Archive: May, 2020

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

Neuman, Herbert, Age 91, of Needham, formerly of Concord, passed away on April 14, 2020. He is survived by his loving longtime partner, Nelly (Juri) Carbonell, of Concord and his daughter, Ruth Levenson, and her husband, Andrew, of Framingham. Beloved grandfather of Leah S. and Jacob A. Levenson. Predeceased by his son, David R. Neuman. Herbert was born in Vienna, Austria, and fled to New York with his mother, Rosa (Schlesinger), at age 11. There, they were later joined by his father, Paul. Rosa passed away in 1943. Herbert attended the City College of New York and was a 1958 graduate of the Harvard Business School, where he was named a Baker Scholar. Herbert began his career in Retailing at Burdine’s in Florida and then worked for many years for Zayre Corp. in Framingham as a Merchandise Manager. Later, Herbert operated his own company where he supplied inventory to the growing “Dollar Store” industry. He was also a strong supporter of the State of Israel and was recognized by the Combined Jewish Philanthropies for his work. In his spare time, Herbert was an avid sailor and kept his boat, the “Nelly,” at Pickering Wharf in Salem. In retirement, he kept active reading and playing bridge. He particularly enjoyed fine dining avidly following the Red Sox. Funeral services and shiva will be private. Donations in his memory may be made to Combined Jewish Philanthropies at cjp.org

Walter “Wally” Nadel, of blessed memory, was born in Brooklyn, New York and passed from Covid-19 virus complications on April 17 at the age of 95.

Beloved husband of the late Lois (Sutterman) Nadel, and father to Melinda Strauss and Paul Nadel, Wally was the son of Joseph and Zelda (Metz) Nadel. He grew up with his late sisters Ruth Nadel and Julie Zimney, and was surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. He is survived by his two children, his sister Bonnie Ohnstein, his grandchildren Jonah Strauss, Eliana Southworth, Micah Strauss, and Alanna Harris, as well as many nieces and nephews.
In the last year of his life, he welcomed his two great-grandchildren into this world, Arden Leigh Southworth and Talon Zamir Cunha Strauss. Wally was embraced and respected by his in-law children and grandchildren, Linda Monko, Jeanine Nadel, David Strauss, Charles Southworth, Maria Cunha and Sil Lesnick.

Wally grew up in modest circumstances in Brooklyn. As a young adult, he moved to Chicago where he met his future wife Lois. He enlisted in the army to finish out the end of World War II as a supply sergeant guarding the Aleutian islands on the farthest western tip of Alaska. Upon returning from the Army he settled in Chicago, began a 30+ year career at Deluxe CheckPrinters, married Lois, and started a family.

Wally and Lois were devoted to building a stable and secure life for their family and worked diligently in pursuit of creating a wonderful home. After living in the Chicago area for 20 years, they had the opportunity to try out life in Southern California where they lived for 15 years and then returned to the East coast where they eventually settled in the Boston area to be near their daughter’s family and enjoyed being attentive grandparents.

In retirement from Deluxe, Wally and Lois opened a Wallpaper Studio and, combining their extensive talents, enjoyed being successful entrepreneurs.
An avid lifelong learner, Wally strongly identified with his Jewish roots and devoted himself to leading two havurah groups where he took pride in preparing extensive presentations on Jewish
culture and history.

As an enthusiastic historian, Wally created a website page to document and share his service in WW II, reflecting the experience of many for whom their military time created a lifelong bond and shaped the Greatest Generation’s legacy to their children and country. https://eubank-web.com/Donald/Aleutian/Nadel/index.html
A passionate advocate for social justice and American democracy, Wally wrote letters to newspaper editors to advocate for legal separation of church and state, gave small copies of the US Constitution as gifts, and led current events discussion groups at an assisted living facility.

He approached his growing and expanding family with an open heart and mind as he witnessed and embraced the myriad of diverse cultural shifts that occurred during his lifetime.
In all his close and casual connections, Wally was outgoing and always helpful, engaging everyone he met in lively conversation. He will be missed.

Wally supported the legal work of the Southern Poverty Law Center to monitor and fight hate groups. Donations to honor Wally’s memory may be made to https://donate.splcaction.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=1549 or SPLC, 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery, AL 36104.

Due to the current need for social distancing, there will be a small private graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park on April 19. Family and friends will receive virtual Shiva visitors in days following.

Lois A. Boreen, 85, Friday, April 10, 2020. Daughter of the late Walter Golwyn and Betty (Subin) Golwyn. Wife of the late Henry I. Boreen. Loving mother of Stuart and his wife Joan of Bethlehem, PA and Susan Hailman and her husband Eric of Lexington, MA, and grandmother of Kevin and Michael Boreen and Joshua and Alexander Hailman. Sister of the late Dr. Daniel Golwyn. Beloved Aunt and Great Aunt. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Lois earned a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics from Temple University’s Teachers’ College. She worked as a hospital dietitian and an educator. A “people person” and a lifelong learner, her interests included spending time with family and friends, travel, gardening, crafting, and reading. Her warmth, generous nature, humor, curiosity, and sense of fun will be greatly missed. Private services are being held. Donations in Lois’s memory may be made to Hadassah or to the medical research organization of your choice.

Janet “Jennie” Kessin was born in Newburyport, MA to Rebecca “Bayla” (Cossin) and Nathan “Nuchem” Barth, both from Kremenets Gubernia, now in western Ukraine. Janet grew up in the West End of Boston, and lived for a time in Chelsea, Roxbury, and Dorchester. When World War II began, Janet left Girls’ High School to enroll in the Civil Service. She was assigned to the Charlestown Navy Yard and later to the South Boston Dry Docks, where she oversaw the tools department – a true version of “Rosie the Riveter.” She married Murray in 1943 and followed him to South Carolina where he began his military service. While he received training as a medic before he was sent to the Philippines, she worked to repair uniforms on the base. After the war, Murray and Janet established the Hub Glassware Company, a hotel and restaurant equipment supply in Boston. Janet and Murray lived in West Roxbury for about 15 years before moving to Newton. After retiring from the Hub Glassware company, Janet rose each day at 6:30 to work as a volunteer at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital. She was twice recognized as “Volunteer of the Year.” She was also active in the Jewish War Veterans Post 211.She was the first female to receive their “Man of the Year” award and to honor her, in 2008, they had to change the name of the award from “Man of the Year” to “Person the Year.” She retired from her work at Brigham and Women’s in her early 90’s . Janet was a member of Temple Emeth and Temple Beth Avodah, a life member of Hadassah and a member of numerous other organizations. Janet also was a tireless campaigner for local, state and presidential democratic figures and could always be seen at the polls holding signs for her candidates. Janet leaves a son Robert A. of Seattle Washington, a daughter Elizabeth Kessin Berman (Daniel M. Berman) of Nahant, MA and a granddaughter, Reena Lynne Berman (John E. McManus) of Denver, CO. She also leaves one surviving brother, William “Maxie” Barth of Stoughton, MA. In addition raising her family and working in the Hub Glassware CO., she never refused an opportunity to make the world a better place. She would have turned 100 on June 22.

Services are private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Janet’s memory may be made to the Jewish War Veterans of the USA, Brigham and Women’s Hospital Volunteer Fund, the Massachusetts State Democratic Committee or the Democratic National Committee.

Of Newton April 15, 2020.  Beloved son of the late Albert and Denise (Colitz) Kramer. Husband of Marjory Fair-Kramer. Loving father of Ariel Rubin, Melissa Rubinsky and Carolyn Kramer. Proud grandfather of Shai, Talya, Lev, Adina and Aaron. Brother of Deborah Kramer Zamcheck and Lauren Teller. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Eric’s memory to Hebrew Rehabilitation Center, 1200 Centre St, Boston, MA 02131. Graveside Service at Sharon Memorial Park will be private. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. 

Fred Shapiro passed away peacefully at home in Newton on Friday, April 17, 2020.

He was the devoted husband for 62 years of the late Ruth (Winick) Shapiro very proud father of Audrey and Mark Robinson of Wayland and Janet and Ralph Feinberg of Newton. Beloved Zayda of Andrew and Michael Robinson and Jordan Feinberg.

Fred was born in Boston on May 17, 1932 and raised Dorchester by Russian immigrant parents, Myer and Zena (Karp) Shapiro, with his devoted and adored sister, Laura Shapiro Hyman.

After studying at Roxbury Latin High School, Fred joined his father in their family upholstery business in Brighton Centre.  He and Ruth worked tirelessly to grow their family of businesses to include their daughter Janet, together becoming Boston’s premier home decor fabric retailer. Fred was fondly known as the King of Foam, then became the Famous (and Friendly) Freddy Farkel, expanding with stores in Avon and Watertown.   His proud collection of business names and divisions included, The Fabric Showplace, Decorative Fabrics and then, after many years of research and tenacity with his cousin, Barry Shapiro, developed and produced a line of completely  chemical free – earth friendly sustainable upholstered sofas and chairs known “world wide” as Furnature.  Fred’s unending desire to help others and his innate interest in becoming a doctor, voraciously reading and discussing with hundreds if not thousands of people who suffered from multiple chemical sensitivites and allergies, fueled his drive to work until he was no longer able to drive or walk by himself to his desk.

Fred and his beloved Ruthie  were founding members of Temple Beth Avodah in Newton.  He sang in the choir for many years and will fondly be remembered by his large temple family for his lovely and powerful rendition of Kol Nidre. He proudly shared this honor with his youngest grandson, creating yet another full circle of love, family and community through Temple. He was fortunate to travel the world with his wife and their many friends, telling elaborate stories of their wonderful experiences. Due to the current health crisis, funeral services and shiva are private.In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Temple Beth Avodah, Music Fund or Sustaining Membership fund, or to the charity of your choice.

Paul Bloom passed away on April 14, 2020 at the age of 97 from complications due to Covid-19. His beloved wife Phyllis Bloom was by his side for 61 years, until her passing in November. He was also predeceased by his brother Robert. He is survived by sister Nancy Billard; daughter Susan Murphy and her husband Tom; son George Bloom and his wife Margot; and son Peter Bloom. He leaves behind five grandchildren: Sean & Karen Murphy; Samantha, Jessica, & Jennifer Bloom. Paul graduated from Durfee High in Fall River & went on to the Wharton School for 3 years before enlisting in the Army. During WWII he served as an aviation meteorologist in North Africa, providing guidance for aviation missions. He then went on to attend Bentley, graduating under the GI bill. He started the Paul Bloom Insurance Agency and over a 50 year career achieved membership of the Million Dollar Round Table numerous times. He greatly enjoyed spending time with his family and taking care of a menagerie of pets. Services are private. Donations in Paul’s memory can be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in appreciation of the efforts of all first responders.

David Gladstone passed away in his home surrounded by family on Monday, April 13, 2020 after a long battle with Parkinson’s. Born in Lynn, MA on May 31, 1934, he was the son of the late Benjamin and Mary Gladstone. He was a graduate of Bordentown Military Institute and Suffolk University.

David worked for over 45 years for Metropolitan Life.  He will be remembered for his deep generosity, love of life and family, and his infectious sense of humor.  He enjoyed spending his winters in Arizona, attending Red Sox games and above all else, he loved gathering with family and friends.  He spent his free time playing tennis and bowling.

He is survived by his wife Marjorie, his daughters Cheryl and Stephanie, his brothers Harvey and Irving Gladstone, and many nieces and nephews and extended family.  He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

On Thursday, April 16, 2020, Alida J. Cohen, loving wife of Harris; mother of Charlotte and son-in-law, Neil Sheer; Eileen and Barbara Cohen; and grandmother of Hannah and Haley Cohen, passed away two weeks short of her 89th birthday.

Alida was born on April 28, 1931 in Boston, MA to Charles and Henrietta Kosky.  On January 16, 1949, she married Harris and their 71-year journey together began.  She was at his side through many business ventures, but her commitment to her children always took priority.  She will be forever admired for the unending support she provided to Barbara through her life’s challenges.

Alida was extremely creative – her incredible hand-knit sweaters, beautiful paintings, and hand-made greeting cards will always be treasured.  She was an avid reader and was always up-to-date on the latest news and politics.  Alida took tremendous pride in her participation in the Holocaust Stamps Project, founded by her daughter Charlotte, trimming and counting thousands of stamps over the course of many years.  She always enjoyed daily phone calls from Eileen during her commute to and from work.  In recent years, she found tremendous joy being “Nana” to Hannah and Haley, and sharing with them her love of cooking, flower gardening and holiday traditions.

A private graveside service will be held at Sharon Memorial Park.  Remembrances in memory of Alida may be made to the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund, Temple Sinai of Sharon, 25 Canton St., Sharon, MA 02067 or to the Sharon Public Library, 11 North Main St., Sharon, MA 02067.

George Houston Berry of Somerville, MA, beloved husband of Ellin Reisner and loving father of Alison Jean Berry of Dobbs Ferry, NY and Amy Berry Brockbank of Oakland, CA passed away from Covid 19 on April 13, 2020 at the Belmont Manor Nursing Center.    George was born in El Paso, TX to Col. O. Jay Berry (USAF) and Georgia Landrum Berry.

George will be remembered for his kindness, great sense of humor, intellectual curiosity and creativity.  He graduated from Wakefield High School in Arlington, VA and was a National Merit Scholar.  He received his BS from MIT with a degree in Electrical Engineering and an MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management.  For more than 25 years he was a Professor of Computer Science at Wentworth Institute of Technology and was the Computer Science Department Chair for many years.  He loved teaching and referred to himself as the Professor of Interesting Stuff.  George also enjoyed playing and improvising on the piano, long bike rides, writing fiction and traveling.

George served in the US Navy as a lieutenant in the Engineering Corp during the Viet Nam War.  He is also survived by his ex-wife, Jean Berry of Cambridge, MA.  Services at Temple Israel Cemetery will be private.  A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Remembrances in memory of George may be made to the Welcome Project, 530 Mystic Ave., Somerville, MA 02145 or online at https://www.welcomeproject.org/donate or the Animal Rescue League online at arlboston.org.

Ingrid Kisliuk (Inge Scheer) of blessed memory passed away from COVID-19 on April 13, 2020 at Orchard Cove in Canton, MA. For fifty-eight years a resident of Newton, she was born on 1/11/1930 in Austria to Saly Scheer (Zalme Szeer) and Helene (Cohen) Scheer. As a child she witnessed out her window Hitler’s hideously triumphant welcome into Vienna. She and her family escaped to Brussels, where she became “Irène” in an attempt to hide her origins. The war followed them into Belgium where they were forced into hiding, moving from place to place until Liberation Day. Ingrid lost many friends and family to Nazi deportation and murder, including her beloved sister Herta, who was lured away and murdered in Auschwitz at age 19. After several months in Argentina — where her older brother Ernst fled before the war — Ingrid and her parents landed in Lorain Ohio. As a traumatized 17 year-old who spoke five languages, she had little in common with local teenagers. While studying in Cleveland she met Roy Kisliuk, a graduate student in biochemistry, on the 4th of July 1954. They were married that Thanksgiving. Ingrid was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother, and also a gifted scholar. Studying French Literature at Tufts University when her daughters were still young, she earned a Masters degree in 1971, a Doctorate in 1976, and taught at Tufts for over twenty years. In the late 1980s, with encouragement from family and from a new international organization of former hidden children, she began her memoir. This decade-long process involved reliving the horrors of her childhood, which gave her vivid nightmares. She published Unveiled Shadows: The Witness of a Child in 1998. From Trauma to Trepidation (2008) followed; in-depth interviews with adult children of former hidden children. She and Roy celebrated their 65th anniversary in November 2019. Both died in April 2020, eleven days apart. Ingrid is survived by her daughters Claudette Beit-Aharon and Michelle Kisliuk, grandchildren Nathan, Noah, and Miriam Beit-Aharon and Max Mongosso, great grandchildren Leila and Simon Beit-Aharon, and nieces Silvia Duchovny and Viviana Levinson. Donations in Ingrid and Roy’s memory can be made to two of their favorite charities, the ACLU and the Union of Concerned Scientists. The April 16th funeral was restricted to 10 local attendees. For remote shiva schedule and link, please send inquiries to this address: roy.l.kisliuk@gmail.com.

Bernard “Bernie” David Seckler (Feb. 14, 1925 – Apr. 10, 2020), son of Samuel Seckler and Anna Wucher, died peacefully after a short bout of coronavirus complications in Newton, MA. Together, he and Evelyn (Jan. 11, 1926 – Apr. 13, 2020), his devoted wife of 67 years, raised their family largely in Great Neck, NY. He leaves behind daughter Judy (Peter Nomura); son Stephen (Jenny Gamson) and adored grandchildren Gilad, Ari, and Maya. Bernie’s family of East European immigrants survived the Depression with their sights on accomplishment and stability. He and his three older siblings lived and worked shifts at their parents’ Williamsburg, Brooklyn, 24-hour candy store. Armed with a Master’s in mathematics from Columbia University and a PhD in mathematics from New York University, Bernie began his teaching career at Pratt Institute and spent his later years as a math professor at C.W. Post in Brookville, Long Island. He supplemented the family income for twenty-five years by translating Russian math textbooks into English after teaching himself to read Russian.For 20 years, he was a math reader at Recordings for the Blind and received an award for his service. He loved movies, animals, opera, fine art, good food, puns, baseball and playing and watching tennis. No Sunday was complete until he had finished a New York Times acrostic puzzle in pen in record time. He also spent many hours on his prized stamp collection, researching fine art on stamps at New York’s largest libraries. A private burial and virtual memorial will be held Thurs. Please contact info@brezniakfd.com for more details. Donations in Bernie’s memory may be made to: aspca.org; wiesenthal.com, or nypl.org

Evelyn Alda Seckler (Jan. 11, 1926 – Apr. 13, 2020), daughter of Leopold Mehler and Tillie Friedman, passed peacefully from coronavirus complications three days after her devoted husband, Bernie. Together, they raised their family in Great Neck, NY. She leaves behind daughter Judy (Peter Nomura); son Stephen (Jenny Gamson) and adored grandchildren Gilad, Ari, and Maya.Life began for Evelyn on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, an area overflowing with Jewish immigrants. With her two older brothers, she lived in the back of her father’s dry goods store. Her life was full of classes, religious school and music lessons on piano and mandolin. Relatives lived close by and the family escaped to the Catskill Mountains during summers. Evelyn’s life can be measured by the many milestones she accomplished: she was the first person in her family to graduate from college (Brooklyn College), and later earned a Master’s in psychology. She and Bernie married in 1953. They left Brooklyn for Queens in 1964, and as her children grew, she and Bernie sang in the local chorus, attended performances at the Metropolitan Opera and live theater on Broadway. Evelyn had a rewarding career as a school psychologist for the New York City Board of Education. She also took pride in her daughter’s design studies at Cornell University and her son’s Northeastern law degree. She never lost her love of the mountains, her grandchildren, visiting friends and relatives in far-off places, talk radio, Tanglewood concerts and bargain shopping at garage sales.  A private burial will be held Thurs. and a virtual memorial will take place Sat. Please contact info@brezniakfd.com for more details. Donations in Evelyn’s memory may be made to: democrats.org; cancer.org, and pbs.org.

Betty Levin-Of Chestnut Hill, on April 11, 2020.Beloved wife of the late Melvin H. Levin. Private graveside services will be held.

Barbara Soreff-Of  Framingham On April 10, 2020.Beloved daughter of the late Sidney and Ida(Segal).Dear sister of the late Patricia Soreff Clouse. Services are private

Stan Fleischman was born in The Bronx NY on August 11, 1940 and grew up with his brother Jack Fleischman and Marsha Schoenfeld (deceased) in Williamsburg NY. He graduated from Stuyvesant High School, and got a degree in Math from Brooklyn College in 1962. Within two weeks of graduation, Stan married his college sweetheart, Jackie, and took his first job as a computer programmer with NASA where he helped to develop the first power propulsion system.
Within a year, Stanley and Jackie moved to Newton, MA where he completed a masters’ degree in Math from Northeastern and where their marriage continued for over half a century.
They have two daughters, Marilyn Brown, married to Ross Brown, and Marcella Pixley married to Steve Pixley. Stan has recently written that his daughters “have three incredibly talented sons, Marc Brown, Joshua Pixley and Benjamin Pixley.”
Stan helped develop an early Time Sharing utility cited as “best in the nation” by Data Nation magazine, and helped develop The National Software Works, an extension of the ARPNET, which later evolved into the internet.
After retirement in 2004, Stanley became an activist for J Street, an organization advocating for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. He also began studying Jewish History and literature. A number of folks besides family joined his household over the years, which broadened and deepened relationships between individuals from numbers of countries and social backgrounds.
Stan is survived by his beloved wife, Jackie Fleischman, his daughter Marilyn Brown, son in law Ross Brown and Grandson Marc Brown, His daughter Marcella, son in law Steve and grandsons Joshua and Benjamin. Stan is also survived by his dear brother Jack Fleischman. He remained, throughout a lifetime, open to exploring and contributing to the positive life-experience of others. He shall be greatly missed by friends and relatives alike. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation in his name to J Street or to the Congregation Dorshei Tzedek, in Newton MA.

Sklar, Gladys (Dank)-Of Dedham and formerly Boca Raton, Florida, passed away from the Covid 19 virus on April 8, 2020, at the age of 103.Born in NewYork City, the daughter of the late Rose and Morris Padnos, the wife of the late William Sklar and formerly the late Bertram Dank. Loving mother of Andie Finard and the late Michael Dank and his wife, Phyllis Dank. Adored grandmother of Bryan and Debbie Dank, Todd and Andrea Finard, Randi and Gary Tanguay, and Jackie and Rob Hughes. Beloved Gigi to 10 great grandchildren , Tyler and Maya Dank, Harper , Van and August Tanguay , Jacob, Murray, and Benjamin Finard, and Molly and Izzie Hughes.She was happiest surrounded by her loving family or with a paintbrush in hand. She continued to play golf up to the age of 96.Gladys will be remembered fondly by those who met her and never forgotten by those who loved her.A Funeral for Gladys will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hebrew Senior Life , 1200 Centre St., Roslindale, MA 02131 or Newbridge on the Charles at 5000 Great Meadow Rd, Dedham, MA 02026.

Spear, Margaret, formerly of Lexington, MA, Wellesley, MA and Canton,MA, on April 5, 2020, at age 99. Beloved wife of the late Allan Spear and beloved companion of the late Charles “Bunny” Gutman. Devoted and dearest mother of Cathy Spear and the late Richard Spear. Cherished grandmother of Julie Geer and her wife Jennifer, Andrew Geer and his wife Emily, Alex Spear, and Jesse Spear. Proud great-grandmother of Caroline Margaret Geer. Loving sister of the late Robert and Albert Stern and loving aunt of many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Midge’s spirited warmth and energy and her wonderful humor will be missed by all. Donations in her memory may be made to Orchard Cove,  c/o OC Enrichment Fund, 1 Del Pond Drive, Canton, MA 02021 give.hebrewseniorlife.org/tribute or to Experience Camps, PO Box 5121, Westport, CT 06881, www.experience.camp/donate.

Jean “Ginger” Lerner (Rosenkranz), originally born in London, formerly of Holbrook, MA late of Dedham, MA at Hebrew Rehab Center, NewBridge on the Charles, passed peacefully after a brief battle with the Covid-19 virus on Wednesday, April 8, 2020 just shy of 98 years old.  Beloved wife of the late Jacob Louis Lerner.  Loving sister of the late Bella Nathan and Mary Levrant, both of London, and the late Estelle Rosenfield of Quincy.  Ginger leaves her daughters Faye Cugno and husband Ernest Cugno of Holbrook, MA and Shirley Nicholson and husband Paul Nicholson of Pembroke, MA.  She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

Born in London, Ginger and her family survived the blitz during World War II. She worked in a factory during the war packing military supplies and became a milliner before leaving for the US in 1948.

She had a great love for all animals, music, especially Frank Sinatra and the big band sounds, and she loved to dance.

Expressions of sympathy in her memory may be donated to NewBridge on the Charles c/o give.hebrewseniorlife.org/tribute.

Of Arlington, April 7, 2020. Beloved daughter of the late Jacob M. and Lillian S. (Sloan) Karmazin. Loving sister of Mark Karmazin of Arlington. Dear friend of Susan Stering and family. Also survived by loving cousins. A private graveside service will be held at Sharon Memorial Park. Remembrances in memory of Michele may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via www.dana-farber.org/gift or to the ASPCA @ secure.aspca.org.

Saul J. Brightman, of Wayland Massachusetts, formerly of Brookline and Newton, Massachusetts died from complications due to COVID – 19 on April 8, 2020. Saul attended the Baker School in Brookline, Brookline High School, Bates College and Boston University. Saul loved every second of his working career selling intimate apparel to national retailers such as Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and Macy’s. Saul was a legendary sales person. Beloved son of the late Herman and the late Frances (Myerson) Brightman. Devoted father of Scott Brightman and Todd Brightman and father-in-law of Sharon Brightman. Adored grandfather of Rachel Brightman and Allie Brightman. Dear Brother of the late Shepard Brightman and and the late Donald Brightman, and brother-in-law of Arline Brightman and Louise Brightman. Also survived by loving nieces and nephews. A private graveside service will be held at Adath Jeshurun cemetery in West Roxbury. Remembrances in memory of Saul may be made to Beth Israel Medical Center, Office of Development, 330 Brookline Ave. Boston, MA 02215 or online

https://secure3.convio.net/bidmc/site/Donation2?4902.donation=form1&df_id=4902&mfc_pref=T

Jerrold Howard Uretzy, 75, April 2, 2020. Private services were held.

Goldstein, Harold W. of Methuen, MA, formerly of East Falmouth and Wakefield, on April 5, 2020 at the age of 88. Son of the late Bert and Ida Goldstein. Beloved husband of Caroline (Tytell) Goldstein. Devoted father of Diane Kontoff and her husband Jeff, Marla Clough and her husband Tom, Robert Goldstein and his wife Erin, and Amy Greco and her husband Frank. Cherished Papa of John, Ben, Alyssa, Steven, Tyler, Emma, and Elias. Proud great grandfather of Annabella, Sofia, Avery and Max. Predeceased by his siblings Norton Goldstein and Sylvia Jaffe and her husband Teddy. Also survived by his sister-in-law Faire Goldstein and many nieces and nephews. Harold was a Korean War veteran and spent the last 55 years volunteering for our nation’s veterans through the Wakefield Elks Veteran’s Committee, Disabled American Veterans, and past commander of the Jewish War Veterans of Peabody. Harold was actively involved in Veteran’s affairs until recently and was recognized a multitude of times for his years of service and dedication. He was owner of Atlas Paint and Supply in Wakefield for many years. Harold and Caroline lived in East Falmouth for 27 years where he was a member of the Brotherhood at the Falmouth Jewish Congregation. During their 67 years of marriage, they traveled the world extensively. Services are private. A celebration of Harold’s life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Harold’s memory may be made to The Fisher House Foundation (fisherhouseboston.org) or the World Central Kitchen (donate.wck.org)

Nussman, Phyllis T. “forever 39”, of Chestnut Hill, MA, on April 4, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Mitchell E. Nussman. Devoted mother of Caryl and her husband Robert Hurwitz, and Judi and her husband Joel Pava. Cherished grandmother of Barry Hurwitz and his wife Wendy, Jeff Hurwitz and his wife Freya, Zachary Pava and his wife Tarah, Andrew Pava, and Max Pava. Proud great grandmother of Rachel, Josh, Adam, Ella, and Miles Hurwitz, and Benjamin and Emily Pava. Services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Phyllis’ memory may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.

Of blessed memory, formerly of Newton, MA, passed away of renal failure in the early hours of April 2nd, 2020 at Orchard Cove in Canton. He was 91. The son of Max Kisliuk, Jr. and Sue (Pogust) Kisliuk, Roy was born August 4th, 1928 in Philadelphia, and raised in Queens, New York. He attended Jamaica High School before earning a BS in Chemistry from Queens College, then a Masters in Biochemistry from Yale, and a Doctorate in Biochemistry from Western Reserve. As a graduate student in Cleveland, he attended a 4th of July International Students’ Group picnic where he met Ingrid Scheer, who had been a hidden child in Belgium during the Holocaust. They were married that Thanksgiving. Following the birth of their first daughter in 1956, the young family relocated to England for two years so that Roy could pursue a postdoctoral fellowship at Oxford University, in the same department as world famous biochemist Hans Krebs. In 1960, Roy was invited to join the research and teaching faculty at Tufts University School of Medicine. Echoing Roy and Ingrid’s first days together, the family moved to Newton on 4th of July weekend 1960, and their second daughter was born that November. Roy spent many happy years at Tufts, researching folates, which was his passion, and publishing prolifically while teaching Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Microbiology. His work has had a lasting impact, including contributions to cancer treatment, with the Kisliuk Effect named after him. He retired from teaching as Professor Emeritus in 1999. Roy and Ingrid celebrated their 65th anniversary in 2019. A devoted husband and father, Roy is survived by his wife, Ingrid, his daughters, Claudette Beit-Aharon and Michelle Kisliuk, grandchildren Nathan, Noah, and Miriam Beit-Aharon, and Max Mongosso, and two great-grandchildren, Leila and Simon Beit-Aharon. Roy was predeceased by his older brother and role model, the physicist Paul Kisliuk, and is survived by his nieces and nephews Amy, Margaret, Tom and Bill Kisliuk. Roy was known for his kindness, sensitivity, and ever-present sense of humor, and leaves behind many happy memories that are a blessing to his family and all who loved him. Due to COVID-19 social distancing requirements, the April 2nd funeral was restricted to 10 local attendees. The family will be conducting shiva visits by video conference. To request information regarding virtual visiting hours, please send inquiries to this address: roy.l.kisliuk@gmail.com

Herbert S. Rappaport (1926 – 2020)

Herbert Saul Rappaport, 94, passed away peacefully on March 20th, 2020 and was laid to rest beside his beloved wife Roslyn (Schreiber) at King Solomon Memorial Cemetery in Clifton, New Jersey. Before moving to Massachusetts in June 2019, he resided in Boynton Beach, Florida; in Verona, NJ and in East Orange, NJ.

Herb was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and cousin. The cherished Dad of Jeffrey, and his wife Marcy, of Acton, MA; and of Mark, and his wife Patti, of Washington Township, NJ. “Poppie” is survived by his grandchildren: Brian Rappaport & Christina Dykes, and great-granddaughter, Sophia; and Nicole and her husband James Gonser; and his many nieces and nephews.

Herb was born in New York City on February 16th, 1926 to the late Etta (Lasky) Rappaport; ‘little brother’ to his late beloved sisters, Hermina and Natalie. Due to the difficult economic times, he went to live with his Aunt Carrie & Uncle Abe Remstein in Newark, NJ. There, he attended Weequahic High School and graduated in 1944.

That year, at age 18, Herb enlisted in the United States Army. He completed his basic training in Georgia and was ultimately stationed at Ft. Dix, NJ. He served as a Private in the 14th Antiaircraft Battalion and was a revered member of “Our Greatest Generation”.

In 1949, Herb graduated from New York University’s School of Commerce, having successfully earned his college degree while working nights & weekends as a Messenger for the United Nations. He and Roslyn were introduced to one another at the Jersey shore and were married on May 28th, 1950. They began their family in East Orange, upon making their home in a duplex beside Roslyn’s parents, the late David & Mary Schreiber.

Herb worked as a Sales Manager for Krich & Associates of Newark, the premier distributor of RCA Victor entertainment products and Whirlpool appliances in the NY/NJ area. He was successful in every aspect of his job and was consistently recognized with numerous sales excellence awards. Herb also excelled in his Sales Management positions at D.J. Mytelka in Scotch Plains, NJ; and at Reitman Industries and Shop-Rite Liquors, both in W. Caldwell, NJ.

In Verona, Herb distinguished himself in service to the community by running for the Verona Town Council in 1967; and served as President of the Verona Little League in 1968 and 1969. Herb was most proud to be an active and respected leader at the Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Verona, which later became Congregation Beth Ahm. He was appointed President of Beth Ahm and, in May 1994, he was honored by its members with a reception at the Richfield Regency.

In Boynton Beach, Herb was recognized for his service as an Emergency Response Manager for his community at Tuscany Bay.

Herb graciously shared the gift of his “values” – Family, Faith, Home and Traditions – with his family, extended family and friends. He blessed all of us with his heart, which was filled with compassion, charity, kindness, strength and warmth. He is missed dearly by all whom he touched.

Donations in Herb’s memory to the following or to the charity of your choice will be appreciated:
Congregation Beth Elohim, 133 Prospect Street, Acton, MA 01720 www.bethelohim.org
Congregation Shomrei Torah, 30 Hinchman Avenue, Wayne, NJ 07470 www.shomreitorahwcc.org

There will be a Memorial Service in celebration of Herb’s 94 years, at a time when it is safe to do so.

Norma Handler Osit

Born: September 16, 1940 / Passed Away: March 21, 2020

Norma (Handler) Osit was born on September 16, 1940 in the Bronx, NY and unexpectantly passed away on March 21, 2020 in her Delray Beach, Florida home. She leaves her husband Joel Osit of Westborough, MA; her son Matthew and his wife, Pamela Potter-Osit of Roslyn, NY; her daughter Shari and her husband Chris Innamorati of North Grafton, MA; and her 4 grandchildren Tyler and Sara Osit, Sofia and Brooke Innamorati. She was the youngest daughter of four children of Toby and William Handler. She is survived by her brother Seymour Handler. And was predeceased by her sisters Sheila Resnick and Florence Gottlieb.

After marrying Joel in 1961, she moved to Rochdale Village Queens, NY where they had two children. For the majority of her life, she lived in Hauppauge, Long Island. While there, she worked as a teacher, bookkeeper and auditor. The family did lots of activities together such as driving cross country to CA, camping trips, Broadway shows and so much more. She received her undergraduate business degree and her Masters’ of Business Education from City College, NYC.

While living in NY, Norma spent many days with Matthew, Pamela, Tyler (12) and Sara (11). In 2013, she moved to Westborough Massachusetts to be closer to Shari, Chris, and twins Sofia (5) and Brooke (5). She truly enjoyed endless social activities with new friends in the Orchard Hills 55+ community where she lived a happy and full life.
During winter months, Norma and Joel were snow birds in Delray Beach, Florida where she was busy and active every day. She would spend her time socializing with friends (and even strangers), shopping for things she really didn’t need, playing Mahjong and Canasta, and dining at her favorite restaurants such as 3G’s. And most importantly, looked forward to her kids coming to FL for vacation.

She had the most joy when she was with her grandchildren, all of us being together during family vacations, buying jewelry and elephants wherever she traveled, and her frequent trips to Costco. She enjoyed planning and hosting parties in her home – this was one activity that she absolutely looked forward to. Norma loved hearing about her grandchildren’s accomplishments, milestones and stories. Her husband, son, daughter, grandchildren, family and friends were her world and we all benefited tremendously from her cooking made with love (especially her noodle pudding!).

For every one who knew her, we all have lost something very unique and she will be missed by many in New York, Massachusetts and Florida. Her energy, dynamic personality, warmth, open book mannerisms and smile will be remembered forever. She was a jewel of a wife, mother, grandmother and friend.
As many may know, she had the strength to battle breast cancer twice. With this, donations in memory of Norma may be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation at www.bcrf.org.

A private ceremony was held on Thursday, March 26, 2020 at the Beit Olam East Cemetery, Wayland MA.

Marlaina Kreinin (nee Marlene Louise Miller), beloved wife, mother, and grandmother died March 27, 2020 in Tarrytown, New York. She was nearly 87 years old and left us peacefully as she slept. Born April 26, 1933 in Crystal Falls, Michigan, daughter of Jean and Herman Miller.

The eldest of two daughters, one of a few Jewish families in Crystal Falls, she and her sister, Laela, were sent to a neighboring town for Hebrew school. Her grandfather, Eli, came from Poland and started Miller’s General Store. Marlaina’s family kept a kosher home. A proud yooper, Marlaina wrote a collection of stories about growing up in the Upper Peninsula, in which she remembers being in nature with her father and her friends. She graduated from the University of Michigan in English Literature, and later earned a master’s degree from Michigan State University, where she then taught Family Health Ecology and co-authored a textbook.

Marlaina met Mordechai “Max” Kreinin playing ping-pong at Hillel at the University of Michigan. They married and settled in East Lansing, where they raised three daughters. As a mother and grandmother, Marlaina encouraged mischief and fun, building forts, snow igloos, and leaf houses. An avid reader, she gave books for every occasion. Marlaina was a devoted Jew and a lifelong supporter of Israel. She welcomed the town to our Sukkah every fall and hosted festive Chanukah parties for all eight nights of the holiday. In 1970, Marlaina was part of a small group who started a new synagogue, Kehillat Israel, in Lansing and, eventually, was also a member of Congregation Shaarey Zedek.

Marlaina made a home for her family in over 20 different cities around the globe due to Max’s job as an economics professor at MSU. In numerous countries and in East Lansing she hosted countless parties welcoming international scholars.

Marlaina was a poet, a writer, and a storyteller. Both ahead of her time and a product of her time, her writing was informed by marching with her young daughter for civil rights, against nuclear proliferation and against the Vietnam War. She was an early health food advocate–much to her children’s dismay–and an environmentalist who knocked on her neighbors’ doors to stop pesticide use. Her daughters and their friends could earn a penny for each dandelion they picked in the yard because she refused to spray pesticides. As a feminist, she advocated for a women’s international court. She was part of a women’s yoga circle, loved her garden and nature, took voice and dance lessons, and loved music, and art.

Survivors include three daughters, Tamar Kreinin (Rosalind Hinton), Elana Markovitz (Dr. Dennis Markovitz), Miriam Souccar (David Souccar); four grandchildren, Raviv Markovitz (Michal Latzer), Netana Markovitz, Noa Souccar, Lyla Souccar; niece Melinda Saulson, nephew Eli Saulson (Michele Saulson) and the Saulson family of Franklin, Michigan; sister-in-law Oshria Pik and her sons and grandchildren and great grandchildren in Israel. Marlaina is preceded in death by her sister, Laela Miller Saulson, and her husband Max.

Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Greater Lansing Food Bank, University of Michigan Hillel or Rain Forrest Action Network.

Bert Romm, 87, of Newton Center, MA, formerly of Waban, MA and Belle Harbor, NY, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2020 after battling Alzheimer’s Disease. He is survived by:  children—Elisa Romm of Greenwich, Ct., Eric and his wife Karen Romm of Sudbury, MA, Jonathan and his wife Kirsten Romm of Potomac, MD, ten grandchildren—Max, Madeline, Myles, Mason, Miller, David, Sophia, Preston, Emma and Caela Wheeler, siblings—Phyllis Hahn, her husband Norden of NY, NY, Martin Romm and his wife Karen of Jupiter, Fl. and sister-in-law Shirley Siff of Worcester, MA and Palm Beach, Fl., nine nieces and nephews, and most importantly the love of his life,  Faye Shrago Romm, formerly of Goldsboro, NC, who was by Bert’s side for 59 years. Bert was the son of Joseph and Amelia Romm of Belle Harbor, NY. He was born in Philadelphia PA., moving with his family in early life. Bert was a strong athlete. In his teenage years he preferred to be on the basketball court in a local “pick-up” game. His basketball prowess served him well when recruited for the Army and eventually chosen to join the Seventh Army Basketball Team to entertain the troops during the Korean War. He was also a very avid golfer. He passed down his athletic talent through the generations.  Bert  was a visionary and a brilliant businessman. He achieved a successful career in the shoe business, designing and selling shoes for companies including Plymouth Shoe, Gold Seal Rubber, Lowell Shoe, Dexter Shoe and was a trailblazer by starting his own shoe manufacturing business out of Mexico. He was a lifetime member of the Two Ten International Footwear Foundation, whose mission is to improve the lives of footwear employees. After retirement, Bert spent his time supporting the success of aspiring young entrepreneurs. As a proud member of the Score Organization, he helped countless businesses to achieve success with his advice and guidance. Bert was the life of the party.   He loved bringing people together through his love of food. As a retiree he went to culinary school, embodying the vigorous passion of youth despite his great age. Although Bert has left very large shoes to fill, there is no doubt that his legacy will live on and flourish through the many loved ones he leaves behind. Services are private. Donations in his memory may be made to: Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Dr. Dennis Selkoe research for Alzheimers), The Good Shephard Community Hospice, 90 Wells Avenue Newton, MA. or the Esther and Mannah Shrago Scholarship Fund, Brandeis University. Office of Development Box 9110, Waltham, MA.

Ruth Entered into rest, peacefully, on March 27. Beloved wife of the late Jacob Shapiro, sister of the late Melvin Cohen and mother of five devoted children: Carol Schiller and her husband, Myles, of New City, New York, Deborah Gordon and her husband, Patrick, of Newton, Ellen Shapiro Brown and her husband, Barry, of Boston, Robert Shapiro and his wife, Julie, of Los Angeles and Elizabeth Shapiro of Natick. Grandmother of twelve loving grandchildren: Gabrielle Schiller and his wife, Daniela, of Los Angeles, Benjamin Schiller and his wife, Caryn, of Needham, Jesse Schiller and his wife, Jolie, of Los Angeles and Elysse Schiller of New York; Zachary Gordon of Newton and Abigail Gordon of Newton; Ethan Brown and his wife, Zoe, of San Francisco, Jenny Brown and her husband, David, of Jamaica Plain; Max Shapiro of Los Angeles, Daniel Shapiro and his wife, Ely, of Chicago; Rachel Becker of Chicago and Jacob Becker of Washington, D.C. Great grandmother of the beloved Zayde, Jacob, Eyla, Mason, Arthur, Boden, Jack and Asher – and many nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends.

A remarkable woman who filled each day of her one hundred and one years with caring and compassion, unbounded energy and a commitment to public causes and democratic ideals. Ruth was a woman far ahead of her time.

Ruth never held back from a cause that was right and just, no matter how challenging. When daughters of immigrants rarely attended college, she determinedly worked her way through Boston University and, afterwards, throughout the Second World War at the Boston Army Base and the USO.

Ruth proudly recalled that her first vote was for Franklin Delano Roosevelt and she remained a lifelong active member of the Democratic Party for over seventy years as a ward representative in Newton and active member of the Democratic State Committee. She advanced policies and platforms that read like a record of her time: women’s rights, minority and civil rights, fair labor practices, energy policy and religious freedom.In our age, she would have broken the barrier for women in public office. As a woman of her time, she nevertheless made sure that her voice was heard.

Ruth’s home was constantly filled with friends, political candidates and people from all walks of life. She was an incredible conversationalist, never shying away from topics or intellectual argument – yet, always respectful to those she engaged. As it was often said, “five minutes with Ruth and she would know your life story”,

Her age never stopped her interest in issues facing our world, in people, her family and in her friends. Up to this moment, she continued her regular attendance at the Boston Ballet, theater and Red Sox games – and she loved a celebration. Ruth’s hundredth birthday was legendary. Steve Grossman, former Massachusetts Treasurer and Chair of the National Democratic Party served as master of ceremonies as Bill and Hillary Clinton, Senator Elizabeth Warren, Senator Ed Markey, Congressman Joe Kennedy and the Mayor of Newton Ruthann Fuller congratulated Ruth. The event went far into the night with no one partying harder than Ruth, herself.

We are so grateful to Ruth for all that she brought to our lives. We cherish the memories of knowing her and being with her, of the ideals she fiercely held and of a life well lived.

In light of present limitations on gatherings, funeral services will be private. Her family looks forward to holding an event honoring Ruth as soon as the present health crisis ends, In Ruth’s honor, the family would appreciate donations in her memory to the Ruth Shapiro Fund, Congregation Mishkan Tefila, Brookline, Massachusetts.