of humor, which infused our life with joy and playfulness that I will miss terribly.

Services at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton, MA on Sunday, February 13, 2022, at 2 pm, masks required. Interment to follow at Crawford St. Memorial Park, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations in Judge Kopelman’s memory may be made to Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life, c/o Hillel International ATTN: Gift Operations, 800 8th St. NW, Washington, DC 20001, or Friends of the Israeli Defense Forces, PO Box 4224, NY, NY 10163.

 

Fritz Samuel Noymer

February 8, 2022

Fritz Samuel Noymer (né Neumetzger)

24 November 1923 – 6 February 2022

 

On 6 February 2022, Fritz S. Noymer passed away peacefully, aged 98, in his home in Weston, Massachusetts, where he had lived for over 51 years.  He was born in November 1923 in Karlsruhe, Germany.  In November 1937, Fritz fled Nazism and came to the United States with his parents and two younger brothers, Arthur and Bernard.  The Neumetzger family settled in Brookline, and Fritz graduated Brookline High School and Boston University.  His education at BU was interrupted by service in the US Army during the second world war, during which he served as a lieutenant in the Medical Corps.  During the war, his father Eugene would change the family (and business) name to Noymer, to make it less German-sounding, due to wartime anti-German sentiment.  Fritz followed suit, legally changing his surname to Noymer after his military discharge.  In 1964, after a two-year courtship, he married Luciana Simor.  His lifelong career was in the family business, Noymer Leather Goods, started by his father, from which he retired in 1997 as president.  He traveled the world for business and pleasure.  Fritz was a devoted husband, and loving father and grandfather.

Fritz had many interests, including art and classical music; he was a strong supporter of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra.  He was an avid gardener, and every weekend could be found in his garden, getting exercise through constant transplanting of shrubs and meticulous maintenance of the property down to the last leaf.  In his retirement, among other garden projects, he created a Japanese-style garden in his yard.  Fritz also enjoyed skiing, both cross-country and downhill.  In the 1960s, he would go spring skiing on Mount Washington’s Tuckerman’s Ravine, and he continued downhill skiing into his early 80s.  In the aftermath of the “Blizzard of ‘78,” he donned cross-country skis in search of an open store for milk.  He was a voracious reader of nonfiction books, especially history.  He leaves Luciana, his wife of 57 years, two children, Erica, of Lowell, Mass., and Andrew, of Irvine, Calif., as well as former daughter in law Ndola Prata of El Sobrante, Calif., and his granddaughter, Neia Prata of Oakland, Calif.  Donations in lieu of flowers can be sent to Jewish Family & Children’s Service, Waltham, Mass. https://www.jfcsboston.org/  There will be a small graveside remembrance and burial in Linwood Cemetery, Weston, on Wednesday 9 February 2022 at noon.  Due to covid, an outdoor memorial will be planned for the summer.

Eleanor “Ellie” Barker

February 7, 2022

Barker, Eleanor “Ellie” (Posner), of Framingham, MA, formerly of Brookline, MA, passed away February 7, 2022. Devoted mother of Wendi Dellemonico and her husband Michael, and Lisa Barker. Proud grandmother of Jennifer, Adam, and Nicole Dellemonico. Graveside service at Framingham-Natick Jewish Cemetery, on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ellie’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN, 38105. A link to make donations online can be found here.

Dr. Morris A. Diamant

February 6, 2022

A recording of the funeral service can be found here.

Dr. Morris A. Diamant, age 68, died Saturday, February 5, 2022 in his home in Lexington, MA. He was a much beloved husband for over 45 years to Lisa, who was holding his hand as he passed away. Morris was predeceased by his parents, H. Gabriel Diamant and Sylvia Chester Diamant. Morris was a very devoted father to his son, Sam and daughter, Julia, and her fiancé, Maya.  He adored his granddaughter, Layla, Sam’s daughter.  Morris leaves behind his sister, Ann and brother in law, Joe Berlin, his brother, Ira and sister in law, Chari Smith Diamant as well as niece, Kathryn and partner, Mary.   Morris enjoyed spending time with his extended family of cousins and very dear friends of many years.

Morris grew up in Bayside, Queens, NY and then attended Cornell University, Class of 1974.  He met Lisa on her third day at Cornell during a Hillel gathering.  They attended many Cornell reunions together for both the classes of 1974 and 1976.

After Cornell, he attended New York Medical College, graduating in 1978 and continued to be active in the alumni association for many years.

In 1978, he joined Massachusetts General Hospital as an Intern and Resident in Radiology.  He joined Suburban Radiology working at Symmes Hospital, Somerville Hospital, and offices in Lexington and Arlington.  Then he joined Brigham Community Radiology until his retirement.

“Mo”, as he was called in Lexington, was a dedicated member of the Temple Emunah Brotherhood of Lexington, and The Federation of Jewish Mens Clubs.  He worked tirelessly on so many projects and events throughout the years and made many friends.

Lisa and Morris traveled a great deal and particularly enjoyed cruising all over the world for many years.  They had so many wonderful experiences together. We give thanks to the support from the Temple Emunah community.

We are so grateful for the care that Morris received at the MGH Cancer Center and give thanks to Dr. Donald Lawrence and his caring team for their incredible care.

Graveside service at Beit Olam East Cemetery, 42 Concord Rd., Wayland, MA on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at 2 pm. Shiva will be held at the Diamant Residence following services until 9 pm, Minyan at 7:30 pm. Shiva will continue via Zoom on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Emunah Brotherhood of Lexington or the charity of one’s choice.

Services by Brezniak Funeral Home:

Special thanks to Nathan Patrick for his kindness.

Rabbi Abraham Morhaim

February 5, 2022

To view a recording of the service please click here. 

Access Passcode: 1J9a@h+e

Sephardic Scholar, Chaplain, Youth Group Leader, Teacher and Storyteller

A Sephardic Scholar and Pulpit Rabbi at Temple Ner Tamid in Peabody Massachusetts for over thirty years, Rabbi Abraham Morhaim passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 5th, 2022 at age 89 in Dedham, Massachusetts. He was born on June 19th, 1932 in Brooklyn, NY, the second youngest of eight children, to Calie (Cohen) and Haim Morhaim, two Sephardic Jews who had immigrated from Turkey. Born into a vibrant Sephardic Jewish community, Rabbi Morhaim’s first language was Ladino, but learned Yiddish to attend Jewish studies at the local Yeshiva. At age thirteen, he joined his temple choir which was led by the angelic-voiced thirteen-year-old Victoria Yousha, to whom he was later married for 44 years and with whom he had five children: Calie, Jeffrey, Esther, David, and the late Haim Morhaim. He went to Yeshiva University as an undergraduate where he played college basketball, and later received his masters and rabbinical ordination at the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York. He spent his early rabbinical career in Brooklyn, NY, subsequently serving as a Rabbi in Mexico City for about a year before settling in Peabody at Temple Ner Tamid. He was an active member of the Peabody Clergy Association, an interfaith clergy group, and enjoyed teaching Jewish conversion classes at the Gerim Institute, now the Jewish Discovery Institute. Over the course of twenty-five years, he led trips of Jewish youth groups and adults, as well as interfaith clergy, to Israel, fulfilling his deep passion for inspiring and educating people about Judaism and the state of Israel. He also served as the Jewish Chaplain at Boston Children’s Hospital, at the VA Hospitals in West Roxbury and Jamaica Plain, and at Hanscom Airforce Base. Together with his first wife Vicky, who passed away in 1996, Rabbi Morhaim gave lectures around the country about the history, customs, and Ladino language of Sephardic Jews, while Vicky sang traditional Ladino songs. Always young at heart, Rabbi Morhaim could often be found entertaining congregants and youth groups with card tricks, playing competitive basketball, and telling stories about his youth growing up in Brooklyn and about his experiences attending Yeshiva. His enthusiasm for Judaism and Israel influenced thousands throughout the US and Israel, leading many into Jewish professional leadership roles.  Later in life, Rabbi Morhaim married Bonnie Orlin, his wife of 22 years, and together they lived in Cambridge Massachusetts and traveled the world. In his retirement, he continued his passion for education, teaching and taking classes at the Harvard Institute for Learning and Retirement.  He leaves behind sister Lily Daar, wife Bonnie Orlin, daughter Calie Candia (husband Robb Cohen), son Jeffrey Morhaim, daughter Esther Hausman (husband Ken), and son David Morhaim. He also leaves grandson Ari Hausman (wife Laura), granddaughter Hannah Hausman, and grandson Zach Morhaim, as well as great grandchildren Lev and Ezra Hausman. From Bonnie Orlin’s family, he leaves Jeff Orlin (wife Francis Keech), Eric Orlin (wife Kathleen), and David Orlin (wife Karyn), as well as Bonnie Orlin’s grandchildren Daniel, Casey, Sam, Ben and Devlin Orlin.

The funeral will take place at the graveside in New York, Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at 3 pm. Shiva information can be obtained from the following temple websites: www.templenertamid.org, www.templeemunah.org and www.templeemanuel.com.  Donations in Rabbi Morhaim’s memory can be made to the United Synagogue Youth organization at www.usy.org/donate or to the charity of your choice. Special thanks to Nathan Patrick for his diligence and kindness.

Dorothy ” Dottie” Steinberg

February 3, 2022

Dorothy “Dottie” Steinberg, passed away at age 99 surrounded by her loving daughters on Thursday, February 3, in Boston, MA. Dottie was born on October 11, 1922 to Jacob and Lillian Franklin in Syracuse, NY. She was the younger sister of the late Dr. Irvin Franklin.

As a young girl, Dottie attended the Folkshul in Syracuse along with her brother Irvin and many cousins. Later, she earned a B.S. from the Syracuse University School of Home Economics. Upon graduation, she taught school just outside of Syracuse.

She met her beloved Arthur, of blessed memory, at a Zionist youth camp and then reunited when the army transferred Arthur to Syracuse University to study chemistry and electrical engineering during World War II. Together they owned and operated the family business, Franklin Department Store on Geddes Street. They shared an almost 70-year marriage and built a home filled with Yiddishkeit.

Upon retirement, Dottie and Arthur relocated to Royal Palm Beach, FL where they enjoyed the sun and outdoor activities for many years. After Arthur’s passing in 2016, Dottie moved to NewBridge on the Charles in Dedham, MA to be closer to her family. Dottie received wonderful care while at NewBridge. Her family would like to thank the nurses and the entire staff for the love and care they extended to Dottie.

Dottie and her family were long-time members of Temple Adath Yeshurun. She was a member of the temple sisterhood and for many years ran the Judaica gift shop at the temple. She was an active member of Pioneer Women (now known as Na’amat) and a life-long supporter of Israel.

Dottie was an avid Mah Yongg player and enjoyed summers boating on Oneida Lake with her many cousins and extended family.

She was pre-deceased by her husband Arthur in 2014, and their son Robert in 2012.

Her family includes her daughters Carol (Peter Yaffe) Steinberg, and Cindy Steinberg; grandsons Eric (Brooke) Yaffe, and Jonathan (Amy) Yaffe; great-grandchildren Matthew, Olivia, and Emmett; her sister-in-law Judith Franklin; and a loving extended family.

Graveside services will be at 11 AM on Sunday at the Temple Adath Yeshurun Cemetery. Contributions in Dottie’s memory may be made to the Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago, 3210 Dundee Rd, Northbrook, IL 60062 and Na’amat USA, 21515 Vanowen Street, Suite 102, Canoga Park, CA 91303.
www.sisskind funeral service.com

Dr. Milton W. Kline

February 3, 2022

Dr. Milton W. Kline, 94, died January 29, 2022 in his home at Jewish Healthcare Center in Worcester, MA.  He was born December 27, 1927 in Boston, MA the son of the late Joseph and Goldie Kline.  Milton was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Helen, his son Thomas Kline, and brother David Kline.  He leaves behind his daughter, Sue Kline of Newton, MA, son Dan Kline and his wife Norine of Westborough, MA, his beloved granddaughters Caitlyn and Sarah Kline, his sister-in-law Lorrie Kaitz of Maryland and cousin David Kline of Washington, DC.  Milton attended Lynn Classical High and then the University of Maine where he found his love of chemistry.  He received his PhD from Purdue University and began his career working for Borden Chemical in Leominster, MA.  The Korean War interrupted his work, and he was drafted and stationed in Colorado where he met Helen. Once his service ended, he continued his career with Borden in Leominster where they settled, raised their family and became  involved in the Jewish community.  He spent many years on the board of trustees and served as the president of Congregation Agudat Achim. He was still involved with the synagogue and his poker game buddies until he moved to Worcester in 2017. Milton was an avid reader, golfer, amateur genealogist, and always enjoyed his cigars. The family wishes to give special thanks to the staff at Jewish Healthcare Center who took loving care of him.  We are forever grateful for that gift.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to Congregation Agudat Achim in Leominster, JCAM, MA Down Syndrome Congress, or the charity of your choice.

Cynthia Card

February 2, 2022

Cynthia Card, age 84, of Newton, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2022. Devoted mother of Lori Belz and husband Edward Belz. Loving grandmother to Talia and Sivia, in whom she took immense joy and pride. Her dear friends and the wonderful, caring team at Evans Park will miss her kind heart and warm smile. A private service was held on January 28, 2022. May Cindy’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

Remembrances may be made to The Trustees of Reservations, thetrustees.org

Donald J. Neiberg

January 29, 2022

Donald J. Neiberg z”l of Newton MA passed away on January 28, 2022.  Beloved husband of the late Faye Neiberg (Stahl) z”l, devoted Father of Brian Neiberg and his wife Sharon Neiberg and Marcia Neiberg and her husband Tai Senior.  Proud Zaydie to Sam Senior, Josh Senior, Sarah Neiberg and Isla Neiberg.  Loving brother to Barbara Cole (Neiberg) and the late Peter Cole.  Don grew up in Watertown and moved to Newton with his bride Faye where they celebrated 50 years of marriage.  Don was a master carpenter with a unique talent for woodworking.  He was a devoted friend who was always there in a pinch, if the toilet was clogged, the wires were faulty, the roof leaking, all his friends knew that Don could fix it.  Don and Faye were devoted to each other, they loved to host friends and family, sit on the beach in Ogunquit, ME and most importantly watch their grandchildren grow.  Don passed away one year and four days after his lovely bride and we take comfort in knowing they are together once more.

Funeral services will be privately held graveside.

John A. Ladge

January 28, 2022

John A. Ladge-Age 77, of Palm Beach, FL, formerly of Wellesley, on January 28, 2022.Beloved husband for 54 years to Marilyn (Newman) Ladge. Devoted father of James Ladge and his wife Johanna, and Meredith Ladge. Cherished grandfather of Charlie, Jackson and Corey. Loving brother of Jane “Bunny” Gottfried. Dear brother-in-law of Ronda and Stephen Newman. Also survived by loving nephews. Private graveside service will be held. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Dr. David Reardon Research Fund at Dana Farber Cancer institute, 10 Brookline Place, Brookline, MA 02445.Please include “In memory of John A. Ladge” in memo line.

Yelena Livshits

January 27, 2022

Livshits, Yelena, of Brookline, MA, passed away on January 27, 2022. Devoted and loving mother of Dr. Marina Livshits and her husband Dr. Michael Hiam. Proud and cherished grandmother of Hannah, Eliana, and Daniel Hiam. Doting and caring older sister of Vladimir Livshits. A loving aunt to the late Lilia Livshits and a great aunt to Anna, Evgenia, and Yuri.  Born in 1933 in Moscow, Russia, to the late Ruvim and Esfir Livshits, Yelena has led an enormously eventful, fulfilled, and meaningful life, carrying a longtime family legacy of public service, social justice, and tikkum olam. Yelena spent most of her childhood and youth surviving extreme adversity- the physical and emotional trauma of the World War II, the post war deprivation, the Stalinist regime and the ever- growing government-sponsored antisemitism. Yet she blossomed into a most loving, compassionate and strong human being, completely void of bitterness, who became the epitome of joy and wonder for anyone who knew her. Yelena graduated from the Moscow State Pedagogical University in 1955 and went on to have a distinguished career as a speech and language pathologist working with children and adults with traumatic brain injury, developmental disorders, cerebral palsy, stuttering, and other conditions. In addition to working at public hospitals and clinics, Yelena developed a thriving private practice and pursued her passion for writing through creating and publishing wonderful children’s stories. At the height of her career and adult life, for the sake of her daughter and future grandchildren, Yelena made a decision to leave Russia and undertook a life-changing and a risky journey to the United States. A fiercely and yet quietly independent woman, called by many who knew her an ultimate feminist, Yelena had overcome the many challenges of resettlement and became a proud and patriotic citizen of this country. She provided expert child care, volunteered with severely disabled children, and taught Russian language for a number of years. Yelena was passionate about literature, film, theater, and music and she shared her knowledge and appreciation of the arts with those she loved and across the miles. In her new country, she was able to openly live as a Jewish woman, and she transferred her love for Israel, Jewish music and Jewish stories to her family. Having most of her extended family perish in the Holocaust, Yelena made her friends her family while she lived in Russia and upon her immigration. She passed her belief in the power of human connection onto her offspring and she exemplified loyalty and generosity of spirit.

Yelena felt that her crown achievement were her three grandchildren to whom she devoted herself tirelessly and lovingly. In her usual manner, when her health condition was on a severe decline, she persevered in a way that defied medical facts. Her talent, thirst for life, her sense of purpose, and her unending love for her family will forever live in all of them and their offspring. May her memory be a blessing for eternity.

Graveside service at Puritan Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA on Friday, January 28, 2022 at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Yelena’s memory may be made to Cerebral Palsy Foundation, by clicking here

Harvey D. Adelstein

January 27, 2022

Harvey D. Adelstein, 82, of Shrewsbury, MA, formerly of Brooklyn and Lake Ronkonkoma, NY, on January 27, 2022. Beloved husband for 51 years to Barbara (Jacoby) Adelstein. Caring father of Pamela Adelstein (Michael Weissmann) and Evan Adelstein (Lynn Cabral). Dear grandfather of Eliana, Shay, Leila, and Charles. Brother of Sybil Zuckerman, of blessed memory, and Brenda Austin. Eagle Scout. Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Knicks fan. Proud army veteran. Cherished elementary school teacher. Avid reader. History buff. World traveler. Loved a day at the beach, theater and movies, playing basketball, a satisfying nap, a good filet mignon, and Breyers ice cream. A private graveside service will be held in Shrewsbury, MA on February 1, 2022. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his honor may be made to Southern Poverty Law Center or Teach For America. Please contact Temple Emanuel in Newton, MA for visitation and shiva information.

Freema Shapiro

January 26, 2022

Freema Shapiro- Age 106, of  Cambridge, MA, on January 26, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Arthur X. Shapiro. Dear mother of Susan Shapiro Magdanz, Ron Shapiro and the late Kenneth Shapiro. Dear grandmother of Alexander, Simon, Sasha, Otto, and Asa. Loving great-grandmother of Willem. Dear sister of the late Lucille Stein, Florence Feldman and Howard Winston. A private graveside service was held at Temple Israel Cemetery, Wakefield, on Friday, January 28, 2022.

 

Isaac Kliger

January 25, 2022

For livestream link to view service Thursday, January 27, 2022 at 2:30 pm. Please click here

KLIGER, Isaac E. “Itzik” of Lexington, MA, and Aventura, FL, on January 25, 2022, at the age of 87. Beloved husband of Judith (Tuzman) of 62 years. Devoted father of Ronn (Elisabeth Wolfson) of Cambridge and Tamar Schneider (Craig) of Newton. Loving grandfather of Daniel and Naomi Kliger; Sarah and Benjamin Schneider. He also leaves extended family near and far as well as many long-time friends, particularly in Israel.

Born in Lodz, Poland, to Vital and Shlomo Kliger, the family immigrated during his infancy to Eretz Israel, settling in Tel Aviv and later in Haifa. He was very proud of being the youngest member of the Irgun; at the age of 13, he served as a messenger between posts in the battle for Jaffa. While serving in the Israel Defense Forces, Itzik earned degrees in electrical engineering from The Technion (Israel Institute of Technology) before he and Judy sailed to New York. He enrolled at Brooklyn Polytech and earned a PhD in electrical engineering in 1963. While still a student, he was recruited by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission to work at their Argonne National Laboratory in Illinois.

Later employed at Lockheed Aircraft Corp. in Huntsville, AL, he regularly sought problems to solve at NASA’s Space Flight Center nearby. Itzik was constantly doing calculations in his head and on scraps of paper if not in the air, long after he retired from Raytheon’s Missile Systems Division in Massachusetts as Consulting Engineer. He relished teaching and tutoring graduate students. With much innovative thinking and coming up with novel solutions, he proudly displayed his many patents in his home office.

As a scholar of Torah and Talmud, Judaism was an intellectual exercise for Itzik. He was particularly adept at explaining the intricacies of the Hebrew calendar because of his deep knowledge of mathematics. He regularly taught adult classes at Temple Emunah and many other venues. He especially loved teaching his grandchildren whatever was at hand: history, math, kite building or rock skipping.

He enjoyed swimming at his Lexington neighborhood pool, then on Cape Cod and in Florida. Itzik and Judy cruised frequently and traveled extensively, regaling family with stories of their adventures.

The family wishes to thank the attentive, caring staff at Belmont Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Belmont, MA.

Due to the pandemic, funeral services are private.

Remembrances may be made to the American Technion Society at ats.org/donate.

Ziva Reuveny Paley

January 17, 2022

Ziva Reuveny Paley died at home in her sleep in the early hours of January 17 after a six-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

She was a force of nature. A proud kibbutznik and officer in the Israeli army, Ziva moved to the US to complete her PhD in biochemistry at Michigan State University, barely able to speak English. A scientist and professor, she was passionate about politics, social justice, and making the world a better place.

At a Young Jewish Professionals meeting, she met Joseph “Jack” William Paley, whom she married in 1980. They decided to stay in the United States and build a life, family, and community in Boston. Grateful to those who welcomed her to this country, Ziva made it her mission to provide that same generosity to others and to welcome many, many strangers and friends into her home.

She leaves behind so many people who loved her beyond measure, including her husband, Jack; her son, Amit Reuveny Paley, and his husband, Jonathan David Naymark; her daughter, Shimrit Paley Markette, and her husband, Joshua Lee Markette; her grandchildren, Avi and Tova Markette; her siblings, Amir Reouveny, Hedva Melamud, and Arik Reuveni; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Ziva was fierce and unrelenting in her love for her family, her friends, Judaism, and everyone who was lucky enough to be a part of her story. She radiated warmth and energy and love. We hope to carry her light and legacy forward and continue to make her proud.

Edward M. Levin

January 17, 2022
Edward M. Levin. Of Newton Center and Pittsfield, MA passed away on January 17,2022 at his Newton home. He was 92 years old. He was born and raised in the Bronx, NY and graduated from Stuyvesant High School and New York University College of Engineering. He then served for two years in the United States Air Force, from which he was discharged as a first lieutenant. He subsequently joined his family business and married his wife Marjorie (nee Bernstein) in a marriage which lasted 63 years, until his death. He and Marjorie moved to Newton, MA in 1962. He worked as plant manager and later as executive vice-president of F. B. Rogers Silver company in Taunton, MA for most of his working life. After retirement, he tutored second and third graders at the Lee School in Dorchester, MA and worked as a volunteer SHINE counselor in Brookline and Needham. He was predeceased by his parents, Sam and Dorothy Levin and his sister Barbara Schumsky. He is survived by his wife, his children, Edward M. Levin Jr. (Camille Cunningham) and Sarah Bourque (Andre’) and by five grandchildren, Greer, Eamon, and Fletcher Levin, and Ethan and Justin Bourque. Due to the Covid pandemic, funeral services were private. Contributions in his honor may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project or to a charity of your choice.

Steven David Garr

January 17, 2022

Steven David Garr, 67, of Chestnut Hill, January 15, 2022. Dear son of the late Stuart L. Garr and Laura (Goldstein) Garr. Beloved husband of 42yrs of Phyllis (Schwartz) Garr. Devoted father of Alison and Denzil Kanarek, Lee and Lankika Garr. Dear grandfather of Jordyn Kanarek, Sydney Kanarek, and Layla Garr. Loving brother of Bruce Garr and Susan Garr.

Steve was an accomplished and innovative business executive who led with passion, and entrepreneurial spirit. Steve held the position of Vice President, Distribution Services for TJX companies,until his retirement in 2011. After his retirement Steve created and founded a successful wholesale business.

Graveside service at 10 am, Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at Agudath Israel Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA. Following the graveside service there will be a one day shiva from 11-2pm at Temple Beth Avodah, 45 Puddingstone Lane, Newton, Massachusetts 02459. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.

Stewart “Bob” Kurland

January 17, 2022

Stewart “Bob” Kurland born April 11, 1938. Son of the late Morris and Sadie Kurland, brother of the late Leona Zelman. Loving husband of Fern (Berger, Weisman) for 33 years, and the late Helaine (Talberth). Devoted father of Mark (Leslie) Kurland and Andrea (Michael) Matta. Proud Papa of Alyssa, Heather, and Matthew Kurland, Lily and Lauren Matta. Also survived by nephew Kurt Zelman and niece Jackie Taksa. Donations made in his memory to Alzheimer’s https://www.alz.org/

Eleanor R. Lepler

January 16, 2022

Eleanor R. Lepler, 88, of Brookline, MA and Boynton Beach, FL, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at her home in Brookline, MA on January 16, 2022, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born in Newton to Leah and Samuel Seliber, she graduated Newton North High School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Boston University with Phi Beta Kappa distinction.

Her first priority was always her family and friends. Throughout her life she enjoyed reading, playing mah jong and bridge, and was an avid tennis player.

Eleanor is survived by her husband of 67 years Gerald Lepler, and children Steven and his wife Ramie, Susan and her husband Michael, and James; grandchildren Evan and his wife Caleigh, Lexi and her husband RJ, Nathan, David, Tess, and Cole; and great-granddaughters Bennett, Dara, and Caden. She was predeceased by her sister Evelyn and brother Donald.

A graveside service will be held at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon, MA on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at 1:45 pm. The family also welcomes visitors at 45 Beverly Road in Brookline, with masks required, on Wednesday following the graveside service and from 7:00-9:00pm on Wednesday, and on Thursday from 2:00-4:00 pm and 7:00-9:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Massachusetts or to the charity of your choice.

Dr. Muriel Harriet Allen

January 16, 2022

Dr. Muriel H. Allen, 96, passed away January 15, 2022. Peaceful transition with auspicious signs. Beloved wife of Attorney Max J. Allen. Loving mother of Attorney Peter Allen and his wife Fatima and Chonyi Richard Allen and Lucie. Daughter of William Herbits and Julia Gluck. Funeral services were held graveside, at Sharon Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations in Harriet’s memory may be made to Aid for Cancer Research, www.aidforcancerresearch.org

Edward J. Nierman

January 15, 2022

For livestream link to view service Wednesday at 12:45 pm click here.

On Friday January 14, Edward J. Nierman passed away peacefully after living life to the fullest for almost 99 years. Beloved husband of the late Sylvia (Markowitz) Nierman. Devoted father of Eliot (Bonnie), Marc (Loretta), and David Nierman. Dear grandfather of Jennifer (Oren) Knishinsky, Melissa (Erica) Nierman, Rachel (Ophir) Barone and Theadora Nierman. Proud great grandfather of Asher Knishinsky, Noah Barone, Sara Knishinsky and Arielle Barone. Loving youngest brother of the late Rae Nierman, Lillian Nierman, Charles (Gertrude), Allan (Rae), Nathan (Sonia), Henry (Marilyn) and Murray (Pat).

Born to Eastern European immigrants and raised in Boston, Edward later moved to Newton, Massachusetts. He was a proud graduate of Roxbury Memorial High School where he made life-long friends. After graduation, as a member of the Greatest Generation, Edward enlisted to fight in World War II, serving as a corporal in the Army Signal Corps. On discharge, keeping family first as he always did, Edward helped his father rather than going off to college. Beginning with GI bill loans to purchase used plumbing, Edward became a founder of Independent Pipe and Supply Corporation. With his guidance and leadership, he helped transform a company from modest beginnings selling reconditioned plumbing supplies into a prominent 4th generation, multi-state business as one of the region’s largest Pipe, Valve and Fitting Wholesale distribution organizations. Edward successfully mentored subsequent generations of company leadership and remained as Chairman of the Board until his 98th year.

A strong supporter of Jewish causes, he was a member of Temple Reyim for 65 years. Always willing to help others, Edward was for many years the loving patriarch of the extended Nierman family. He was a devoted friend to many and a supporter of numerous charities, in particular the Ironstone Farm Program for the Disabled (Challenge Unlimited) and most recently spearheading a large family donation to Hebrew College.

Edward and his wife of 67 years, Sylvia, loved to attend all family events and to travel the world with friends, especially on cruise ships. Family, friends, those he helped and the company he so successfully built are his wonderful legacy. Edward will be deeply missed by many, but as he would have said, he had a great run!

Due to current pandemic, funeral services are private but will be live streamed. In lieu of flowers, donations in Edward’s memory may be made to Hebrew College, Office of Institutional Advancement, 160 Herrick Rd., Newton Centre, MA 02459, Challenge Unlimited, 450 Lowell Street, Andover, MA 01810, or a charity of your choice.

Shiva info and announcement from Temple Reyim as follows:

Baruch Dayan Ha’Emet

Edward Nierman

 

 

Dear Friends,

 

With sadness I share the loss of Edward Nierman, beloved husband of Sylvia Nierman, z”l, and devoted father of Eliot and Bonnie, Marc and Loretta, and David Nierman. Edward and Sylvia were members of the Reyim community for over sixty years.

 

A private graveside will be held at Wednesday, January 19 at 12:45 p.m. You can view the funeral by Livestream here.

 

The family will receive visits of comfort by Zoom here on:

 

Wednesday January 19 from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. for Maariv evening service and then from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.; and

 

Thursday, January 20 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

 

May Edward’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him and may God bring comfort and strength to the Nierman family together with the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

 

B’shalom,

Rabbi Daniel Berman

Diane Susan Berman

January 15, 2022
BERMAN, Diane Susan 72, formerly of Lynnfield, January 15, 2022, after a lengthy illness. Daughter of the late Bernard Berman and Eunice (Levenson) Berman. Sister of Robert Berman and his wife Ronnie Berman. Aunt of Jamie Berman and Rachael Berman. Private burial at Temple Emmanuel of Wakefield Cemetery. Donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Stepheny Beth Kotzen Riemer

January 14, 2022

Stepheny Beth Kotzen Riemer

Devoted to Her Family, Her Art and Philanthropy

Stepheny Beth Kotzen Riemer,74, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2022, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston from  complications of Parkinson’s disease.

She was born in Malden, Massachusetts, on May 6, 1947, a daughter of Gilbert and Marcia (Brown) Kotzen. Apart from the first nine years of her life in Malden, Stepheny was a lifetime resident of Newton, Massachusetts.

 

Stepheny captivated every room she visited with color and creativity. A graduate of Simmons College with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, she pursued her curiosity with a life of giving of herself to others through volunteering, philanthropy, and art-making. She made a meaningful difference in the lives of those around her. She devoted her life to her husband, two children, and three granddaughters, yet had space in her heart for her many relatives and friends, along with welcoming into her home two foster children and several “little brothers” from the Jewish Big Brother program. She spent countless hours volunteering, including time at the JCC and JF&CS. Her philanthropic efforts mirrored her passions and interests in the arts, the Jewish community, and Parkinson’s Disease programming and research. 

 

Her passion for the arts started young and evolved over the years. From theater as a youth to fine arts as an adult, she was able to find ways to express herself creatively. Stepheny’s playfulness and talent radiate from the hundreds — if not thousands — of her unique works of art. She regularly attended art workshops and classes to expand her knowledge, challenge herself, and establish an outlet of expression. One of her most iconic mediums was her intricate mosaics, where she meticulously painted eggshells, bringing the pieces to life through flower bouquets, circus scenes, and ocean landscapes. She participated in many art shows over the years, proudly displaying her creations. 

 

Not only did she gift the world with her artistic spirit, Stepheny constantly gave the gift of art supplies and opportunity, teaching young and old how to craft, create, and see beauty where others may not. She had the remarkable ability to see color and share unique perspectives. 

 

Stepheny’s Parkinson’s Disease did not prevent her from engaging in her passions. Her memory remained impeccable; she never forgot a detail, recalling and commemorating the most specific personal moments of everyone around her. She adapted to her diminishing dexterity and continued to paint, draw, collage, and inspire. She did not let the challenges of the disease impact her from sharing her incredible imagination.

 

Not only was Stepheny memorable for her generosity, artistic nature, and deep love for her family, but also her sense of humor. She knew how to light up any experience and bring a hearty laugh to a dinner table. Stepheny had the ability to bring out everyone’s most enthralling and uplifting deep-belly-laugh, not just a superficial chuckle. There was never a dull moment when she was in the room. 

 

In addition to all those who she touched with her inspiration, she lives on through her husband of 53 years Robert L. Riemer of Newton, MA; sister Linda Kotzen Paresky and her husband David Paresky of Miami, FL; son Adam Riemer of Brookline, MA; daughter Mara Riemer Goldstein and her husband Robert Goldstein of Brookline, MA; and grandchildren Hannah Goldstein, Sophie Goldstein, and Lila Goldstein.

 

Due to covid, the funeral and shiva will be private. Contributions in her memory may be made to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center by visiting www.bidmc.org/give/ways-to-give, selecting gift designation as “other (specify below)” and including “Stepheny Riemer/Parkinson’s Disease” or by check made payable to “Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center” with “Stepheny Riemer/Parkinson’s Disease” in the memo line, and mailed to: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Office of Philanthropy, 330 Brookline Avenue (OV), Boston, MA 02215. 

Ann Shaper Pollack

January 12, 2022

Ann S. Pollack, 89, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, passed peacefully on January 12, 2022 in Dedham, MA. Born in Louisville, KY to Aaron A. Shaper and Rose Friedman, she grew up in Cincinnati, OH, and later raised a family in Great Neck, NY before moving to Newton and then Dedham, MA.

She earned a B.A. in Art History from Long Island University, and she attended the School of the Arts at the University of Cincinnati, and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.

She was an accomplished artist in multiple media, including jewelry making, silversmithing, sculpture, and medallic art, and her work is in the permanent collections of several museums.  She was a member and officer of many international sculpture associations, and she and her husband supported aspiring students in the sculptural arts.

Ann is survived by her sons Jon and Richard, their wives (Fiona Epstein and Robin Mozell, respectively), and her granddaughter, Sarah Pollack. She was predeceased by her husband, Jason Pollack, and her brother James Shaper.

A private memorial service will be held for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Brookgreen Gardens (S.C.).

Marcia (Salkovitz) Shuman

January 11, 2022

Of Newton, on January 11, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Robert Shuman. Devoted mother of Sammi Robertson and her husband Douglas, and Laurence Shuman. Cherished grandmother of Rachel Hangen, Baillin and Spencer Robertson. Devoted sister of Irving Salkovitz and his wife Rosemary, Helene Glaser and her husband David, and Ruth Hoshino and her husband Peter. Devoted sister-in-law of Audrey Shuman and her late Husband Alan, and Arthur Shuman and his late wife Nancy. Also survived by loving nieces and nephews. Due to the latest surge of the pandemic, the family has elected to hold a private service and burial. Family visitation will be arranged privately. Remembrances may be made to Bailey’s Team for Autism.

Richard Shuster

January 10, 2022

Shuster, Richard, of Dedham, MA passed away January 10, 2022. Beloved husband of the late Rickel (Saks) Shuster. Devoted father of Scott Shuster and his wife Shelley, Dana Spencer and her husband Steve, Suzy Shuster-Eisen and her husband Rich, and Jon Shumaker and his wife Rebecca. Proud grandfather of Jack, Sam, Ella, Xander, Cooper, Taylor, Connor, Alexandra, Darren, Naomi, Joanna, and Ryan. Loving brother of Steven Shuster, and Betsy Goldberg.  Loving owner of his golden retriever Max. Funeral Services took place at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Rd., Wellesley, MA on Wednesday, January 12, 2022.  Loved family, tennis, ice cream, the New Bedford area and his Jewish faith (especially blowing the shofar and chanting from the Torah). In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s memory may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute or the Alzheimer’s association

Harold Jarmon

January 7, 2022

Our beloved father, Harold (Hal) Jarmon, 88, son of Paul and Rebecca Jarmon z”l, passed away Friday evening, January 7, 2022, in the comfort of his own home in Cambridge, MA.  He coped valiantly with Alzheimer’s until he transitioned peacefully to whatever lies beyond this life. He was surrounded by his loving daughters, Amita, Karen and Jessie Jarmon as well as the love of his life for the past 38 years, Alice Daniel.

Two weeks prior to his passing, his daughters, Karen’s husband Todd Ehrlich, and granddaughters Miriam and Rebekah had a sweet visit with Hal and Alice – a time together that will always be cherished.

Hal was a soulful person who was deeply present with himself and others. He valued and cultivated intimate relationships and never sought to be the center of attention. His children and grandchildren turned to him when in need of a compassionate heart and insightful mind. As we daughters reached out to former colleagues and students to notify them of his passing, we heard repeatedly how working with Hal was the highlight of their careers and/or pivotal in their emotional and professional development.

In 1963 he founded the Child Guidance Clinic at UMass, Amherst, which evolved into the Psychological Services Center. The Center, which he directed from the late 60’s until 1990, continues to train graduate students to work with adults as well as children. Upon retiring from the University, he became the Director of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services at the Southern Jamaica Plain Health Center (SJPHC). He maintained a private practice until the age of 80. In the late 90’s, while contemplating retirement from the SJPHC, Hal initiated a local men’s group for peers at the same stage in life. He organized and facilitated the group for 30 years.

His relationship with his second wife, his beloved Alice, is the stuff movies are made of. They had been in the same social circle as teens, and a very close mutual friend from that circle made a shidduch between them several years after he divorced our mother.  They married in 1985. His name being Hal, and hers being Alice, they referred to themselves (as did we and their friends) as HALICE. As children, he took us on many hikes in the Berkshires and Mt. Monadnock. Halice enjoyed extensive hikes in the Alps and the Sierras. They also spent many happy winters together in beautiful Oaxaca. They loved going for long walks in the Fresh Pond nature preserve just a few blocks from their home. When Alice started to develop dementia 13 years ago, he did not lose patience, tenderness, or respect for her.  Their love was palpable. Everyone commented on it.

Hal was a lover of music, especially classical, folk and bluegrass. He played cello in several amateur chamber groups, participating every summer in the Composers Conference and Chamber Music Workshops at Wellesley College. During the past year, he and his brother Stan played cello and saxophone duets over facetime.  His cello teacher of the past 20 years, Jan Pfeiffer-Rios, played his favorite repertoire at his bedside during his last earthbound days.

He was a devoted and much adored colleague, mentor, therapist and friend.  His family takes solace from knowing he led a life full of integrity and joy.

Graveside funeral is private.  A celebration of Hal’s life will be held via Zoom on February 6.

The family invites donations in Hal’s memory to: The Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org or All on the Line (with its mission to end gerrymandering) https://www.allontheline.org

Heddy Kulka

January 6, 2022

Heddy Kulka-Of Chestnut Hill, on January 6, 2022. Graveside service was held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Pleasantville, New York on Monday

January 10,2022.

S. Bernard Garbose

January 5, 2022

S. Bernard Garbose of Needham, MA passed away on January 5, 2022 at the age of 92.  He is survived by his children William (Lynne) Garbose, Simi Singer and Rosalyn (Robert) Nasdor and grandchildren Jonathan (Rebecca) Garbose, Haley Singer, Michael (Samantha) Garbose, Matthew Singer and Justin Nasdor, as well as his good friend Lois Nesson.  He was predeceased by Freda, his wife of 58 years, in 2016.  He was also predeceased by his parents, Haiman and Gertrude Garbose, as well as siblings William Garbose, Esther Garbose and Dorothy Levy.

Bernie was born in Gardner, Massachusetts on December 25, 1929.  He received degrees from Clark University and Babson College.  After serving in the U.S. Army, he returned to Gardner to join Garbose Metal Company, a scrap metal business founded in 1904 by his father.  Bernie ran the business from the late 1950’s until its closure in the late 1990’s.  Bernie and Freda raised their family in Gardner, later moving to Holden, Worcester, and then to Cape Cod.

In addition to his family, Bernie had many passions in his life.  He was an enthusiastic tournament bridge player, regularly attending events in New England and nationally.  For many years, he was an avid golfer, playing throughout the cold winters with his friends at Mt. Pleasant CC.  He supported many civic causes in Gardner, particularly Congregation Ohave Shalom.  He was also a lover of college basketball, Boston sports teams, classical music, Broadway musicals, corn-on-the-cob, tomatoes and spaghetti.  His kind blue eyes and infectious giggle will remain a treasured memory to those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks friends to consider making a gift to:  North Hill Team Member Support Fund, c/o Patricia Paulin, North Hill Needham, 865 Central Avenue, Needham, MA  02492 or to the Good Shepherd Community Care Hospice (https://gscommunitycare.org/Donate) or to the charity of your choice.

Funeral services, handled by Brezniak Funeral Directors, Inc., will be private.  A celebration of Bernie’s long and happy life will be held via Zoom at a later date.

Edward B. Marmer

January 2, 2022

To view the service recording please click here.

Edward B. Marmer, 89, of Boynton Beach, FL passed away on Friday, December 31, 2021, after a battle with brain cancer. Born in Framingham, MA, Ed was the eldest son of Abraham and Ruth (Sloan) Marmer, of blessed memory.

A proud graduate of Boston University and later of Boston College where he received his MBA. After undergrad he served as a pilot in the United States Air Force with the rank of Captain. Ed married the love of his life, Janice (Goldman) Marmer of Dorchester, MA, in 1955. After a few years with the Air Force, they returned home to Massachusetts to raise their two children in Framingham.

Ed spent most of his career with RCA/General Electric, but his true passion was serving his community and being with his family and friends. He was involved with Temple Beth Sholom in Framingham where he served on the board and as President for many years. Ed also served on the board of MetroWest Medical Center in Framingham.  He continued to serve his community upon his retirement and subsequent move to Boynton Beach, FL for the homeowner’s association where he lived.

Ed is survived by his wife Janice and two children, Jeffrey (Joan) Marmer of Menasha, WI, and Karen (Rob) Wald of Sharon, MA.  By his five grandchildren, Steven (Morgan) Marmer of Wauwatosa, WI, Jennifer (Michael) Martin of Charlestown, MA, Aaron (Rebecca Siegler) Marmer of Denver, CO, Amy Wald of New York, NY and Jonathan Wald of Sharon, MA and his great-grandchild Asher Martin of Charlestown, MA.

He is also survived by his siblings Burton (Elaine) Marmer of Framingham, MA, Alvin (Gail) Marmer of Concord, MA, Brenda (Stephen) Becker of Framingham, MA and sister-in-law, Ruby Goldman of Boynton Beach, FL. Along with many incredible Marmer family nieces and nephews who he cherished with all his heart. Ed rarely missed a family function, big or small. Family was his greatest joy and biggest pride.

Ed was a mentor to many and left behind a legacy of love, compassion, and honesty for all of us to observe and follow. We are grateful for all our moments with him, and his presence will be sorely missed.

A private graveside service will be held Tuesday, January 4, 2022, at Framingham/Natick Jewish Cemetery. Due to COVID -19 shiva will all be held via zoom, please reach out to a family member for the link. The Marmer family asks, in lieu of flowers, that donations may be sent to Temple Beth Sholom: 50 Pamela Road Framingham MA 01701 or  https://www.beth-sholom.org/giving/online-donation-form/

 

Stanley N. Berman

January 1, 2022

A private family service was be held graveside Monday, January 3, 2022 at 1:00 pm. To view the recording of the service please click here.

Stanley Berman was a loving husband, father, Zaydie, brother and caring friend. He passed away on January 1, 2022 after a courageous and long battle with kidney disease, at the age of 81. He was born to the late Hyman and Bertha Berman on March 11, 1940 and grew up in Revere, MA with his sisters Janet Pressman and the late Phyllis Berman.

Stan was a graduate of the Boston University school of engineering, working for several years in General Electric’s lighting division and later starting a second career in sales. He was also an entrepreneur, founding Stan Berman’s Photo Shop, Market Photo, and Five Limited Video.  He loved to sell, and especially enjoyed the relationships that lasted decades with his coworkers and customers.

He was an avid listener of blues music, developing a great love of artists like Marcia Ball, Shemekia Copeland, and The Love Dogs. A major highlight in his life was visiting New Orleans for Jazz Fest and celebrating Mardi Gras with his second line umbrella. He also served as a drummer in the Holy Trinity Marching Band, following a lifelong passion for drum and bugle corps music. Stan also enjoyed the hobby of building model airplanes, proudly showing off his vast collection to anyone and everyone. He was the author of the short story “The Revere Punk and the Chelsea Hebrew School Debutante”, which was met with critical acclaim from the entire family.

Stan is survived by his wife Carone, their children, Sherri Davoudgoleh and her husband Ira, Julie DoAmaral and her partner Darella Fortson, and Bob Berman and his wife Lisa. His favorite role was that of Zaydie to his grandchildren Amanda, Harrison, Goldie, Jacob, Melanie and Joshua.  Zaydie looked forward to every sporting and school event, play, recital, concert and celebration of any kind. He didn’t want to miss anything that his grandchildren did and was always so proud of them. He joyfully created adventures and experiences with them all, together and individually. They will cherish these memories.

He is also survived by his nieces Mara and Elana and cousins Lauren, David and Robin, as well as Aunt Edie and Uncle Norman Finkel and their family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to support the Urologic General Oncology Fund under the direction of Dr. Graeme Steele. Memorial gifts can be made online at www.bwhgiving.org or checks can be made payable to Brigham and Women’s Hospital with “in memory of Stanley Berman” in the memo line and sent to: Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Development Office, 116 Huntington Ave., 3rd floor, Boston, MA 02116. Donations may also be made to the charity of your choice.

Dr. Waldo Fielding

January 1, 2022

Waldo Lewis Fielding, M.D.

July 25, 1921 – January 1, 2022

Dr. Waldo Lewis Fielding passed away at South Shore Hospital on January 1, 2022, aged 100.  A distinguished physician, obstetrician and gynecologist, Dr. Fielding began his four decade-long medical career providing care in the Pacific theater during World War II, grew his expertise in Harlem, established his practice in Boston, and shared his expertise with the next generation of doctors, serving on the faculty at Harvard, Tufts, and Boston University Medical Schools. Upon retirement, he returned to his first loves of singing and acting. Brilliant, wickedly funny, and socially active, he was known as simply ‘Waldo’ to generations of friends, family, patients and colleagues. If you were fortunate enough to share a bus stop bench with Waldo, he would tell you about a life more interesting than Forrest Gump’s.  But Waldo didn’t take the bus. No, he drove his BMW convertible, too fast, with the top down and the stereo cranking the Red Sox broadcast at full volume.

Waldo rubbed elbows with Babe Ruth and Louis Armstrong, was the closest of friends with Frank Avruch (better known to millions as Bozo the Clown), owned a restaurant with a couple of the Boston Celtics, and appeared regularly on local news, the Mike Douglas Show, 20/20, and Phil Donahue. At age 19, he was ranked sixth in the nation in table tennis.  He authored two books on childbirth and pregnancy (“The Childbirth Challenge,” later known as “The Case Against Natural Childbirth” and “Pregnancy: The Best State of the Union”). Following the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade, Waldo became an outspoken advocate for the availability of safe, legal abortion. Waldo was protested and villainized, but continued to practice what he preached.  He devoured nonfiction and newspapers, and claimed to finish the New York Times crossword just about every day, though no one could verify this due to his doctor’s penmanship. He was halfway through re-reading Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town,” with a magnifying glass, when he died.  Waldo could mix a martini, tell a joke, sing you a song, beat you in tennis, and deliver your baby, all before lunch.  He was one of a kind.

So many he knew in his prime are gone, but the 150 who showed up to celebrate his 100th birthday all had stories to tell. Waldo was loved.

Waldo was also a terrible cook, which worked out well for the dozens of restaurants and bars where Waldo was a fixture, a bottomless tap of wit and wisdom, the life of the party. He had a knack for connecting with people.  At his 95th birthday dinner, a waitress asked Waldo the secret of his longevity.  Waldo scratched his ear, the way he always did while thinking something over, then replied, “well, you just saw me order it – double vodkas, rare red meat, and extra salt.” They both just about fell over laughing.

Waldo loved nothing better than grabbing the microphone and giving a bar full of strangers the opportunity to know him and love him by filling the room with song.  “Alabamy Bound” and “Pennies from Heaven” were always on the setlist, and with longtime collaborator Eddie Scheer on the keyboard, Waldo nailed it every time.  A successful night ended with the crowd singing along, urged on by a round of drinks, on Waldo, for his new friends. He was generous to a fault.

O’Leary’s in Brookline gifted him his own Tiffany tumblers, kept behind the bar, which he continued to sip from very carefully after the rims cracked and became jagged.  The Chart Room, in Cataumet, hosted his sing-alongs for years. They once opened for a day, off-season, just to host a birthday party for his wife Anita.  He asked for that check for years. He was known to one and all at the Quarterdeck, and finally the Pub at Linden Ponds, his retirement home, where he loved to loudly complain that the crowd was “too old”.

Waldo Lewis Fielding was born on July 25, 1921, to Harriet and Bennett Fielding in Worcester, Massachusetts. An only child, he enjoyed a close relationship with his father, who introduced him to the Worcester YMCA when he was six years old.  A lifelong YMCA member, he worked out four times a week, swimming and playing tennis. The Boston Globe featured Waldo, working out on his usual treadmill at the Huntington Branch in Boston, aged 91.

Bennett Fielding was “everyone’s doctor,” a highly respected general practitioner in Worcester and surgeon for the Worcester Police Department, and who inspired Waldo’s choice of a medical career. This was not an easy decision for Waldo, who dearly loved theater and sharing his talent, warmth, and humor with an audience. Medicine won out, and he set his sights on becoming a doctor. “It was a big dichotomy in my life,” he was quoted on his acting-vs.-doctoring dilemma in a 1995 article for the Worcester Telegram and Sun.  “My father was very easy about it, but my mother was the one who insisted I become a doctor.”

Waldo graduated from Worcester’s Classical High School.   “Doc” Fielding, as he was known within the first five minutes of his undergraduate days at Dartmouth (class of ’43, graduated ‘42), continued on to study in the College’s two-year medical program, followed by two additional years of medical school at The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. Waldo joined the Navy in 1942, trained at Naval Station Great Lakes, and served in the Pacific theater, caring for mothers and newborns in Guam, and later Truk, a remote Pacific atoll. His Navy service continued until 1948.

While there, Waldo was lined up, in formation beneath the hot sun to meet a visiting dignitary on an inspection tour as the personal representative of President Roosevelt.  It turned out to be the former President of Dartmouth College, who spied his former student Waldo, and interrupted his inspection to chat, and ask what he could do for him. Within weeks, Waldo was ordered to report to his dream job, at Bellevue Hospital in New York City.

Always the showman, he didn’t completely cut performing from his doctor’s life. While serving, he put on shows for Navy trainees, and in 1948 appeared regularly as a comic on CBS’ “Mississippi Music Hall” radio show during medical residences at Bellevue, Harlem Hospital and Hague Maternity Ward in Jersey City. From 1950 until 1952 he was Chief Resident in obstetrics and gynecology at New York’s Harlem Hospital.

While working at Bellevue, Waldo met and married Suzanne Benjamin, (Sue Bennett), a vocalist on “Your Hit Parade,” various network shows, as well as “The Sue Bennett Show.”  After accepting a job at Chelsea Naval Hospital, Waldo and Sue moved to Boston. Suzie did voice-over work for radio and television commercials while raising their two sons, Jed and Andrew.  Waldo later joined the Medical Associates of Massachusetts Memorial Hospital before going into private practice in 1954 until his retirement in 1990.  Suzie passed away in 2001 but was kept alive through Waldo’s many loving stories about her.

Providing medical care for women was his life’s work.  Waldo was introduced to obstetrics in medical school and knew then that it would become his specialty.  He loved his work and often said, “You can’t find a happier doctor than me.”  One part of that care, after Roe v. Wade, was to provide safe abortions. Waldo opened and was head of Pre-Term Health Services Clinic, which provided a full range of OB/GYN services in Brookline. In 2008, when it appeared the Supreme Court was becoming more conservative, Waldo penned an essay in the New York Times, recounting his experiences with the treatment of the after-effects of illicit procedures during his early training at Bellevue and Harlem Hospitals, and advocating for women to finally enjoy “the full rights of first-class citizens.”  He was a tireless advocate for a woman’s right to choose.  He was proud of his participation in the PBS documentary “No Choice,” in which he was interviewed by Pamela Mason in the summer of 2017.

Waldo couldn’t get a parking ticket in Brookline if he tried, since so many officers were among the thousands of Boston newborns delivered by his hands.  He once parked his convertible across two spaces, left the driver’s door open, keys in the ignition, while he went to lunch.  When he returned, all the meter maid said was “I’ve been waiting for you Waldo, nice to see you!”  After saying thank you and hello, Waldo turned to his lunch companion and murmured, “Who the hell was that?”

It was after retiring from his medical practice that Waldo could devote his time to his other love, entertainment.  Waldo’s connection to show business began with his first wife Suzie, and his own talent grew over the ensuing decades. Waldo acted in over 70 community plays, and brought many to tears with his performances of “Love Letters”.  He was a valued patron of the Cotuit Center for the Arts on Cape Cod, and gifted the center many long-lost manuscripts from his personal collection.

It was during this time in his life that Waldo met Anita Mackinnon, organist, mother of six, and longtime nonprofit advocate.  From their first meeting at O’Leary’s, they were inseparable and happy, always out and about at the theater, performing music, and enjoying friends and family. Anita is a member of the College Club of Boston, where Waldo appeared in “Love Letters” and several cabarets.  Waldo and Anita married in November 2014, and divided their time between Brookline and East Falmouth.  Anita liked to sit in the passenger seat of the convertible and concentrate on the Red Sox broadcast and the knitting in her lap, or chatting on the phone, anything to avoid seeing Waldo’s driving.  Waldo and Anita settled at Linden Ponds in Hingham, MA, in 2018.

In addition to Anita, he is survived by two sons: Jed Fielding of Chicago, IL, an internationally recognized street photographer; and Andrew Fielding of Pompton Lakes, NJ, a radio talk show host and author of “The Lucky Strike Papers – Journeys Through My Mother’s Television Past,” a book about early network television in the 1940s and 50’s.

Waldo claimed that Anita added years to his life, and through their marriage, Waldo became the elder of a loving extended family, what he called “the Tribe” including Matthew and Linda MacKinnon of Bethlehem, NH,; DJ and Leslie MacKinnon of Hingham, MA; Laurie and John Fallon of Easton, MA; Robert Benjaminsen and Linda Blue of Annapolis, MD; Leslie MacKinnon of Dorchester, MA; Liza MacKinnon and Brian Knies of Hingham, MA. Waldo’s grandchildren are: Taylor and Andrew Howell of Hingham, MA; Alec MacKinnon of Allston, MA; McKay Blue of Miami, FL; Lila Blue of Annapolis, MD; and Maisie Knies and Lachlan Knies of Hingham, MA.  No stranger to babies, Waldo held his first great-grandchild, Avery Charlotte Howell, on Christmas Day.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Waldo would be thrilled by donations to the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, and to the Cotuit Center for the Arts, Cotuit, MA.

Seymour R. Friedman

December 31, 2021

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of Seymour Ronald Friedman, who passed away on December 30, 2021.  With his humor, love of people and zest for words, Seymour touched the lives of many throughout the Boston area and his native Canada. As his sons remarked, no one who ever met him, forgot him.  A skilled sailor for many decades, Seymour and his wife, Louise, could often be found on the deck of their sailboat, the SEA-EZE, sailing all along the eastern Seaboard – after retiring in 2001 sailing from Newfoundland to Trinidad and all the places in between. At home in Wellesley, MA, Seymour was a loving husband to Louise for 57 years and a devoted father to two sons, Harley and Matthew. He made significant contributions to the country during a long career as a Systems Engineer at MITRE Corporation.

Born to Harry Friedman and Sophie Steinberg on October 29, 1939, in Cote-Saint-Paul, a suburb of Montreal, Quebec, Seymour and his sister, Charron, were raised in Montreal.  He attended Talmud Torah School, Montreal High School and graduated from McGill University in 1961 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. It is in Montreal that a college romance with Louise Krasnow was rekindled on Rosh Hashanah.  They married in 1964 and moved across the border, where Seymour, after working for a few years, attended Cornell University and graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a Masters degree in Computer Science in 1967.  Not long after, they settled in Wellesley, establishing strong friendships and deep connections to the Jewish community.  Seymour’s smile, warmth and unique charm will be missed by his wife, Louise, by Harley and Sarah, Matthew and Robin, and his five grandchildren, Gwen, Daphnie, Mason, Malina and Reese Friedman in addition to all his family in Vancouver, Canada, including his sister, Charron, and husband, Gabriel Kalfon, and sister-in-law Carole Lieberman and husband Lucien.  Seymour was also a cherished uncle to Hilaire Kalfon, Marcy, Leanne and Jeff Lieberman, and great uncle to Leo and Tessa Mendes and Makaio and Dassa Lieberman-Smith.  He will always be remembered for his friendly nature and outgoing personality. Graveside service will be held on Sunday, January 2, 2022 at 10:00 am at Beit Olam East Cemetery, 42 Concord Rd., Wayland, MA. Donations in his memory may be made to Birthright Israel Foundation P.O. Box 21615, New York, NY 10087.

To view the recording of the funeral service click here.

Linda (Ohanesian) Kahn

December 31, 2021

To view the livestream recording please click here

Linda (Ohanesian) Kahn of Cambridge, MA, Ridgewood, NJ, & Ogunquit, ME died on December 31, 2021 at Mt. Auburn Hospital after a brief illness. She was 69 years old. Born in Cambridge, MA at Mt. Auburn Hospital to the late Fred & A. Mary (Spadano) Ohanesian.  She was survived by her devoted husband Peter Kahn; her eldest son David & his wife Trisha of Belmont, MA and her youngest son Daniel Kahn of South Boston.  Devoted sister of Harry Ohanesian & his wife Sheila. Sister-in-law of Milton Kahn & his wife Janet.  Loving grandmother of Jocelyn & Dylan Kahn.  She was also survived by her aunt Marie Spadano and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Graduate of Lesley College 1972.   She loved friends & family time in Ogunquit on the beach, volunteering at the American Red Cross, walking 10,000 steps every day, watching the Red Sox, and most recently Face Timing with her grandchildren. Graveside service at Mount Auburn Cemetery,580 Mount Auburn St., Cambridge, MA  on Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at 11:00 am.  A celebration of life will be held in Summer 2022 at the family home in Ogunquit, ME.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Adler Aphasia Center https://adleraphasiacenter.org.

 

 

 

Michael B. Glass

December 27, 2021

To view service recording please click here.

Michael B. Glass- Passed away December 26, 2021 at the age of 76. Michael grew up in Brookline and lived in Framingham since 1971.Beloved husband for 53 years to Nancy Glass. Loving father of Stuart Glass and his wife Shari, and Andrea O’Keeffe and her husband Tom. Proud papa to Lauren and Rachel Glass. Dear son of the late Samuel and Gertrude Glass. Devoted brother of the late Joyce Aronson. Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at 10:45 am. Due to Covid, there will be no Shiva. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to The Jimmy Fund.

Irene M. Selig

December 26, 2021

Irene M. Selig died peacefully, Sunday, December 26, 2021, a few weeks short of her 95th birthday. Born in Krakow, Poland on February 22, 1927, she was the only child of Henya (Badner) Groessler and Konrad Groessler.

She was a Holocaust survivor.  She was dealt a tough hand in her life, and had a very difficult last year, but she was a fighter. She was feisty, funny, as vain as they come, opinionated… She was a force of nature, with strong convictions, strength, and so much energy and passion for what she believed. She had a lioness’ voice, especially for those without one.

Irene was fiercely loyal to family and friends and was always a cheerleader for her family.  She cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grand children, and no less her extended family by marriage.  She was passionate about climate change, the natural habitat, and recycling, and she always rooted for the underdog and the downtrodden.

Despite being a Holocaust survivor, she treasured her early life in Krakow.  She returned to Poland three times, with her husband, children, and other family members, and it was a privilege for them to see her so animated and happy to show her children her old stomping ground. Although petite in stature, she was larger than life, and somehow found it in her heart to forgive what had been done to her. You can read more about that here.

She lived in Stamford, CT from 1963-2018. She then moved to Westwood, MA with her husband of 48 years, Edward Selig, to be closer to her children.

She is survived by her husband Edward Selig, daughter Dianne (Botkin) Lior of Cambridge MA, son Bradley Botkin and wife Renee Robins of Acton MA, and stepdaughter Vicentica (Vicki) Boxer of Gilmanton NH, four grandchildren Dotan Lior and wife Megan (Nowlin) Lior of Sedona AZ, Atar (Lior) Rosenkrans and husband Marc Rosenkrans of Maui, HI, Elijah Botkin, and Noah Botkin of Boston MA, and four great-grandchildren Anya and Esme Lior, and Ari and Kai Rosenkrans.

In honor of Irene’s memory, those who desire may contribute to the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), the World Wildlife Foundation (WWF), or Hebrew Senior Life (HSL).

We will miss her smile.

Les Blicher

Leslie “Les” Stuart Blicher

December 24, 2021

Leslie “Les” S. Blicher, a long-time Newton resident, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 24, 2021. He was 85 years old and had Parkinson’s Disease for the last 15 years of his life.

Les received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Rochester and, following a stint in the Navy, a J.D. from Georgetown University. He worked as a tax attorney with specialties in employee benefits and ERISA for the Internal Revenue Service, John Hancock, and Goodwin Procter. Les then spent the last half of his career as an employee benefits consultant and office manager for Mercer-Meidinger-Hansen’s Boston office, Alexander & Alexander, and Executive Alliance.

Les had a passion for the legal system in general and in U.S. constitutional law specifically. He taught courses on these subjects while working at Babson College’s executive education program, and upon retiring at the Brandeis University BOLLI program. Les also served on the Board of Trustees at  Temple Shalom of Newton, where he was a member until his passing.

Les played the trumpet from a young age and enjoyed music all his life. He played in the Angier School Community Band, in ensembles at the All-Newton Music School, and with friends. He attended classical concerts in the Boston area until he was no longer able, then watched telecasts of the Metropolitan Opera and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He was also an avid reader and was seldom without a book or newspaper.

Les is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 62 years, Beverly (Hirsch) Blicher. He is also survived by his sister, Joyce Schwartz of Wellesley; his daughter Deborah Blicher, son-in-law Peter Dain, and their children Kristina and Max Dain of Sudbury; and his son Neil Blicher, daughter-in-law Elizabeth Gossels Blicher, and their children Jane, Michael, and Matthew Blicher of Sudbury.

Les’ family and friends will remember and miss his warmth and charm, his dry and occasionally silly sense of humor, his love for desserts (particularly chocolate), his passion for the Boston Red Sox, and his way of making people comfortable in his presence. Funeral service is private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Les’ memory may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 1255 Soldiers Field Rd., Boston, MA 02135.

 

To view the service recording please click here.

Doris M. Jones

December 21, 2021

Doris M. Jones, age 83, of Newton, passed away Tuesday, December 21, 2021. Daughter of the late William E. Jones and Ann (Fedor) Hardony. Mother of Monica Beth Jones and the late Pamela Leigh Jones (Horwitz). Dear grandmother of Nicholas Michael Rider. Loving sister of the late William E. Jones, Jr. Wife of Vincent T. Corniello. Doris enjoyed a long and successful career in Boston’s legal industry starting as a freelance stenographer with Doris O. Wong Associates before taking an official reporting position at the Federal Court with Judge Keaton.  Doris opened her own court reporting firm, Doris M. Jones & Associates in 1979 where she trained and mentored many new court reporters, and growing the company to over 40 people who worked in Boston’s largest and most prestigious law firms.  Doris M. Jones & Associates was chosen as Best Court Reporting Company in the Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly readers’ poll several years in a row in the 1990s.  Doris sold her company and retired in 2002 but missed reporting and interacting with clients so much, she came out of retirement to co-found Jones & Fuller Reporting in 2004 where she worked until her retirement in 2014.  Jones & Fuller continues to do business under the leadership of those she mentored for so many years. Graveside service will be held Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at 1:30pm at The Gardens at Gethsemane, 670 Baker St. West Roxbury, MA. Donations in her memory may be made to The Jimmy Fund P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.

To view the service recording please click here.

Jack Leon Paradise

December 20, 2021

Jack Leon Paradise, 96, loving and devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and pediatrician, died peacefully at his home in Belmont, MA, on December 20, 2021, surrounded by his family.

Paradise was born in Butler, PA, in 1925, to Bella (Goodman) and Samuel Paradise. At the age of 16, he entered Washington & Jefferson College, not far from home. Two years later, he entered Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and, after graduating at age 21, Paradise began the pediatric practice and clinical research that he continued almost to the end of his life. In May of this year, at the age of 95, he co-authored a paper published in The New England Journal of Medicine with a research team led by one of the many physician-researchers he mentored over the course of his storied career.

In the early 1950s, Paradise, along with several other physicians, opened a coal miners’ clinic in a small industrial town in southeastern Ohio, on the Ohio River. The Bellaire Clinic was part of a system of clinics set up across the Appalachian coal fields, where miners and their families, after decades of underfunded, fragmentary, and inadequate medical care, had access to free, comprehensive health care paid for by the mineworkers’ union. In 1967, the clinic applied for and received a federal grant to establish the first non-urban Neighborhood Health Center in the nation, providing health care and related services to low-income families.

In 1970, Paradise joined the faculty of the University of Pittsburgh Medical School as a professor of pediatrics and the medical director of the Ambulatory Care Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. There, for 35 years until his retirement in 2005, he conducted clinical research focused on determining the appropriate indications for tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy in children – surgeries that at the time were exceedingly prevalent but lacking an evidence base. His landmark research helped to promote the use of strict criteria for tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy and changed the trajectory of treatment for children worldwide. The nearly 80 percent drop in pediatric tonsillectomies in the United States between 1971 and 1996 has been largely attributed to Paradise’s work.

Paradise was also a renowned expert in the study of otitis media, or middle ear infections, the most frequently occurring disease of childhood. His large-scale research studies, which were marked by clarity and elegance of design, demonstrated that the widely held fear that persistent ear infections in young children caused later speech, language, cognitive, or psychosocial impairments was unfounded. In a body of research conducted over a period of decades, Paradise showed that, for children up to 3 years old, ear disease does not cause any developmental problems, and that delay in the insertion of tympanostomy tubes into children’s ears has no effect on their performance on language and speech tests. In subsequent studies, Paradise expanded this research to groups of older children, with similar findings.

Paradise was a researcher at heart even from the earliest days of his medical career. As a post-doctoral trainee, he conducted an innovative study that served to effectively discredit the then-prevailing notion that infantile colic was a reflection in the baby of the mother’s tension, hostility toward her baby, or rejection of her maternal role. Results of that widely cited study have helped to spare countless mothers unnecessary guilt and anxiety. Overall, Paradise’s body of work shed light on broad areas of primary care for children that had previously been clouded by uncertainty and controversy and characterized by conflicting and often divergent practices. His research materially influenced pediatric primary care in ways that led to important improvements in health care for children.

In 1994, Paradise was awarded the Research Award of the Ambulatory Pediatric Association. In 1999, he was named Pennsylvania Pediatrician of the Year. The award recognized him for many attributes and contributions, in particular, for epitomizing the role of clinician-teacher, for the combination of his seriousness and the wonderful twinkle in his eye, and for teaching his colleagues how to question received wisdom and to probe for new answers to old problems. In 2000,Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh established the Jack L. Paradise, MD Endowed Chair in Pediatric Research.

Paradise was a committed social activist since his medical school days. He was especially active in Physicians for Social Responsibility and International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War, which was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985. Paradise’s engagement in world affairs and humanitarian concerns lasted throughout his life.

Above all, Paradise was known for his kindness, decency, sense of humor, loud plaids, late-night work, indefatigable rewriting, friendship, compassion, and big heart. In the last few months of his life, colleagues from Pittsburgh, many of whom remained treasured friends, visited him in Belmont, MA, to spend time, reminisce, and laugh with their friend one last time. As profound a source of meaning and purpose as his work was to him, his family was his greatest joy. No need of theirs was too small for his attention, and his close relationships with them delighted and sustained him.

Paradise had four children from his first marriage, Jan (deceased) (Gary Fleisher), Daniel (deceased), Julia (Emanuel Thorne), and Emily (Arn Franzen). He was a devoted and loving husband to his late wife, Mary Paradise. He is survived by his sister, Judith Hirst; six grandchildren, Daniel, Madeline and Carl Fleisher, Miriam and Daniel Thorne, and Elias Franzen; seven great-grandchildren, Isaac, Gabriel, and Noah Fleisher, Jane and Henry McKenzie, and Charlotte and Bennet Fleisher; and his longtime companion, Marjie Cahn.

A private interment took place at West View Cemetery, in Pittsburgh, PA. A memorial service is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Physicians for Social Responsibility, and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

Ruth Flink Ades

December 19, 2021

A true eishet chayel (woman of valor) and matriarch, Ruth Flink Ades passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, December 19, 2021, at her home, at the age of 89. She is survived by Alan, her loving husband of 68 years, her children Stephen, Philip (Ellen), Andrea Ades Woolner (Steven), and Sara Ades Goodwin, her brother Alan Flink (Renee z”l), her 19 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Additional loved ones include her sisters and brother in-love Sherri Ades Falchuk (Kenneth), Richard Ades (Elaine), and Harvey, z”l (Rebecca).

Her love for her family, Judaism and Jewish tradition was infused in her every action throughout her life.  She loved people and made connections everywhere she went. She loved gardening, tennis, swimming and was a former teacher. Israel was very dear to her with each of her 44 visits with her husband over the years. Her generosity of spirit and love of Judaism led her to leadership roles in many Jewish organizations including Sisterhood, Federation and Hadassah.  Ruth’s involvement in prayer and synagogue activities were extensive and respected throughout communities where she resided beginning in New Bedford, Ma., Longboat Key, Fl., and most recently at Newbridge on the Charles in Dedham, MA.

The funeral service will be held on Monday, December 20, 2021, 1pm, at Temple Israel of Sharon, 125 Pond Street. Guests must be fully vaccinated and masked. Interment following at Sharon Memorial Park.

Donations in Ruth’s memory may be made to Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton, MA. 02459, Hebrew Senior Life, Attn: Development Office, 1200 Centre St., Boston, MA. 02131 or Hadassah, 1320 Centre St., Newton, MA., 02459.

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