Nancy Shapiro Hurwitz, of Needham, MA, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026, at age 93. She was the beloved wife of the late R. Michael Hurwitz, with whom she shared 72 years of marriage. Born in Newton, MA, Nancy was the daughter of Rose and Herbert Shapiro. She attended the John Ward School and Beaver Country Day School and earned her degree from Wheelock College. A former substitute elementary school teacher, she enjoyed golf, swimming, yoga, the theater, and playing the piano and ukulele. Nancy will always be remembered for her style and elegance. She is survived by her children Richard Hurwitz (Lettie), Louise Hurwitz (Sue), and Amy Cooper (Joseph); six grandchildren, Jacob, Matthew, Samantha, Joanna, Ali and Liza; and eight great-grandchildren. Graveside services were held in Newton. Donations in her memory may be made to Care Dimensions, 75 Sylvan St., Suite B-102, Danvers, MA 01923.

A Link to View the Livestream Link can be found Here 

Morton L. Hodin passed away on January 29, 2026, in Woburn, MA.  He was 86. The son of Samuel and Rose Hodin, Mort was raised in Scranton, PA.  He was married to Nancy Simon Hodin, the love of his life, for 66 years. Mort and Nancy made their home in Lexington, MA; raising three children, they cherished a community of long-lasting friends.

Upon graduation from Cornell University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mort served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army Transportation Corps at Fort Eustis in Virginia, moving there with his young family. Following two years in the military the family moved to Rochester, NY.

Work was a source of great pleasure for Mort and a way to express his creativity and be in the world. He enjoyed a diverse professional life, starting his career at Kodak then Data Technology, and later founding companies in the area of education and professional development. He was also involved in real estate as a principal at H&D Development, receiving an award from the Boston Preservation Alliance for the rehabilitation of Clarendon Square. In addition, Mort built two companies that provided investment banking services for emerging businesses, facilitating the smooth sale and succession of private firms.

Mort was committed to supporting the local Jewish community. He was a dedicated member of Temple Isaiah for over fifty years and served as president of the congregation.

Mort was intellectually curious and treasured long conversations; he told a good story and was an even better listener.  He was quick to smile and to bring a smile to the faces of friends and family, as well as doctors, caregivers, and anyone who came across his path. He had a playful wit and blended wisdom and humor to make all feel comfortable.

Above everything, Mort prized his family, proud of his children and grandchildren and happy to tell you.  His family called the vacation house in Sunapee “The Homestead,” and being there was like heaven on earth for Mort, watching the kids and grandkids every summer grow by the lake.

But Mort’s best days were spent with Nancy. They were true companions, whether biking together or working next to one another in their home office. They loved to travel as a couple as well as with friends — especially to France, where they spent many trips enjoying food, culture, and beauty.

Mort continually expressed joy for his life.  He inspired countless people with his kindness, wisdom, and boundless optimism.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Simon Hodin, three children, Lori Hodin, Mark (Theresa) Hodin, and Debbie Hodin (Dan McCarthy), and seven grandchildren: Sam Wilson (Lora Kelley), Ellie Wilson, Ruthie Wilson, Riley Hodin, Max Hodin, Evan McCarthy, and Ella McCarthy.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of Mort Hodin to Temple Isaiah, the American Heart Association, or The Southern Poverty Law Center.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday February 3, 2026 at 11:00 am at Temple Isaiah 55 Lincoln St., Lexington, MA followed by the interment at Westview Cemetery 520 Bedford St., Lexington, MA. There will be a Meal of Consolation at the Temple after the interment. There will be two Shivas: Wednesday February 4, 2:00-5:00pm and Thursday February 5, 3:30-6:30pm at Delaney at the Vale, 300 Began Way, Woburn, MA.

September 1,1930 – January 26, 2026

Dorothy Goodman, loving wife, mother, grandmother (oma) and great grandmother (omama), passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughters on January 26, 2026 at the age of 95. Dorothy was the second child of Irving and Shirley Hershcopf and had an older brother Richard. Richard and his wife Marian were not only relatives but dear friends.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Dorothy attended Erasmus High School and then Washington University in St. Louis.  It was not that common for a young woman of her generation to go to college away from home, but Dorothy knew she wanted to be a social worker and her classes at college prepared her for that career.

Dorothy met the love of her life, Harry, on a blind date arranged by a friend in St. Louis.  They married in 1952 and were devoted to each other for more than 70 years.  They first lived together in Brooklyn, then moved to Queens and then to Rockville Centre, NY.

For many years, Dorothy worked at New York Foundling Hospital, first with foster children and then facilitating international adoptions. Her love for babies and children was not limited to her own family but extended to any baby or child.  She helped many children and families while raising her own four daughters.

Dorothy was a most loving mother who supported and nurtured her girls, enabling them to follow their own paths knowing she was always there if needed.  Nothing made her happier than being oma and she adored her four granddaughters who adored her in return.

Dorothy had many friends from all stages of her life.  Her friendships were important to her and she nurtured them; a trait passed on to her girls. An avid reader and lover of the arts – especially music – Dorothy and her husband took full advantage of living in New York, attending concerts, plays, dance performances and going to museums. She kept a long list of books she wanted to read and could often be found in a comfortable chair reading a book or the newspaper.

Dorothy and Harry also traveled the world.  Curious and open, she loved to explore different cultures, cuisines and landscapes. Paris and Venice were favorites, but they also visited China, Namibia (where two of her granddaughters were born), Kenya, Botswana, India, Morocco and Thailand among many other places.

Dorothy was known for an effortless elegance, ability to make people feel welcome and her fun-loving nature.

She and Harry moved to The Commons in Lincoln, MA in 2010 to be closer to two of their children and grandchildren.

There they made new acquaintances and spent lots of time with their family.

Her warmth and generous spirit, her laugh and her caring for others will be deeply missed.

Dorothy was predeceased by her beloved Harry and is survived by their daughters Nancy, Lisa (John Verda), Denise (Andrew Goodman), and Julie (Scott Kuster), her four granddaughters Danielle (Andrew Castronovo), Jessica (Jordan Wallach), Amanda (Dylan Houge) and Bekah (Nicholas Gauthier) and her great grandson Theo.

Funeral service Sunday, February 1, 2026 at 11:30 am at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave., Needham, MA.

If so moved, donations can be made to Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity or HIAS (refugee assistance)  https://hias.org/

Beatrice Ruth (Poverman) Spiro was the most positive person our family has ever known. Her warmth was unmistakable, and she had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome.

Beatrice lived a long and meaningful life and passed away at the age of 98 on January 27^th, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born in Peabody, Massachusetts, and grew up in Revere. After marrying, she and her husband Marc began their life together in Roxbury before settling in Randolph, where they raised their family and built lasting roots. She was deeply involved in her community, active in the Sisterhood at Temple Beth Am and as a past Matron of the local Eastern Star chapter.

Beatrice was a devoted mother of five and the beloved wife of the late Marc Spiro, a Holocaust survivor. She is survived by her children: Cindy Lurie and her late husband Douglas Lurie; Caren Spiro; Audrey Hoffman and her husband Harvey Hoffman; Glenn Spiro; and Lisa Ciampolillo and her husband Timm Ciampolillo.

She was a cherished grandmother to Devra and Zac Dutton; David and Cody Lurie-Perret; Robert and Danielle Lurie; Rochelle and David Santos; Janell and Jonathan Swift; Garrett and Jessi Hoffman; Kimberly and Scott Cotreau; Marc Ciampolillo; and Michael Ciampolillo.

Beatrice was also the proud great-grandmother of Sylvie and Cora Dutton; Phoebe and Louise Lurie; Desmond and Phoenix Santos; Lyla and Emma Swift; Rylee and Sophie Hoffman; and Collette Cotreau.

She is also survived by her dear friend, Kelly O’Neill.

Beatrice was the daughter of the late Morris Poverman and Charlotte Poverman of Revere, the stepdaughter of the late Lena Poverman, and the sister of the late Frank Poverman and his wife Flo Poverman, and the late Toby Dick and her husband George Dick.

Beatrice found joy and fulfillment in the simple, meaningful parts of life—gardening, sewing, knitting, reading, crossword puzzles, playing Mah Jongg, listening to classical music or talk radio, and all with the Hallmark Channel playing in the background. Family was always at the center of her world. Her home was the place everyone gravitated toward, a constant source of warmth, connection, and belonging. She believed deeply in staying close and in the bonds of family. Through her steady presence and gentle wisdom, she taught her family how to love, forgive, and remain connected. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 30, at B’nai Tikvah South Shore Jewish Congregation, 1301 Washington Street, Canton, MA 02021. Interment will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery, Peabody.  Shiva will be held at the home of Cindy Lurie on: Saturday, 6:00–9:00 p.m. Monday, 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m.; Tuesday, 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Beatrice’s memory to Hebrew Senior Life or B’nai Tikvah.

Irene Myerson on January 12, 2026, of West Palm Beach, Fl.  She was born on August 27, 1924, in Boston, Massachusetts to Minnie and Abraham Myerson. Sister of Sumner Myerson(Marion), Edward Myerson(Gwenne) and Adele Gordon(Louis). Irene lived a long and full life, touching the lives of many with her warmth, wit, humor, and art. She was 101 years old.

Throughout her life, Irene found joy in simple pleasures and cherished moments spent with loved ones. She worked as a bookkeeper in local businesses, where she was known for her diligence and attention to detail. She was a devoted artist and friend, she loved nature and she had an adventuresome spirit.

Irene is survived by many cherished family members and devoted friends who will miss her dearly. A private interment was held at Sharon Memorial Park, Sharon, MA. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Irene’s memory may be made to Jewish Deaf Resource Center P.O. Box 318, Hartsdale, NY 10530.

Of Natick, passed on January 25, 2026 surrounded by her beloved husband and best friend Kenneth Jaffe, and devoted daughter Lauren Gottlieb-Jaffe. Dear daughter of Michael and the late Julie Gottlieb. Dear sister of Karen Gottlieb. Services at Temple Shir Tikva, 141 Boston Post Rd., Wayland, MA, on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 10:00 am. Interment will take place at Beit Olam East Cemetery, 42 Concord Rd., Wayland. Following the interment, the family will receive family and friends at Temple Shir Tikva until 2:00pm. Memorial observance will continue at Paula’s residence Friday 1-4pm and Saturday 6-9pm. Remembrances in Paula’s memory may be made to American Heart Association  or Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

By Bryan Marquard Globe Staff,  January 18, 2026, Printed by permission from the Boston Globe

As an economist and a high-level political appointee, and as an academic and author, Stuart H. Altman spent some five decades as one of the nation’s most influential and knowledgeable health policy experts.

In various capacities, he was an adviser in the administrations of five presidents: Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden.

From the Nixon years onward, Dr. Altman had a hand in shaping everything from national Medicare policy to an early-1970s, Nixon-era attempt to create national health coverage.

In Massachusetts, he had served as interim president of Brandeis University, his longtime home as a professor, and he was appointed by governors Deval Patrick and Charlie Baker to lead the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission.

With humor and self-effacing nonchalance, Dr. Altman was never grandiose about his contributions. “I’m not political; I’m an analyst,” he told the Jewish Healthcare Foundation in 2025. “I just want to understand the problem and help solve it.”

Dr. Altman died Jan. 1 in North Carolina, where he had lived in Chapel Hill after many years in Massachusetts. He was 88, had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last fall, and subsequently delivered a guest lecture to a final class of students by Zoom a month before he died.

While discussing the complexities of health care policy, he often invoked the women in his life — his mother, his wife, his three daughters, and his five granddaughters.

To the chagrin of some of his male academic superiors in the early 1960s, Dr. Altman championed the idea — in that era often unwelcome and unpopular — that women would permanently change and improve the workplace, and that they were there to stay.

“That’s my role in life, to be an expert on women in the labor force,” he said in a 2007 oral history interview with the University of Virginia’s Miller Center. “I had written my dissertation on unemployed married women, and I wrote a book on nurses, and that’s what got me into health care.”

In Brandeis’s tribute, Constance Horgan, professor and codirector of the Schneider Institutes for Health Policy and Research, recalled that Dr. Altman “frequently mentioned his mother’s understanding of some of the implications of Medicare issues. It was always very funny when he paraphrased her, saying something like, ‘Now Stuart, do you know what Medicare is now trying to do to me? What are you going to do about it?’”

Dr. Altman never stopped trying to do something, including while leading the Massachusetts commission that was formed to “to improve health care delivery, lower costs, and reduce health disparities.”

“As long as I can keep at it, I’m going to keep at it,” he said, at 85, in an interview with his daughter Heather Altman of Chapel Hill, N.C.

Dr. Altman “brought to every interaction not only brilliance and rigor, but kindness and care, and was an exceptional colleague and mentor,” said Sara Shostak, dean of the School of Social Sciences and Social Policy at Brandeis.

He was the Sol C. Chaikin Professor of National Health Policy, emeritus, at the university’s Heller School for Social Policy and Management, and was interim president of Brandeis in 1990 and ’91. In his career, he also taught at Brown University, the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of North Carolina.

David Seltz, executive director of the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission, said in a statement that “our country has lost a legend.”

Dr. Altman, the commission’s inaugural board chairman, “dedicated his life to public service and was committed to realizing the vision of a health care system that is affordable and accessible for all,” Seltz said. “The world is a better place for his having lived in it.”

Born on Aug. 8, 1937, Stuart Harold Altman grew up in the Bronx borough of New York City, the oldest of three siblings.

His father, Sidney Altman, was a draftsman, and his mother, Florence Brown Altman, became a bookkeeper when her youngest was a teenager — an example that helped prompt Stuart’s eventual scholarly research on employment challenges for married women in that era.

Dr. Altman met Diane Kleinberg at a dance when they were teenagers, and they married in 1959. Diane, who died in 2020, had worked in the probation department of the Quincy District Court.

After Dr. Altman graduated from City College of New York, he received an economic doctorate from the University of California, Los Angeles.

He subsequently worked at the Federal Reserve in Washington, D.C., and then for the US Defense Department, which was then trying to figure out the economics of creating an all-volunteer military.

In 1971, he joined what was then the US Department of Health, Education, and Welfare as deputy assistant secretary when Nixon, a Republican, was in the White House.

At the time, US Senator Edward M. Kennedy, a Massachusetts Democrat, and labor officials were trying to create “a nationalized health insurance system for everybody,” Dr. Altman told the University of Virginia.

When Caspar Weinberger was HEW secretary, Dr. Altman was directed to create what became known as the Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan, which “would cover every American; it would expand employer-based insurance; it would mandate that every employer had to provide it,” Dr. Altman said.

This was “not a nickel-and-dime plan,” he recalled in the oral history interview.

The ambitious proposal was supported by Kennedy in the Senate and by Wilbur Mills, an Arkansas Democrat who chaired the powerful House Ways and Means Committee.

altered as an affair between Mills and the then-popular stripper known as Fanne Foxe became public, including news coverage of a night when an intoxicated Mills joined her on stage during her performance in Boston’s Combat Zone neighborhood.

The resulting publicity prompted Mills to step down as Ways and Means chairman, and the national health care proposal essentially vanished with him.

“I have told this story a hundred times, that if it wasn’t for Fanne Foxe, we might have had national health insurance in 1974,” Dr. Altman told the University of Virginia.

His books include 2011’s “Power, Politics, and Universal Health Care: The Inside Story of a Century-Long Battle,” which he cowrote with David Shactman.

Dr. Altman worked successfully with Democratic and Republican presidents “because he was genuine and authentic; because he listened to and respected those with different opinions; skills so wanting in today’s environment, that they seem to come from a bygone era,” Shactman emailed in a remembrance.

In addition to his daughter Heather and five granddaughters, Dr. Altman leaves two other daughters, Beth Altman Marcus of Westwood and Renee Altman Nefussy of Natick; his brother, Edward of New York City; and his sister, Ellen Stein of Walnut Creek, Calif.

A celebration of Dr. Altman’s life and work will be announced.

“The same things that people saw professionally, we saw personally: his warmth and humor, and his love and pride of all of us,” Heather said.

Dr. Altman accompanied his granddaughters on college tours, wore sweatshirts from their colleges, and “always wanted to see us, to hang out with us, and support all of us in every way,” Renee said.

And while he never ceased advocating for an ambitious, comprehensive form of national health coverage, he drew from the wisdom of his experience and his ready humor when the University of Virginia interviewer asked in 2007 if he thought that would ever happen.

Dr. Altman laughed while saying that someone once “asked God, ‘Will America ever have national health insurance?’”

God’s reply? “Absolutely, just not in my lifetime.”

Eric H. Sawitz, 76, passed away unexpectedly on January 16, 2026. A beloved husband of 47 years, a devoted father, an adoring grandfather (“Pop-Pop”), and unrivaled father-in-law, Eric is remembered as a warm, loving, and generous family man.

Eric took a genuine interest in each person he met. Everyone was welcome at his dinner table, and there was always lively conversation and plenty of food. Those who were lucky enough to call him family, friend, or colleague knew Eric to be a deeply moral, caring, and inquisitive man, who also delighted in playing devil’s advocate, and being the butt of the joke for his wife and daughters.

Born March 17, 1949 to Peter and Ilse Sawitz, Eric grew up in Bethesda, Maryland, along with his older brother, Allen, and his younger sister, Ina.

Eric headed north for college, graduating from Brandeis University in 1971, and then Boston University Medical School in 1976.  He spent more than 40 years as a primary care physician, including a decade as the Chief of Internal Medicine at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates in Braintree. Dr. Sawitz was beloved by his colleagues and patients, many of whom he treated for decades.

For all his career accomplishments, however, family was the true center of Eric’s universe. He and Gail met at a party in Boston in 1974, and married in 1978. They would spend the next decade living throughout the country including Boston, Worcester, West Virginia, and San Francisco, where their eldest daughter, Nicole Elisa, was born in 1984. In 1986, they permanently moved back to the Boston area and welcomed Beth Paula into the world.

The family settled in Needham in 1987, and they spent the next 35 years building a wonderful home and life. There were bagels on Saturday mornings, bike rides on the Cape Cod Rail Trail, Gail’s famous green pistachio cake on Eric’s birthday, Passover Seders in New Jersey with his cousins, and treasured family vacations all over the world. Eric loved being a dad, and he took true joy in being Pop-Pop to his grandsons, Nolan and Joel.

Cape Cod was the family’s happy place, with many perfect summer days spent at Schoolhouse Pond in Chatham and Marconi Beach in Wellfleet. There was nothing Pop-Pop loved more than having everybody gathered on the Cape, where he relished playing host, making family Dunkin’ runs every morning, manning the grill, playing with his grandsons, watching Red Sox and Patriots games, and sitting around the firepit making s’mores at night. The family will cherish these memories forever.

In his spare time, Eric was an avid reader and lifelong learner, enjoyed dinners with Gail and their friends, and played in his weekly Thursday night poker game with “the boys” for nearly 40 years.

He is survived by his wife, Gail, brother, Allen, daughter, Nicole and her husband Andrew, and daughter, Beth and her husband Brian, and their sons, Nolan and Joel

May his memory be a blessing.

Funeral service will be held on Friday January 23, 2026, at 11:30 am at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington Street, Newton MA.  Interment to follow at Boylston Lodge Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury and shiva at Waterford’s Family Restaurant, 2 Bridge St. Dedham, MA immediately after.  Shiva will also be held on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at Opus Newton, 777 Winchester St, Newton, MA from 3-6 pm with Minyan at 5 pm.

Gifts in memory of Eric may be directed to Camphill Village Kimberton Hills, where Eric’s sister, Ina, lived for 47 years, until her passing in 2023.

To view the livestream please click here.

JULIA LAUREN GOODMAN – 19 of Needham, Massachusetts was a Needham High School Graduate in her first year of college. She was the beloved and cherished daughter of Magali Medina and Daniel Michael Goodman, and the devoted sister of Katrina Erika Goodman and Jackson Tyler Goodman. Julia was the cherished granddaughter of the late Ismael Medina and Marcelina Medina, and of June Martha Goodman and the late Lester Samuel Goodman. She was also a beloved companion and loyal friend to her dog, Sawyer.

Julia was known for her deep compassion and kindness toward others, her warmth, and her playful sense of humor. She had a remarkable gift for bringing comfort, light, and connection to everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA. Burial will follow at Newton Cemetery, 791 Walnut Street, Newton, MA.

Shiva will be held immediately following burial at Temple Beth Shalom until 4:00 PM, and again on Friday, January 23, at the family home from 3:30–6:00 PM. Please come and share your Julia stories.

Donations in Julia’s memory may be made to Forever Home Rescue New England.
Mailing address: Forever Home Rescue, 106 Adams Street, Medfield, MA 02052.

Walter G. Abrams- Age 94, of Needham formerly of Newton, passed away on January 15. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Elaine, of 68 years; his daughter, Amy; his son-in-law, Lewis; and grandchildren, Alexandra (Sam Hollander) and Benjamin. He was predeceased by his son, Marc. Funeral is private.

To view livestream of the service, please click here.

Lawrence A. Schwartz of Dover, MA, passed away January 15, 2026 surrounded by his loving family after a brief, courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria, his daughter, Julia, son, Richard, daughter-in-law Caitlin and their two children, Lawrence and Grace. His oldest son, Abraham, predeceased him.

Larry was a CPA in practice for almost 50 years specializing in planning and compliance for high-net-worth individuals, corporations, and businesses in transition. He was an Accredited Estate Planner and past president of the Boston Estate Planning Counsel. He served on the Board of the ESSCO-MGH Breast Cancer Fund, which sponsored early angel investments into disease research. He was recently named Emeritus Member of the Board of Governors for Shriners Children’s Boston hospital after nine years as an active member. Serving on the hospital board was a true passion and he was instrumental in elevating the organization’s fundraising efforts.

Larry developed life-long friendships with the people he served. Clients became friends, friends became like family, and he was serving second-generation clients until his passing. He will be remembered professionally for his dedication, integrity, creativity, and humor.

It was his own children and grandchildren that gave him purpose and smiles. Together with his wife, Gloria, they enjoyed holidays, family vacations, and old-fashioned meals together.

The family are long-time members of Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley, where services will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 10:30 am.  Interment will follow in Beit Olam East Cemetery, Wayland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed in his honor to Shriners Children’s Boston, 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA, 02114. Attention: Shiva Damghany.

Helen Stepakoff Stein passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, surrounded by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Helen was the dearly beloved wife of the late Martin Stein, beloved mother of Shanee Stepakoff, and not-so-beloved mother of Mark Stepakoff. Loving grandmother of Liz Lawfer (Sam Lawfer), Jonathan Stepakoff, and Yana Serry. Great-grandmother to Mac and Fitz Lawfer. Stepmother of Barbara Webber, Marsha Stein, Michael (Gena) Stein, and Peter (Jeanne) Stein.
Helen was born in Boston, MA, on March 18, 1936. She had an extremely successful career as a real estate broker and, though she retired many years ago, kept her license active until her passing. She always had the inside scoop on listings both at Ocean Reef and in Boston and referred to herself as a “deal maker.”
She was incredibly social and had many close friends from across different aspects of her life. She could often be heard chatting away on her phone in her thick Boston accent, sometimes as she drove through a stop sign in her beloved “Marty” golf cart. Helen was an active member of the Ocean Reef Club for 40+ years, including Canasta and Mahjong, and won the club championship for both. She was also active in tennis in her younger years. Helen enjoyed the wonderful community at ORC, especially getting together with friends every Saturday night to dine at her special table out on the porch at the Islander while sipping an espresso martini with Frangelico.
She loved to travel and spent time visiting destinations around the world with Marty and with friends. She loved boating and spending time on the Steinsong, which was docked at E11 on the Reef for many years until the Steins moved to Harbour Green. She truly loved this club and the ORC employees, developing close friendships with many of them over the years. In light of this, please send any donations in lieu of flowers to the ORC Associates Holiday Fund in the name of Helen Stein.
There will be a celebration of life at Ocean Reef in the near future.  Services at the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon, MA, will take place on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 1:00 pm, where she will then be laid to rest with her beloved Marty.

Edwin Jay Rosen of Sherborn and formerly of Brookline, Massachusetts, born January 2, 1933, passed away peacefully at home on January 13, 2026, having lived an active and fulfilling life of 93 years. Ed graduated from Brookline High School and Boston University and proudly served in the United States Air Force as a navigator for two years. In his younger years, he spent summers at Camp Kenwood in Potter Place, New Hampshire, where he developed his love of sports and formed many lifelong friendships. An avid baseball player, Ed was recruited by the Boston Braves in 1951. He was also an exceptional golfer playing at many courses throughout the country. He enjoyed all sports and always had a strong opinion about any Boston sports team. Ed was a long-time member of the Freemasons and the Cambridge YMCA and was an original member of a running club formed in the 1970s. Following his military service, Ed worked for many years in the family business, Rosen & Company, before opening his own company with his brother, Fred Rosen. They lived for playing practical jokes on each other. He remained professionally active until retiring at the age of 82. The love of Ed’s life was Mary Rothstein. They married in 1956 and shared 53 wonderful years together. They enjoyed island vacations and cruises and made treasured friendships along the way. Ed never wavered in his devoted care of Mary after she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. They lived in Brookline for 40 years before moving to Sherborn Meadows in 2006. After Mary’s passing in 2009, Ed began a new chapter. He remained highly social and active with friends, though he never went on another cruise. Known for his quick wit and strong opinions—always delivered without offense—Ed was a familiar and beloved presence at local restaurants including Eli’s and the Morse Tavern, where patrons would literally shout “Eddy!” when he walked in. At Sherborn Meadows, Ed proudly served as “Captain of Happy Hour” right up until the very end. Ed was predeceased by his wife, Mary (Rothstein) Rosen; his sister, Marian Rosen; and his parents, Ida and Nathan Rosen. He is survived by his brother and best friend, Fred Rosen of Florida; his loving children, Martha Tischofer (Chuck) and Carol Kagan (David); his four grandchildren, Leah (Tischofer) Krell (Wesley), Gregory Tischofer (McKenzie), Ari Kagan, and Jordana Kagan (David Glaser); and his three great-grandchildren, Maizy and Graham Krell and Aubrey Tischofer and many cherished nieces and nephews. The family would like to recognize the kind and compassionate caregivers from BrightStar of Needham, the Sherborn Council on Aging, Renee’s Kitchen and the Natick-Walpole Visiting Nurse Association. Donations in Ed’s memory may be made to the VNA or organization of your choice. A graveside service will be held on Sunday, January 18, at 12:45 p.m. at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA, followed by a Shiva from 3:00–7:00 p.m. in the community room at his residence in Sherborn.

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

Helaine Rosenthal Meyers, of Brookline, MA passed away January 11, 2026 at 104 years old. Born in Boston, MA. Beloved wife of the late Henry Meyers. Dear daughter of the late Louis and Sadie Rosenthal. Loving sister of the late Allan and Irwin Rosenthal. Helaine leaves her children, Leslie and Ken Zises, Ellen Meyers Zakon, Michael Meyers and Kathy Jones, and Frances Meyers. Cherished grandmother of Lauren Zises, Jennifer and Ian Josloff, Jackie Zakon, and Mitchell Toro. Proud great grandmother of Spencer Josloff, and Harrison Josloff. Funeral services at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton, MA on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 1:30 pm. Shiva information to be announced at the funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations in Helaine’s memory may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284, Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton, MA 02459, or The Boston House, 229 Kent St., Brookline, MA 02446.

To view the livestream of the service, please click here.

93, of Dedham, MA, passed away peacefully at her home on January 12, surrounded by the love and care of her family. Born and raised in Revere to Violet and Jacob Wheeler, she shared a joyful upbringing with her brother, David Wheeler. Alyce lived a long and deeply fulfilling life, characterized by her unwavering devotion to family, cherished friendships, and graceful spirit.

Alyce was the beloved mother of Anne and Gary Simon, Nancy and Robert Casper, and Anna and Doug Simon. She took great joy in being a grandmother to Emily and Jay Pfeifer, Matt and Leora Simon, Zach and Jill Simon, Laura and Steven Wells, Erik and Gabie Simon, Sam Casper, and Nikki Casper, and was proud to have nine wonderful great-grandchildren.

With a steadfast commitment to her family, Alyce embraced the joys of motherhood while also being blessed with two loving marriages. She was married to Norman Simon for 25 years until his passing, and then to Robert Sadler for 42 years, with whom she shared a deep bond built on love for travel and adventure. Together, they made wonderful memories in homes that spanned from Needham and Newton to the scenic landscapes of Mittersill, NH, Quechee, VT, and Arizona.

Funeral service will be held Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 1 pm at Sharon Memorial Park Chapel, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA 02067.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Good Shepherd Community Care via check to the address below or through their online portal; https://gscommunitycare.org/Donate  160 Wells Ave., Newton, MA 02459.

We mourn the loss of Samuel O. Thier, who passed away at home in Chestnut Hill, MA on January 3, 2026. Sam was a mentor to generations of physicians and research scientists, as well as a renowned administrator who shaped healthcare systems across the nation and helped to establish the foundations of modern academic medicine in America.

Sam was born in Brooklyn on June 23rd, 1937, and was forever a Brooklyn boy, though sometimes he would concede that he’d spent parts of his childhood in Louisiana and Miami. He was the son of May Thier and Sidney Thier, a family doctor, and he was a devoted big brother to his sisters, Lenore and Roberta. It was in Brooklyn, while accompanying his father on house calls, that he discovered his lifelong passion for medicine.

At the age of 16, he went to Cornell University, where he met Paula Finkelstein, his wife of 67 years. Always in a hurry, he left Cornell without taking a degree in order to study medicine at Upstate Medical College in Syracuse. He trained at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), where he was eventually chief resident and then chief of the renal division.

After distinguishing himself in clinical practice, he served as Associate Chief of Medicine at UPenn and Chairman of Medicine at Yale. In 1985, he left Yale to become the president of the Institute of Medicine (now the National Academy of Medicine), where he issued the first public health report on the AIDS epidemic and was instrumental in forcing the federal government to acknowledge the scale of the disaster. He left the IOM to become president of Brandeis University, where he stabilized the university’s finances and developed a new undergraduate curriculum, before returning to the MGH. There he served first as the hospital’s president and then, as president and CEO of Partners Healthcare, superintended its partnership with Brigham and Women’s Hospital — a complex, contentious, and historic union between rival institutions. He was awarded more than fifteen honorary degrees; served as a trustee at many institutions, including Brandeis and Weill Cornell Medical School; sat on numerous corporate boards and was a member of the American Philosophical Society and the National Academy of Sciences; and chaired the Commonwealth Fund board of directors. He received more awards than he or any of us could count, among which he particularly cherished the George M. Kober Medal, a lifetime achievement award for scientific rigor in internal medicine.

But no matter what he was doing, no matter how large the organization he was responsible for, he retained a furious commitment to patient care. That conviction guided every policy decision he made, and it also shaped his daily life. He made rounds every week. He found time to visit the friends of friends before they went into surgery. He took the leaders of medical associations to task when he felt they were protecting their own interests, rather than putting patients first.

Outside the office, he loved competition of any kind. He would call family members when he’d sprinted through the morning crossword, and it’s hard to express the intensity of his love for sports. He played tennis all his life, he loved baseball — eventually the Red Sox did take the place of the long-ago Brooklyn Dodgers in his heart — but he would watch professional bowling if there was nothing else on.

He was a person of ferocious intelligence, uncompromising integrity, and surprising humor. Everyone who knew him knew that he relished a spirited disagreement, and when you spoke to him, you had to be at your best. But he was even more ferocious in his love for the people he cared about. When you needed him—when you really needed him—there was something almost frightening about the magnitude of his effort to help you. He would wake people up in the night, he would move heaven and earth, he would stop at nothing. That is the man we miss so much. We were protected by his love. We felt safer knowing he was there.

Sam leaves his wife, Paula; his sisters, Lenore and Roberta; his daughters, Audrey, Stephanie, and Sara; his grandchildren, Aaron, David, Ruth, Emily, Rebecca, and Isabella; and his seven great-grandchildren, Sidney, Saul, Eamon, Ida, Alona, Vivian, and Fox.

Kreitzer (Narefs), Judith E., of Ashland, passed away on January 8, 2026. Beloved wife of the late Sidney Kreitzer, with whom she shared many happy years including world travels and winters in Highland Beach, FL. Devoted mother of Marjorie Braunstein of Hudson and Newton, and loving sister of Lucie Chansky and late brother-in-law Harvey Chansky of Newton.  Judy cherished her many friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews, and especially long-time friends Esta Lee Levine, Ann Arvedon and Elaine Greenburg, as well as her helpful neighbors at The Lanterns in Ashland. A burial and service will be held on January 18th at 1:00 pm at The Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, immediately followed by a gathering at the Sheraton Needham Hotel, 100 Cabot St., Needham.  Donations in her memory may be made to The Price Center, 27 Christina St., Newton Highlands, MA 02461 or to Newton Wellesley Hospital, 2014 Washington St., Newton, MA 02462.

Robert Tobin, of West Roxbury and Boynton Beach, Florida, 90, on January 7, 2026. Beloved husband of Phyllis. Dear son of Terry and Sylvia Tobin. Devoted father of Faith and Matthew Tobin, beloved father-in-law of Kerri-Ann Tobin. Dear grandfather of Jacob and Carly Tobin. Loving brother of Alan Tobin, Stanley Tobin, Mark Tobin, Judy Tobin, Shelly Tobin.

Funeral services at The Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Monday, January 12th, at 10am.

Lunch Served immediately following service at Oak Row 1235 VFW Parkway, West Roxbury, MA. Common room first floor.

Memorial observance/Shiva will be at the home of Matthew and Kerri-Ann Tobin, Monday January 12, 6pm-8pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Robert’s memory may be made to:

Pathway2Possible (https://pathway2possible.org/)

OneMission (https://bit.ly/OneMissionRobertTobin)

Marcia Kaplan Goldsmith, age 92, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025 surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren. Born in Newburyport and raised in Amesbury, MA, she was the daughter of Esther and Ben Kaplan, local business owners known for their generosity and civic mindedness.

A strong student, Marcia earned a BA with honors in English from Jackson College (now Tufts University). After graduating, she spent three adventure-filled months driving across Europe with friends in a tiny Volkswagen. Her love of travel would continue throughout her life; she visited many places near and far, with a special love for those close to the sea, including the North Shore, Cape Cod, Alaska, Hawaii, and Japan.

After college, Marcia became an editor at Doubleday in New York City, where she worked with writer and illustrator Edward Gorey, among many others. In 1959, Marcia married Carl Goldsmith and stepped away from her career to raise a family in Florida. A quiet but effective activist, she worked to advance civil rights and to improve public education in Miami, which she often found lacking. She advocated for school integration and at one point successfully campaigned to remove a school principal who had expressed racist views.

Determined to return to the workforce following her divorce, she earned a law degree from the University of Miami, where she was one of just three women in her class. She returned to Massachusetts and built a career as an attorney for the state Department of Revenue. In later years she was active in Wellesley Neighbors, a member-led social network, planning events and working on the group’s newsletter as well as enjoying its many activities with friends.

Marcia was a lifelong advocate of social change, supporting a variety of environmental, health, education, and equal rights causes; she was delighted to attend a climate rally with her daughter when she was well into her 80s. A dedicated friend, she kept close ties with those she knew from all walks of life. She loved art, books, and the beach, but her greatest love was her family. She was especially proud of her five grandchildren and was a constant source of encouragement for them.

Marcia leaves behind her son Edward Goldsmith, his wife Leslie, and their children Marisa Rowlands and Ben Goldsmith; her daughter, Karen Partridge, her husband Robert, and their children Rachel, Sarah, and Alex Partridge; her grandsons-in-law Jamie Rowlands and Todd Nobles; her sister, Susan Karas; and many loving friends and relatives.

A private memorial service will be held on a later date. Donations in her memory may be made to WBUR or WGBH.

Alan Gould, of Natick, MA, passed away January 6, 2026, at the age of 89. Alan was born June 29, 1936 in Boston, MA. He was the son of the late Anne and Harry Gould of Chestnut Hill, MA and the brother of the late Gordon Gould of Randolph, MA. Alan married in 1959 and leaves his beloved wife Adacie (Mersky) Gould, and devoted father to Michael Gould of Natick, MA, and Andrew Gould of Northport, NY. Alan is survived by his grandchildren Carlie Gould of New York City, and Lexi Gould of New York City, Sister-In-Law Diane Gould of Boxford, MA. He leaves five nieces, Joanne Klipper of Davie, FL, Debra Fitts of Hanover, MA, Lori Blume Galvin of Chelmsford, MA, Marci Beaulieu of Ipswich, MA and Nancy Coughlin of Boxford, MA

Alan graduated from Brookline High School and Boston University. After college, Alan worked for his father at Park Distributors in Boston and then went into the footwear business as a salesman to later become an owner of Supreme Slipper Manufacturing Company in Lewiston, ME. He was a member of Two Ten Association and a Mason at Boston Lodge in Boston. Alan loved traveling for business and vacationing with his wife by taking day trips, weekends to Maine in the summertime and abroad to Europe, Middle East, and China.

After moving from Wayland to Boca Raton and later to Delray Beach, FL, he became interested and involved in the Real Estate business and furthered his future in becoming a real estate agent for Rent Finders USA in Boca Raton.

In life, Alan found his love for his family and his passion for business. After many years in Florida, he moved back to Massachusetts with his wife in 2009 to be with his family. Alan continued his Real Estate with Centre Realty Group in Newton, MA until he retired.

Services will be private. In his memory, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Miriam Boyd Parlin Hospice, of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Stuart Altman- Influential Health Policy Leader, Mentor and Beloved Family Man

Stuart Altman, 88, January 1, 2026, a pioneering health economist whose work shaped American healthcare policy for more than five decades, has died. A visionary public servant and trusted advisor, Stuart was equally known for his intellect, generosity, and rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Over the course of his career, he advised five U.S. presidential administrations and played a central role in shaping Medicare and national health policy. He served for 12 years as chairman of the congressionally mandated Prospective Payment Assessment Commission, helping guide Congress on Medicare’s hospital payment system, and later served on President Bill Clinton’s National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicare. In Massachusetts, he chaired the Health Policy Commission from its inception, monitoring health care cost trends and making health care policy recommendations across the state.

Stuart was the Sol C. Chaikin Professor of National Health Policy at Brandeis University’s Heller School for Social Policy and Management, where he also served multiple terms as dean and as interim president of Brandeis University from 1990 to 1991. He taught and mentored generations of students, policymakers, and scholars, many of whom credit him with shaping not only their careers but their values. His scholarship and leadership earned him widespread recognition and numerous lifetime achievement awards, reflecting the respect he commanded across academia, government, and industry.

For all his professional accomplishments, Stuart’s greatest legacy may be the way he treated people. He could communicate with equal ease to presidents, CEOs, students, and strangers, always seeking to understand and discuss ideas with everyone he met.

Stuart’s passing is a profound loss to all of the people he ever met and interacted with. But especially to those who he loved and who loved him the most: His predeceased wife Diane, his three daughters, Beth Altman Marcus, Renee Altman Nefussy, and Heather Altman. His three sons-in-law, Scott Marcus, David Nefussy and James Shortridge and of course, his five beloved granddaughters; Taylor Altman Nefussy, Allison Altman Marcus, Rachel Altman Marcus, Sydney Altman Shortridge and Leah Altman Shortridge. He is also survived by his brother Edward, and his wife Elaine Altman, and his sister, Ellen Stein. He will be remembered as a devoted family man whose warmth, humor, and kindness matched the depth of his intellect.

Funeral and memorial services are private.  A celebration of life to honor Stuart is being scheduled.  Donations in his memory may be made to Brandeis University the Stuart H Altman Chair in Health Policy Fund.

Stanley Barry Cohen-of Wellesley, born in Brockton, formerly of Framingham, and Middleton passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, at the age of 89.

Beloved husband of Barbara (Solov) Cohen. Son of the late Milton and Lillian (Freedman) Cohen. Devoted father of Michael Cohen & Annie Bjork, and Andrew Cohen & Susan Parks-Cohen. Proud grandfather of Ella, Jessica, Milo and Liv. Brother of Shirley (Cohen) Sharff and the Late Fred Sharff.

Graveside service at The Boylston Lodge Cemetery, 776 Baker Street, West Roxbury on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11:00am. Shiva at the home of Barbara and Stanley immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Stanley’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

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

Debora “Debby” Grace (née Cutler), 84, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, in Boston, Massachusetts. Born on May 13, 1941, in Bangor, Maine, Debby grew up in Old Town and carried her deep love for the state of Maine throughout her life. Her pride in her Maine roots was a constant, and she never missed an opportunity to remind people that she was a Mainer through and through. Debby pursued higher education at the University of Maine and later at Syracuse University, laying a foundation for a life marked by curiosity, resilience, and devotion to family.

She shared a long and loving marriage with her husband, Alan. Her children, Karen and Daniel (Rachael), brought her immense joy throughout her life, but no one could top the true lights of her life, her five grandchildren—Ellie, Thomas, and Sam Corken, and Will and Peter Grace. She never missed an opportunity to cheer them on from the sidelines and ski slopes or to dive into the lake beside them during summer visits in the Berkshires. Her presence was a constant source of love, encouragement, and warmth, and will stay with them forever.

An avid skier and hiker, Debby embraced the outdoors with vigor. Whether navigating snowy trails or exploring wooded paths, she found peace and joy in nature. She also had a deep appreciation for music and culture, and loved listening to the BSO while sitting on the lawn at Tanglewood every summer. Family traditions were sacred to Debby; she honored them with enthusiasm and passed them down with care. From Thanksgiving to Passover and everything in between, she cherished every opportunity to hold her family close. Debby is survived by her beloved husband, Alan, her children, Karen and Daniel (Rachael), her grandchildren, Ellie, Thomas, and Sam Corken, and Will and Peter Grace, and her brother, Buzz Cutler.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A funeral will be held on January 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Road, Wellesley, MA. Memorial observance will be held at the Grace residence, Wednesday 5:00 – 7:30 pm and Thursday 5:00 – 7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Debby’s memory may be made to Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.

Jane Maletz Lane passed away unexpectedly at 81 on December 22, 2025. Jane was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was born on December 13, 1944 to Dorothy and Leo Maletz of Lynn, MA, and was a longtime resident of Wayland, MA and Harpswell, ME, where she cultivated two beautiful homes and gardens full of native plants. Jane was preceded in death by her parents as well as her brother Roy Maletz. She is survived by her husband Earle Lane, her daughter Annabel Lane, her stepdaughter Cathy Rohrer and her husband Greg, her stepdaughter Jodi McGowan and her husband Bob, her sister Andrea Chambers and her husband Bill, her sister-in-law Linda Maletz, her nephew Drew Maletz and his wife Allegra, her niece Allison Henricks and her husband Tim, her niece Abigail Sooy and her husband Alex, and her grandchildren, Eliana, Scott, Molly, Eric, and Casey.

Jane loved children and the natural world. She was a teacher for many years and was happiest out in a meadow or the woods helping young children experience the magic of nature, whether one of her students or her own adored grandchildren. Jane’s creative spirit, spontaneity, and humor shone through wherever she went; she always had a new art or garden project that she was pursuing with enthusiasm and joy. She was also an avid Francophile, keeping up with reading and conversation in French and building friendships both local and international around this passion. Jane was very active and loved walking, kayaking, gardening, swimming, and, in earlier years, horseback riding. She encouraged the people in her life to try new things and was always eager to help others.

Donations in Jane’s honor may be made to the Nature Conservancy. A memorial service is being planned.

Daniel Frank, 89, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to so many, passed away in his home in Brookline on January 5, 2026. Born and raised in Boston, he was the son of the late Max and Sally Frank and the brother of the late Janet Salvaggio. After graduating from high school in Boston, he attended Boston University and Emerson College. He worked in real estate and spent many years as president of the Fineberg Companies. Dan leaves behind his loving wife of 56 years, Norma; his two children, Peter Frank and David Frank; his wife, Marisa; and his two grandchildren, Matthew and Michael. In addition to his deep love for his family, Dan was an avid art collector and connoisseur of jazz music, particularly that of his long-time friend and Grammy winner, Illinois Jacquet.  He was an active supporter of The Price Center in Newton, which provides services to individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges. Funeral services will be held at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Avenue in Boston, on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 1:30 pm (parking on the Riverway). Following the interment at Or Emet Cemetery, Baker Street, West Roxbury, a memorial observance will be held at the Frank residence until 8 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Remembrances in Dan’s memory may be made to The Barry L. Price Center, 25 Christina St., Newton, MA 02461.

To view livestream of memorial service click here

Gabe Hirshfeld, a master banjoist, dedicated mental health counselor, and beloved friend, son, brother, and uncle, passed away unexpectedly on December 28, 2025, at the age of 36.

Born in 1989, Gabe was known from a young age for his kindness and curiosity. After a few false starts with other instruments, Gabe discovered and developed a singular, lifelong dedication to the banjo. After attending Berklee College of Music, Gabe became a central figure in the Boston bluegrass community, a revered teacher at festivals and camps, and a founding member of The Lonely Heartstring Band. With the group, he recorded two albums and magnetized audiences around the world with his imaginative musicianship and unmistakable humor.

Gabe had a rare gift for making everyone – from fellow virtuosos to first-time pickers – feel seen, heard, and welcome. Anyone anywhere in the world could ask Gabe for advice and he would respond at length, developing lifelong friendships. So much so that when Gabe required a kidney transplant, bluegrass friends and fans around the world offered him theirs.

This gift served him well as he pursued a second calling as a mental health counselor, a role where his own resilience and capacity for quiet kindness allowed him to connect deeply with his clients.

Gabe leaves behind a legacy of art, friendship, and a community made better by his presence.

Gabe is survived by his parents, Alan Hirshfeld and Alexandra (Sasha) Helper; his brother, Josh Hirshfeld; his sister-in-law Laura Fortes; and his niece, Luna Fortes-Hirshfeld.

Service information: A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave, Needham, MA.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor and further Gabe’s legacy through The Gabe Hirshfeld Memorial Fund, established in partnership with the Boston Bluegrass Union to support the musical education of young banjo players. Tax-deductible donations can be made at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/GabeHirshfeldFund

Anita Abeles, of West Newton, on December 31, 2025.Beloved wife of the late Gerard. Private graveside Services were held in New York.

Pearl Nelson of Newton, on December 31, 2025. Private services will be held on January 3, 2026.

To view the livestream of the funeral service, please click here.

Sharon Schulkind, a devoted educator, beloved grandmother and mother, and a pillar of the Sharon, Massachusetts community for nearly five decades, passed away peacefully at home on December 30, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on October 11, 1952, in Brooklyn and raised in Franklin Square on Long Island, Sharon was a woman defined by her sharp intellect, her caring heart, and a nearly 60-year love story that began when she was just a teenager.

At age 15, Sharon’s life changed forever when she met Richard Schulkind while on vacation. That early spark grew into a lifelong partnership and they were married during her final semester at Queens College and moved to Massachusetts as newlyweds. In 1978, they settled into the Sharon home where they would raise their family and remain for the rest of her life.

Sharon’s professional life was a testament to her versatility and brilliance. She began her career as a software engineer at GTE before choosing to stay home to raise her children, Lisa and Matt. When she returned to the workforce, she transitioned into her true calling, education. With long, impactful tenures at both Montrose School and Walpole High School, as well as many other schools along the way, Sharon taught math and technology. She was particularly known for her patience and skill in working one-on-one with students, ensuring everyone had the support they needed to succeed.

Deeply committed to her community and her faith, Sharon was an active member of Temple Israel. She dedicated much of her time to the Yom HaShoah committee, working to ensure the importance of remembrance was honored and with the Holocaust Stamps Project. 

Sharon retired just before becoming a grandmother. She poured her energy into her three grandchildren, Blake, Maya, and Joni, sharing her love of reading and the tradition of baking Challah with them. Those who knew Sharon will remember her “walking fast” through the neighborhood, kayaking, and her weekly Mahjong and Canasta games with dear friends. She found beauty in the world through her flowers, the sight of hummingbirds, and her signature color, purple.

Sharon was the heartbeat of her family and is survived by her devoted husband, Richard Schulkind; her daughter, Lisa and her husband Paul; and her son, Matt and his wife Hayley. She was the cherished grandmother of Blake, Maya, and Joni. She also leaves behind her sister, Barbara and her husband Edward; her brother, Stanley and his wife Lorie; her sister-in-law, Judith; her nieces and nephews, Daniel, David, Deborah, Justin, Morgan, Jennifer, and Andrew; and a large extended family that she loved keeping in touch with and carefully documented in a detailed family tree. Sharon will be remembered as a smart, friendly, and deeply caring woman who always put her friends and family first. Her legacy lives on in the many students she mentored and the family she adored.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 1:00 pm. in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA 02067.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sharon’s memory to the American Cancer Society.

To view the livestream of the funeral service, please click here.

Anita Charlotte Garfinkle passed away peacefully at the age of 98 on December 25, 2025. She was born in Bangor, Maine on February 21, 1927.

Anita was the daughter of Dora (Cohen) and Harry G. Broder. She was the wife of Charles L. Garfinkle of Mt. Vernon, NY, who predeceased her in 2003, and the mother of Penny Garver of Brookline, MA—a longtime member and board director of Temple Ohabei Shalom—who predeceased her earlier this year.

She is survived by her son Peter Garfinkle and son-in-law Richard Garver; her grandchildren Joshua Garver and wife Bethany, Jennie Garver and partner Jason Lee, Shari Garfinkle, and Elana Titus; and her great-grandchildren Alina and Miralyn Garver, Alexander and Halcyon Garver, and Warren and Ruth Titus. Anita is also survived by many adoring nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Known affectionately as “Nita,” “Teeta,” and later “Grammy” and “Gigi,” she is remembered as an “energetic redhead,” fully engaged with the world around her. Her intelligence, warmth, wit, generosity, and steady encouragement left a lasting mark on those who knew her.

Anita grew up in Bangor in a family deeply involved in creative life. Her mother—whose professional name was Dorothy—was an accomplished pianist, accordionist, director, instructor, and leader of many community and social organizations. Her father, Harry, was a prominent businessman. A 1933 article in the Bangor Daily News described the family as “rehearsing strenuously” as part of their Little Theatre Group, which performed original comedies including The Jewish Word and Counted Out. Performances often featured accordion music, and the family shared their talents with the community. Hospitality was equally valued, with Anita’s parents welcoming people to their summer home at Jewel Point on Pushaw Lake.

At Bangor High School, Anita graduated top of her class and skipped a grade. Her yearbook listed a wide range of activities, including Dramatic Club, Public Affairs Club, Glee Club, YMCA, Latin Club, Debate Club, Girls’ Hockey, and Girls’ Basketball. She served as Literary Editor of the Oracle, participated in junior exhibitions and singing groups, and earned a reputation as a thoughtful leader and lively presence.

Anita graduated in the mid-1940s from Simmons College in Boston and later from the Prince School of Retailing, where she earned the highest honors in her class. At Simmons, she was involved in several campus organizations, including The Academy, an honorary scholastic club, as well as USSA, YMCA, and the Scribunal Club—known for its skits and events that brought together business school students and faculty. Learning was never just a phase for Anita; it was a lifelong pursuit.

In 1947, Anita married Charles Lionel Garfinkle of Mattapan in the Louis XIV Ballroom of the Hotel Somerset in Boston. Together they raised their two children, Penny and Peter, in Newton, Massachusetts, and later moved to Mount Vernon, New York, where Anita resided until her passing. They were married for 56 years, until Charles’s death in 2003 at the age of 79. Family life included stays with children and grandchildren on Block Island, Rhode Island, and later in Longmeadow, Massachusetts.

Professionally, Anita devoted years of service to the United States Social Security Administration. She took pride in her work, bringing her sharp mind, attention to detail, and reliability to her role in public service.

Outside of work, Anita was a member of Mensa and a devoted participant in a book club with friends, enjoying thoughtful discussion and shared reading. Music was another lifelong passion. From 1989 through 2009, the Chaminade Music Club of Yonkers played a central role in her life, where she contributed to the club’s long tradition of musical programming. Anita also held affection for Jewish traditions, particularly during Passover—a time she viewed as one of renewal, promise, and enduring hope for those she loved.

In her later years, Anita embraced the pleasures of travel and companionship, exploring many places, including Egypt, Greece, New Orleans, Seattle, Alaska, and Victoria, Canada. She enjoyed being a tourist, discovering new cultures, and trying different foods with good company.

We will forever hear her voice—full of love, humor, and care—saying “Warm wishes go with you wherever you may go,” “You’re just gorgeous!” and, in her final years, “Aging is not for sissies.” Anita’s legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured, the communities she served, and the many hearts she touched.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 31, at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, with Cantor Maayan Silverman officiating. Interment will follow. Shiva will be observed following the burial, with details available from the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Greater Boston or the Westchester Jewish Community Services.

Beverly Cynthia Baron, aged 85, passed away on December 29, 2025, in Clarkesville, GA.

Born on September 15, 1940, Beverly dedicated over 30 years of her life to her career as a legal secretary. A graduate of Bryant University, she was known for her unwavering encouragement and belief in the importance of perseverance.

Beverly was deeply family-focused, a trait that resonated in every aspect of her life and endeared her to all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Michelle Seidling; son, Jeff Baron; son-in-law, Brian Seidling; daughter-in-law, Kim Baron; and her cherished grandchildren, Sarah, Rachel, Leah, Elijah, and Teagan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jacob Baron.

Visitation will be held at Sharon Memorial Park Cemetery, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA 02067  on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at noon, followed by a graveside funeral service at 12:45 PM the same day.

December 30, 1946 – December 28, 2025

Steven Klein, a man known by all as the kindest soul they had ever met, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 28, 2025, just two days shy of his 79th birthday.

Steve was the devoted husband of Edie Klein, with whom he shared 56 years of a beautiful, enduring marriage. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and family. He was the proud father of Michael Klein (Joy Errico) and Jodi Klein (Cathy Klein).

To his grandchildren—Jackson, Lauren, Aidan, Olivia, Zoe, and Addison—he was a constant source of encouragement and love. He is also survived by his brother, Ron (Faye Klein), and his sister, Amy.

A self-made man, Steve was the owner of Steve’s Quality Catering, a business he built from the ground up and took immense pride in. He took his craft seriously—often jokingly reminding his family that he was the only “officially licensed food handler” among them. While he fed many through his business, his favorite meals were the ones shared with family, especially if they ended with a giant bowl of ice cream.

Steve’s warmth was matched only by his sense of humor. Late in life, he took up golf; while he would be the first to admit he wasn’t particularly good at it, he truly enjoyed the time spent on the course.

Above all, Steve was a “Friend to All.” Whether you knew him for decades or minutes, he made you feel seen and valued. His favorite place to be was on the sidelines of a soccer field. He spent decades cheering loudly for Mike and Jodi, and later, made it to every game he possibly could for his grandchildren. He was, and always will be, his family’s biggest fan.

Service Information
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 30th at 10:00 AM at: The S Philip Gopen Welcome Center and Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, MA 02067. Burial will immediately follow.

Memorial Contributions
In honor of Steve’s life and his spirit of kindness, remembrances may be made in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association.

To view the recording of the funeral service please click here.

Dr. Leonard J. Morse died on December 12, 2025, at the age of 96. Leonard will be missed by Maxine, his loving wife of 68 years; his devoted children, Andrew, Jonathan, Michael, and Elizabeth; their spouses, Emy, Elisabeth, Mariska, and Jeff; and eight grandchildren, Ingrid, Audrey, Jacob, Mikayla, Henry, Oliver, Abigail, and Harry.

Born in Worcester, Mass., Leonard dedicated his life to the practice of medicine and the well-being of his community. The first in his family to attend college, he graduated from American International College and the University of Maryland School of Medicine. After his service in the Army, where he was stationed at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Leonard returned home to begin his medical practice in Worcester, serving patients with compassion and expertise. When he retired from private practice, he took on the role of Chief Medical Officer for the community health center in New Bedford, Mass., contributing his vast knowledge and experience.

Given his work as a physician, his expertise in infectious diseases and epidemiology, and his devotion to Worcester, city officials asked Leonard to serve as Worcester’s Commissioner of Public Health in 2002. He left the role in September 2010, at age 81, a retirement that would prove to be his last.

Leonard served as president of the Worcester District Medical Society from 1978-1979, and as president of the Massachusetts Medical Society from 1993-1994. He also served as president of the Boston Medical Library and held leadership roles at the American Medical Association. Leonard was particularly moved when, in 2015, the City of Worcester dedicated a walking path around Elm Park in his honor called the Morse Stroll.

One of the highlights of Leonard’s career came in 1969, when he led the investigation of a hepatitis outbreak that ended the season for the College of the Holy Cross football team. The incident made national headlines, and lessons from it resulted in recommendations that changed public health laws related to drinking water. He often said the event was the most notable moment of his career.

In 2016, Leonard and Maxine moved to the suburbs of Washington, D.C. to be closer to family.

A funeral service will be held at Sharon Memorial Park Chapel, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA 02067 on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 1PM. Family and friends will gather at 4PM the same day at The Mercantile, 2 Mercantile Street, Worcester, MA 01608 to share remembrances. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Scholarship Fund in Leonard’s honor at the Worcester District Medical Society (321 Main St., Worcester, MA, 01608) or the charity of your choice.

Arthur B. Wallace, 71,  passed away unexpectedly on December 10, 2025 at home.

He leaves behind his devoted sister Sandra of Henderson, NV and brother Howard Alan of California, as well as nephews and nieces. Michael, Leah, Jace, Samara and David.

Arthur graduated from Berkeley College of Music with a Bachelor of Music degree and later earned his Master of Education degree from Cambridge College.

He was a music teacher for the town of Watertown where he excelled at his craft. During his years of teaching he was vastly recognized in his work for his talent for bringing together wonderful concerts during his tenure at Watertown.

He lived as “life is a song, love is the music.”

Graveside service on Friday, January 2, 2026 at 10:45 am at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA.

Neil Gordon passed away on December 24, 2025, at the age of 82. He is survived by his sister Diane Snyder; his sons, Lane (fiancée Marie) and Ethan (wife Jennifer); his four grandchildren, Ava, Abby, Alana, and Mitchell; his nieces and nephews; and his friends, whom he loved dearly.

Son of Jack and Isabelle Gordon, Neil grew up in Newton, Massachusetts. He was married to Judith (Siegal) Gordon for more than 50 years. The two of them raised their children in Framingham. He owned and ran E.J. Ardon Company, later Ardon Vinyl Graphics, in the Fenway area, until he retired. He spent his final years living in Westborough.

His family will remember him for his eccentricities, his passion for photography, and the fun articles of interest he frequently sent them. Over the last few years, he became an avid fisherman, alongside his good friend Arnie. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his grandchildren, who adored him.

Throughout his entire life, Neil was a passionate amateur photographer. For many years, he has been an active member of the Photographic Historical Society of New England (PHSNE), where he proudly gave a presentation earlier this month. Over the years, he put up photography shows, most recently in his condo development. He regularly gifted prints of his photos to his friends and family.

Neil traveled near and far to enjoy his favorite foods. Frequent haunts included The Clam Box in Ipswich, Rein’s Deli in Vernon, CT, and anywhere that served a good hot dog. Once, he even braved the Fourth of July traffic to get a lobster roll from Belle Isle Seafood in Winthrop. Every morning, he set out to his local McDonald’s to make friends and eat his Egg McMuffin. The culinary world of greater New England will feel his loss.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Friends of Woodlands & Waters (woodlandsandwaters.org), a nonprofit that supports the Assabet River, one of his favorite places. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 7th at 11:45 AM at Arturo’s, 54 E Main St, Westborough, MA. The family also welcomes visitors on Thursday, January 8th, from 5-8 PM. Contact the family for details.

Dr. Theodore E. Spielberg, 87, May 6, 1938-December 21, 2025, Wellesley, MA.

Beloved husband of Dr. Deanna Spielberg to whom he was married 64 years.  Father of the late Alissa Rebecca Spielberg, legal expert in the field of Health Law and Ethics.  Loving brother of Joan Rich and her husband James Rich of Kensington, MD.  Dear brother-in-law of the late Elaine Karlin and her husband Mark Karlin of Buffalo, NY.

Graveside services were held at Sharon Memorial Park on Friday Dec. 26, 2025. A celebration of his life is planned for May 2026.

Dr. Spielberg was a gifted internist and endocrinologist trained primarily in the Boston area after attending the High School of Music and Art in New York City where his love for music flourished; NYU as a philosophy honors major and the Downstate Medical School.

He served as a Major in the US Army Medical Corps during the Vietnam War.

He was a member of the staff of Newton-Wellesley Hospital for over 44 years.  A cherished physician to the Newton-Wellesley Community and held many medical patents such as the invention of a circulation supporting device still currently in use post-surgery, tangible examples of his unique combination of scientific knowledge and psychological supportiveness.

Donations in his memory may be made to Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Road Wellesley, MA 02481 or Brocton VA Hospital c/o Spinal Cord Unit, 940 Belmont St., Brocton, MA 02301.

Norman Stanley Zalkind- of Newton, age 87, on December 20, 2025.

Founding partner of the law firm Zalkind Duncan & Bernstein LLP.

Beloved husband of Emma Vesey. Devoted father of Susan Zalkind, Ivan Zalkind, Kurt Shapiro, Ariel Keefer and her husband Jamie. Proud grandfather of Evelyn Keefer, Lily Keefer.  Cherished brother of Joanne Jacobs.

Memorial service to be held at a later date.

Donations in his honor can be made to Healthcare for the Homeless: bhchp.org or the Southern Poverty Law Center: splcenter.org

Stanton Wayne Tobias

May 15, 1941 – December 20, 2025

Stanton Wayne Tobias, of Newton, Massachusetts, passed peacefully on December 20, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 84 years old.

Born on May 15, 1941, Stanton lived a life defined by quiet strength, intelligence, and devotion to those he loved. He was a steady presence—thoughtful, principled, and deeply caring.

He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Jane Ann Tobias, and a proud father to his daughter, Pamela Susan Tobias, who were the center of his world. His family meant everything to him, and his greatest joy came from being present for them in both big and small moments.

Stanton was charismatic, kind, and well-liked by everyone who met him. His smile lit up a room, and his laugh was infectious. He was also known for his sharp mind, dry wit, and understated humor. He valued hard work, honesty, and perseverance, and he carried these values throughout his life.

In his final days, Stanton faced his illness with grace and dignity. He was surrounded by love, comfort, and the presence of those closest to him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A private service will be held by the family.

Drogin-Ronald of Boynton Beach, Fl and Wells, ME, (formerly of Framingham, MA) passed away December 19, 2025. Beloved husband of Sheri (Feldberg) Drogin. Loving son of Louis and Jeanette Drogin. Devoted father of Phillip (Karen), Sam (Debbie), Jessica (Jeffrey), William (Brenda), and the late Whitney Shopnick. Proud grandfather of Jaclyn (Robbie), Jennifer, Jordan, Benjamin, Joshua, and Jaiden. Loving brother of Pam Lewis.

Funeral Services at Roxbury Mutual Cemetery, 19 Washington St., Woburn, MA on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 1:00 pm. Shiva information to be announced at the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ronald’s memory may be made to Wentworth Homecare and Hospice, 9 Andrews Road, Somersworth, NH 03878, or the National Brain Tumor Society, 55 Chapel Street, Newton, MA 02458.

Jo Ann Goodman, 69, of New Bedford, formerly of Newton, passed away on December 17, 2025.

Born in Boston, Jo grew up in Newton, Massachusetts. Jo was the beloved wife of Michael Goodman, with whom she shared 33 years of marriage. Together they built a life centered on family, and their beloved son, Milo Goodman.

Family and friendship were central to Jo’s life. She maintained lifelong friendships and valued time spent with those closest to her, remaining present and engaged across many years and chapters of life.

Jo was the treasured daughter of the late Daniel Lazovick and the late Aileen (Friedman) Lazovick. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Marcia Lazovick, and her husband, Robert Ciolfi.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Newton Cemetery & Arboretum, 791 Walnut Street, Newton Centre, Massachusetts.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jo’s memory may be made to the American Lung Association.

Funeral Services at Sharon Memorial Park Chapel, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 11:00 am. Following interment memorial observance will be at the home of Cynthia Gilbert, 104 Summit Ave., Brookline, MA. Shiva will continue WED-FRI 3:00 – 7:00 pm.

Nathaniel Morse, lovingly known as “Nat” to friends and “Bubba” to his grandchildren, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, 6 days shy of his 86^th birthday, surrounded by family and friends.  Nat grew up in Newton, started his family in Framingham, and later retired to Falmouth, his happy place.

Nat is survived by Arlene Morse, his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 63 ½ years, Betsy and Steve Blackwell, daughter and son-in-law, and Bradd and Hillary Morse, son and daughter-in-law.  Nat is also survived by his grandchildren, Jesse and Brianna Blackwell, Shayna and Ryan Boudreau, Ben and Harley Morse, Jake Morse and Tanu, and Raquel Egeland and Henry Kaufmann, his step-great granddaughter, Emma Kaufmann, and his grand-dogs, Sofie and Sam.  Nat is predeceased by his parents, Lillian and Myron Morse, and younger brother, Richard Morse.

He found great joy in life’s simple pleasures and favorite pastimes, including biking on the Shining Sea Bike Path, spending time in the pool with friends, and cheering on the Red Sox and Patriots. An enthusiastic participant in many activities, he enjoyed dancing the jitterbug with Arlene, volleyball, tennis, golf, and bowling, and treasured every opportunity to travel and explore new places. Above all, time spent with family meant everything to him, especially moments shared with grandchildren, who he lovingly took on bike rides to Pie in the Sky.  Known for a playful spirit, he loved to tease, joke around, and, most of all, make people smile.

He also gave generously of his time to others, volunteering with the Rotary Clubs of Framingham and Falmouth, supporting the Falmouth Road Race, and proudly serving as a member of the Brotherhood of the Falmouth Jewish Congregation.

Nat was a lifelong entrepreneur and a third-generation leader of his family’s business, Benjamin Morse Incorporated, established in 1909 as the first commercial photography business of its kind. Building on that legacy, he went on to found The Computer Slide Company and later The Morse Group Promotional, which remains in operation today—thirty-four years later—under the leadership of his daughter, Betsy.

Donations may be made to Falmouth Jewish Congregation (Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund), 7 Hatchville Road, East Falmouth, Massachusetts 02536, https://www.falmouthjewish.org/donations/.

Funeral service on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Tifereth Israel Cemetery, 350 Grove St., West Roxbury, MA 02132.  Shiva will be observed on multiple occasions following the service. Family and friends are invited to reach out directly for specific times and details.

As Bubba would say, “Keep smiling.”

To view livestream of funeral service click here

Kenneth Alan Sweder of Boston and Chilmark, MA, December 13, 2025, passed away after 81 remarkable and joyful years from pancreatic cancer. An adored husband of 57 years to Gerri, beloved dad to Justin (Heather Barber) of Arlington, MA and Rebecca Platt (Charlie) of Newton, MA, proud Papa to Noah, Zoë, Jordan, Simon and Stella, valued brother to Gerald (Nancy), and uncle, cousin and friend. Ken made an indelible impact with his positivity, integrity and warmth.

Born on the Lower East Side to his doting parents Edna and William accompanying his beloved older brother Gerald, and raised in Kew Gardens Hills, his childhood was full of happiness and fun. He attended Muhlenberg College where he had an impressive tenure as President of the student council and NYU Law School where he served as the Editor of the Law Review.

Ken had a fulfilling and distinguished career in Boston. He served as the Assistant to the President of Brandeis University, followed by an immensely satisfying career as a corporate litigator. From Kaye, Fialkow, Richmond and Rothstein to Stroock and Stroock and Lavan to co-founding his own practice, Sweder and Ross, Ken took great pride in his role as the lawyer in many of Boston’s high-profile cases and serving the public good, including arguing a MA Supreme Court case in support of the Separation of Church and State.

His community leadership and devotion to social justice defined his life. He served as president of the New England region of the American Jewish Congress and Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston. He was devoted to a number of important causes including as Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Coalition to Save Darfur, Trustee on the Board of Facing History and Ourselves, and as an advocate for affordable housing on Martha’s Vineyard.

Beyond his community and professional pursuits, Ken delighted in being the most engaged, loving, fun, dynamic and playful husband, father, grandfather, brother, son and friend. He never missed an opportunity to root on one of his adoring grandchildren at their sports events or host a dinner party in Chilmark to connect with dear friends. Ken’s kindness, openness, generosity of spirit, and loving personality will be deeply missed by many loving circles of family and friends.

Services at Temple Israel, Boston, MA on December 14, 2025 at 2:30 pm. (Parking in garage). A private burial will be held in Chilmark, MA. Memorial Observance will be at the home of Rebecca and Charlie Platt following service today 5-7:30 pm and Monday 5:30-7:30 pm. Donations can be made in his honor to the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston (jcrcboston.org) or Harbor Homes MV //www.harborhomesmv.com.

Gladys Green (Horne), 91, of Boca Raton, Florida passed away peacefully after a long illness.

Gladys spent her formative years in Newton, Massachusetts, the daughter of Doris and Elmer Horne. She graduated from Endicott Junior College in Beverly, MA.

She raised her family in Needham, Massachusetts and eventually settled in Boca Raton, Florida.

She was the loving mother to Elise J. Gunzburg of Rockville Center, New York.  Grandmother to Adam M. Gunzburg of Amityville, New York.  Sister to Cynthia R. Horne of Boston, MA, who was her best friend and caretaker later in life.

Private services will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at Sharon Memorial Park, Sharon, MA.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org.

A link to view Michael’s funeral service via Livestream can be found here.

Michael Lewis Dorfman

age 89, of Needham, Massachusetts, passed away on December 10, 2025, at NewBridge on the Charles.

Michael was predeceased by his beloved wife, Linda Dorfman, with whom he shared a life of devotion, partnership, and community service. He is survived by his loving children: Mark Dorfman (Laura), Peter Dorfman (Trisha), and Julia Schiff (Eric). He was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to Kristie Guevremont (Nate Guevremont, son Finn), Sam Dorfman (Taylor Milne), Kyle Dorfman, Jennifer Dorfman (Nate Jenkins), Nicole Dorfman, Bailey Schiff, Lynn Dorfman, and Lily Schiff.

Michael served honorably in the United States Army before beginning a long career in the hospitality industry. After working with his father-in-law at the Irving Levitt Meat Company, he went on to own and operate Boylston’s at Chestnut Hill, originally known as The Steak Place, for more than 20 years. Working alongside his son Mark and business partners, Michael helped create a lasting sense of community and belonging for customers and coworkers alike. He was widely known for his generosity, kindness, and deep respect for those around him.

Together with Linda, Michael was a founding member of Temple Aliyah in Needham. He was a loyal and generous friend and, above all, a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Funeral service at 12:30 PM on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Temple Aliyah, 1664 Central Avenue, Needham, MA 02492. Burial to follow at approximately 2:00 PM at Baker Street Jewish Cemetery, 776 Baker Street, West Roxbury, MA 02132. Shiva/Reception at 3:00 PM at the Needham Golf Club, 49 Green Street, Needham, MA 02492.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Michael’s memory to the John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton.

Martha Klein of Boca Raton, FL., formerly of Mattapan, MA., passed away on December 9, 2025.  She was the daughter of the late Samuel and Sara (Oginz) Klein.  She is survived by her brother Michael J Klein of Boston. Graveside Service at 11 AM on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Birsen Cemetery, 232 Fuller St, Everett, MA. Following services, Shiva will be at the Residents Lounge, 2^nd floor, 770 Boylston Street, Boston, MA until 5 PM and on Tuesday at the home of Michael Klein, from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice.