Archive: September, 2020

Bernard Berkman, age 89, loving husband, devoted father of 4, grandfather of 10, successful businessman and philanthropist, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on September 25, 2020 at his home in Newton surrounded by three generations of his loving family.

Bernard George Berkman was born in Roxbury and lived as an adult in Brookline, Wellesley, Newton, and in Florida near Sarasota.  He attended public schools in Roxbury and Cambridge until asthma and an independent streak brought him to Arizona for middle school and high school and then Florida to attend the Admiral Farragut Academy.

He acquired his interest in business from his father, Samuel R. Berkman, a successful businessman in his own right, who offered his son opportunities to meet interesting and famous people like the heavy weight champion boxers Joe Louis and Jack Dempsey. He honed his natural entrepreneurial acumen at Babson College (where he remained as a Trustee Emeritus).

Strong-willed, whip smart, confident, persistent, with an abiding fairness and good humor, along with a strong sense of loyalty to friends and family, Bernard struck out on his own in his twenties, like a man on a mission. Confident in his vision and skill, he pursued several areas of commerce over a very successful and diverse 70 year career including Schrafft Candies, liquor sales and distribution, real estate sales/financing, health care and nursing home ownership/management, property management, venture capital, and perhaps most prominently investment finance – most of which ran through Bernard G. Berkman Associates based in Brookline.

A devoted father and husband, whose fervent wish was to support, encourage, take care, and guide his children and their children.  His family was his whole world.  He planned several family trips and cruises, generously creating time and space away together for family memories and to help its members build bonds that will last forever. He was often heard to encourage his children and their spouses to “take care of each other” and to lovingly admonish “may your tribes increase.”

He often shared his wisdom about life and business.  Regaling listeners with stories – amazing tales of investments that through some wonderful alchemy of intelligence, knowledge, and foresight, that  yielded healthy returns and lasting relationships. Patient but smart and diverse capital were his watch words, surpassed only by his motto:  early to bed early to rise, work like hell and amortize.

A true mensch, he was also committed to Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, through his compassion and philanthropy.  Among many other causes, he supported the efforts of low-income young people to pursue high school and college education, he supported the arts and medical science, and he helped young Israelis to learn how to play tennis and succeed in school through support for the Israeli Tennis Center.

He leaves his loving and devoted wife Nancy of Newton, MA; his daughter Debra Berkman of Westford; his son Robert Berkman and daughter-in-law Hilde Berkman of Wellesley; his daughter Linda Diamond and his son-in-law Joseph Diamond of Westford, MA; his daughter Jennifer Berkman of Newton; his grandchildren Stefanie Sparrow and her husband Steve Varney of Chelmsford, Shayna Sparrow of Cambridge and her husband Nick Aguilera, Lauren Berkman of New York City, Barrick Berkman of Scottsdale, AZ, Lindsey Berkman of Apache Junction, AZ, Sydney Diamond and her husband David Edwards of Burlington, VT, Ellie Diamond of Burlington, VT, and Samantha, Carly, and Talia Saada of Newton, MA.  Bernard also leaves his beloved havenese dog Karma who helped Nancy through her battle with cancer and comforted Bernard over these past difficult days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bernard Berkman’s memory to: The Mass General Cancer Center MGH Cancer Center At Newton-Wellesley Hospital www.giving.massgeneral.org ,MGH Development Office, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 54, Boston, MA  02114 ,The Babson College Fund www.givecampus.com , or The Israeli Tennis Center www.itecenters.org.

SALWEN, Howard Telecom Titan, co-inventor of the internet router Howard Salwen died on Friday, September 25th of complications from Alzheimers at Rogerson House in Boston. He was born in New York in 1937, son of Norman and Hannah (Bernstein) Salwen. He was a graduate of the Horace Mann School and received bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in engineering from MIT. He was widely considered to be “the father of the token ring,” an early internet router technology, which evolved into founding his company, Proteon, where he was Chairman and CEO and took public in 1992. After ethernet technology became the standard, Howard went on to become CEO and Chairman of Telco systems, Chairman of Ultranet, Chairman of Scaleable Display, and a board member at Marathon Technologies as well as many other technology companies. Howard was a major force in Massachusetts’ then burgeoning telecom industry and became Chairman of the Mass Telecom Council in 1995, where he worked on Net Day, the effort to computerize and connect all the state’s schools to the internet. He also worked nationally to set standards for the telecom industry. Always ready to share his knowledge, he preferred making his points by telling stories, simplifying sometimes very complex ideas. He lectured, wrote and presented white papers all over the world for the IEEE. A music lover and gifted piano player, he served on the board of the Celebrity Series of Boston for many years. Other philanthropic board service included the American Technion Society, the DeCordova Museum, and MIT’s class of 1958, for which he served as Treasurer. He was known for his colorful bow ties and his big smile He was always ready to share his knowledge and mentored countless young MIT grads on their start-ups. He loved to race his Porsche and play tennis. He was an avid skier at his second home in Jackson Hole, where he took great pleasure in showing friends around the mountain. He is survived by his wife, Sheryl Resnick Marshall; his son David Salwen and his wife Barrett Tilney of Washington D.C.; his daughter Andrea Salwen Kopel and her husband Ed Kopel of New York; step daughter Dana Fisher and her husband Matt Fisher of New York; his grandchildren Madeleine and Camilla Salwen, and Ruby Salwen Kopel; his stepgrandchildren Keaton and Ezra Fisher; his sister Joan Salwen Fields of New York and brother-in-law Jay Lief of New York. The family is grateful to everyone at Rogerson House and his longtime caregivers, Lilian Assuncao and Juan Gonzalez. Donations in his memory may be made to the American Technion Society, Celebrity Series of Boston, or the Alzheimer’s Association. Funeral services were held.

of Boston, formerly of Newton, passed away peacefully September 24, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Melvin Adelson. Loving mother of Merle Adelson and her partner Paul Freedman, and the late Frederic Adelson. The family gratefully thanks Valerie Webbe for her loving care of Henriette in her final years. Henriette will be remembered for her love of family, food, and great wit. There will be a private service at Sharon Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Mass General Hospital, c/o Geriatric Department, 55 Fruit St., Boston, MA 02114.

Frances Ruth Goldman Karsh, born August 23, 1923 in Boston, a resident of Boca Raton and New Seabury and formerly of Waban, MA, passed peacefully at her Cape Cod home on September 23, 2020; she had a good heart, a “lev tov”, all her life. Frances was the much loved daughter of Annie Bank Goldman and Abraham Goldman, beloved wife of the late Henry Karsh, loving and devoted mother to Ellen Karsh Dubois (Lawrence), Bruce Karsh, Donna Karsh Carlson, cherished grandmother to Emily Dubois deVries (Jeremy), Abigail Dubois, and great grandmother to Lily deVries. Devoted sister to Verna Cooper and to predeceased siblings Ida Goldman Goodman, Philip Goldman, Benjamin Goldman, and Frank Goldman.

Lovingly remembered for her kindness, warmth, love of family, peace and of life, humor, creativity, intelligence, perseverance and her pioneering working woman spirit as a copywriter in both Boston and New York City and then, with Henry, founding Jobs Unlimited employment agency where they worked for decades while raising their children. The family matriarch, dedicated to her Jewish roots, Frances enjoyed family gatherings, especially on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. She created many fond memories for her family and friends and she will be extraordinarily missed by all who had the honor of knowing her. Private services will be held October 1. In lieu of flowers, expressions in her memory may be made to: The Good People Fund, 384 Wyoming Avenue, Millburn, NJ 07041 (973-761-0580).

WESTON, Mass. – Julius “Zeci” Goos of Naples Fla. passed away peacefully in his sleep the early morning of Sept. 21, 2020. Born Sept. 8, 1922, in Bangor, Zeci just celebrated his 98th birthday with his family by his side. Zeci was a quiet, unassuming, humble man – a real mensch! His Yiddish name “Zeci” appropriately translates in English to “Sweet”.

Growing up on York Street in Bangor, Zeci and his family were prominent members of the Bangor Jewish community. Zeci was proud of the fact that his father, the first in his family to emigrate to the United States in the early 20th Century, worked hard to bring over 10 family members from Europe to the United States and Canada. Religious observance was an important part of his family heritage and he remained committed to Judaism in all forms. Zeci remained close to his three siblings, Albert Goos, Ruth Goos Lotker, and Adelle Goos Rubin who predeceased him. Zeci’s childhood job was helping his father in his cow brokerage business translating English to Yiddish. As a school age child, Zeci was a great baseball player and loved baseball throughout his life. He was an avid Red Sox fan, watching the 10-2 victory over the Yankees the night he passed.

Zeci studied mechanical engineering at the University of Maine Orono class of 1944. During World War II his military service involved working on the Manhattan Project in Oakridge, Tenn. designing cooling systems for separating uranium and safety protocols to prevent radiation exposure during the manufacture of the atomic bomb. Following the war, he worked as an engineer for Union Carbide in New York City.

Zeci moved back to Maine where through his sister, Adelle, he met her good friend and his wife of 68 years, Charlotte Kofman Goos who predeceased him just 11 weeks ago. Zeci and Charlotte moved to Augusta and Zeci established a business as a wholesale distributor of poultry. He was very well respected by his workers and clients alike as an honorable, honest, hard-working businessman. Upon retiring, he partnered in Charlotte’s antique business traveling to antique shows throughout New England. For the past 25 years, Charlotte and Zeci divided their time between Naples, Fla. and East Winthrop. He and Charlotte were avid golfers at Augusta Country Club and Country Side in Naples. He and Charlotte remained jitterbug dancers well into their 90s.

Charlotte and Zeci were founding members of Temple Beth El in Augusta. Among his many roles at the synagogue, Zeci conducted Friday night services as a lay rabbi, led Passover community seder, and taught young students how to lay tefillin. In 2005, he celebrated a second Bar Mitzvah 70 years after his first. One of the fondest family memories was listening to Zeci simultaneously translate the Passover Haggadah from English to Yiddish to Hebrew during the family seder.

Zeci is survived by his children and in-laws, Stanley Goos and Susan Parker, Sylvia Goos Greene and Steve Greene, and Dr. Sam Goos and Sarah Goos. He is survived by his grandchildren, Dr. Ben Parker Goos, Sophie Parker Goos, Max Greene and his wife Caroline Greene, Jake Greene, Zach Goos, and Ariel Goos.

Zeci was be laid to rest next to his wife, Charlotte, in a ceremony at Temple Beth El Memorial Park in Portland.

Gloria Asquith passed away on September 17th, 2020. She was wife of the late Lawrence Asquith and they were married for 70 years. She was the sister of the late Roberta Shriber and Malcom Shriber. Beloved mother of Joan Asquith Shrier and Scott Shrier, Matthew Kaufman and the late Marcia Kaufman. Grandmother to Sara Kaufman (Danny), Emily Kaufman (Chris), Jason Shrier (Hannah), and Elizabeth Shrier Wolf (Georg). Great grandmother to Max, Zoe, Wilder, Brooks and Gray. Gloria lived in Newton all her adult life and raised her family there. She loved classical music, the arts, theatre and travel. Her favorite spot was Bellagio, Italy where she traveled to every year with her husband.

Donations in her memory can be made to the The Jewish National Fund, or The Dana Farber Jimmy Fund Walk, Team Tara.

Bornstein, Esther (Litcofsky), of Randolph, formerly of Brockton, MA, on September 17, 2020. Beloved wife of the late David Bornstein. Devoted mother of Paul and his wife Paula Bornstein, and the late Gary and Robert Bornstein. Proud grandmother of David Bornstein. Loving sister of the late Sylvia Brody, Mark Lane, Anne Mazor, and Sarah Bolin. Loving aunt of Karyn Smith and her husband Paul, and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Esther’s memory may be made to the National Tay-Sachs and Allied Disease Association, 2001 Beacon St., #204, Boston, MA 02135.

Rebecca “Becca” Mann Schmill of Needham, MA, passed away unexpectedly from an accidental drug overdose on September 16, 2020, at the age of 18. Becca was the loving daughter of Stuart and Debra Schmill of Needham, MA, and the adoring sister of Samantha Schmill. A recent graduate of the Cambridge School of Weston, Becca had been accepted at the University of Richmond.

Becca was a beautiful and caring person with a gift for making those around her feel loved and appreciated. Her smile could light up a room. Her passion for life and vibrant spirit were hallmarks of her personality. She was adventurous, curious, and willful. She was a sensitive soul.

Becca had an innate sense of equity and fairness that led her to become involved in issues of social justice. There is no doubt that she would have pursued these issues in meaningful ways had she not been taken so soon.

In addition to her parents and sister, Becca is survived by her maternal grandmother, Florence Mann of Newton, MA, her paternal grandfather, Hyman Schmill of St. Charles, IL, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins all of whom loved her more than words can express, and none of whom will ever forget her. She was also blessed with many close friends who share in the family’s profound loss.

Hers was a life full of potential, tragically cut short. But we are all grateful for each precious moment we had with her.

Becca’s passing at such a young age leaves a void in the hearts of all who loved her, a void that will never truly be filled. But we can all help provide some meaning to this otherwise senseless tragedy by supporting one or more of the following organizations in her memory, all of which were important to Becca: Jane Doe Inc., The Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault, donate online https://janedoe.org, or call (617) 248-0922, or Black Lives Matter donate online at https://blacklivesmatter.com, or Community Health Partnership-Honduras, donate online https://www.chp-honduras.org, or call (508) 237-1384.

Funeral Services will be private due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

A link to Becca’s funeral service can be found below.

https://my.gather.app/remember/rebecca-becca-mann-schmill

The eulogy composed by Stuart and Debbie Schmill:

“Our hearts ache. They ache for all the smiles we will never see, and the hugs we will never feel. Our hearts ache for the pain Becca’s death has caused our extended family, and each of her many, many close friends. Our hearts ache for the tragedy of losing our beautiful, kind, fun-loving daughter, before she reached her 19th birthday.

Our love for Becca was and is endless. No loss is easy, but this one is unimaginable and untenable. As has been mentioned by others, Becca was a bright light in a dark room. She was funny, adventurous, willful and determined. Not always determined in the ways we would have wanted, but it was still one of her most admirable qualities.

Her willfulness was evident even at a very early age, when as a toddler, her Uncle Ricky commanded her in a playful moment: “Don’t even think about being so cute”… to which she immediately replied with a twinkle in her eye… ”I’m thinking about it.”

From the time she was born, Becca was determined not to miss out on anything. As a result, we missed out on a great deal of sleep.  Becca’s adventurous, fun-loving spirit was a source of great joy for everyone around her.  She was absolutely adored by her grandmother and grandfather, and all her aunts, uncles and cousins.  Likewise, Becca looked forward to every gathering of her local family members and every trip to see her family in New York and Chicago.

Becca quickly adopted a second family and home when she started spending her summers at Camp Chimney Corners. She spent the school year counting the days until camp. To her, there was nothing better than being with a bunk of girlfriends sharing their deepest thoughts and dreams, and challenging themselves and growing together. At camp, Becca was known as a peacemaker and a leader. Becca learned the strength of true friendship and loyalty, and developed a strong sense of self-worth as a female at camp. Camp was a highlight of her much too short life.

She made some of the most enduring friendships of her life at camp and many have contacted us since hearing of Becca’s death. This is a quote from one of those friends:

“Becca was a master of balance. Her life traveled with the present, her relationships grounded in a perpetual past. Both light and heavy, Becca defied the societal heaviness to which I conformed. She was, and she is. I don’t think I will ever meet someone like her again.

“The weight of Becca’s life will be with me forever, but so will her lightness. And this is what makes Becca so special because in the heavy folds of our friendship exists bursts of light—so many laughs and hugs, smiles, and dances.”

Becca’s belief in herself gave her a determination that was unwavering and not always welcomed by us. Whenever we asked why she was doing something she wasn’t supposed to do, she would say with a sly smile, “because it’s fun.”

Becca had a way of getting into your heart, with her big brown eyes, sweet demeaner and desire to heal what ailed you. She was not just our daughter. She was our friend. She comforted us when we were in pain.

For those who might not know, Becca was also a Busker (a street performer) for a short while when we lived in Jamaica Plain. She had decided that she needed to earn her keep. She was 14, and surely the youngest busker in JP at the time. She would carry her guitar and tip jar to Centre Street, sit on the sidewalk and play, often with voice accompaniment of her friend Dani. After a few hours she would collect her earnings and treat us all to dinner. Every time she headed out with her guitar, I would tell her she needed a permit to busk and that the police were going to approach her one day. And sure enough, one day a policeman approached her… and put a $1 bill in her tip jar.

Becca was a joy and we are left with so many wonderful memories of time spent with her:

–          Our annual camping trips with friends, sitting around the campfire playing games and eating smores.

–          Visits to various presidential libraries and museums (Becca knew more about Rutherford B. Hayes …. than Rutherford B. Hayes did)

–          Dad and Becca’s annual summer trip to The No Name restaurant

–          Mom and Becca singing the “Luna song,” always ending with a big laugh and a hug

–          Family vacations filled with hand holding and hugs

–          Long talks and walks together discussing her dreams and her struggles

By the time Becca was 18 and nearing her 19th birthday, she had faced quite a few challenges. But she honestly never complained. She was incredibly brave, and as her parents, we are so very proud of who she was, how she lived her life fully.

Today is a terribly sad day, but now is not only a time for tears. If all we do is cry, we will fail Becca and ourselves. Today we need to remember her smile, her happiness, and the unmitigated joy she brought to all of our lives.

A school friend of Becca’s maybe said it best: “She managed to make those around her smile even when she wasn’t in our presence and I know all will continue to remember how big of a role she played in our lives. She will always be loved and always be in our hearts.”

Today we also must remember Becca’s struggles and how she fought to overcome them. We must remember that Becca was, above all, a human being, full of contradictions, strengths and weaknesses. And that human beings die. That is the destiny we all share.

All we can really hope for… from a life well lived… is to be remembered as being kind to others and loved by those who truly knew us. In her almost 19 years, Becca achieved what many never achieve in a hundred.

She was kind, she was loving, and she was so very much loved.”

The following tribute was received from the Community Health Partnership-Honduras, an organization for which Becca volunteered in providing medical services to impoverished villagers in Honduras.

“In our decades of working in Honduras, we have had exactly one child out of hundreds, just one, come back to the states and of her own volition start organizing local drives to generate funds and materials to help the people in those rural regions- that was, of course, Becca. She and Deb came with us to La Florida, Honduras 4 years ago, and, according to the townspeople there, Miriam and Hugo, Doctors Gloria and Maria, the honey vendor next to the dental clinic, Dona Reina, and everyone who visited the clinic, they never left. On every subsequent trip, kids, parents, and practitioners, always ask about Becca. And although she was shy, quiet and unassuming, everyone, everyone, especially kids, gravitated to her- oftentimes she was surrounded, no, she was swarmed by kids in her clinic- they all just wanted to be near her. Her natural kindness, her humor, and her patience in a clinic filled with patients every day, resonated with them all. She was a light for our entire team and the Town of La Florida. And so, I offer not only our grief at the loss of Becca who we love, but the grief of a faraway community who, for their part, loved her too. She touched them all. May she know peace.”

Bernice Sandler-Formerly of Newton, MA, on September 13,2020. Bernice was the beloved mother of Barbara Brown and her husband Robert,  David Sandler and his wife Yoko. Dear grandmother of Nicholas Brown and his wife Caitlin, Sara Berenson and her husband Evan, Molly Irwin and her husband Dennis, Michael Sandler, and Rachel Sandler and her husband James. Bernice is survived by 5 great-granddaughters. She often said she was grateful for having had two great loves, her husband Frank for 48 years and her close friend Louis Gershman for 14 years. She loved to dance, Frank Sinatra being one of her favorites. She had a very close friendship with her cousin Sandy Litner and family. Her friends were extremely important to her, especially Dorothy Freniere, Roberta and Bernie Cole and Lotte Goldberg.  Her growing up years were difficult especially because of her brother Benjamin dying at 23 in World War 11 and her parents never really recovering. However, she was strong and made a wonderful life with her husband Frank. She worked for many years, first for the family dry cleaning business and then in various offices, the most years being at William James College which provided many friendships, earning the position of Assistant Registrar. She will be missed by many. Remembrances may be made to National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, 12221 Merit Drive, Suite 1950, Dallas, TX 75251. Email: nocc@ovarian.org. www.ovarian.org. Donation page:https://events.ovarian.org/nocc/Donate

November 6, 1942 – September 14, 2020

Selvyn Seidel- died from a catastrophic fall. Beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle, lawyer and friend. Cherished for his optimism, kindness, intelligence, sense of humor, generosity and wisdom. Survived by Deborah, his wife of 50 years, daughter Emily Carroll, son-in-law Robert Carroll and grandchildren Claire and Charlie. Funeral private. Celebration of his life at a later date. Contributions in his memory to American Friends of Oxford University or UC Berkeley School of Law.

Dr. Michael Litman-On September 12, 2020.Complete notice to follow.

Leslie Karen Lerner of Brookline, MA passed away unexpectedly on September 11, 2020, at the age of 75. Leslie was the devoted daughter of the late Nathan and Anne Lerner, loving sister of John and Linda Lerner of Newton and Scott Lerner of Delray Beach, FL, and the caring aunt of Jeffrey and Jill Lerner, Adam and Stacey Lerner, April Van Dam, and Caroline and Alex Stangle. Leslie was also the proud great- aunt to nine nieces and nephews. A graduate of Brookline High and The Chandler School, she was a long-time executive secretary at Chelsea Industries. She was also the Administrator of The Joseph and Clara Ford Foundation, overseeing the philanthropic efforts made possible by one of the founders of Brandeis University. Leslie’s interests included the love of her dog Lulu, antiquing at Brimfield, walking around the Reservoir, playing Mahjong, and dedicating her time and support to many worthy charities. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and loved her. Due to current circumstances, her funeral will be private. Donations in Leslie’s memory may be made to Joslin Diabetes Center, Inc., One Joslin Place, Boston, MA 02215.

https://my.gather.app/remember/leslie-lerner

Stanley Jay Rosenberg, M.D. of Newton, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on September 9, 2020. As a physician, he was admired by patients and colleagues for his compassion and dedication to teaching.  As a father and grandfather, he was adored for his complete and unselfish love, support, advice, and the humor with which he approached every situation.  As a husband, he was a loving companion, hiking partner, and best friend for over 59 years.

Stan was born on July 13, 1937 to Harold and Marion Rosenberg of Boston, MA.  He was raised in Dorchester and West Roxbury, MA and attended Boston Latin School, graduating in 1956.  Stan prepared for a career in medicine by studying for a B.S. in Chemistry and Biology at Tufts University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1960.  During his freshman year he met Maxine Lavine, who would later be his wife for over 59 years. He then attended the Yale University School of Medicine.  Maxine joined him in New Haven after their marriage in 1961, where they celebrated the birth of their daughter Phylis and then their son Harold.  Stan graduated M.D., Cum Laude, from Yale University School of Medicine in 1964.  Their son Daniel was born while Stan was in the Public Health Service in Albany, NY in 1967.

Stan’s professional life was marked by his care and compassion for his patients, his dedication to teaching and mentoring generations of gastroenterology fellows, and a passion for improving the quality of care for patients.  After graduating from Yale, Stan did residencies at the Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, served in the US Public Health Service, and completed his fellowship in the gastroenterology department of the Boston University School of Medicine.  In 1971 he entered private practice in gastroenterology. In 1989, Stan joined the full-time faculty of the Beth Israel Hospital, where he remained until his retirement in 2015.  Throughout his career he maintained a strong affiliation and involvement with teaching programs at Beth Israel Hospital and the Harvard Medical School. From 1971 until his retirement he held appointments as an Instructor, and then Assistant Professor of Medicine, at the Harvard Medical School.  His clinical activities were primarily in general gastroenterology, with special interest in esophageal disorders and endoscopy.  He was the Director of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy at the Beth Israel from 1985 through 1996 and was the acting Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology from 1994 through 1996.  He also served as the Director of Quality Assurance and GI Endoscopy Training Director. Stan was the co-author of a number of published papers and studies, including as the primary author of a paper in the highly respected journal Nature. Even after his formal retirement he continued to practice, working with the Maven project to bring his expertise to under served communities.

Stan’s personal interests were driven by his family, an enjoyment of the outdoors, and a love of music.  Family hiking trips to the White Mountains in New Hampshire led to a lifelong love of hiking and the outdoors.  Stan and Maxine traveled the world, hiking in mountains all over North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.  He loved sharing these experiences with old friends and those he met along the way.  As an adult, he fulfilled his ambition to learn the oboe, and in the process became passionate about the mission of the All Newton Music School to bring musical instruction and experiences to the community.  He volunteered at the school for many years and served as the President of the Board of Directors from 1984 to 1987.

Stan was always an interested listener, a trusted advisor, a steadying presence, and a beloved friend to his children and grandchildren.  His caring and humor in difficult situations, his gratitude for the blessings of his life even when dealing with personal setbacks, and his constant care for the well-being of his family and friends have served as an inspiration for all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Stan is lovingly remembered by his wife, Maxine Lavine Rosenberg; his daughter and son-in-law Phylis and Joseph Crosby; his son Harold Rosenberg and daughter-in-law Melora Goosey; his son and daughter-in-law Daniel and Sheri Rosenberg; his grandchildren: David Brunet, Corine Rosenberg, Raquel Goosey, Joshua Brunet, Jacob Rosenberg, and Ethan Rosenberg; his brother and sister-in-law Lewis and Paula Rosenberg; and his brother and sister-in-law Kenneth and Carol Rosenberg.

All are invited to share remembrances at https://tinyurl.com/rememberingSJR.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Stanley may be made to All Newton Music School at https://www.allnewton.org/donate or by check made payable to “All Newton Music School” with “Stanley Rosenberg” on the memo line and mailed to: All Newton Music School, 321 Chestnut Street, West Newton, MA 02465 or to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s GI General Fund at bidmc.org/giving or by check made payable to “BIDMC” with “Stanley Rosenberg/GI” on the memo line and mailed to: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Office of Development, 330 Brookline Ave – OV, Boston, MA 02215.

Joan (Hermine) Greenfield of Jamaica Plain, entered into her rest Wednesday, September 9th, 2020 after a fall.Joan was born on September 1, 1932, in Pittsburg, PA, the daughter of Sidney (Steve) and Claudia Greenfield and is survived by her brother Arthur and sister-in-law Jane.In early 1942 the family moved to Newton, MA where she grew to adulthood. After graduating from Newton High School, Joan attended the University of Wisconsin, graduating in 1953, after which she spent a year in Paris, attending the Sorbonne and traveling. Upon her return to Boston, she embarked upon a very successful career in direct mail advertising. This eventually led her to opening J.G. Creative, her own direct mail advertising firm in New York.

Joan enjoyed travel and making new friends both at home and abroad. She was a self-taught gourmet chef and was a dynamic and gracious hostess. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed the theatre.As a person, she was a loyal friend, a loving sister and devoted daughter and granddaughter; she was very involved with a number of community organizations.Services and burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery in Chicago, IL on Thursday, September 17th at 1 p.m. Central Standard Time ( 2 p.m. Eastern Standard Time). You may Live Stream her service by visiting Chicago Jewish Funerals website www.cjfinfo.com.In lieu of flowers, kindly make a donation in her memory to the charity of your choice.

Richard Alan Smith- Boston has lost a captain of industry and a leading light in philanthropy. Richard Alan (Dick) Smith, born November 1, 1924 to Philip and Marion Smith, died peacefully in his Chestnut Hill home surrounded by family, on Wednesday, September 9th.

Richard was raised in Brookline, MA. He attended the Runkle School, Browne & Nichols School, and graduated from Harvard College in 1946 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering in two and a half years as part of the naval program. Subsequently, he joined his father in the family business, Midwest Drive-in, later called General Drive-In. When his father died unexpectedly in 1961, Richard was thrust into the CEO role at the newly public company, which would be renamed General Cinema Corporation (GCC) in 1964. Richard guided the focus of the company toward movie theaters in shopping centers, which was then a novel idea. Under his leadership, General Cinema built the nation’s first shopping center theater in Framingham, Massachusetts. Sensing the opportunity, Richard built the company throughout the 60s and 70s into the nation’s largest chain of movie theaters, with over 400 locations and 1,200 screens.

In search of diversification from the theater business and having shed the company’s foray into fast food by the mid-1960s, Richard made a series of transformational investments, building what ultimately became three NYSE public companies: General Cinema Corp, the Neiman Marcus Group, and Harcourt General. His first important acquisition was in 1967, the American Beverage Corp. of Ohio. This Pepsi Cola bottling franchise became the cornerstone of 22 years acquiring and building the nation’s largest independent bottler of Pepsi, Dr Pepper and 7-Up, launching the Sunkist brand of soda along the way. In the 80s, in the spirit of further diversification, he led a series of significant investments in other public companies and ultimately acquired a position in Carter Hawley Hale. While profitably divesting his earlier stakes, it was the position in Carter Hawley Hale, acquired initially as a white knight in 1985, which was spun into the controlling interest in the newly created Neiman Marcus Group in 1987. After selling the beverage operations in the late 80s, Richard sought another large operating opportunity for his portfolio. In 1991, he acquired the Harcourt Brace Jovanovich publishing and information businesses.

Richard developed a well-deserved reputation for savvy timing and astute insight. He focused on strategy, acquisitions, and investments and led a talented team of executives. In the 90s, the holding company structure was split into three separate public companies. He then began a process to opportunistically take the family’s interests private. He proved to be an exceptional seller of businesses for record prices. The beverage business was sold in 1989, General Cinema in 2000, Harcourt in 2001, and Neiman’s in 2005. His record was extraordinary; he was recognized in the book “The Outsiders” for his exceptionalism. When he finally retired from active involvement in business, he said with a gleam in his eye, “we all just had so much fun.”

Richard was a leading figure in Boston philanthropy. As he stepped back from his active public company life, he concentrated more of his efforts on philanthropy. He was valued for his wisdom, acumen and mentorship as he served on several boards. Guided by a philosophy of engaged philanthropy, he led by example and gave generously of both his valuable time and financial capacity, leaving his community and family an extraordinary legacy. Among his proudest accomplishments is the gift he left to his children, grandchildren, and their families – the Richard and Susan Smith Family Foundation. Today, multiple generations work together on the foundation board, along with its professional staff, to guide the strategy and grant making of the foundation.

Richard was a lifelong believer in the power of biomedical research to transform the human condition. As an early supporter of Dr. Sidney Farber, he joined the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Board of Trustees in 1962. He would become a seminal leader in the Institute’s history as President and Chair of Dana-Farber’s board from 1973-1982. Along with his wife and partner in life Susan, he became Dana Farber’s largest individual donor. Additionally, he served on the Joslin Diabetes Center’s board from 2002 onward, the Beth Israel Hospital board as a Trustee and Honorary Trustee, and the United Cerebral Palsy Research and Educational Foundation. He was a significant supporter of leading institutions such as Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston Children’s Hospital, and early career biomedical researchers throughout New England.

Richard believed fervently in the importance of America’s leading universities and their unique role in the country and the world, and first among these was his alma mater Harvard University. He served as a Fellow of the Harvard Corporation from 1991-2000 and on the Board of the Harvard Management Company and the Board of Overseers for many years prior. The Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Campus Center opened in 2018 and is a testament to his dedication and decades of service to the University as a whole. He also was a trustee at Buckingham, Browne, and Nichols, Beaver Country Day School and the Park School, and a supporter of Tufts University. He received honorary degrees from both Harvard and Boston College.

He gave generously to Jewish causes, chairing the CJP Board of Managers from 1989-1995 and serving as Vice Chair of Temple Israel in the early 70s. He joined the Facing History and Ourselves board in 1979, and chaired the organization from 1989-1995 as Facing History and Ourselves grew to national prominence.

He served on the Boston Symphony Orchestra board from 1972 until 1996, when he was made a Lifetime Trustee. In his later years he served on the board of Year-Up. While most of Richard’s civic leadership was in the not-for-profit sector, he also served on a few corporate boards, including as lead director for First National Bank of Boston from 1973-1982 and at Liberty Mutual Insurance Company from 1975-1997.

Richard is survived by his three children and spouses, Amy Smith Berylson and John Berylson, Robert A. Smith and Dana Smith, and Debra Smith Knez; eight grandchildren, Jennifer Berylson Block and Jonathan Block, James T. Berylson, Elizabeth Berylson Katz and Robert Katz, Jessica and Andrew Knez, Madeleine, Ryan, and Jackson Smith; six great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Zachary, and Alexander Block, Thomas, Sara, and William Katz; his sister Nancy Lurie Marks, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beautiful, devoted wife of 63 years, Susan Flax Smith in 2016 and son James A. Smith in 1970.

Lamb, Marilyn Greenfield of Sharon, MA, passed away of natural causes in her home on September 7, 2020. Beloved wife of Hyman Lamb. Dear daughter of the late Louis and Bertha Greenfield. Devoted mother of Paul Lamb and his wife Susan, and Marty Lamb and his wife Peri. Proud grandmother of Audrey, Joanna, Elissa, and Simma. Dear step great-grandmother of Evelyn Bertoson. Loving sister of Charlotte and Robert Abrahms, Dear aunt of Jill Sholes. Private services will be held at Sharon Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations in Marilyn’s memory may be made to the Lamb-Ellowitz Scholar in Residence Endowment Fund at Temple Israel, 125 Pond St., Sharon, MA 02067.

Graveside services at Maple Hill Cemetery, 99 Canterbury Rd., Peabody, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations in Shelley’s memory may be made to the MDS Foundation, 4573 South Broad St., Yardville, NJ, 08620.

Private graveside services will be held at Sharon Memorial Park. Full obit to follow.

Florence Gordon-of Manalapan, FL, formerly of Newton Centre, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2020, at the age of 91. Beloved wife of the late David Gordon. Devoted mother of Jim Gordon and his partner Denise Fahmie and the late Michael Gordon. Dear grandmother of Zac, Grace, and Mia Gordon. Also survived by loving nieces and nephews. Dear sister of the late Iris Shapiro and Peter Guttman. Private graveside services at Sharon Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to The West End House Boys and Girls Club, 105 Allston St., Allston, MA 02134.

Bert Levine, of Wayland, MA and Biddeford, ME, formerly of Bridgewater NJ, passed away peacefully at home on August 29th at the age of 79 years old. Bert was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a doting grandfather. He will be forever remembered for his integrity, generosity, and unfailing sense of humor, and he will be deeply missed by the family and friends he leaves behind.

Bert was born in Suffern, NY on May 18, 1941 to Charles and Ruth Levine. He attended New York Military Academy, Colgate University, and St. John’s Law School. His career began as an advance man and a legislative assistant to Gov. Nelson Rockefeller. After law school, he worked on Capitol Hill in several positions, primarily as counsel to the House Energy and Commerce Committee, working mainly on health policy, while he continued to enjoy working on political campaigns.

Bert later moved to New Jersey to join Johnson & Johnson as a lobbyist and eventually became the Vice President of Federal Government Relations. After twenty years working with J&J, he decided to change careers entirely, earned a PhD in political science from Rutgers University, and spent the next part of his life teaching at Rutgers, Colgate, Bucknell, and UPenn. He was the Charles Evans Hughes Fellow in Political Science Emeritus at Colgate University. He authored two books and several articles on lobbying and interest groups including “The Art of Lobbying: Building Trust and Selling Policy” which is still used in college classrooms today. Bert was seriously dyslexic so the fact that he earned both a JD and a PhD was nothing short of miraculous and an example of his great tenacity.

As a frequent blood donor (the literal poster boy for donations) at Johnson and Johnson, as the President of the Martinsville NJ Fire Department, as an active volunteer at the Green Door Behavioral Health Clinic in Washington DC, or traveling to Winnie, Texas to build houses for Habitat for Humanity, civic and charitable contribution and action was a central part of Bert’s life.  He was a man who always chose to do the right thing.

But far more important to Bert than all of his professional and civic accomplishments was his family. He was a deeply loving man who was most happy when he was holding his wife’s hand, watching baseball with his son, talking with his daughter, sharing a meal with his friends, and reading to his grandkids (or “falling” into the swimming pool for their amusement). The love Bert gave will never die.

Bert is survived by his wife of 54 years, Shelly Brown Levine, his daughter and son-in-law Robin and Matt Freeman of Wayland MA, his son and daughter-in-law Michael and Ebony Levine of Houston TX, his five grandchildren: Sawyer, Colby, and Wesley Freeman; and P.J. and Payton Levine, and his beloved Golden Retriever, Junior.

Services will be private. Contributions can be made in Bert’s memory to the Malcolm Isaac Freeman Endowed Scholarship at Colgate University, Hamilton NY https://alumni.colgate.edu/makeagift

Marcia of Framingham, suddenly, on August 27, 2020. Beloved wife of Richard D. Wantman. Devoted mother of Michael of Brookline. Loving sister of Ina Beth Tamir. Also survived by several nieces and nephews and her beloved dog Cole.  A private Graveside Service will be held at Crawford Street Memorial Park. Remembrances in memory of Marcia may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society @ nationalmssociety.org.

Mary Ann Hickey-Of Holliston, on August 19, 2020. Beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Rosalie Hickey. Devoted mother of Laura Falcon. Private graveside services on Thursday, August 27, 2020.

Lloyd I. Turin-Of Framingham,MA,on August 24, 2020. Beloved son of the late Herbert and Eleanor Turin. Dear brother of Peter and Robin. Graveside services are private. Memorial observance at the home of Robin Turin through August 31, 2020. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lloyd’s memory may be made to L’Arche Boston North, 53 Wingate St., Haverhill, MA 01832.

Irma  Vanderpool- 78, of Annapolis MD, formerly of Charlestown, MA, passed away on August 23, 2020 with her daughter by her side. She was born on October 22, 1941, to the late Jacob and Mary Castleman. She graduated from Milton High School and received a Bachelor of Arts from Boston University. She is survived by her daughter Alyssa, son in law Bryan, grandchildren Emalyn and Dylan, brother Howard, nephews Bradley and Brian, and cousin Nancy. Irma dedicated 32 years of service as a Recreation Therapist at the Chelsea Soldiers Home ensuring that the veterans residing there had enriching activities and events to enjoy with their families and the community. In her retirement, Irma was an active member of several social, volunteer, and spiritual organizations. She enjoyed her time assisting with organizing events for the Friends of the Charlestown Library and was an active member of The Sisterhood for Temple Emmanuel. She was an avid animal lover and throughout her life adopted, fostered, and rescued many cats and dogs. Her passions included staying up to date on current events and finding a great sale. Her greatest happiness in life was having the opportunity to spend these last few years close to her daughter and grandchildren. She took such joy in watching her grandchildren grow and discovering their individual personalities. She and Emalyn were especially close sharing a love of clothes, jewelry, and arts. They spent wonderful quality time together and truly shared a deep and loving bond. A small private service will be held this Friday at 10 a.m. at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon, MA. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Angell Memorial animal hospital in Boston, MA and Temple Emmanuel in Chelsea, MA.

Helene Aisenberg, age 89, of Newton, on August 20, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Murray L. Aisenberg. Loving mother of Renee Beth Aisenberg, Peter Aisenberg (Lauren); proud grandmother of Justin and Dillon. Private Services were held.

Ida Rose Tatelbaum of Dartmouth, MA, formerly of Brockton, MA, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2020, surrounded by family. Beloved wife of the late Matthew Tatelbaum. Devoted mother of Ira Tatelabum and his wife Diane of Quincy, MA, Dr. Ronald Tatelbaum and his wife Shelley of Milton, New York, David Tatelbaum and his wife Jan of South Dartmouth, MA, Nancy Waldman and her husband Stanley of North Dartmouth, MA and Josef Tatelbaum and his wife Grace Wang of South Dartmouth, MA. Loving sister to the late Dolly Federman and the late Moe Rubin. Adored grandmother of Laura, Chip, Evan, Pamela, Kara, Shane, Max, Heather, Spencer, Diem, Lisa, Scott, Everett, Emily, Julianna, Benn, Arielle, Ben, John and Daniel. Proud great-grandmother of Emerson, Quinn, Sophia, Katie, Matthew, Mattea, Phinn, Tyler, Poppy, Sammy and Millie.

Born to parents Israel and Jennie Rubin in Brockton, MA in 1924; Ida lived a life full of passion and ambition. Jennie instilled in Ida values of the old country she brought over from Poland— the importance of Judaism and an appreciation for her ancestors—as well as how to acclimate in America. Israel taught her the importance of hard work and how to pave your own path through his entrepreneurship in opening a leather factory. She experienced the death of her father at the young age of 19 years old who died in her arms. So, as the eldest of three she learned early on how to care for others, an attribute she would carry-on for the rest of her life as a nurse, mother and friend.

She moved to Cambridge in 1942 to attend nursing school because her mother wanted her to marry a doctor. There, she roomed with her lifelong friend Phyllis Solomon, with whom she is now reunited. Upon graduation, she worked as a private duty nurse until she married the love of her life. Though her mother did not approve at first, Ida had no doubts. They married in 1946 and quickly started what would become a family with five children. While they struggled initially, by the time the fourth child was born, Ida and Matthew had become successful entrepreneurs themselves. What started from a little corner clothing store blossomed into a widely-known department store: Mars Bargainland USA. With Ida’s unwavering support and Matthew’s savvy business sense and undeniable charisma with customers, the store went on to occupy 16 locations. She was the rock that balanced it all; whether she was cooking traditional Jewish foods, advising Matthew on how to run the business, or keeping order in the house. Her strength and talents knew no bounds.

Together, she and Matthew accomplished it all. A house full of love and laughter—oftentimes the center of welcomed chaos— and a thriving business. Through it all, they never forgot their roots and devoted time to charity especially in raising money for Israel bonds.

Once retirement replaced the chaos, they spent winters in Boca Raton to finally find some relaxation. That Florida house became the go-to vacation spot for the whole family—children and grandchildren—for years to come. She welcomed everyone with her fun-loving, playful personality that made visits extra special.

As the former captain of her high school team, Ida encouraged Matthew to play tennis. Some of their favorite memories were with their tennis groups in Dartmouth and Florida, couples who played together and more importantly, partied together. She leaves behind two of those friends, Sybil and Bunny. Ida played tennis like she did with everything in life—emblazoned in style and grace.

When Matthew passed in 2005, Ida decided the best way to honor him was to keep the family together. So, she started annual family reunions that are still on-going to this day. Family was the center of their lives. Everything she did was for family. Services are private.

Her life and all of the beautiful memories will always remain as a blessing to us all.

Joel E. Dembling.-Age 66, of Newton, lost his battle with cancer on Sunday, August 16, 2020. Beloved husband of Jane (Fishman) Dembling. Devoted father of Andrew and Sarah. Dear brother of Paul Dembling, Leslie Esteghamati and Julie Cyker. Cherished son of the late David and Adele Dembling. Loving brother-in-law to Nancy Dembling, Michael Esteghamati, Howard Cyker, Gary Fishman and Agi Fishman, Stu and Peg Fishman, Ken Fishman and Wayne Lapinski, and Anne and Jonathan Rand. Beloved uncle and cousin. Infinitely approachable, a treasured friend to so many. Private graveside service at Adath Jeshurun Cemetery, 350 Grove St., West Roxbury, MA. Remembrances may be made to CARING FOR A CURE and mailed to: Mass General Hospital Development Office, Attn: Caring For A Cure, 125 Nashua Street, Boston MA 02114.

Gehr, Ann (Shapiro), of Needham, MA passed away August 13, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Bernard N. Gehr. Devoted mother of Dr. Gerald Gehr and his wife Eloise, and Nancy Goldstein and her husband Steven. Proud grandmother of Aaron (Alison) Goldstein and Jonathan (Stephanie) Goldstein. Adoring great-grandmother of Jordyn, Leah, Levi and Zeke Goldstein. Loving sister of Mollie Rotman and the late Dorothy Shuster. Private graveside services were held. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ann’s memory may be made to Rosie’s Place, 889 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118, Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton, MA 02459, or the charity of your choice.

Of Auburndale, formerly of Boca Raton, FL., and New York, on August 7^th, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Paul Singer. Devoted mother of Carol Singer Bricklin and her husband Daniel Bricklin of Newton and Gary Singer and his wife Susan Olshansky Singer of New Canaan, CT. Loving sister of the late Rosalind Blankenheimer. Dear grandmother of Rachel Bricklin and her husband Matthew Duane, Adina Bricklin and her husband Alexander Keift, Jessica Singer and Hannah Singer. Great Grandmother (Gigi) to Nora and Bryce Duane and Theia.  The funeral was a private ceremony on Zoom held on Sunday afternoon, August 9th and the internment was held at the Polonnoe Cemetery, 776 Baker Street West Roxbury, MA.  Remembrances may be made to the Friends of Tanglewood, Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02115 or Susan G. Komen, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 81889, Dallas, TX 75380. www.brezniakfd.com.

Of Spring House, Jamaica Plain on August 12, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Howard Lubot. Devoted mother of Tama Bello and her husband Stanley of Ipswich, Helene DiCarlo and her husband Henry of Abington and the late Dr. Eric Lubot and his surviving wife Gail Lubot. Dear grandmother of Marc and Cindy Bello, Charles Bello and Robert Pinnix, Neil and Patricia Bello, Mardie and Craig Bays and Matthew and Laura DiCarlo, Rebecca Lubot and Steven Lubot. Great grandmother of 12.  In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to a charity of your choice.

Sumner M. Redstone-of Beverly Hills, CA, formerly of Boston, on August 11, 2020.Private graveside service was held August 12, 2020 at Sharon Memorial Park, Sharon, MA. He was the son of the late Michael and Belle (Ostrovsky) Redstone. He leaves his daughter Shari, son Brent,  5 grandchildren and  5 great-grandchildren. He was the brother of the late Edward Redstone. Donations in his memory may be made  to the COVID-19 Response Fund at The Boston Foundation, www.tbf.org/Sumner Redstone.

Lipson, Ellen B., 86 yrs, of Dedham, August 10, 2020. Daughter of the late Harry Blotner and Sylvia (Lewitt) Blotner. Beloved husband of Dr. Charles Lipson of 64 years. Devoted mother of Robert and Felicia, Peter and Hap, David and Abigail, and the late Caroline Kaufer. Proud grandmother of Harry, Celia, Isaac and Aaron, Sophie and Greg, Jenny, Tom, Hillary and Catherine. Loving sister of the late Kenneth Blotner.

Ellen’s work, in between raising five children, included helping to design this country’s early warning system (the DEW line) and helping to design the nation’s prototype air defense system, the Cape Cod System, and then the SAGE systems, as well as other projects. In retirement she was an elected member and the treasurer of her Democratic ward committee in Newton. She has also served as a volunteer greeter at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Ellen spent a lifetime of living, working studying and making a difference in the Boston area. Ellen served as president of the Newton League of voters and then spent a number of years volunteering for the state league as a lobbyist. As well as working for the Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston. Ellen earned her B.A. in mathematics at Wellesley College and her M.A. in applied math at Harvard.

Ellen’s career began in her early twenties at Lincoln Laboratories in Lexington, MA where she worked on developing equations describing the interception of bombers by fighter interceptors. This was the beginning of the air defense system. Interrupted when the children arrived, Ellen picked up her work again as they went off to high-school and college. She took advantage of a National Science Foundation offer to update women in science at Northeastern University. That opportunity gave her three quarters of free tuition and a chance to learn computer programming in time to be able to help the Air Force apply systems engineering to its radar programs.

When she went back to work she went to Mitre Corporation, an offshoot of Lincoln Laboratories that had taken over the system engineering programs of Lincoln Laboratories. Although much of what she did is still so secret that she would not talk in any detail about it, but she does admit to working on the radar installed in Berlin, the DEW line, and one of the early over the horizon radars. She also was sent to a still secret location in Europe leaving Charlie with a blind Phone number in case of emergency. She also went to Keflavik, Iceland for a month for Air Force work. In retirement, she tracked the stock market from her computer, something she did for more than just amusement as a day trader.

Funeral service and burial will be private. A driveway shiva will be held at the home of Stephen Kaufer and Lisa Howe on Wednesday & Thursday from 1-3 pm. Donations in Ellen’s memory can be made to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, 148 Chestnut St., Needham, MA 02492.

Jessica Cohn of South Easton, Massachusetts, peacefully passed away on August 7, 2020. She was the beloved wife of Gerald for 60 years, devoted mother of Jason Cohn and Jennifer Blanchard, proud Grandmother of Gregory and Andrew Blanchard and dear sister of Leslie Brodsky. Jessica also leaves behind many loving nieces’ nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1939, Jessica received her Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Akron. She served as the Director of Early Childhood Education for more than 20 years at The Akron Jewish Center. Jessica was a creative soul and talented artist who loved making and baking. From needlepoint to quilting to gourmet meals everything was made with much thought and care. She also had a deep love of all sports especially her beloved Boston teams, The Celtics, Patriots and Bruins.

Due to the Pandemic, the services are private.

Burial will be on Monday, August 10 at The Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, Massachusetts.

A celebration of life will take place post-Pandemic.

Donations may be made in Jessica’s honor to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research

Phyllis Sonja Solomon, daughter of the late Betty and Harry Cohen of Brockton passed away in Newton on Saturday at age 96 of heart disease.

Phyllis retired one year ago after 38 years of Public Service as a Nurse Manager in the Massachusetts PACE program where she reviewed and managed over 5000 lives during her career. Upon her retirement her important contribution to the program was memorialized with the creation of the Phyllis Solomon Award for those who strived to follow her model. She was a graduate of the Cambridge City Hospital Nursing School after graduating from Brockton High School and later pursued her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the University of Massachusetts and Boston College School of Nursing at age 52. She worked tirelessly to improve care for the elderly, the disabled and those suffering from head injuries. In a personal letter on her retirement last year Governor Baker praised her energy, her willingness to approach patient care with an open mind and her long and dedicated commitment to public service. Countless health care workers from Atlanta to Boston benefited from her mentoring.

Phyllis and her husband helped to found and support the Solomon House at the Paul A Dever School in Taunton which is now celebrating its 75th year. In keeping with Phyllis’s interest in advocating for the disabled and impaired, she was an active Board Member of the former MARC Trust for many years. She taught her family the importance of caring, giving and hard work which she embodied in her tireless pursuit of excellence.

Phyllis is pre-deceased by her husband of 50 years, Albert and is survived by her children David and Melissa Solomon, Martin and Betsy Solomon, Robert Solomon, Richard and the late Susan Solomon, Sharon and Paul Kaliner and Sue-Ann Solomon as well as 15 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren all of whom were blessed to have known her love and benefited from her boundless energy and guidance. She leaves her brother Morton Cohen and Bobbie, Rhoda Cohen and her late brother Jerome and countless nieces and nephews. She also leaves her dear friend Marie Croisetu and her lifelong friend since age 3 Ida Tatelbaum of Dartmouth.

Graveside Services will be private on Monday, August 10.

Shiva will be via Zoom through Temple Emanuel in Newton Monday evening before sunset.
In lieu of flowers Phyllis requested that donations be made to support the nurses at Brigham and Women’s Hospital by way of the “BWH Patient Services Fund.” Memorial gifts can be made online at

bwhgiving.org/solomon or sent to BWH Development Office, 116 Huntington Ave. 3rd Floor, Boston, MA 02116

Israel, Diane M., age 73, of Needham, on August 5, 2020.  Beloved wife of the late Alvin J. Israel, with whom she shared almost 49 years of blessed marriage.  Devoted mother of Jason Israel and his wife Marni of Holliston and Michelle Bistany and her husband Erik of North Reading.  Cherished and adored Mimi of Max, Sophie, and Sam Israel and Goldie Bistany.  Loving sister of Audrey Stengel. Sister-in-law and special friend to Bernice Rieders Sickle.

Diane grew up in Swampscott, MA where she developed a love for the beach.  After high school, she went on to get an Associates Degree and had a career in downtown Boston working as a legal secretary.  The love of her life was her family.  She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, reading a good book, playing Mah Jong, baking and sharing a delicious meal with family. She loved to show her grandchildren how to bake.  There was nothing better than spending a day with Mimi.  Her smile was contagious, and she made friends wherever she went.  Her positive energy always filled the room with smiles. She fought a courageous battle with cancer and she kept a positive attitude until the very end.  She will be forever missed.

Due to the pandemic and social distancing restrictions, services are private.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Diane’s memory may be made to http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/JacobSands.

Susan R. Moser-Of  Newton,on August 6, 2020.Complete notice to follow.

Picard (Gerstein), Shirley G., on August 6, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Hans Picard. Devoted mother of Michael Picard (Mary Russell), Heidi Alpert (Bruce) and Matthew Picard (Suzanne). Dear Grandmother of Alex, Marcus, David, Alyssa, Gregory and Sonia. Born in New Bedford, MA, Shirley spent much of her adolescence in Miami Beach, FL before returning to Massachusetts for the remainder of her long life. Her career was dedicated to education including nearly 30 years as a reading specialist in the New Bedford Public Schools for children with learning disabilities. Her legacy includes the many former students’ lives she influenced for the better with her teachings. She was known for her exceptionally warm personality. She took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed socializing with her many friends especially in the summer at Anthony’s Beach. In her final years she was grateful for the excellent care provided by her care givers. A private graveside service will be held for family and friends at Tifereth Israel Cemetery, New Bedford, MA. Remembrances may be made to Hebrew Senior Life Employee Help Fund 1200 Centre St., Boston, MA 02131.

Robert A. Levin, 78, of Sharon MA, passed away on August 3^rd, 2020. Beloved husband of over 55 years to Elaine Levin. Devoted father of Eric Levin & his wife Margie of Needham, and Suzanne Wholley and her husband Eric of Westwood. Loving grandfather of Alexa & Taylor Levin and Sophia & Tessa Wholley. Brother of Ruth Ann Freedman of Jupiter, FL, and uncle to many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Bob served his community extensively over the years. From proudly serving on the Sharon Police Department, to his dedicated roles in the Boy Scouts of America as a Scout leader and avid memorabilia collector, as Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Sharon Public Library, as Past President of the Sharon Rotary Club, active involvement in the Sharon Historical Committee, Sharon Cultural Counsel, and Sharon Boosters Club, and with continued engagement with alumni of his Belmont High class of 1959.

After years of running the family-owned business, Banly’s, in Brookline, MA, Bob held several sales roles in retail and consumer electronics. In recent years, he was able to find new roles aligned with his personal passions. He combined his sales skills with his love of collecting, becoming the owner and auctioneer for the Abdou Auction in Dedham, MA., and as he always loved to get in the car and drive, he joined a shuttle service to drive patients and special needs students.

An avid reader, Bob would often finish three or more books per week…and when not reading, collecting, or helping others, he was always on the lookout for the best sip of bourbon.

Private graveside services will be held at Sharon Memorial Park, Sharon, MA. Remembrances may be made to the Sharon Public Library Foundation, or a charity of your choice.

Joel Carl Blumsack, 79, currently of Sarasota, FL, passed away July 27, 2020. He was the son of Anna & Irving Blumsack of Lynn, MA. He received an Industrial Management degree from Lowell Technological Institute. He spent two years at Pratt and Whitney as a management trainee, 7 years in the National Guard, and the balance of his career for over 35 years at a division of Monsanto which was sold to Silgan Plastics, retiring as Director of Continual Improvement. He consulted for Silgan until age 69 when he fully retired. He had been married to his devoted wife, Judy Blumsack of Brookline, MA for 54 years. He was preceded in death by his son Craig, sister Sheila, wife Judy, and brother-in-law Jerry. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Linda and William Lichtman and their children Joe and his wife Jen, as well as Seth and his wife Pam. He is survived by son Todd, daughter-in law Laurie and grandchildren Connor and Aidan. Joel is also survived by his niece and nephew, Lisa and Ron. A man beloved by his family and friends for his love of what made life important- family, friends, generosity, being kind to others, and always doing what was right. He will be dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in his wife Judy’s name.

Jason “Jack” Avergun passed unexpectedly on July 22, 2020 from a stroke at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. Born March 7, 1935 to Eva and Abraham Avergun of Mattapan, he was the last surviving and youngest of 5 siblings; Melvin, Gloria, Phyllis and Jerome. Known as Jackie growing up, he spent summers at the family home in Hull where he enjoyed the company of friends, family and especially his many nieces and nephews.

Jack graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in mechanical engineering and a Masters in business management. He then spent his entire career with York-Borg Warner Air Conditioning Company. He married the late Marilyn (Kaplan) Avergun in 1958 and they had 2 daughters, Andrea Avergun Wexler and the late Elizabeth Avergun. After living in Randolph for over 32 years he moved to Mashpee on Cape Cod. There he was active in his community, started a weekly newspaper and organized a breakfast club and holiday events. He especially enjoyed biking, kayaking, gardening, nature walks, classical music, creative writing and time by the beach. Recently he moved to Linden Ponds in Hingham where he will be greatly missed by his new friends.

Anyone wishing to remember Jack in a special way can enjoy his favorite treat, a scoop of ice cream (or sometimes the entire pint). Don’t forget the hot fudge!

Jack is survived by his daughter Andrea Wexler, son-in-law William and his grandchildren Daniel and Haley. Due to Covid, a private burial was held on July 23 at Sharon Memorial Park. To honor Jack’s memory donations may be sent to the Falmouth Jewish Congregation, 7 Hatchwell Rd., Falmouth MA 02563.

Dr. Parviz Janfaza, 90, of Natick, MA, passed away on July 24, 2020, at Hebrew Senior Life/NewBridge on the Charles in Dedham, after a short illness. He was born March 29, 1930, in Tehran, Iran.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Fay Janfaza (Siegel), and his children David (Jackie), Andrew (Melissa) and Susan. He was the proud grandfather of Samantha and Aaron Janfaza; Rachel, Zachary, Noah and Rebecca Janfaza; and Max and Adam Poverman. He also leaves behind two brothers, Mehdi and Jahangir Janfaza, and was predeceased by siblings David Rosen, Joseph Hakim, Garchang Sandalisazan, Helen Etaat, Shalom Rosen and Naim Sand.

A noted otolaryngologist, anatomist, and surgeon, Dr. Janfaza emigrated from Iran in 1957. He completed a surgical internship in Chicago prior to settling in Boston, where he completed a residency in otolaryngology at Boston City Hospital and became a fixture in the Boston medical community for five decades. He was a Staff Otolaryngologist at Boston City Hospital, an Associate Professor at Tufts University School of Medicine, a Clinical Instructor at BU School of Medicine, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Otology and Laryngology at Harvard Medical School, and an Associate Surgeon in the Department of Otolaryngology at Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary. He spent his entire career lecturing and teaching medical students and residents at Boston’s finest teaching hospitals, where he was affectionately known as “Dr. J”.

Dr. Janfaza also had a keen eye and imagination, and continuously strived to improve the efficiency and efficacy of medical procedures. A life-long inventor, he designed and created novel medical devices, often in his home workshop. He was awarded a patent for an endoscopic operating microscope in 1994. He also spent 15 years as primary editor of a textbook, Surgical Anatomy of the Head and Neck, which was published in 2001.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Otolaryngology Resident Education Fund at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, attention Irene Hammer-McLaughlin, Development Office, 243 Charles St., Boston, MA, 02114 or Temple Israel of Natick, 145 Hartford St., Natick, MA, 01760.

A private burial service has taken place.

Flora Udwin, aged 93, passed peacefully on July 21, 2020.  Flora was born and raised in South Africa where she met the love of her life Saul.  They emigrated to Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) where they had four children.  Saul sadly passed in 1975 and Flora moved back to Cape Town.  After her children had emigrated to the USA Flora made Aliyah to Israel.  Her desire to be closer to her grandchildren brought her to Newton.

Flora is survived by 4 children and spouses, 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandsons.  She will be dearly missed but never forgotten by Leon, (Judy), Robert, (Lindy), Dennis, (Lorraine), Jennifer, (David), grandchildren – Natalie (Barb), Staci, Saul, Dana (Sam), Loren, Jackson (Julia), Erika, Sabrina, Alana and great grandchildren Asher and Ari.

Due to Covid-19 the funeral service and Shiva are private.  Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the Orchard Cove Scholarship Fund, 1 Del Pond Drive, Canton, MA 02021.

Lawrence A. Bean, age 95 of Dedham, formerly of Boynton Beach, FL, died peacefully on July 19^th, 2020. He was the devoted husband of Marilyn Bean who died in 1999, and Rosalyn Foster Bean who died in 2019, and was the loving brother of Regina Kleiman. He is survived by his children Nancy and Dick Rossman and Edward and Laurie Bean, and stepchildren Gail and Arnie Rosenberg, Robert Foster, and Lanny Foster. He was the adoring grandfather to Lauren and Steven Cook, Amy and Sam Deich, Alex and Una Bean, JD and Shanna Bean, and Amanda and Ryan Davis, and their nine great grandchildren.

Due to Covid-19 the funeral service is private, and the Shiva is private. Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the NewBridge Scholarship Fund, 5000 Great Meadow Road, Dedham, MA 02026; Temple Shir Tikva, 141 Boston Post Road, Wayland, MA 01778; or Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Road, Wellesley, MA 02481.

BUSINESSMAN, ARTS PATRON

Robert “Bob” Remis, of Boston and Palm Beach, was born on September 26, 1929, raised in Swampscott, Massachusetts, and passed away peacefully on July 13 from heart complications.

From a very early age Bob learned to play piano by ear and continued until right before his death. His love of music continued as an Overseer of the Boston Symphony Orchestra where he and his wife Ruth (Lubarsky) Remis, continued his family’s support. They especially enjoyed the Friday afternoon concerts and he loved analyzing the intricacies of a composition or the phrasing of a particular piece.

This same appreciation and knowledge was a driving force in his dedication to the art world. Bob would roam the galleries of Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts (where he was a trustee) and feel spiritually renewed. Past Museum Director Malcolm Rogers recalled, “I knew Bob for more than 20 years, and his dedication to the Museum of Fine Arts and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts as Trustee and Governor was an inspiration to me.  By nature reserved and discreet, he was nevertheless passionate and partisan, and, in continuing his parents’ tradition of enlightened philanthropy, gave most generously of his time and money.” The international experience he had through the art world helped to form his own collection and he was working on an exhibition of some of his pieces at the time of his death.

Tufts University became a focal point for Bob and Ruth (class of 1954). They endowed the Remis Sculpture Court and also supported the building of the Music Center. Larry Bacow, past President of Tufts and current President of Harvard said, “Bob Remis was everything that we hope a citizen of Tufts would be. He was exceptionally accomplished professionally but equally engaged in the broader community. He was generous with his time, wisdom and resources not just to Tufts but to countless institutions throughout the city of Boston. Each of these organizations is better today because of Bob. He was as modest as he was successful, a true gentleman in every sense of the word. And he was also the head of a family that sent three generations to Tufts, so far. We will all miss him.”

In addition to Tufts, Bob remained close to his alma mater Phillips Andover (class of 1947) where he played football, and Harvard (class of 1951).

For most of his life, Bob’s focus was the leather business. Before attending his senior year at Harvard, Bob spent a year in Puerto Rico working and teaching English to the Spanish speaking foreman at his family’s leather tanning factory. Bob learned the business from the bottom up, eventually rising to President. The corporation bought Beggs & Cobb, which then became the umbrella corporation for divisions of Remis Industries. He purchased Permair, an English specialty company producing a unique leather finishing product which he developed in the United States and later sold. During these professional years he was a member of the Young Presidents Organization and traveled extensively with Ruth throughout the world for business and pleasure. His business acumen extended to his interest in the stock market and investing where, rather than tout his success, he would be delighted to pass on a good tip.

Beth Israel Hospital (now BIDMC), where Bob was a trustee, had a special place in his heart as well and he was quick to support the hospital over many decades along with many other charitable endeavors.

Bob was an accomplished athlete throughout his life and excelled in most sports, particularly tennis and golf. Friends would always remark that it was a frequent joy to see Bob with his son and grandson spending an afternoon on the golf course.

The consummate gentleman, Bob never looked for accolades for his accomplishments or generosity; however, his face would light up when he talked of his family. He and Ruth were married for 67 years, and was the beloved father of Richard and daughter in law Pamela, William (deceased) and John (deceased). He was cherished by his grandchildren Jeffrey, Andrew, and Kimberly, and each enjoyed a special relationship with him. He was also a treasured uncle, wonderful friend, and dedicated patron. He was a ceaseless reader and many will miss his passionate recommendations.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston MA 02215, or Temple Emanu-El, 393 Atlantic Ave, Marblehead, MA 01945.

Wilma Benjamin passed away at the age of 88 on July 11, 2020. Wilma lived several lives. The youngest of three daughters, she was a proud homemaker. The devoted wife of a doctor, she raised four children across the country and met the challenges of being a military wife with pride and a smile. From cocktail parties to card games, she was a talented hostess, an innovative cook and a creative baker. An avid and adventurous traveler, Wilma and her husband George saw much of the world together. When grandchildren began to appear, she uprooted her life in Chicago to return home to Massachusetts. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, she was proud of her work with the national PTO, MIT, Harvard Dental School and Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America. She was proud of her many homes from Valley Forge, San Antonio, Boston, Fort Huachuca, San Rafael, Fort Devens, Littleton, Leominster, Aurora, Chicago, and Milton to Brookline. She was proud of her knitting. No one could make a quilt quite like Wilma. She loved to capture peoples’ interests in a quilt or a pillow, be it heavy metal, the theater, baseball, the cello, mermaids or a comic book. She was most proud of her family. Wilma leaves behind four children and six grandchildren, with each of whom she shared a special bond. A daughter, sister, mother, wife, homemaker, administrator, world traveler, hostess and grandmother, she was a warm, kind matriarch who will be deeply missed by everyone she has left behind. Donations in her name may be made to the Breast Cancer Treatment Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Helen Marcus-of  Needham, in Montreal, Canada, on July 12, 2020. Private graveside services were held on Sunday,July 19, 2020 at Or Emet Cemetery,Baker St.,West Roxbury.

Jo-Ellen Levinson Hirsch passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of July 12th, 2020. She is survived by her loving husband, Martin Hirsch, her daughters, Jennifer Hoffman, Dawn Hirsch and Hilary Agin, her grandchildren, Max Hoffman, Hannah Hoffman, Dillon Krug, Benjamin Agin and Jenna Agin, and her sister Gail Klein. She was born on December 17, 1943 in New York.  Jo-Ellen was a caring, selfless woman and a role model for many. She was a calming presence to those around her and could find goodness in anyone.  She made each of us feel special, despite our flaws. She inspired those closest to her to be their best and would support them in any decision they made. Her memory will live on through her friends and family.

Donations in Jo-Ellen’s memory may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter, 309 Waverley Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452 or to Congregation Beth Elohim, 133 Prospect St., Acton, MA 01720.

ALPERT, MARTIN- 90, peacefully on July 8, 2020. Beloved husband of the late Judith Alpert with whom he shared 61 wonderful years of marriage. Devoted father of Nancy Alpert (Gwen Marcus) and Kenneth Alpert, and loving companion of Shae Rosenthal. Beloved brother of the late Estelle Mitchell and Howard Alpert, and brother-in-law of Helaine Miller and Geila Aronson. Marty, with his sweet and impish personality, was cherished by all who knew him, including his many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. His businesses ranged from electric heat to figure salons to real estate. He was an active member of Congregation Mishkan Tefila for over 80 years, going back to his bar mitzvah at its first building in Dorchester. He served in various leadership roles at CJP, Newton Cable TV and Hebrew Senior Life. Marty loved sailing, golf, bridge and of course good food.

Graveside services will be by zoom. Details for the zoom service and shiva may be found at mishkantefila.org. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Congregation Mishkan Tefila, 384 Harvard St., Brookline, MA 02446 or The Elie Wiesel Center for Jewish Studies at BU, 147 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215.

Lavine, Edward L., of Wellesley, MA, passed away July 9, 2020. Beloved husband for more than 66 years of Susan (Proger) Lavine. Devoted father of Karen Lavine and her husband Donald Kilpatrick, and Nancy Ostroff and her husband Eric. Cherished grandfather of Daniel and Sarah Kilpatrick, Eleanor Kilpatrick and Michael Brown, Jessica Ostroff, and Andrew Ostroff. Proud great-grandfather of Aaron and Leah Kilpatrick, and Tali Brown. Graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School, he practiced law for many years at Goulston & Storrs. Due to current restrictions, services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Marshall M. Kaplan Fund at Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111 or to a charity of your choice.