Archive: June, 2020

October 21, 1927 – June 15, 2020

It was love at first sight.

From the moment her flight touched ground and taxied to the terminal zone at Israel’s Lod Airport on a January morning in 1962, Barbara Checkoway could see, feel and hear the Promised Land calling. And it would beckon her and her beloved husband Norman, of blessed memory, to return again and again over the next half-century.

Barbara, who was born in Lowell, Massachusetts on October 21, 1927, passed peacefully in the early morning of June 15, 2020. Reared by her parents, Harry and Rose (Shore) Snider in Haverhill, Massachusetts along with sisters Selma and Marcia, Barbara graduated Haverhill High School in 1945 and married her childhood sweetheart and budding artist and art teacher, Norman Checkoway, two years later.

In post-war fashion, Barbara and Norman soon settled into a newly built ranch home in Framingham, Massachusetts where they would spend the rest of their lives together. There they raised three boys, Nelson, Steven and Martin, who eventually married and brought seven grandchildren into their lives: Emily, Chloe, Laura, Michael, Eva, Spencer, and Daniel. But from the outset, Barbara knew she wasn’t cut from the cloth of a 1950s suburban homemaker, and Norman’s seven-month sabbatical leave from Brookline’s Driscoll School to study and paint in Israel would prove to be a pivotal turning point in her life.

The family joined Norman’s parents, Chava and Dov, on Kibbutz Einat, a community they had helped to found during the pioneering days of Israel’s statehood. Barbara worked with Chava in Einat’s gladiola nursery and immersed herself in Israeli life and culture. A second sabbatical stretching a full year between the summers of 1969 and 1970 cemented this love affair with the land. Afterward, Barbara kept the connection intact stateside, staying in touch with Israeli friends and family through letters and phone calls, and yielding to the pull of this vibrant young nation, time and again.

Meanwhile, she embarked on an administrative career in higher education, first at Wellesley College, then at Brandeis University and finally at Boston University, where she managed the office of the Creative Writing Program run by novelist Leslie Epstein. Always regretful that she did not go on to college herself after high school, Barbara was determined to earn her degree. After a decade of part-time evening study, she finally donned a mortarboard and gown in her late 60s, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Metropolitan College of Boston University.

Among Barbara’s return trips to Israel were volunteer stints at the famed Hebrew immersion school for new immigrants, Shulamit Katz-Nelson’s Ulpan Akiva. In Framingham, Barbara became the go-to Hebrew tutor for Bar and Bat Mitzvah students. And she continued to revel in Israeli culture, from music to folk dancing.

Always thirsty for knowledge and new experiences, she and Norman traveled extensively, frequently audited courses together at BU, and were avid museum visitors and theatergoers—continuing well into their 80s until a pair of bad knees and Norman’s declining health slowed them down. After Norman’s passing, she lived in the home they had built together for another year with the help of loving caregivers, before spending her final 18 months at the Daggett-Crandall-Newcomb home in Norton, Massachusetts.

Barbara was fierce, she was demanding, she loved her family, she loved life, and she will be missed. And on June 15^th, for one final time, she heard the Promised Land calling her home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Abraham Initiatives, a non-profit organization that promotes Jewish-Arab partnership across all facets of Israel’s society. To contribute, visit www.AbrahamInitiatives.org

Doris D. Zimmer died June 14 following a period of declining health.  She was 93.

She was born March 25, 1927 in NY, daughter of Eastern European immigrants Rose and Hyman DuKaten.  She grew up in the Bronx, graduated James Monroe High School and attended classes at City College of New York.

She married the love of her life, Alex Zimmer, and together raised four children, eventually making their home in Newton, Massachusetts.

She returned to college when her children were grown, earning a degree in social work which she used working as a caseworker at a Boston area agency until retirement.

For the past two years she made her home in an apartment she loved at Springhouse Assisted Living in Jamaica Plain where she enjoyed community activities and made new, dear friends.

She enjoyed travel, listening to music, her many friends and especially visits with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was supported in the last months by Hebrew Senior Life Hospice Care and Peace of Mind Home Care.  While all of the staff were caring and supportive, she developed a very special and loving relationship with a senior worker from Peace of Mind, Donna Evans, who brought her comfort and nurturance during her last months, and particularly her last hours, when her family could not be by her side.  We are so grateful.

She is survived by her children William Zimmer and his wife Marsha, Michael Zimmer and his wife Wendy Gordon, Wendy Gignoux and her husband Henri, LisaAnn Martin and her husband Matthew, six grandchildren, Emily, Joanna, Jonathan,Hannah, Ethan and Jason as well as 3 great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband of almost 50 years Cantor Alex Zimmer, her subsequent partner of 7 years, Arthur Marcus, her parents, sister Sylvia and brother William.

A private burial will take place with a memorial for family and friends next summer.  In lieu of flowers, you may make contributions to Hebrew Senior Life Hospice Care.

Rudavsky, Rabbi Benjamin Z., of Cambridge, MA, passed away on June 13, 2020. Benjamin is predeceased by his late wife Malka Rudavsky and survived by their children Dahlia, Elana, and Oren Rudavsky, the late Eda Appelbaum and survived by their son Jesse Rudavsky. Benjamin leaves his beloved wife Kathleen Townsend and her children Luke, Martin, Tracy, and Julie Townsend, and Laura Stackpole. Beloved grandfather of 7, and proud great grandfather of 1. Cherished step grandfather of 8 and proud step great grandfather of 1. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Benjamin’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

Carla J. Fink of Milford, Mass., passed away at age 72 on April 1, 2020, at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston while her husband held her hand. She was laid to rest in Sharon Memorial Park on April 6.

Carla was born December 16, 1947, in Dayton, Ohio. Her parents moved to Miami Beach, Fla., while she was an infant to be near her mother’s family. She made several lifelong friends there before moving to the Boston area to join the Brandeis University class of 1969. Shen remained close friends with a group of her classmates until the end. Other than two years in Cleveland to earn a Master of Science in Social Administration degree from Case Western Reserve University, she remained in the Boston area for the rest of her life.

Carla found her calling as a social worker. She held a number of positions in that field, most of them working with children or the elderly. Her proudest accomplishment was creating, from scratch, a Wraparound program that integrated a multiple services to support Deaf children who were dealing with other difficulties. That program evolved into today’s Walden Community Service at The Learning Center for the Deaf in Framingham.

Carla first dealt with breast cancer in the mid-1990s. It was treated and went away, to return with a vengeance in 2016. From that point on it could be slowed, and it was, but not stopped. She never stopped living during her multiple rounds of treatments, visiting Chile, Jordan, Israel, Australia and New Zealand with her husband after her second diagnosis and not slowing down until 2020. She lived life to the fullest for as long as she could and went down fighting.

Carla is survived by her loving husband, Dr. Efrem Mallach; by two stepsons and their families, including four grandchildren that she thought of as her own, by many cousins on both her parents’ sides, and by a host of friends to whom she brought joy whenever they met. She will be missed by all of them.

Contributions in Carla’s memory may be made to either of her two favorite charities, Doctors Without Borders and Planned Parenthood.

Irma Gurvits of Newton, MA, formerly of Fairfield, CT, passed away on June 10, 2020 at the age of 85. Irma was born on June 5, 1935, in Odessa, USSR.  In 1957, Irma graduated from the Odessa Hydrotechnical Institute as a civil engineer. During the 1970’s, Irma, along with her husband Victor, made a decision to leave the Soviet Union. After numerous denials, Irma and her family were able to leave the USSR in 1977.  Upon arrival to the United States, Irma and her family settled in Fairfield, CT.

Irma used her experience adjusting to her new country to help other recent immigrants.  She was active with Jewish Family Service of Bridgeport, where she volunteered to assist other new arrivals, teaching them how to assimilate into the new culture.

Irma was a talented seamstress, and was always ready to use her skills on her family and friends’ wardrobes.  She enjoyed traveling, board games and her winter home in Florida.  She had a passion for garage sales and often shared her newly found treasures with her loved ones.

Irma’s true passion was her family. She was a devoted wife of 64 years to her late husband Victor, and a loving mother and grandmother. She loved to host barbecues, dinners and birthday parties, where her family could get together to celebrate each other. Irma is survived by her sons Eugene and Valentin, her daughters-in-law Jennifer and Katrina, her grandchildren Laura Hallissey (JohnJoe), Alexander, Jeremy, Michelle, and Allen, and her great granddaughter Harper.

Funeral arrangements will be private. A celebration of Irma’s life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, a donation in Irma’s memory may be made to HIAS, P.O. Box 97077 Washington, DC 20090-7077, (hias.org), and to COVID-19 Response, Greater Boston Food Bank, 70 South Bay Ave, Boston, MA 02118.

Ralph H. Berkowitz, of Dedham, formerly of Newton, Orleans, and Hallandale, FL, on June 7, 2020. Dear brother of the late Ethel Tobin, the late Irving “Isaac” Berkowitz, the late Albert “Abbie” Berkowitz and his surviving wife Lois Berkowitz. Long-time friend of the late Robert Kemmery. Devoted uncle of Ken Berkowitz and his wife Holly, Marcia Berkowitz and her husband Marc Cohen, the late Ed Tobin and his surviving wife Helen. Loving great uncle Ben Berkowitz and the late Jacob Berkowitz, Ali and Michael Sganga, Josh Cohen and Alissa Cooper, Dani and Rubin Liber, and Lara Tobin. Dear great-great uncle of Hailey and Jake Sganga and Jacqueline and Elsa Liber. Private graveside services. Graduate of Yeshiva University. Former Boston Public Schools teacher and administrator. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Friends of Magen David Adom, PO Box 96402, Washington, DC 20090-6402 or Jewish National Fund, 78 Randall Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 or 800-542-8733.

White, Neil S., 85 years of age, of E. Falmouth, on June 1, 2020.
Beloved husband of Phyllis (Freeman) White.  He was pre-deceased by his parents Morris and Esther (Stone) White and his sister Evelyn (White) Gruber and her husband Jack Gruber.
Dear brother-in-law of Stephen and Betty Freeman.  Beloved uncle of Cheryl Parker, Andy Gruber, Alan Gruber, Nicole Devlin, Chris Freeman, Stephanie Freeman and their families.
Neil served in the Army followed by careers in the shoe industry and many years at the Boston Globe.
A private graveside service will be held.  Interment are the Hebrew Volin Cemetery, West Roxbury.  In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Neil’s name may be made to the American Heart Association.

Marilyn Finkel-Of  Delray Beach,FL,on June  4, 2020.Services in Boston will be private.

Anthony DiBona, Jr., 33, of Braintree on June 2, 2020. Beloved son of Barbara and Richard Goldberg and the late Anthony DiBona, Sr. Survived by loving Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins. A graduate of The Dexter School and Suffolk University, Anthony was a well known and respected legislative aide and legal analyst. A private graveside service will be held. A day of celebration honoring Anthony’s life will be announced at a later date. Remembrances may be made to the Pan- Mass Challenge, 77 Fourth St, Needham, MA 02494 or PMC.org, Anthony’s profile page: DG0285.

Manuel E. Brown of Newton died peacefully on June 2, 2020. He was 100 years old. He was born to Rose and Harry Brown (both immigrants from Austria), in the old West End of Boston, a neighborhood that was a major influence in shaping his life. He was the only son and middle child, surviving his sisters Beatrice and Syril.

If a “good life” is to live in interesting times, Manny’s life was riveting. He came into the world as the Spanish flu waned and grew up up during the Great Depression. He went on to serve in General Patton’s Army in France, invading Utah Beach,Normandy, France on D-Day +2 with the 90th Division dubbed the “Tough Ombres.” Wounded just 43 days into combat in The Battle of The Hedgerows in St. Lo, France, Manny survived thirteen surgeries in the next fifteen months. He was awarded the Purple Heart, The Bronze Star, among many other US Army Medals. Years later Manny was awarded the French Medal of Valor for his actions as part of the American Forces liberating France and Europe. Returning to Boston after the war, he built a highly successful family business that survived and grew for more than 40 years, ultimately merging with a national firm. Manny thrived through it all reflecting his remarkable strength, resilience and fortitude, all reinforced by his noteworthy and oft recalled warm sense of humor.

Three years after he was wounded at St. Lo, Manny won the hand of Florence Weisman, a beautiful young woman, also from the West End of Boston. They were married for 61 years before Florence died in 2008. Manny is survived by Steven –his only child and favorite son. Manny also leaves his daughter-in law, Jane, who he viewed as a daughter, and his beloved grandchildren Noah and wife Anne Levy of Evanston, IL, and Jessie and her husband Chris Fanelli of Washington, D.C. He relished his newest role as “Great Grandpa” to Noah’s sons Ben and Leif, and Jessie’s daughters, Nina and Janie. He never missed a birthday or a family event, a testament to his devotion to family and his remarkable memory!

From his earliest years, Manny worked hard to help his family financially. What could a pre-teen do during the depression to help? From the income he generated selling newspapers in the neighborhood, Manny reinvested his earnings in his first entrepreneurial endeavor selling corn beef sandwiches at the Boston Braves games. His remarkable work ethic and abundant generosity continued to be a hallmark of his life.

The West End House of Boston was a constant touchstone in Manny’s life. He joined the Boy’s Club at the age of nine and remained actively involved for many decades as an an Alumni Board Member, serving as President. Both his son and grandson attended the West End House Camp. Manny graduated from Boston English High School before joining the army. Since he was a youngster, Manny had an amazing talent for making personal connections and remembering names, places and details of events reflecting his sincere interest in the lives of others.

Together Manny and Florence launched, Harper W. Poulson, a stationery and office products business located on Boylston Street that originally served the formal stationery needs of many Beacon Hill families. While they struggled and sacrificed in the early days, Manny nurtured and grew the office supply side of the business the same way he lived his life: he focused on relationships, always putting his customers and employees first. His son, Steven, eventually became a partner in the business. His most famous young employee is the current Mayor of The City of Boston, The Honorable Martin Walsh, who has said that his time working for Manny at Poulson’s was the best job he ever had.

Manny and Florence lived in Boston, Framingham, Brookline and Newton over the span of their six decades of marriage. Florence was his business partner, his life partner and his sweetheart forever. They enjoyed many wonderful international trips during retirement and spent close to 25 winters in Florida.

Whether by design or instinct, Manny’s priorities were always evident in the way he lived his life: Family, Country, Friends. His family sustained him and he sustained them; his Country gave him the freedom and the opportunity, to achieve, to work, to prosper and he proudly fought and bled for his Country; his friends, and there were so, so many over the years, brought him great joy and completed the fabric of his life. Manny’s life will always be a stunning role model for the vast network of family, friends and acquaintances who will continue to love and cherish him.

Anyone wishing to make a remembrance in Manny’s name, please consider the West End House Boys and Girls Club (westendhouse.org) or The Benchmark One Company Fund at The Falls at Cordingly Dam, 2300 Washington St, Newton MA 02462.

of Jamaica Plain, MA, passed away June 2, 2020. Beloved wife of Jon Kingsdale. Devoted mother of Julia and Jessica. Interment services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rosalie’s memory may be made to Boston Healthcare for the Homeless, 780 Albany St., Boston, MA 02118, Project Bread, 145 Border St., Boston, MA 02128, or Phillips Brooks House Association, 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA 02138

Age 80 years, of Newton, passed away June 1. Beloved husband and best friend of 52 years to Susan (Dambrov) Lookner, and son of the late Samuel and Esther Lookner.

Spencer was a ‘57 graduate of Newton High School, Tufts Engineering ‘61, Northeastern MSEE ‘66 and MSIE ‘69. After working as an engineer, he decided on a sales career and started Lookner Real Estate in West Newton Square in 1973. As a realtor he sold hundreds of properties, served as President of the Newton Real Estate Board, and was named a Realtor Emeritus.

Above all, he was a proud father and loved spending time with his family. Coaching his sons, watching sports with them, or going on trips together. He was the best Dad to Samuel Lookner (wife Lauren), Stephen Lookner, and Saul Lookner (wife Christine), and proud grandfather of Amanda, Cheri, Mitchell, Zara, and Georgia. He also leaves his brother-in-law Robert Dambrov (wife Kim), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends (including former roommates Manny Cohen and Danny Shapiro).

Due to COVID-19, private services will be held at Newton Cemetery. Donations in his memory can be made to a charity of your choice.

Joseph Robie of Brockton, MA and Palm Beach Gardens, FL, died Monday at the age of 77 after battling a long illness.  Joseph was the son of the late Philip and Pearl (Warkel) Robie.  Loving husband of 54 years to Harriet (Cohen) Robie.  Beloved father of Stephen and Winnie Robie of New York, NY and Michael and Jody Robie of Natick, MA.  Adored grandfather of Olivia, Jordan, and Addison Robie.  Dear brother-in-law of Rosalind Hurwitz and Herb Stern.

Born in Quincy and raised in Brockton, Mr. Robie graduated from Brockton High School and Burdett College.  A proud veteran, he served his country in the Massachusetts Army National Guard.  For thirteen years, he worked in management at Brockton East Side Package, Inc. for his father-in-law, the late Joseph Cohen, where he learned all aspects of the liquor business.  Later, Mr. Robie and his wife, Harriet, owned and operated the business for twenty-nine years until retirement.

Mr. Robie was an avid golfer and passionate about the sport.  He was an active member of Thorny Lea Golf Club for 44 years.  He also was a long-time member of Temple Beth Emunah in Brockton.

Arrangements and shiva are private due to the COVID-19 virus.  A Celebration of his Life and Legacy will be held when it becomes safe to do so.  Donations in his name may be made to Dr. James Cleary Research Fund, c/o Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02884-9168.

Wax, Lester, of Sharon, MA, passed away on May 31, 2020. Loving son of the late Ralph and Martha Wax. Beloved husband of Barbara (Shaker) Wax. Devoted father of Seth Wax and his wife Elisabeth Berger, and Alan Wax and his wife Kathy. Proud grandfather of Mia, Charlotte, and Zachary Wax. Caring brother of Risa Zierler.

A kindhearted and dependable man who loved his family and valued his relationships with friends, he was an antique car enthusiast whose expertise was sought after by hobbyists around the world.

Services will be private and shiva visitation co-ordinating. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lester’s memory may be made to Temple Israel, 125 Pond St., Sharon, MA 02067, or the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, MA Chapter, 72 East Concord St., Room C3, Boston, MA 02118.

Ostroger, Beverly “Bev” of Marlborough, MA passed on May 28, 2020. Dear daughter of the late Abraham and Stella Lerner. Beloved wife of the late Dr. Joseph Ostroger. Devoted mother of Sharon Kenny (Bill) and the late Mary Beth Bencic. Proud grandmother of Jake Kenny. Loving sister to the late Irwin Lerner. Survived by sister-in-law Diane Bodenstein, niece Jan Defeo, nephew Jim Lerner, and many adoring cousins and friends. Bev resided in Arlington, MA for many years and was an active member of Temple Shalom in Medford, MA before moving to Boynton Beach, FL. She was an avid golfer and tennis player in her younger years. Bev loved watching Boston sports teams, professional tennis, figure skating and was extremely talented in her needlepoint work. Private services were held at graveside. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Bev’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter, 309 Waverley Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452.

GREENWOOD, Sylvia Price, of Burlington, previously of Lexington, passed away at the age of 84 on May 20th, 2020.

Sylvia attended the Newton school system, graduating from Newton North High School, and attended Adelphi College. She was an accomplished painter and her works have brightened many homes. She was known for her thoughtfulness, sociability, and humor and loved to entertain. A dedicated wife to Eugene Greenwood, who predeceased her, Sylvia leaves behind sons James, Andrew, and Daniel. She will be remembered for her spirit, compassion, and loving nature.

A private graveside service was held at the National Cemetery in Bourne, MA on Wednesday, May 27th, and a funeral is planned for after the pandemic.

Charitable donations in memory of Sylvia may be made to the Lexington Arts and Crafts Society at www.lexart.org/donate (click the “tribute ” box when checking out).

Please share your photos and tributes to Sylvia at https://civics.github.io/Sylvia

Robert J. Galvin of Brookline died of cancer on May 27, 2020 at the age of 81.

Bob was born in 1938 in New Haven, Connecticut to Herman and Freda (Helfand) Galvin. His father founded and conducted a multi-state distribution business. His mother was a homemaker and long-time volunteer at Yale-New Haven Hospital.
In 1957 Bob graduated from Hopkins School, a 360 years old college preparatory school in New Haven, and in 1961 from Union College in Schenectady, New York. At Union he was Editor-in-Chief of Concordiensis, the college newspaper, and a member of Kappa Nu fraternity. During his time as editor, Bob printed news and opinions with which the Student Council disagreed. To punish Bob they cut off funding for the newspaper, but the Albany Times-Union printed and distributed the school newspaper, with the result that the circulation of Concordienses increased from 1,500 to more than 50,000. This experience led to Bob’s life-long love of newspapers and the principle of freedom of the press. To the end of his life Bob received and read three newspapers every day: the Boston Globe, the New York Times, and the Wall Street Journal.

In 1967 Bob graduated from Suffolk University Law School. He was a shareholder/director of the Boston law firm of Davis, Malm & D’Agostine. He was an expert in real estate law, particularly the law of condominiums and cooperatives, and commercial landlord-tenant law. Bob was a member of the American, Massachusetts and Boston Bar Associations, and lectured, taught and wrote widely in his field. He created scores of residential, mixed-use, retail and industrial condominiums. He was editor and co-author of Massachusetts Condominium Law, the standard textbook for lawyers and judges in the field. He wrote the chapter on condominiums for Crocker’s Notes on Common Forms, another standard text. He had a scholarly interest in the philosophy and writings of Henry David Thoreau (Bob’s license plate read THORO). Bob was an elected fellow of the Massachusetts Historical Society, a life member of the Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Athenaeum and the Thoreau Society. He served for twenty-five years on the board of directors of the Boston Center for Adult Education (BCAE), four years as its president. Bob served for ten years on the board of the Thoreau Society, four as its vice president. He served for thirty years as president of the Beech Hill Foundation, Inc. Bob served on the investment committees of the BCAE, Thoreau Society, and his law firm.

Bob was an enthusiastic reader who read widely. He loved reading books by and about Churchill, and treasured his many trips to the United Kingdom. In 2012 he studied law at Oxford University, and in 2015 he attended the 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta at Runnymede. In his younger days, Bob skied during the winter, and sailed his boat Concordiensis in the summer. During his time at Union College, Bob earned his airplane pilot license.

Bob is survived by his sons David and Peter. Bob was proud of the accomplishments of David, a product management executive and business consultant, and Peter, an environmentalist and founder of the Center for Biological Diversity. They were a joy to Bob from the day they were born and were central to his existence. Bob is also survived by his grandchildren, Timothy and Amberlee. Bob frequently remarked at his great good fortune to be the father of his sons and grandfather to Timothy and Amberlee. He is also survived by his beloved sisters, Jane, an actress and international acting coach; and Harriett, a lawyer and life-long prosecutor; six nieces and nephews, and his brother-in-law Stanley, a PhD in American studies and successful entrepreneur.

Bob’s marriage to Susan Goldstein, the mother of his children ended in 1971. Bob was a close friend of the late Joyce Buczak. For twenty-five years he was privileged to share his life with the late Phyllis Yachimski. Since 2012, Bob’s life was enriched by his relationship with his inamorata Judith Himber, a doctor of psychology, and the world’s only Jewish Mayflower descendant. They found each other on Match.com.

Bob’s remains will be buried at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge. Respecting his wishes, there will be no funeral service. In lieu of charitable donations, friends and family may send flowers. But if you are so disposed, contributions may be made in Bob’s memory to the Thoreau Society, 341 Virginia Road, Concord, Massachusetts 01742, and/or the Center for Biological Diversity, PO Box 710, Tucson Arizona 85702-0710.

Rosenberg, Charlotte (Handel), of Chelsea, MA, on May 25, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Carl Rosenberg. Devoted mother of Robert Rosenberg and his wife Marcia, Stephen Rosenberg and the late Michael Rosenberg. Proud grandmother of Jesse, Devin, Mollie, and Alex. Private services were held. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to any Covid-19 charity of your choice.

It is with great sadness, we share the news that Lee Wallace has passed.  After a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s, Lee passed away from complications due to pneumonia while living at Seacrest Retirement Community in San Diego, CA.  Born in Boston on May 6, 1926, Lee met David Wallace; together they had a remarkable love for each other and created a beautiful life until David’s passing on December 10, 2001. Lee was a loving mother to Arthur, Sandra and Howard as well as grandmother to Michael, Leah, Samara, Jace and David.  Lee also enjoyed working over 20 years in her career as a Ward Secretary with the VA Hospital organization in Boston, MA and Tampa, FL.

Lee’s highest priority was the well-being of her children and supporting their education and career goals.  Lee enjoyed the simple pleasures of life.  Lee looked forward to the annual road trip to David’s birthplace in Gloucester, MA and the holiday vacations to The Grandview Resort in Moodus, CT. Lee was an avid reader of romantic novels when she was not watching baseball with David or taking a dip in the pool.  Lee and David enjoyed traveling where their travels included all of Europe, Israel and wonderful destinations within the United States as well as multiple cruises throughout the Caribbean.

Due to Covid-19 and concern for her family and friend’s safety, funeral services shall be postponed until the date of the unveiling of her graveside plaque alongside David at Sharon Memorial Park, located in Sharon, MA.  Those who wish to remember Lee in a special way may make gifts in her memory to Seacrest Village, 211 Saxony Road, Encinitas, CA 92024.

Seacrest Village Retirement Communities is a vibrant not-for-profit, senior housing and healthcare organization in Encinitas. Known for their caring and nurturing environment, Seacrest Village has been serving the San Diego community in the Jewish tradition since 1944.

KELMAN, Rose Beloved Wife and Partner with Lifelong Commitment to the Pursuit of Peace and Justice Rose Brousman Kelman passed away peacefully on April 15 at age 94. She was the beloved and cherished wife and partner of Herbert Kelman, Cabot Professor of Social Ethics, Emeritus, at Harvard University, for 67 years. In addition to her husband, Rose is survived by her nephew, Michael Stern, her nieces, Deborah McCants and Ruth Ticktin, and eleven grandnieces and grandnephews. Her sister, Esther Stern of Chicago, passed away suddenly on April 20, a few days after Rose’s death. Rose was a dedicated social worker, trained at the University of Chicago (BSS 1948) and Howard University (MSW 1953). She had experience in family social work, school social work, medical social work, and psychiatric social work, as well as in teaching and supervision of social work students. After receiving her BSS degree from the University of Chicago, she took a position in Baltimore. Her husband, in turn, came to Baltimore in 1951 as a postdoctoral fellow at Johns Hopkins. They met, fell in love, and got married in 1953. In Baltimore, they were active in starting a new chapter of CORE (Congress of Racial Equality) and participating in its ultimately successful campaign to integrate the lunch counters at the city’s five-and-ten-cents stores. They spent many of their dates on the picket line or at sit-ins. Increasingly, Rose became involved in her husband’s research, some of which dealt with the impact of experience in the U.S. on the images and attitudes of students and specialists from different parts of the world, and entailed considerable travel abroad. The research benefited greatly from her interviewing and human relations skills. She developed close ties with many of her husband’s students. When asked if she and her husband had children, she would answer “No, but we have students.” Starting in 1990, Rose played a central role in the Israeli-Palestinian problem-solving workshops and working groups organized by her husband and colleagues – taking detailed notes of workshop discussions, making logistical arrangements, attending to participants’ needs, and contributing more than anyone else to creating a secure and supportive environment for all. Rose treated everyone with dignity and caring, whether it was a homeless person in Harvard Square or a prince in the Royal Palace of Jordan. Donations in memory of Rose can be sent to New Israel Fund or the Joint Distribution Committee. No Services at this time.

Charlotte Rose ( Levin), (Schneider) Schlesinger-Age 100, of Chestnut Hill, formerly of Newton. Loving wife of 42 years of the late Leonard Schlesinger, and for 16 years of the late Milton Schneider. Born in Chelsea, raised in Malden, daughter of the late Rose and Edward Levin. Survived by adored and devoted son Jeffrey Schneider and his wife Judie, and much-loved and loving stepsons Richard (Dena)  and Alan (Susan) .Loving and beloved mother of the late Jane Joachim and the late James Schneider Also survived by nine beloved and dedicated grandchildren: Michael (Ellen) Joachim, Suzanne Horgan, Elizabeth (David) Koplan,Caroline Schneider, Michelle (Adam) Zaff ,Sharon (Rich) Briansky, Ben (Iris) Schlesinger, Kate Schlesinger, and Joseph (Marlene) Schlesinger, and Charlotte’s greatest pride and joy, her twenty great-grandchildren: Zachary, Seth and Matthew Joachim, Jared, Jessica, Alexandra, Caitlin, Courtney and Abby Horgan, Lily and Drew Koplan, Theo Schneider, Rachel and Ally Zaff, Ben and Sam Briansky, Noah and Julia Schlesinger, and Evan and Sophie  Schlesinger. Dear sister of the late Priscilla (Herb) Brav, and the late Robert Levin (surviving wife Carrol).In her last years, Charlotte was also blessed with outstanding caregivers and friends Sarah Mukasa and Teddy Nakasozi. Charlotte was a life member of Hadassah, an officer of the Brandeis Women’s Committee, a leader of study groups and book clubs, a bridge player and theater lover. With husband Milton she was a founding member of Temple Shalom; with husband Lenny she was a world traveler. We her family are grateful for her long life, well-lived. Private graveside services at Sharon Memorial Park. Remembrances in her memory may be made to a charity of your choice.

Beloved husband, since Sept. 25, 1966, of Ellen (Band) Temkin, Bob passed away the evening of May 1, 2020, peacefully, at home, after a long battle with heart disease. His graveside service, on May 5, was conducted by Cantor Deborah Katchko Gray, a close family friend for almost 40 years, and was attended by Ellen, their loving sons, Aron and Joshua; Bob’s brother Richard and his dear wife Carol; longtime friends Helaine and John Carroll; the Cantor’s husband, F. Scott Gray, as well as Bob’s most excellent aide, LPN Joseph, all masked, and standing six feet apart. The service was live-streamed by the Brezniak-Rodman Funeral Parlor to adoring daughter Rachel and her husband Barak and their family in Israel. Bob will be forever remembered by the grandchildren he loved and was adored by: Raanan, Michal, Eitan, Zev, Noam, Shira Leah, Yechiel, and Yehuda. He will also be missed by Rick and Carol’s family: Mark and Stephanie Temkin and their sons Jonathan and Matthew; Daniel Temkin and Amanda Gordon; and daughter Jessica and her husband David Rubinstein. He was especially close to his cousins and extended family. Bob’s parents, z’l, Max and Lillian Temkin, gone since the early 90s, were very proud of Bob and his many accomplishments, as were Ellen’s parents, Manny and Ethel Band, and sister Maxine, also of blessed memory.

Born, on Oct. 21, 1943, a second generation Bostonian, Bob was a graduate of Boston Latin School in 1960, then U Mass Amherst in 1964, where he won the Silver Medal in the CPA exam, just before graduating with a BBA. After working (the required) three years at Arthur Young, in Boston, he became a CPA, in 1967. During his long working career he shared much of his time and attention with local community organizations, starting as an advisor to Boston’s Jr. Achievement program and chairing a special committee as President of the Natick Low and Moderate Income Housing group.

In 1973, Bob was transferred to AY in NYC, for a special assignment and then instead of going back to Boston, became a Partner in 1976 while at the Stamford, CT office. From 1976-1978 Bob served as Staff Director of the “Cohen Commission on Auditor’s Responsibilities”. During this time Bob joined a committee at The Jewish Home for the Elderly in Fairfield County, where he held various board positions, until becoming its President in 1985. In 1978, he was recognized by U Mass with its Accounting Alumni Award. In 1980, he joined the board of Temple Beth El in Norwalk, as their Treasurer, and also joined Stratford CT’s American Shakespeare Theatre, as their Treasurer.

He was then transferred back to NYC as a member of the AICPA’s Auditing Standards Board and then became AY’s National Director of Auditing Standards, until his return to Boston, in 1988. While commuting from New York City to Weston, CT, he served as President of Temple Beth El, from 1981 to 1983 and was also elected to the Board of Education, in Weston, where he chaired the Budget Committee, for 2-3 years.

In 1985, Bob was elected to the National Board of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. In 1986, he won the U Mass School of Management Alumni Award, becoming a member of their Accounting Alumni Advisory Council, and a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board of the School of Management. In 1987, he became President of the CT Valley Region of USCJ.

In 1988, Bob and his family returned to AY in Boston. The children’s four grandparents were very happy. He gave up his presidency with United Synagogue but was named a Regional Vice President, where he served as chairman of the Audit, Budget, and Affiliation committees. In 1989-90, he was appointed to the Board of the Synagogue Council of MA, where he later became its treasurer.

Continuing as a partner with the newly formed firm of Ernst & Young, Bob then became active at Combined Jewish Philanthropy (CJP), serving on its Executive Committee for ten years as Treasurer Vice Chairman of Social Planning, and on the Allocations Committee.

From 1993 to 2012, he served on the Governor-appointed MA Board of Public Accounting, during which time he also became a board member and officer of the JCC of Greater Boston, ultimately becoming its Chairman, in 2003. He also served as the VP of the Board of Directors of Greater Boston’s Chamber of Commerce, during that same time. Bob retired from Ernst and Young in 2002, after serving in the Litigation Advisory Services group.

In 2006, Bob and Ellen relocated from their Newton home and moved full time to Cape Cod, where Bob continued consulting in his specialty of Forensic Accounting. He became a member of the Board of the Cape Cod Museum of Art, was on the board of the Conservative Synagogue, Anshei Chesed, and treasurer of the Cape Cod Synagogue. He continued as an active alumnus of U Mass, Amherst. He generously contributed to the education programs of The Cape Cod Symphony, and was an active member of The Hyannis Rotary Club.

In June, 2012, joining with colleague Beth daSilva, Bob became Managing Director of Temkin and daSilva LLC, a forensic accounting and consulting firm specializing in litigation related to commercial disputes and working with clients in need of investigative services.

As his partner Lynda Schwartz recently said, “Bob was a modest man, with strong opinions and an unshakeable integrity. His name became shorthand for how to do things the right way. He was a model for personal and professional competence.”

Bob was a devoted family man who made sure that his family came first, no matter whatever else he did. He was generous to a fault and an ultimate “mensch”. He was smart and wise, a mentor to many, and admired by anyone who knew or worked with him. His memory will be cherished by his whole family, always.

Donations in Bob’s memory may be sent to The JCC of Greater Boston, 333 Nahanton St., Newton Centre, MA, 02459. Att’n Development Department, Hope Health, 1085 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02904, or to another charity of your choice.

Fran Morrill Schlitt, known to family as “Faigie,” died in Boston on May 9, 2020 from complications of the coronavirus at the age of 84. She will be sorely missed.

Faigie was born in Auburn (Maine) to Martin Morrill and Ida Chipman Morrill, and grew up in Dorchester, Massachusetts. She was a graduate of Brandeis University, Class of 1957, where she made lifelong friendships and discovered new intellectual, cultural, and political frontiers. Frannie earned her MSW from Boston University in 1960. She took great satisfaction in her four-decade social work career in private practice and settings as varied as the Harlem (NYC) and Concord (Mass.) school systems, the Whittier Street Health Center, and Boston College. In her life and in her career, Fran cared deeply about people: their dignity, their wellbeing, and their just treatment. She cultivated and cherished relationships with people of all backgrounds and ages.

In 1981, Fran’s life took an unexpected turn when she learned she was pregnant. She and Jacob Schlitt married that summer, and Fran gave birth to David Morrill Schlitt two days before her 46th birthday. Fran and Jacob delighted in raising a son together. Fran attributed her later-in-life interest in Jewish learning and Torah study in part to her and Jacob’s decision to send David to the Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston. In the 1990s, Frannie became an active member of the Newton Centre Minyan. It was with the Minyan community that Fran and family marked many of her most significant lifecycle events, including her recovery from lung cancer after her 2007 diagnosis and treatment.

Fran was a serious thinker and a perpetual student, a proud feminist and a democratic socialist. Long before it entered the political mainstream, she was a passionate advocate for Single-Payer Healthcare (“Medicare for All”). Frannie remained committed to public healthcare and she decried the greed, cruelty, and inefficiency of the American healthcare system, nearly until her final breath.

Frannie is predeceased by her loving husband, Jacob Schlitt, and survived by son David Morrill Schlitt and daughter-in-law Sarah Zarrow of Bellingham (Washington). In recent years, Faigie mourned the loss of her cousin Libby Goldman, her sister Sallie Miles, and her brother Gerald Morrill. She treasured her relationships with her nieces and nephews, her extended family (including many who were not, strictly speaking, related), and Jacob’s adult children, Carol, Lewis, and Martha Schlitt.

A celebration of Fran Morrill Schlitt’s life will be planned for 2020-2021, as the developing public health situation permits. Contributions in Faigie’s memory may be made to Brandeis University, the Brookline Senior Center, and Mass-Care: The Massachusetts Campaign for Single-Payer Health Care.

Hurwitz, Rosalyn (Park), of Randolph, MA, passed away on May 16, 2020. Beloved wife of Joel Hurwitz. Devoted mother of Susan Kates and her husband Steve, and Eileen Hurwitz. Proud grandmother of Sarah and Adam Kates. Loving sister of Annette Skoletsky, Judith Ratner, and Barry Park. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rosalyn’s memory may be made to Hebrew Senior Life, 1200 Centre St., Roslindale, MA 02131.

Ida Finger Case, 89, of Dartmouth MA, died peacefully at the New Bedford Jewish Convalescent Home on May 16, 2020 after a brief illness. She was the beloved wife of the late Charles Case and the late Morris Finger.

Born in Brooklyn NY of the late Mildred and Emanuel Bacolas she grew up in Brooklyn and Miami FL. She moved to New Bedford, MA in 1951 upon marriage to Morris Finger.

She was the past president of the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood and was involved in numerous other voluntary organizations and activities in the area. An avid bridge player, she enjoyed the fellowship of weekly games, walking, tennis and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her two sons, Steven Finger of Dartmouth and Alan Finger of Brunswick Maine, and the late (son) Leon Finger; her granddaughter, Dr. Abigail Finger and her partner, Lawrence Zarpaylic, of Newport Rhode Island.

She was the sister of the late Matthew Bacolas and the late Annbelle Korn.

Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Tifereth Israel Synagogue or the New Bedford Jewish Convalescent Home.

Arrangements are by Brezniak Funeral Directors, Newton MA.

Samuel of Newton, MA formerly of Milton, MA passed away peacefully from natural causes on May 14, 2020. Beloved husband of the late Tamara (Cashook) Berger. Devoted father of Stephen Berger and Marcia Berger. Father-in-law of Lisa Z Berger and Joel Lord. Current loving partner of Sandra Phillips her sons, Bruce and spouse, Judy Kaye-Phillips, Stephen and spouse, Nancy Phillips, and David Phillips. Proud grandfather of Harris Berger, Emily Berger, Eli Lord, Tamara Lord, Jamie Kaye-Phillips, Abby Kaye-Phillips, Dena Kaye-Phillips, Michelle Smith, Jeffrey Phillips, Suzanne Phillips, and Jillian Kolb. Loving brother of Louis Berger, Phillip Berger, and Pauline (Berger) Pransky. Devoted Uncle to many nieces and nephews.
For over 30 years, Sam owned and operated Auto Showplace in Allston, MA.

Due to the current Corona Virus situation, a Celebration of Sam’s Life will be held down the road. A small private graveside service will take place at Sharon Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sam’s memory may be made to Project Bread, 145 Border Street, East Boston, MA 02128 www.projectbread.org Combined Jewish Philanthropies, Kraft Family Building, 126 High Street, Boston, MA 02110 www.cjp.org

ELLIS, Naomi G.

Of Framingham, formerly of Randolph, Boston, and Fitchburg, at age 89, on May 12,2020.  Beloved wife of the late Benjamin Ellis. Dear daughter of the late Gertrude and Julius Goldman. Loving mother of Arlene Fuchs and her husband Ken of Wayland, and Howard Ellis and his wife Fay of Maplewood, NJ. Cherished grandmother of Gregory and his wife Danielle of Framingham, Daniel and his partner Gwen of Medford, and Gabriel of NJ, and proud great grandmother of Jonah and Michael. Devoted aunt to her nieces and nephews and dear sister to the late Dorothy Zinan and late Muriel Zitowitz. A graduate of Suffolk University and Boston State College, Naomi was an elementary school teacher in Boston for nearly 30 years and active in many synagogue, social, and cultural organizations. In her retirement, she volunteered as a reading tutor in the Brockton Schools and as an art docent at the Fuller Art Museum. Graveside services will be private. Remembrances may be made to Jewish Family Service of Metrowest, 475 Franklin Street, Framingham, MA 01702 or Congregation Or Atid, 97 Concord Road, Wayland, MA 01778.

Kolman, Kenneth, age 83, recently of Wayland, formerly of Holliston, and Ashland, MA, passed away on May 6, 2020 from complications of Parkinson’s disease. Beloved husband of Constance (Shattuck) Kolman for 36 years. Devoted father of Michael Kolman and his wife Ann, and Hilary Kolman. Dear grandfather of Jack, Allison, and Kate. Loving brother of Eric Kolman.
A true gentleman with a great dry sense of humor, he was loving and kind, and was always there to help someone in need. He loved a good snowstorm, a summer thunderstorm, Bermuda, Martha’s Vineyard, Connie’s cooking, and all of his dogs. He is also survived by his adoring Labradoodle, Bailey. Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Save A Dog, 604 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury, MA 01776, or the charity of your choice.

Ted Scholl, 91, of Palm Beach FL and Wichita KS, passed away on May 2, 2020.

Ted is survived by his daughter Frances and son-in-law Michael Bast of Brooklyn, NY, his grandchildren Morton Bast and her husband Brett Fischer, and Allison Bast of New York City, NY; his daughter Laura of Wichita, KS; his daughter Barbara of New York City, NY; his son Jerry and daughter-in-law Dominique and his grandson Olivier of Wichita, KS; his step-sister Margaret Marshall of Billerica MA; his step-daughter Jennifer Cook of St. Augustine Fl; and step-son Christopher Cook, his wife Denise and their children Christopher Jr., Elizabeth and Abigail of Billerica, MA. His wife Jean Marie Scholl predeceased him.
Ted was born in Dorchester, MA to Fannie (Gordon) Scholl on January 13, 1929. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army Air Force during WWII. He worked as an engineer for multiple companies including Cummins Engine Corporation. He was co-owner of Marshall & Company and was president of Cambridge Institute for Computer Programing, and started a laser printing cartridge business. Ted was a lifetime student of golf, bridge, and was a connoisseur of classical music.
In his later years, Jean and Ted moved to Florida where they were active members of their community. With the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease, coupled with Jean’s untimely death, Ted moved to Wichita to Chisholm Place, a special memory care facility.

Private burial will be at Sharon Memorial Park. Virtual Shiva will be held in Wichita and Brooklyn.

Memorial donations may be made to the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Temple Ohabei Shalom in Brookline MA, and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Sandra Marilyn Hecht Cohen, of Boston, MA passed away on May 3rd from Covid-19. Daughter of the late Dave and Ida (Ma) Hecht. Beloved mother of Jeffrey Alan Cohen and his wife, Dana, Debra Lisa Hegger of, Jay Kenneth Cohen and his wife,  Sarah O’Leary. Proud Grandmother to Alexa Cohen and fiancé Brennan Bicknese, Taylor Cohen, and partner Joseph Taylor,  Jessica Searle and husband Jon, Colby Wessling and husband Kyle, Devin Hegger and Julia Cohen. Great Grandmother to Benjamin and Rose Searle, Gabriel Wessing. Sandra is also survived by her sister Ethel Shapiro and brother Allen Hecht and pre-deceased by her sister, June Freedman.

Self-described as a liberal Jewish woman, Sandra had a larger than life personality, sharp sense of humor, and a unique way of looking at the world, which we coined Sandra-isms.Throughout her life,Sandra’s wit left an impression on everyone who met her.

Sandra grew up in Mattapan and graduated from Roxbury Memorial in 1953. She had fond memories of the Blue Hill Avenue area and Allerton Hill, Nantasket Beach,where she spent the summers with her extended family, passing the evenings playing cards and games around the dining room table.Sandra moved to Needham with her young family and in short time became a single mother.A highly skilled seamstress, Sandra was known for her shift dresses.Her hobbies included reading, tennis, cooking and sewing. Later in life, Sandra moved into the South End where she was a favorite among many of the shop owners.  Since 2018, Sandra resided at Hebrew Senior Life in Roslindale,where she kept the staff entertained.

A celebration of Sandra’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Sandra’s memory may be made to COVID-19 Response, Greater Boston Food Bank, 70 South Bay Ave, Boston, MA  02118.

Jay Krafsur Harris of Delray Beach, Florida lost his battle to Covid after a valiant struggle on May 2, 2020. Jay was the beloved husband of Ellen Gardner Harris for almost 39 years. He was the loving father of Jodi Sarah Harris, Alyssa Jill Harris & her husband Timothy Michael Groch. He leaves behind three grandsons, Hunter Harris Beaulac, Ryder Russell Beaulac, and Asher Moon Groch. Jay’s loss is mourned by his three loving sisters, Joie Feinberg, Jeri Silverman, Jaci Marmor, and her husband Arthur Marmor. He is also mourned by Ellen’s three brothers, Jay Gardner, Steven Gardner, Paul Gardner & his wife Kimberly. Jay is survived by his loving cousins Jay Krafsur, Jody Krafsur and her daughter Jacalyn, Aunt Jean Krafsur, Elizabeth Banner, Helaine & Joe Banner, and their two sons Jason and Jonathon, daughter Jill Elias and husband Samuel Elias. Jay loved each of his nieces & nephews dearly, Jonathan & Aiste Feinberg, Jennifer & Evan Tobasky, Jessica Feinberg, Scott & Aimee Silverman, Todd & Jayme Silverman, Josh & Emily Marmor, Jamie & Ari Wexler, Scott Gardner, Jeffrey & Jessica Gardner, Katie Gardner, Susan Gardner the late Lee Gardner. Jay also loved gathering with his many great-nieces & nephews, Sydney and Jason Silverman, Harrison and Annie Silverman, Jordyn, Jillian and Jayden Tobasky, Jack, Joely and Jesse Wexler, Jaxson Feinberg, Alexis and Tessa Feinberg, Sophie, Aubrey and Max Marmor, and Fallon Gardner.

The world has lost a giant of a man. Jay was born in Boston on September 16, 1949 to Lorraine & Irving Harris. He was raised in Brookline, Massachusetts and graduated from Northeastern University before pursuing a career in Aviation. Jay began his career with Air New England flying Beach 99’s, de Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otters & ended his career at Air New England as a Captain of the Fairchild FH- 227. During this time he flew many charters all across North America. He flew Ted Kennedy during his presidential run, Alice Cooper while on tour, NHL teams between cities and many other crazy charters that he loved to tell stories about. Between tours, Jay obtained his General Contractors license in Massachusetts and built his own home on Cape Cod in Yarmouthport. In 1981 Jay joined the Gardner family business, Star Bindery and became a partner. He worked in the printing industry until Star Bindery was sold in 2001. Jay’s other love was downhill skiing. Many years were spent at their home in Waterville Valley, NH. During those years Jay became certified in winter emergency and paramedic training. He worked every weekend and vacation on the Waterville Valley Ski Patrol. Jay also loved trips out west with Ellen connecting with fellow ski patrollers. They skied many times together at Vail, Steamboat Springs, Beaver Creek, Park City, Deer Valley & an epic trip skiing Big Sky Montana. Summers were spent windsurfing together on the beaches of Cape Cod. Golf was also one of his greatest  pleasures. Jay & Ellen had the opportunity to play together on some of the most amazing courses around the world. Jay and Ellen moved to Florida in 2003. Jay became a licensed Florida General Contractor & in May of 2008 began working for Spirit Airlines. Jay & Ellen loved to travel and were often back in Boston for many family gatherings.The Family wants to express their heartfelt thanks to the entire Boca Regional Hospital medical team, and especially to our long time family physician Dr. Alan Saitowitz, who never gave up on Jay.

Jay’s friends and family will always remember him as a jack of all trades, a charmer, a man of integrity, empathy and kindness. Above all else he was completely devoted to his family, he was the absolute best husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

Remembrances can be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. www2.jdrf.org. Due to the limitations imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, the funeral service will be delayed until this summer in Massachusetts. The home address should, anyone like to contact the family is 136 NE 12th Street, Delray Beach, FL 33444.

Jane Beth Clayton-Matthews, of Needham, MA, formerly of Newton, MA passed away May 1, 2020 after a yearlong battle with lung cancer. Jane grew up in Newton and attended Newton South High School, Lesley College where she received a BS in Special Education and Teaching, Cambridge College where she received an M.Ed. in Counseling and Social Services, and Boston College where she received a Certificate of Advanced Educational Specialization in School Psychology. She had a long career as a teacher and counselor, beginning as a special needs teacher at the Community Center School for Children with Special Learning Disabilities in Newton. She was the executive director of Bedford Youth and Family Services in Bedford (formerly known as Sun Dance Youth Services), and then a school guidance counselor at Locke Middle School in Billerica and then Weston Middle School in Weston, where she worked from 1991 to 2012.

Jane was also active outside of work and after she retired. She was part of a partnership between her church community in Needham and the community of Santa Maria Tzeja in Guatemala, which she visited on several occasions. Jane was a NIA dance fitness instructor for several years, and in retirement trained to become a Reiki practitioner. She volunteered at Brigham and Women’s Hospital giving Reiki to oncology and palliative care patients. She also volunteered as a special education advocate for children in state custody, acting as their education surrogate parent. She went on bike rides and played chimes in church. Perhaps her greatest passion, which she took up late in life, was tennis. She played doubles in an amateur league in Wellesley and Newton, playing – and winning – her final match after cancer surgery.

Jane was a member of the Congregational Church of Needham and Temple Beth Shalom in Needham. She grew up in an interfaith family. Her father, Harry Clayton, was Jewish, and her mother, Shirley Clayton (Naser) was Episcopalian. When she was 8 years old, her parents asked her “What do you want to be?” – a really tough thing for a kid to decide. She chose her mother’s religion but also followed many of her father’s Jewish traditions. When she was in her twenties, she went to temple and asked a rabbi “What do I have to do to convert?” She was given a stack of books and told “Go read all these books and then come back and talk to me.” It wasn’t until 2017 that she tried again and was welcomed by a local rabbi. Jane converted in 2018 and this fulfilled a lifetime spiritual quest. She remained a member of both congregations.

She is survived by her husband, Alan Clayton-Matthews, and her daughter, Jessica Clayton Matthews. She is also survived by her very close cousins Anne, Beth, Carol, Robert, and William Naser, and Robert Whitney.

When asked about when she felt the most alive, she said it was with her relationships she had with other people. She made friends with everyone she met, and her friends often became friends with each other.

Mildred “Midge” Itkin – Of Newton, age 101 years, on April 30, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Dr. Irving H. Itkin. Devoted mother of Dianne Epstein and her husband David, Ellen Percher and her late husband Hal, and Suzanne Jester and her husband Lewis T. Jester.Dear grandmother of Stephen Epstein, Julie Penn, Jennifer Ramras, Jonathan Epstein, Kevin Percher, Andrew Percher, Larissa Pommeraud, Lindsay Witzel. Loving great grandmother of Max Penn, Jacob Penn, Emily Penn, Sarah Epstein, Sam Epstein, Isabelle Ramras, Nathan Ramras, Lily Ramras, Daniel Epstein, Hannah Epstein, Selene Percher, Jade Percher, Soleil Pommeraud, Sinclair Pommeraud, Everly Witzel, Owen Witzel. Dear sister of the late Rosalyn Coblentz, Alvin Saide, Henry Saide, Louis Saide, Jules Saide. Services are private.

5.

Victor Gurvits of Newton, MA, formerly of Fairfield, CT, passed away on April 28, 2020 of the COVID-19 virus at the age of 89. Victor was born on November 26, 1930, in Odessa, USSR. In 1953, Victor graduated from the Odessa Hydrotechnical Institute as a civil engineer. For over 20 years, Victor was involved in numerous agricultural construction projects all over the former Soviet Union. In 1976, Victor applied to leave the Soviet Union with his family, and, after numerous rejections, was granted his visa in 1977. Victor and his family came to the United States in June of 1977, settling in Bridgeport, Ct, and, later, in Fairfield, CT. In 1981, Victor passed the Connecticut requirements for registration for professional engineer, earning his engineering license. Victor became a proud US citizen in April, 1984.

In 1989, Victor became a licensed building official. For the next 20 plus years, he served in that capacity in the towns of Norwalk, CT, and Fairfield, CT, earning accolades for his work both from property owners and contractors whose building projects he reviewed, and the town leaders. Victor was particularly known and respected for his integrity, attention to detail, and ability to find creative ways to fix construction-related issues. Upon his retirement, Victor spent his time between his houses in Fairfield and Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

Victor had a lifelong passion for building and fixing things. He was particularly adept in coming up with creative solutions around the lack of livable space, as was originally necessitated by the cramped quarters of his apartment in the Soviet Union. While living with his family in one room of a six-room apartment, Victor managed to create additional storage and sleeping quarters out of seemingly impossible areas. He was particularly proud of his skills after he purchased his house in Fairfield, and built himself a kitchen there that was larger than the one he had to share with the other five families in Odessa.

Victor was a devoted husband and a loving father and grandfather. As his family continued to grow, he enjoyed hosting Thanksgiving dinners and sharing the life he had built for himself in his adopted country. Victor is survived by Irma, his beloved wife of 64 years, his sons Eugene and Valentin, his daughters-in-law Jennifer and Katrina, his grandchildren Laura Hallissey (JohnJoe), Alexander, Jeremy, Michelle, and Allen, and his great granddaughter Harper.

Funeral arrangements will be private. A celebration of Victor’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Victor’s memory may be made to HIAS, P.O. Box 97077 Washington, DC 20090-7077, (hias.org), and to COVID-19 Response, Greater Boston Food Bank, 70 South Bay Ave, Boston, MA 02118.

Krasker, Ruth (Mekler), of Medford and Framingham, MA on April 28, 2020, at the age of 98. Beloved wife of the late Maurice “Murray” Krasker. Devoted mother of Karen Hark and her husband Kenneth, and Steven Krasker and his wife Julie. Cherished grandmother of Jeffrey, Jill, David, Jennie, James, and Kyle. Proud great grandmother of Sydney, Jackson, Addyson, and Caroline. Services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

Scott Lewis –Age 37, of Easton, on Sunday afternoon April 26, 2020 as a result of a tragic traffic accident. Beloved son of Burt and Doris(Saltmarsh)Lewis. Dear brother of Lisa Lewis. Loving uncle of Gianna Lewis. Services private. A celebration of Scott’s short life will take place when it is safe for all to gather. Remembrances in his memory may be made to M.S.P.C.A,350 South Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02130.

James H. Kurland- Of Dedham, April 24, 2020. Dear and devoted partner of Linda Pilla. Loving father of Ben Kurland and Zack Kurland.  Dear brother of Susan Holoff and uncle of Jonathan and Rachel Holoff. Funeral Services will be private. A Celebration of Life Service will be announced at a later date. Jimmy, as he was affectionately known by friends and family, was a widely respected and nationally recognized advertising executive for many years, designing campaigns for brands such as Disney, Sega, Coca Cola, the NFL, Keebler and J.C. Penny. Once a candidate for the Massachusetts House of Representatives, Jimmy found ways to serve his communities on Brookline’s Board of Selectmen, as an advisor to President Jimmy Carter’s and Governor Michael Dukakis’s presidential campaigns and as a board member for the Friends of Boston’s Homeless.  He lived for entertaining family and friends with good meals and humor, traveling with Linda, and as a tireless coach and best friend to Zack and Ben.  An amateur magician, Jimmy always ‘found’ his tee-shot playing golf and later in life he dreamt about making the “World’s Best Cookies”. While those who attended High Holiday services at Mishkan Tefila will never forget the clarion call of his Tekiah Gedolah, remembrances can be made in his honor to the Friends of Boston’s Homeless, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Jewish Community Center of Greater Boston or the Jimmy Fund.

Starr, Sherman H., of Weston, son of the late Doris and Max Starr, died peacefully on Wednesday April 22 in the comfort of his home. He was survived by his beloved wife Ellie Starr, his four loving children, Sandy Starr and his wife Raine Figueroa of Cambridge, Tony Starr and his wife Kathy Starr of Newton, Julie Starr-Duker and her husband Jay Duker of Newton, Dinny Starr and her husband Alan Gordon of Newton, his 14 grandchildren and spouses: Jake and Claire, Jason and Leslie, Bear and Becca, Bradley, Sierra, Sam and Colette, Tyler, Emma, Jacquie, Elly, Clayton, Ryder, Cameron and Piper and 5 great grandchildren: Grace, Leo, James, Jack and Lily; and Ellie’s children: Michael and Marci, Rachael and Ian, Eric and Annie, Susie and Dana, and their families.

Sherman was born in Boston, attended the Runkle School in Brookline and Brookline High School. He was a graduate of Harvard College, class of 1946, Harvard Business School and Boston University School of Business Administration. Along with being involved in many Harvard related activities, Sherman served as the permanent class treasurer for the class of 1946. Sherman’s college years were interrupted for 2 years by World War II where he served with distinction as a sergeant in France and Belgium. On his return from the war, Sherman completed his education, earning his MBA and CPA certificate. He joined the accounting firm Starr, Finer, Starr, LLP, founded by his father. There, Sherman served as the managing director for decades. Sherman was a past Chairman of the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy.

Sherman had a long and distinguished history of community service and philanthropy. He served as President of Combined Jewish Philanthropies, Member of the Board of Directors of CJP, Director of American Jewish Committee, Co-Chair of United Jewish Annual Appeal, as well as supporting numerous other local, national and international causes.

Sherman was a founding member of Temple Isaiah in Lexington and a longtime member of Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley. He was a member of Belmont Country Club, playing golf, enjoying lobster nights with family and friends, and celebrating many happy occasions at the club.

Sherman was a devoted Boston sports fan, he especially enjoyed watching the Red Sox, Patriots and Harvard football and hockey games.

Sherman lived his life to the fullest and was a much sought-after advisor and friend. He will be greatly missed.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to: Combined Jewish Philanthropies or to Tufts University School of Medicine.

Marcia Freedman Apatow, recently of Dedham, Massachusetts and formerly of Del Ray Beach, Florida, passed away April 18, 2020. She was 90 years old. Marcia was married to her devoted husband, Robert Apatow, for 70 years. Together, Robert and Marcia raised 3 loving children, Douglas (of Los Angeles, CA), Steven (of Sarasota, FL) and Karen (of Dover, MA). Marcia was a beautiful person both inside and out. Her life’s purpose was her commitment to her family, and in later years, she turned her caring nature to others by becoming a social worker. She worked for the Jewish Federation of NY for many years serving mentally disabled adults, and for the Stamford, CT public school system serving children with both mental and physical disabilities. She will be missed by many for her calm and generous spirit, but especially by her husband and children, her sister, Blossom, and her grandchildren, Amanda, Lindsay, Ben, Emily, Isabel, Josh, Libby and Lex.

Donations in Marcia’s name can be made to research dedicated to battling COVID-19.

Edna S. (Zola) Albert, age 100, of Natick, on April 18, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Harry Albert. Devoted mother of Melvin Albert and his wife Joyce, of Natick, as well as Michael Albert and his partner Edward Perkins, Jr., of Ashland. Loving grandmother of Julia Albert. Dedicated sister of her late siblings Rose Zola, Esther Jacobs, and Leonard Zola. Cherished companion of the late Harris Griff. Dear friend of the late Harold Abramson.

Before she retired, Edna was a Technical Publications Editor for the US Army Natick Laboratories.

She was an active member of Temple Israel of Natick and the Natick Community Center and will be missed for her energy, warmth, spirit, and smile.

Contributions in Edna’s memory may be made to any Temple Israel of Natick fund (www.tiofnatick.org/donations/ or Temple Israel of Natick, 145 Hartford Street, Natick MA 01760) or a charity of your choice.

Services and shiva will be private.

Harriette Doris Goldman of Brockton, MA, entered comfortably into rest. She is survived by her loving husband, Martin Allen, her daughter and son in law Debbie Lynne and Richard Young, her grandchildren, dara, Jessica, and Justin Young, and her great grandson, Logan Chase Lang. She is also survived by her sister in law, Elaine L. Matisoff, her nieces and nephews Ronni Arden Connelly, Jeffrey Michael Levine, Neil and Wendi Levine, and her great nephews and niece, Joshua, Matthew, and Maxine Levine. Services were private. Donations in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation or the charity of your choice.

Paul Cantor, of Framingham, Massachusetts, died Sunday evening, April 19, 2020 at the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center in Roslindale.  He was 83. He was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, and attended Barringer High School, and Rutgers University. A man of many talents, he worked as a buyer and merchandise manager for large chain department stores, owned and operated a car rental agency in Boston, and managed numerous businesses before retiring. His employees adored him.  In later life, he discovered his love of working with children, and for more than 12 years, was a reading/literacy pied piper and tutor to adoring second graders at the Hemingway School in Framingham. For children of all ages, he was self-appointed greeter at Shabbat morning services at Temple Israel in Natick. He would stop traffic for single malt whisky, Shakespeare, a majestic tree, Robert Frost, a Red Sox game, a call from a friend, or any kind of chocolate,

But of all of his loves, nothing surpassed his devoted adoration for Omi, his wife of 62 years, his three sons and their spouses – Marc and Emily Lazar (of Newtonville), Steve and Zhanna (of Newton), Larry and Deborah (of Sudbury); his six grandchildren and their spouses/partners – Dmitri and fiancee Dinah Ribarsky (of Watertown), Tali and Michael Feldman (of Jackson Heights, NY), Eva and fiance Ralf De Houwer (of Sausalito, CA), Josh and Ilayda Williamson (of West Roxbury), Max and Avanna (of Winterville, GA), and Nate Baker (of Newtonville); and his three great-grandchildren – Oren, Lev, and Mischa. The love was mutual; to most, he will always remain their “PapaPaul.” He mourned the loss of his only brother Mert, but was comforted with the love of his sisters-in-law Roberta Diamond (of Towaco, NJ) and Judith Lieb (of New Jersey), and his nephews and nieces and surrogate children, Jo, Michael, Karen, Howard and Matt. He was a devoted nephew and son, caring for his mother Janet into her 90s and maintaining a connection to all the extended families. No man loved family more.

Paul Cantor and his family

Given the limitations imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, the funeral service will be private, and the family will establish virtual shiva times and a virtual memorial service.

Donations in his memory can be made to the charity of the donor’s choice, but Paul would have supported the Jewish Community Relations Council to benefit their literacy tutoring program, the Lewy Body with Dementia Association, Temple Israel of Natick, or Hebrew Senior Life.

Of Newton, April 18, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Albert M. Newell. Former widow of the late Albert Feldman. Loving mother of Debra Feldman of Salem, David Feldman of GA and the late Patrice Scheffler. Sister of the late Shirley Gordon, Ruth Greenberg, Helen Greenberg and Evelyn Schlesinger. Graveside Service at Sharon Memorial Park will be private. A Memorial Service is planned for a later date.

Of Boston, April 19, 2020. Beloved son of the late Jacob and Louise (Ikowitz) Gordon. Beloved brother of Natalie and her husband Leonard Feinberg and Barbara Gordon Fineberg and her husband Barry Fineberg. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Service is private with a Memorial Service to be held at a later date.

Barbra Of Stoughton formerly of Brighton and Newton, April 17, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Joseph L. Rubenstein. Loving mother of Cheryl and her husband Leo Ramirez, Steven and his wife Randee Rubenstein and Jodi and her husband Harold Moore. Devoted grandmother of Marisa, Lindsay, Jared and his girlfriend Sara, Arielle, Corey and his fiancé Amanda, Rachel and Lyle. Great-grandmother of Caitlin and Riley. Sister of the late Paul Bines, Pearl Snider and Carl Bines. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Graveside Service at Sharon Memorial Park will be private. Remembrances in memory of Barbara may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation @ alz.org.

Sidney Greenleaf was born in Norwich, Connecticut February 23, 1930 and passed away at Pines Edge skilled nursing facility on April 17, 2020. During his 90 years of life he pursued many interests and passions.

He grew up in Norwich, Connecticut where he became an avid outdoorsman and athlete. He attended Norwich Free Academy, and then played football and track on an athletic scholarship while attending the University of Connecticut. He graduated from UConn with a mechanical engineering degree. He served in the US Army during the Korean War, acting as a flight and test engineer. After the war he continued to fly and became a private pilot, as well as restoring several airplanes, including a World War I biplane and World War II flight trainer. He continued to fly throughout his life.

Following his military service and education he founded Greenleaf Engineers, working until his retirement in 2007. In 1985 he transitioned the firm to Architectural Engineers, and his daughter Robin Greenleaf became President, then CEO of the firm. His early work included projects with renowned international architects, including Marcel Breuer, Kevin Roche and John Dinkeloo.

Sid was an Eagle Scout and dedicated years of service to the Boy Scouts. He was a cubmaster and then scoutmaster in Newton, Massachusetts for many years.

He continued to be an avid outdoorsman with his family, spending countless days fishing, camping, and hiking with them.

He also was a master craftsman; from building small model airplanes to a 42 foot wooden sailboat and 26 foot commercial fishing boat. Later in life he started rebuilding old military jeeps.

He was a serious conservationist and environmentalist. He fought to preserve wetlands in Massachusetts. For this he and his wife Carole received a prestigious environmental award.

Throughout his life he had a yearning for knowledge and learning. He was a professor at the Harvard graduate school of design, as well as the Boston Architectural College. In the later years of his life he took up writing poetry and painting.

He is survived by his daughter Robin Greenleaf and her husband Joel Goodmonson of Wayland, Mass., son Dr. Jonathan Greenleaf and his wife Lisa of Lake Oswego, Oregon, and son Steven Greenleaf and his wife Jill of Hopkinton, Mass. He is also survived by his grandchildren Julia, Madison, Zachary, Caroline, and Daniel.

Selma Possick-Age 100, of Chestnut Hill,on April 18, 2020.Beloved wife of the late Leo. Devoted mother of Jeffrey, Ronald and the late Kenny Possick. Dear grandmother of Lisa Gray, Lanna Burnette, Richard, Harrison and  David Possick and Lauren Possick. Also survived 5 great-grandchildren. Remembrances may be made to Newton Senior Center 345 Walnut St, Newton, MA 02460

Gail F. (Simmons) Pave, age 73, formerly of Holliston, MA, passed away at Newton Wellesley Center for Alzheimer’s Care Thursday April 16, 2020. She was the daughter of the late Alfred and Shirley Simmons and the beloved wife for 51+ years of her high school sweetheart, Norman Pave. She leaves behind two daughters, Stacey Vasko and her husband Joseph of Medway, MA, Lorri Kenney and her husband Robert of Rutland, MA, and one son, Andrew Pave and his wife Carmel of Needham, MA. Also five grandchildren, Alexandra and Aidan Kenney, Rayah and Corey Vasko, and Maxwell Pave. Dear brother Elliott Simmons and his wife Glenda of North Carolina. She will also be remembered by her many friends and extended family for her empathy, her laughter, and her devotion to family. Services will be private, and there will be a Memorial Service after the current crisis. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter, 309 Waverley Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452 or online at act.alz.org