Archive: August, 2016

Joy T. Sharton-Age 85, of Newton and Mashpee, on August 12, 2016. Beloved wife of the late Eric F. Sharton.  Devoted mother of Rick Sharton and his wife Brenda, Bob Sharton, and Jim Sharton and his wife Gretchen. Dear grandmother of Will, Charlie, Ben, Maddie, Drew, Alec, Theo, Chloe, and Phoebe.  Services at The Wilson Chapel, 234 Herrick Road, Newton Centre, on Monday, August 15, 2016 at 11:00 am. Following internment at Baker St. Cemetery, West Roxbury, memorial observance will be at the residence of Rick and Brenda Sharton until 8 pm, and Tuesday from 5-8 pm.  In lieu of flowers remembrances to Doctors Without Borders. P.O. Box 5030, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5030. DoctorsWithoutBorders.org/Donate

Dash- Janet S., of Wayland, on August 12, 2016. Dear daughter of Freda (Glosser) Sinberg and the late Herbert Sinberg. Devoted mother of Adam Dash and Benjamin Dash. Dear grandmother of Lillian Dash, Eleanor Dash, and Jesse Dash. Loving sister of Matthew Sinberg. Services at Temple Shir Tikva, 141 Boston Post Rd., Wayland, on Sunday, August 14, 2016 at 2:00 pm. Following services, family and friends are invited to the Community Room at The Residences, 6 Green Way, Wayland, until 9 pm on Sunday. Remembrances may be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 1500 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 200, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Janet was an avid bridge player and enjoyed water aerobics.

Philip  M. Shir-of Newton, MA, on August 12,2016. Beloved husband of Hope(Schlosberg) Shir. Devoted father of Lois Rohtstein and her husband Steven. Cherished grandfather of Marci Rohtstein. Dear brother of the late Sumner Shir and his surviving wife Ruth. Dear brother in law of Barbara Goldberg and her husband Herbert, the late Joan Weinstein and her surviving husband Robert. Also survived by many loving nieces, great nieces, nephews and great nephews. Services at Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward St., Newton, on Sunday, August 14, 2016 at 11:00 am. Following interment at The Woburn Jewish Cemeteries, 11 Washington St., Woburn, memorial observance  will be at the home of Lois and Steven Rohtstein until 9:00 pm, and will continue Monday thru Thursday 2-4 & 7-9 pm. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Temple Emanuel, Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund.

Harvey Goldberg-of Framingham, on August 3, 2016. At the request of Mr. Goldberg, no services were held. He leaves his wife Doreen and a son Mark.

At 70 years, of Newton, on August 5, 2016. Retired Dietitian and graduate of the University of Rhode Island. Beloved wife of Vincent Nave for 48 years. Devoted mother of Dennie Nave and his wife Kristin. Loving grandmother of Jack and Michael. Dear sister of the late Nancy Harriet. Graveside service at Newton Cemetery, 791 Walnut St., Newton, MA, on Monday, August 8, 2016 at 11:00 am. Donations in her memory may be made to American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 424 East 92^nd St., New York, NY 10128.

Age 89, of Concord, died on August 5, 2016.

She was born in New York City, daughter of the late Florence (Zurich) Greenberg and Charles Greenberg, and was a real New Yorker – raised on the Upper West Side and roller skating down Broadway as a girl. She attended Cornell University and married her first husband, Gerald Miller, shortly after graduating.  In many ways a traditional woman, she enjoyed being married, and she remarried after her first husband’s death, taking such good care of her second husband, David Van Vliet, that he lived to be over 100.   She was a very sweet and lovely person, taking great care to please others.  She loved to travel, including a trip to China shortly after it opened to Americans.  Her wanderlust led to 13 moves up and down many states on the east coast in the last 30 years of her life.

Lila is survived by 2 daughters, Bonnie Miller and Teri (Miller) Piccozzi; son-in-law Angelo Piccozzi; 2 granddaughters, Lila Piccozzi Kneeland and Eva Piccozzi; sisters-in-law Blanche Miller and Millicent Greenberg; and nephews Mark Miller, Steven Miller, Robert Miller, Jonathan Greenberg, and Sanford Greenberg.

Services at Mt. Auburn Cemetery, 580 Mt. Auburn St., Cambridge, Monday, August 8, 2016 at 1:00 pm. Donations in her memory may be made to the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, P.O. Box 901, Wainscott, NY 11975- arfhamptons.org

Mark T. Donohoe-Of Acton, on August 3, 2016. Beloved husband of Ina (Miller) Donohoe. Dear son of the late John and Alice (McHugh) Donohoe. Devoted father of Seth Donohoe and his wife Nicole, and Aaron Donohoe. Loving brother of Jack Donohoe and his wife Chris, Polly Myers and her husband Jim, and the late Bernard Donohoe. Dear brother-in-law of Howard Miller, and Richard Miller and his wife Vicky. Also survived by loving nieces and nephews. Graveside service at Beit Olam – East Cemetery, 42 Concord Rd., (Route 126), Wayland, on Sunday, August 7, 2016, at 11:00 AM. Following service, visiting hours will be held at his residence until 7:00 pm Sunday, and Monday 7-9 pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Trustees of the Reservation, 572 Essex St., Beverly, MA, 01915(www.thetrustees.org)

Morris  Zimond-of  Wellington, FL, formerly of  Boston, August 3, 2016. A graveside service was held on Thursday.

Age 87, of Middleton, MA, passed away surrounded by his friends and family after a brief illness, on Wednesday, August 3.2016. Gene was the cherished husband of the late Dorothy Slotnick Green and devoted son of the late Irving and Sadie Green. He was the loving brother of Barbara Goodman and her husband Sidney of Wellington, FL and loving brother-in-law of Selma Slotnick Lait of Framingham, MA. Gene was from a family of eight children and was predeceased by his beloved siblings Alice Krisel, Lillian Hoffenberg, Selma Shauffer, James Green, Florence Scotch and Robert Green.  He was born in Chelsea on August 27, 1928, and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1946.  He was an affiliate of Buyers and Sellers in Boston as a business broker and later joined his wife, Dotti, in her family’s business, Slotnick Monuments, in Everett until 2003. Dotti and Gene were married on Valentine’s Day in 1968.  She was the love of his life and they were married for 47 years until she predeceased him last September, a loss from which he never fully recovered. Gene’s impeccable style, easy conversation and straight-shooting sense of humor will be sorely missed.  He had the ability to connect with people of all ages and from all walks of life.  In addition to his beloved sister and sister-in-law, he leaves more than 100 nieces and nephews and many friends.  His strong relationships and ability to transcend the generations made him a beloved uncle and family patriarch. Gene stayed in touch with and remained at the center of his loving family, always maintaining the connection between the children and grandchildren of his many brothers and sisters. Service will be graveside at the family cemetery, 232 Fuller Street, Everett, MA, at 11:00 am on Sunday, August 7.2016. Shiva will be immediately following the service only. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or Hadassah – New England, 1320 Centre St., Newton Centre, MA 02459.

SHAFFER- Rose (Fineman), of Needham, formerly of Swampscott, Lynn, and Lawrence, passed away on, August 2, 2016, at the age of 94. She was the daughter of the late Samuel and Pearl (Midkoch/Metcoff) Fineman and was predeceased by her beloved husband Samuel Shaffer as well as by six brothers and sisters (Andrew Fineman, Ann Cohen, Jake Fineman, Charles Fineman, Louis Fineman, and Fay Gruber). She will be sorely missed and is survived by her loving daughters, Paula Schatz and her husband David and her daughter Wendy Shaffer. She was also “Bubbie” to her adored grandchildren Samuel and his wife Michelle Schatz, Jay Schatz, and Nina Schatz. She will also be missed by several nieces, nephews, and friends. Graveside services will be held at Congregation Ahabat Sholom Memorial Park, 16 Buxton Road, Route 114, Danvers, on Wednesday, August 3, 2016 at 11 am. The family will honor Rose by sitting Shiva at the Schatz home on Wednesday 7-9 pm, Thursday 2-4 & 7-9 pm and Friday 2-4 pm. Donations in Rose’s memory may be made to the Williams Syndrome Association, 570 Kirts Boulevard, Suite 223, Troy, Michigan, 48084-4156; https://williams-syndrome.org/.The family also wishes to thank the staffs at Avery Crossing, Briarwood Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, and Care Dimensions Hospice, for the compassionate care and support that Rose received.

age 74, of Ipswich, formerly of Dartmouth, on August 2, 2016. Beloved wife of John “Jack” A. Foley, Sr. Devoted mother of John “Jay” A. Foley, Jr. and his husband James Weare of Valdosta, GA and Stacey L. Heaslip and her husband Derek of Lynnfield. Loving aunt to Shannon L. Kafka and her husband Adam of Jamaica Plain and Meghan A. Peebles of Lynnfield.  Cherished grandmother of Nicholas, Matthew and Timothy Heaslip. Daughter of the late Joseph L. and Antoinette “Toni” (D’Angelo) Haberger. Sister of Joanne Blondiet (Frank), Annette Hughes (James), Maureen Carroll (the late Edward), Margaret Doherty (Paul), Mary Jonas (the late Dennis), Patricia Jonas (Alan), Joseph Haberger, Jr. (Katherine), Susan Coombs (the late Mark), and the late Judy Flynn (the late Thomas). Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Memorial mass in St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Linden Pl. and Harvard St., Brookline, Tuesday, September 6, 2016 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers donations in Carole’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. For online guestbook and directions please visit www.brezniak-staging.fsf6vvja-liquidwebsites.com

Bailin- Shirley J. (Miller), of Needham, on July 29, 2016. Beloved wife of the late Samuel Bailin. Devoted mother of Nancy Lee Careskey (Dr. Josh Careskey), Susan Steinkeler (Dr. Sidney Steinkeler) , and Jayne Bailin (James Kobe). Dear grandmother of Katie Tinsley, Dr. Holly Careskey Armbrust (Dr. Kurt Armbrust), Dr. Matthew Careskey (Siobhan Tellez), Dr. Jill Steinkeler (Dr. Jared Silverstein), Dr. Andrew Steinkeler (Christina Steinkeler), Dr. Jennifer Steinkeler, Julia Kobe and Alex Kobe. Great-grandmother of Kailah Lee, Tegan Tinsley, Chase Tinsley, Jacob Silverstein, and Sophia Steinkeler. Loving sister of the late Bernice Miller and Allen Miller. Graveside services at the Mohliver Cemetery, 776 Baker Street, West Roxbury, on Wednesday, August 3, 2016 at 2:00 pm. Following services memorial observance will be at the home of Dr. Jill Steinkeler and Dr. Jared Silverstein, 4 Sanger Circle, Dover until 7 pm. and at the home of Jayne Bailin and James Kobe, 20 Burr Road, Newton until 8 pm. Remembrances may be made to a charity of your choice.

of Chestnut Hill, an elegant matriarch and a driving force in Boston philanthropy, died peacefully on July 30, 2016 at age 83. A lifelong Bostonian, Susan was raised in Newton, the daughter of the late Sadie G. and Leo Flax. She married her lifelong love, Richard Smith, in 1952. While she was attending Jackson College at Tufts University, they built their family home in Chestnut Hill. She was a devoted daughter, mother and wife; a devotion that would extend into the larger community. During the terminal illness of her 2 year old son, James, (’56 – ’70) she began volunteering as a Candy Striper at Boston Children’s Hospital escorting patients and families to their appointments. She would later dedicate her efforts to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; first as a founding member of Friends of the Dana-Farber, then spearheading a pioneering effort that became the Susan F. Smith Center for Women’s Cancers. As in all her charitable endeavors, she had a hands-on approach committed to research and clinical care. “I am doing this so that one day my grandchildren won’t have to face this disease,” she would often say, long before she would herself succumb to a rare cancer. Susan took great pride in the formation and the work of the Richard and Susan Smith Family Foundation, a leading foundation focused on Greater Boston, with her husband Richard. Together they taught all three generations of their family the art and joy of philanthropic giving. This is Susan’s lasting legacy for her family and community. She particularly enjoyed attending the Boston Symphony with her husband, needle pointing and gardening at her seaside summer home in West Falmouth. Susan is survived by her husband, three children, Amy Smith Berylson and her husband John, Robert Smith and his wife, Dana, and Debra Smith Knez; eight grandchildren, Jennifer Berylson Block and her husband Jonathan, James Berylson, Elizabeth Berylson Katz and her husband Robert, Jessica Knez, Andrew Knez, Madeleine Smith, Ryan Smith and Jackson Smith; five great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Zachary, Alexander, Thomas and Sara; her sister, Carol Flax Frieder and her husband, Sam; seven nieces and nephews; and her sister-in-law Nancy Lurie Marks. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Susan F. Smith Center for Women’s Cancers, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline, Avenue, Boston, MA 02215. A private graveside funeral will be held. Shiva visiting hours at her home in Chestnut Hill on Wednesday, August 3, 2016 from 4-7 pm and Thursday, August 4, 2016 from 2-5 pm.

Libman, Herman “Herm”, of Northborough, on July 30, 2016. Beloved husband of Barbara (Greenfield) Libman. Devoted father of Steven Libman and Carol Killworth, Scott and Angela Libman, Lori and Angie Wilen, Adam and Michelle Wilen, and Joshua and Sarah Wilen. Cherished grandfather of Tracy, Andy, Elise, Aaron, Abigail, Kayla, Lesley, Asa, Max, Sydney, and Easton. Loving great-grandfather of Aidan and Emery. Dear brother of the late Shirley Gallagher. Services at Beit Olam – East Cemetery, 42 Concord Rd., Wayland, Monday, August 1, 2016 at 2:00 pm. Memorial week at the home of Adam and Michelle Wilen. Donations in his memory may be made to Temple Beth Sholom, 50 Pamela Rd., Framingham, MA 01701 or the American Heart Association, 300 5^th Ave., Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451.

of Concord, on July 29, 2016. Beloved wife of Jerold Fleishman. Devoted mother of Rebecca Carlson and her husband Kyle. Cherished grandmother of Gabe. Dear daughter-in-law of Edward and the late Edythe Fleishman and sister-in-law of Penny Davidson and Ellen Fleishman. Services at the Wilson Chapel, 234 Herrick Rd., Newton Centre, Monday, August 1, 2016 at 12:00 noon. Memorial observance at her residence Monday following the service until 3:30 pm and 6:30-8:30 pm. Donations in her memory may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.

Joan Moro, of Framingham, age 69, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2016 after bravely fighting chronic health issues for years.

She was the daughter of the late Dr. Walter Levy and Ilse (Kugelmann) Levy and was raised in Kingston, New York. She attended the Kingston public schools and graduated from Ulster County Community College where she majored in nursing and became a licensed RN.

She was an accomplished flutist and played in her high school band and orchestra. She enjoyed listening to classical music. She was very creative in home decorations, floral arrangements and other crafts projects. While her children were in elementary school, she volunteered as a librarian.

Throughout her illness, she always put on a brave face. She did a great job keeping life as normal as possible while raising her two children. She was an amazing mother who was always there for her kids in a loving and caring way. She enjoyed holidays with family and made each one special with her carefully prepared home cooked meals.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Steve, and their children, Amy and husband Brad Gaynor, and Russ and wife Jenn Moro. She was the adoring Grammy of Kayla and Ryan Moro and Jacoby and Mandi Gaynor. And she will be missed by her furry friend Mitzy.

Graveside services will be private. Memorial observance will be at her Framingham residence on Tuesday from 3-6 pm and Wednesday from 4-7 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Scleroderma Foundation,  300 Rosewood Dr #105, Danvers, MA 01923 or the charity of your choice.

age 90, of Newton, formerly of Natick and Bourne, passed away peacefully on July 22, surrounded by her loving family. For 47 years she was the beloved wife of the late Irving Clott. Loving mother of Doug Clott and his wife Melinda Roman of Newton, MA and Deb Clott and her husband Tony Romanoski of Newton, NH. Grandmother of Andrew, Allison, and Emily Clott, Julia Roman, and Rebecca Romanoski. Dear sister of the late Arnold Chaitman and Pearl Freeman. A private family graveside service will be held followed by a memorial observance at the home of Doug and Melinda on Monday from 4:00 – 8:00 pm and Tuesday from 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in her name to the Newton Senior Center, 345 Walnut Street, Newtonville, MA 02460.

Services will be private

of Newton, passed away from Alzheimer’s Disease with family members by her side Wednesday evening, July 20, 2016. She was 87.

She was born Marcia Naomi Lubets on December 23, 1928 to Lillian and Robert Lubets. Marcia and her younger brother, the late Richard Lubets, were raised in Brookline and Newton.  She attended Goucher College in Towson, Maryland, where she studied philosophy. In Baltimore, she met her husband of 60 years, Manfred (Goldberg) Goodwin, who passed away in 2011.  in 1964, she and Manfred found their dream home in Newton, where she resided until moving into assisted living six years ago.

Family was the center of Marcia’s life. She and Manfred took great pride in their five children, Amy, Karen, Julie, Laura, and Robert. Marcia’s nine grandchildren, fondly recall Grammie/Gramma’s “huge energy.” For Marcia, family life was not complete without family celebrations and she was known as an accomplished hostess. She also loved to dance, keeping time to music on the dance floor until only recently when her health declined. Marcia was also a successful realtor,  at one time running her own business. She found houses fascinating, and, more important, drew satisfaction from making her clients happy.  Even in retirement, she received numerous calls from former clients asking for her advice.  Marcia was a “doer,” and an engaged community member, who volunteered for Meals on Wheels, among other activities. With remarkable physical health and strength, she maintained her endearing personality and famous energy until only recently. Marcia spent the last six years comfortably cared for by beloved caregivers and by her children, who will miss her but remember her spark. She was one of a kind who touched many lives.

Services at Wilson Chapel, 234 Herrick Rd., Newton Centre, Sunday, July 24, 2016, at 11:30 am. Burial will be private. Memorial observance will be at the home of Laura and Tod Woolf on Sunday from 4-8 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, 57 West 57th St., Suite 904, NY, NY 10019 – www.alzdiscovery.org

Ralph Jacobson- Of Framingham, formerly of Boynton Beach, FL, on July 18, 2016.Beloved husband of the late Roslyn (Myers) Jacobson. Devoted Stepfather of Sheri Drogin and her husband Ronald.Dear grandfather of Whitney Leigh Shopnick and William Evan Shopnick. Graveside service at Roxbury Mutual Cemetery, 19 Washington St., Woburn,on Wednesday July 20, 2016at 11:00 am.Following service, memorial observance at the home of Sheri and Ronald Drogin until 9:00pm and Thursday 7-9pm.In lieu of flowers remembrances to,Jimmy Fund,10 Brookline Place West, 6th Flr, Brookline, MA 02445 or Jewish National Fund, 77 Franklin St, Boston, MA 02110.Ralph was associated for 42 years with Louis Clothing, Veteran of WWII.

Caplan- Anne (Miller), age 105, of Sharon, formerly of Brookline, on July 17, 2016. Beloved wife of the late Louis Caplan. Devoted mother of Phyllis Braverman (Curt) of Sharon. Loving sister of the late Esther Rosenberger, Beatrice Nueman, and Frank Miller. Dear grandmother of Dana Braverman of Brookline, and Robert Braverman of Falmouth. Aunt of Howard Rosenberger (Sandra), Donald Rosenberger (Rhonda), Alan Nueman (Linda), Elliot Nueman (Theresa), Marvin Caplan and Sidney Caplan. Loving great aunt to many. Services in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, on Thursday, July 21, 2016 at 12 Noon. Remembrances may be made to Temple Ohabei Shalom, 1187 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA 02446.

of Brookline, on July 16, 2016. Beloved wife of the late Werner I. Frank. Devoted mother of Richard Frank and his wife Elizabeth Salmon Frank of Lexington, and Gerard Frank of Lexington. Loving grandmother of Michael and Peter Frank. Dear sister of Jean-Claude Salomon and the late Andre Salomon. Services at Wilson Chapel, 234 Herrick Rd., Newton, Tuesday, July 19, 2016 at 11 am. Memorial observance at her residence, 80 Park St., Apt. 45, Brookline, Tuesday 1:00 – 3:30 pm and 5:30-8:00 pm. Donations in her memory may be made to the Holocaust Memorial Museum, 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW, Washington, DC 20024.

Of South Natick, passed away July 16, 2016. Cherished husband of Roberta “Bobbi” (Lerner) Fisher. Loving father of Mark and Pam Fisher and David Fisher. Adoring grandfather of Sara Fisher and Andrew Fisher. Beloved son of the late Jack and Rose Fisher. Beloved son-in-law of the late A.I. “Bill” and Mildred Lerner. Devoted brother of Joyce and Paul Yaffe and devoted brother-in-law of Fred and Carol Lerner and Debbi and Jerry Sack. Fred earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Civil Engineering from MIT and enjoyed a lifelong career in building and construction. Services at the Wilson Chapel, 234 Herrick Rd., Newton, MA, Monday, July 18, 2016 at 2:00 pm. Following interment in the Or Emet Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, memorial observance will be held at the home of Mark and Pam Fisher, Monday until 9 pm and Tuesday and Wednesday, 2-4 & 7-9 pm. Donations in his memory may be made to the Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston, 333 Nahanton St., Newton Centre, MA 02459

Melvin Kaster-formerly of Lexington and Waltham, on July 14, 2016. Devoted son of the late Goldie (Fegelman) and David Kaster. Beloved husband of the late Ruth (Galen) Kaster. Dear brother of Leonard Kaster and his wife Ronnie. Dear uncle of Dr. Bruce Kaster and his wife Madelon, David and his wife Myra, and Robin Sue and her husband Gino .Loving great uncle of Josh, Sydney, Evan, Leah, Danielle, Mitchell, Alex and Amanda. Graveside service at The Custom Tailors Cemetery,776 Baker St.,West Roxbury, on Sunday, July 17, 2016 at 1:00 pm.

Of Chestnut Hill, formerly of Needham, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2016 at the age of 86. Beloved husband of Carole Goldenthal Aronson and sons Stephen (Andrea) of Westfield, NJ, Daniel (Martha) of Minneapolis MN and the late David. Adored Papa Phil to Michael, Alexandra, Julianne, Sam, Robbie and Max, and brother to Lois Lopatin of Worcester. Born in Boston, MA, to Samuel Shimer Aronson and Mildred Aronson, Phil graduated from Phillips Andover, 1948, Yale University, 1952, and Babson Graduate School, 1956.  Phil trained at OCS in Newport RI and served in the US Navy from 1953-1956 as a supply officer. Phil spent his professional life in the financial services industry telling his clients that if they followed his advice, they might be bored but they would never go broke.  Loved golf, visiting casinos with friends, following the Red Sox, playing bridge, and being with his family and friends. His great sense of humor, easy going manner and sound advice will forever be remembered by those close to him. Services will be held on Monday, July 18, 2016, 11:00 am at Wilson Chapel, 234 Herrick Rd., Newton, followed by interment at Sharon Memorial Park.  Following burial, the family will gather at 280 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill until 7:00 pm, and will continue Tuesday through Thursday 7-9 pm. Donations in Phil’s memory may be made to Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave., Needham, MA 02494; Phillips Academy, 180 Main St., Andover, MA 01810; The National Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE First St., Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131, or to a charity of your choice.

Leon Rothenberg, of Newton Highlands, MA died suddenly, but with family by his side on July 13, 2016.  He was born on February 18, 1940 in Boston, the second son of two 1st generation Jewish immigrants from the Ukraine, Rose Mezikofsky Rothenberg and Morris Rothenberg.

Leon grew up in Roxbury and Brighton. He was a member of the Boston Latin High School Class of 1956, Hebrew Teachers College Class of 1956, and Harvard College Class of 1960.

Leon had strong ties to Camp Yavneh (as a camper) and Camp Bauercrest (as a counselor, camp rabbi and Color War Captain).  He married his beloved wife Judy Rothenberg (née Rosen) on June 30, 1963.

Leon’s professional career morphed through three stages – he was a system manager at ADP, Executive Director at Temple Israel, and for nearly the past two decades found his true vocation as a tax accountant with Raphael and Raphael LLP (where he continued to work).  He took great pride in his ability to engage in a personal “metamorphosis” (in his words) as he changed careers; in addition he enjoyed applying his greatest ability – to systematically take on – and solve the most complex business problems.

Leon loved exercising his brain and photographic memory through playing poker, handicapping the horses, trading stocks and doing as many daily crossword and KenKen puzzles he could get his hands on (in paper form!).  It was his unique form of exercise.

Leon had a soft spot for many charities and always donated more than he was asked.  His political view was first and foremost to be a humanist, with a particular focus on those in need.  For Leon being dependable was an understatement- his friends and family always counted on him, especially in times of trouble or need.

He also loved to complain about the Red Sox, and even amid the rare extended winning streak, he would find faults. He lived and played in the Boston area his entire life, which also included the unincorporated areas of Suffolk Downs, Foxboro Raceway, Lincoln Downs and Rockingham Park.

Most of all he loved his grandchildren: Owen, Olivia and Gracie.

Leon is survived by beloved wife of 53 years, Judy; sons and daughters-in-laws: Steve and Kimberly Hannon of Hopkinton, NH, and Mike and Rachel of Valley Village, CA; brothers and sisters-in-laws: Eugene and Judie of Rumson, NJ, and Stanley and Carol of Waterford, ME; three grandchildren; and five nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave., Boston (parking on the Riverway) on Sunday, July 17, 2016 at 10:00 am. Following the interment at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, the family will sit Shiva at their home in Newton until 8:00 pm, and will continue Monday and Tuesday from 2-8 pm. In lieu of flowers remembrances  in Leon’s honor can be made to the Mayhew Program, P.O. Box 120, Bristol, NH 03222 www.mayhew.org

Of Waban, on July 13, 2016. Devoted son of the late Attorney Quincy I. and Sally (Laskoff) Abrams. Devoted brother of Helen Holzwasser of Waban, Stefan Abrams of NYC, and the late Barbara Feldman of Los Angeles, CA. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Services at the Sharon Memorial Park Chapel, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, on Sunday, July 17, 2016 at 10:00 am. Memorial observance at the home of Helen Holzwasser on Sunday until 4:00 pm. Remembrances may be made to Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St., Boston, MA 02114 or to a charity of one’s choice.

“In battle, in forest, at the precipice in the mountains,

On the dark great sea, in the midst of javelins and arrows

In sleep, in confusion, in the depths of shame,

The good deeds a man has done before defend him.”

J Robert Oppenheimer, translated from the Bhagavad Gita

Lee Polisner, loved father of Carol and Jill Polisner-Kruljac, revered grandfather of Annabel, Alex and Vance, adored father- in-law of Mike Kruljac, passed on July 7, 2016, just shy of his 94^th birthday. Janice Polisner, his wife of 64 years, died in 2012.Born in Brighton, Massachusetts, Lee attended Boston Latin, Boston University and received an MBA from The Harvard Business School in 1949. He served as a 2^nd lieutenant during WWII, was a debating champion during his university days, a Scarlet Key recipient, Honor Society member, Eagle Scout, and long distance runner. His infectious smile, great sense of humor and grounded advice will be ever present in the hearts of his family. A graveside service will be held on Sunday, July 17, 2016, at 12:45 pm at Sharon Memorial  Park, 40 Dedham Street,  Sharon, Massachusetts. Following interment the family will be at 4 Sterling Lane, Walpole, Massachusettes.

of Pompano Beach, FL, on July 9, 2016. Father of Carol Beane and her husband Martin of Westwood, MA, Connie Cyprian and her husband Tony of Fountain, CO, and Adam Saftler of Pompano Beach, FL. Former husband of Diana Saftler of Orlando, FL. Grandfather of Kaitlyn, Jacob, Andrew, Samuel, and Mason. Brother of Scott Saftler and his wife Marilyn of Walnut Creek, CA. Graveside services at Plymouth Rock Cemetery, 1000 Pearl St., Brockton, MA Wednesday, July 13, 2016 at 11:30 am. Memorial observance at the residence of Carol and Martin Beane, 52 Strasser Ave, Westwood MA, Wednesday through Friday 3-7 pm. Donations in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.

Alan G. Zuker, of Chestnut Hill, MA, on July 8,2016. Beloved husband of the late Ruth V. (Kahn) Zuker. Devoted father of Edward Zuker and his wife Judi, Debrah Gladstone and her husband Mark, Sandra Taylor, Harry Zuker and his wife Tamra and the late Michael Zuker and his surviving wife Susan. Dear father-in-law of the late Linda Zuker. Beloved grandfather of Danyel Rodgers and her husband Chris, Stephen Gladstone and his wife Melissa, Robert Zuker and his wife Molly, Matthew Zuker and his wife Andrea, Lauren Siff and her husband Eden, Jonathan Zuker, Shira Gladstone, Robert Taylor, Lisa Taylor, Samuel Zuker, Andrew Zuker, Abigail Goodman and her husband Marc, Alison Benton and her husband Ian, and Franklin Ross. Dear great-grandfather of Perry, Tyler and Zachary Rogers, Raelyn, Alexis and Micah Gladstone, Charlie, Lucy and Rosie Zuker, Halle, David and Michael Zuker, Harley, Judah and Cohen Siff, Eliza Zuker, Rebecca,Hannah and Esme Goodman, and Richard and Madeline Benton. Loving brother of Selma Freed, Natly Gordon, Joan Berenson and the late Roberta Zuker. Services at Temple Beth Avodah, 45 Puddingstone Lane, Newton, on Sunday, July 10, 2016 at 2:00 pm. Following interment at Beth El Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, memorial observance will be held in the function room at Hampton Place, 77 Florence St., Newton until 9 pm, continuing Monday and Tuesday 4-6 pm and 7-9 pm. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Conquer Cancer Coalition of Massachusetts, PO Box 973, Framingham, MA 01701(conquercancer.org), or Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, 34 Washington St.,Wellesley, MA 02481(curealz.org). Alan served as an MP in General Patton’s Army and because of his fluency in Yiddish was asked to be one of the first to liberate the Dachau concentration camp.

 
Philip N. Dine-of Wellesley, MA, on July 3, 2016.Beloved husband of Yvette “Sis” Dine for 72 years. Devoted father of Susan Davis, Harry Dine and his wife Sandy, and Robert Dine. Cherished grandfather of Olivia and Nicky Dine. Dear brother of the late Helen Harris and Barbara Kane. Devoted brother-in-law of Alan Goldstein and his wife Vivian. Service and memorial observance will be private. In lieu of flowers remembrances to The Jimmy Fund, 10 Brookline Place West, 6th floor, Brookline, MA 02445 jimmyfund.org.

BERGER- Edward M. of Canton, formerly of Sharon, on June 30, 2016. Born in 1924 to Max and Jennie Berger. He is survived by his wife, Dorris Reeves Berger, his children: Marci Berger Nemhauser and husband Robert, Stephen Berger and wife Patricia Russell Berger, and Barbara Berger Jackson and husband Berne, his grandchildren: Jennifer Nemhauser and husband Matt, Brian Nemhauser and wife Rachel, Seth Berger and wife Heather, Jenessa Berger, Catherine Jackson and his Great-Grandchildren Isaac Nemhauser, Nathaniel Nemhauser, Russell Berger and Cora Berger. Ed was the brother of the late Milton Berger, Blanche Berenberg, and Irene Garber. Edward graduated from Sharon High School in 1942. He entered Harvard College in 1942 but left to join the Army Air Force after his freshman year. He served as a Second Lieutenant as a  navigator on B-17 aircrafts. Following the war, he returned to Harvard and graduated in 1947. Following his graduation, Ed went to work for the family business, a food manufacturing company. “ My father was my mentor and my friend during all those years.” The company was sold in 1966 and he stayed on as the plant manager until 1974. Over the next eighteen years, Ed did consulting but mainly focused on his garden, his tennis game, Dorris and his many charities. He was a driving force in the creation of the Striar Jewish Community Center. He served as the co-chair of the original capital campaign to build the center and served as its first President. He was also active in Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) and is a former vice chair of the annual campaign. Ed also served his community of Sharon, MA where he was elected to the School Committee and Sharon Finance Committee. He was also a founding member of Sharon’s Friends of the Sharon Council on Aging. He is lovingly remembered by his family as well as all of his nieces and nephews and friends. His willingness to help people and to be involved in his community were hallmarks of his kind and special nature. He always had a ready smile, especially if you were talking with him about his beloved Red Sox or Patriots or Celtics! Friends knew not to call during a game! He loved the garden that his parents had started and that he continued. He and Dorris could be found out there weeding, watering and replanting. They found enjoyment in this shared endeavor. Once he and Dorris moved to Orchard Cove in Canton, he took special delight in hearing about and being with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Thanksgiving was a special family time where everyone gathered to celebrate together. Each child and grandchild and great grandchild has loving memories of being with Ed and Dorris. He will be deeply missed. Graveside services at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, on Tuesday, July 5, 2016 at 10:45 am (please gather at the Administration Building). Following services, family and friends are invited to Orchard Cove, 1 Del Pond Drive, Canton. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Temple Israel, 125 Pond Street, Sharon, MA  02067 or Friends of the Sharon Council on Aging, 219 Massapoag Ave., Sharon, MA  02067.

Bigman- Seymour B. (Sy), Of Needham, passed on to eternal rest on June 28, 2016, joining his beloved wife of 60 years, Evelyn. Sy was a graduate of New York University and of the School of Veterinary Medicine of Middlesex University in Waltham. He was also an honorary alumnus of Brandeis University and the Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine. He leaves behind a loving family, his children Arna and Alan Margolies, Alison and Jay Bigman, former daughter-in-law Lisa Ratcliff. His grandchildren Riva Margolies, Matthew Bigman and his wife Maile and Grant Bigman. His step-grandchildren Sean and Isabelle. Also his sister Phyllis Kerr and her husband Marvin of Lakewood, NJ, and nephew Dr. Brian Kerr and his wife Ruth of Toms River, NJ and nieces Debra Kerr and Laura and her husband Dr. Jeremy Price. Also, dear friend Greta Caplan of Newton, MA. Dr. Bigman was born in Brooklyn, NY on May 12, 1924. He graduated Thomas Jefferson H.S. in May 1940. He attended New York University until May 1943. He attended the School of Veterinary Medicine of Middlesex University in Waltham until May 1946 when he received his D.V.M. degree. He then returned to N.Y.U. and received his B.A. degree with majors in Biology and History. Dr. Bigman worked for the U.S. Dept of Agriculture. He worked for E.R. Squibb & Sons in their Veterinary Division. He worked for the Ethical Veterinary Supply Co.  He became National Sales Manager of the Atlas Diet Division of Laddie Boy Dog Food. He worked for the Arista Surgical Supply Co. Founded Arjay Medi-Surg Co. in 1967 and closed the company when he purchased the Kindness Animal Hospital in Waltham, MA. Dr. Bigman practiced small animal medicine from 1971 – 2003. While in practice he was a veterinary consultant for the McLean Hospital in Belmont, supervising the health and welfare of all the laboratory animals for 8 years. He remained on the I.A.C.U.C. committee for 2 more years. Dr. Bigman held memberships in the American Public Health Association, British Society of Public Health, N.J. Veterinary Medical Association, MA Veterinary Medical Association, the New England V.M.A. of which he is a Past President, an Honor Roll Gold Card member of the American Veterinary Medical Association. In addition to his professional memberships, he is a Past President of the Merrimack Lhasa Apso Club, a member of the American Lhasa Apso Club, and a Past President of the Pets and People Foundation. Dr. Bigman was a member of the Waltham Board of Health for 25 years – Vice Chair 6 years and Chair 15 years. Inspector of Animals for the City of Newton for 22 years. A resident of Needham since 1989 he became active in town activities after he retired from his Veterinary practice in Waltham. Dr.Bigman was appointed a member of the Local Emergency Planning Committee. He was a member of the Needham Volunteer Medical Corps. At the state level, he was a member of the State of Massachusetts Animal Response Team, and on the Board of the M.V.M.A. Charities. Dr. Bigman was largely responsible for the S.M.A.R.T. program to distribute oxygen masks statewide to the local fire departments and rescue teams to aid in animal rescues.  In May 2011 Dr. Bigman was awarded the “Distinguished Service Award” for exemplary service and dedication to the veterinary profession by the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association.  In the spring of 2015 Dr. Bigman was made an Honorary Member of the Ladies’ Dog Club for his friendship to the club and his many years as their show veterinarian. Services at Wilson Chapel, 234 Herrick Road, Newton Centre, on Thursday, June 30, 2016 at 10:30 am. Following interment at Beth Israel Memorial Park, Waltham, memorial observance will be at the home of Arna and Alan Margolies on Thursday until 9 pm, Friday 1-4 pm, and Sunday 1-5 pm. Donations in his memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association , Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, Grafton, MA; or Brandeis Development Dept., Brandeis University, Waltham, MA.

Lutch- Roselyn (Liberman), of Tamarac, FL, on June 25, 2016. Beloved wife of the late Bernard Lutch. Devoted mother of Jeffrey Lutch and the late Brian Lutch. Dear grandmother of Joseph Lutch. Graveside services at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St. Sharon, on Wednesday, June 29, 2016 at 10:45 am.

Cohn- Susan L. (Alpert), of Wayland, formerly of Somerset, on June 26, 2016. Beloved wife of Lewis J. Cohn. Dear daughter of Fay Alpert (Louison) and the late Bennett Alpert. Devoted mother of Stephanie, Haley and Harris. Loving sister of Richard and Jillian Alpert. Daughter- In- Law of Dorothy (Zura) Cohn and the late Richard W. Cohn. Sister- in- law of Audrey Shuman. Aunt of Seth, Samantha and Ashley. Services at Temple Emanuel , 385 Ward Street, Newton, on Wednesday, June 29, 2016 at 12 Noon. Following interment at Beit Olam East Cemetery, Wayland, memorial observance will be at her residence on Wednesday until 9 pm, Thursday 1-4 & 7-9 pm, Friday 1-4 pm. Remembrances may be made to Susan Cohn’s Giving Page, C/O Susan Korsmeyer, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 10 Brookline Place West, Brookline, MA 02445.

Peggy (Bickimer) Bell – Of Wellesley, on June 21, 2016. Beloved wife of Edward Bell. Dear daughter of Marjorie Bickimer and the late Charles Bickimer. Devoted mother of Julian Bell. Dear sister of Kathy and Patti Bickimer. Dearest Auntie to Adam and Eric Nesto and Caitlin, Andrew, and James Guthlein. Memorial service at Temple Beth Elohim, 10 Bethel Rd., Wellesley, on Wednesday, June 29, 2016 at 1:30pm. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Jewish Family and Children’s Service, Inc., c/o Disability Lifespan Solutions, 1430 Main St., Waltham, MA  02451.

Aaron Fleischer-of Weston, MA, on June 21, 2016.Beloved husband of Lois (Bloom) Fleischer. Devoted father of Andrew Fleischer and his wife Lauren, Daniel Fleischer and his wife Valerie, Elizabeth Rodman and her husband Craig, and the late Gary Fleischer and his late wife Jennifer. Dear grandfather of Jill Henley, Douglas, Alison, Jayme, Robyn Adelman, Joseph, Jordan. Loving great grandfather of Jaelyn and Avery Adelman. Dear brother of David Fleischer. Services are private. Memorial observance at Harnish House,Village Road, Weston, from  3-5 & 7-9 pm on Thursday, June 23, 2016. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to a charity of your choice.

Of Brookline, on June 21, 2016. Survived by his beloved wife, Sheila Landay and by his devoted children, Audrey Beitzel of Clearwater, FL, James Landay and his wife Denise of St. Petersburg, FL, Lori Landay and her husband Richard Cownie of Brookline, Jonathan Landay of Brookline and Venice Beach, CA, and Douglas Landay of Phoenix, AZ. He was the proud and loving grandfather of Scott, Alison, Maggie, Sammy, Jason, Jacob and Elizabeth. He is also survived by his younger brothers, Roger and his wife Myrna of Jupiter, FL, and David and his wife Naomi of Sarasota, FL.  Born to Martin and Mildred Landay on October 14, 1932, he was raised in Brookline. He graduated from Tilton Academy in 1950 and Colby College in 1954, and served in the U.S. Army Intelligence from 1956-1958.  He was an avid runner who finished the Boston Marathon.  He was active in the community, including serving as President of the Brotherhood of Temple Beth Shalom in Needham, was on the board of The Home for Little Wanderers, and was a Mason.  After a private service, Shiva will be at his residence on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday from 5-7 pm.  Memorial contributions may be made to The Home for Little Wanderers, 10 Guest Street, Boston, MA 02135.

of Fall River, formerly of Brockton on June 20, 2016. Dear daughter of the late Frances and Irving Nitenson. Beloved wife of the late Saul Goisman. Devoted mother of Jerri Goisman and son-in-law Sonny and the late Barry Goisman. Loving grandmother of Holly Lynn, James and Rachel. Cherished great-grandmother of Aiden, Ethan and Evelyn Rose. Dear sister of the late Sumner Nitenson and his wife Elaine Nitenson. She is also predeceased by her lifelong friend Arline Davis.

Rena was active as a choreographer and dance teacher for many years in the South Area Jewish Community Center and the Striar Jewish Community Center in Stoughton, where she chaperoned senior trips. Throughout the years she enjoyed volunteering her time at the YM&YWHA, as well as the Brockton VA Hospital. As a member of the council on aging, in Brockton, Rena stayed active in the community. Rena was a great poet and delighted in knitting and crocheting, as well as cooking and baking for family and friends.

Graveside service at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, on Thursday, June 23, 2016 at 10:45 am. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to National Stroke Association, 9707 East Easter Lane, Suite B, Centennial, CO 80112.

Joan Ellen Josephson- Beloved wife of Dr. Mark Josephson for 48 years; devoted mother of Rachel and Stephanie, and adoring “Grammy” to Sylvie, Elan, and Sydney, died after a courageous battle with cancer on June 17, 2016 at the age of 72. With a BA from Penn State and an EdM from Columbia, she devoted her life to helping others. She was a teacher, advisor, and long term volunteer: at the Ronald McDonald House, as a leader of the surgical liaison service, and a member of the Parent Connection at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and a tutor for Read Boston. With a style of understated elegance and a motto to “always to do the right thing”, she was inspirational to all who came into contact with her. The world is a better place because of her.

Michael Plotkin-on June 17, 2016. A private service for Michael Plotkin will be held at Temple Israel, Boston. For further information please contact a member of the Plotkin family.

Of Randolph, on June 15, 2016. Beloved wife of the late Harry Hackel. Devoted mother of Victor A. Hackel and Kenneth C. Hackel (Jan). Loving grandmother of Nikki, Arielle, and Sean. Dear sister of Elliot Levine (Natalie). Also loved by Jan’s children and grandchildren, and many extended family members. Service at Vilno Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, Sunday, June 19, 2016 at 11:00 am. Memorial observance at the home of Kenneth and Jan Hackel on Sunday from 2-7 pm and at Shirley’s late residence on Monday 2-4 pm. Donations may be made to a charity of choice.

Of Sudbury, on June 14, 2016. Beloved husband of Myra (Finn) Miller. Devoted father of Elianna, Lora, and Nadine. Dear brother of Wendy Hertz, Joan Silvers, and Nancy Rau. Services at Cong. B’Nai Torah, 225 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury, Wednesday, June 15, 2016 at 10:00 am. Following interment at Baker St., West Roxbury, memorial observance will be held at the Miller home on Wednesday and Thursday until 8 pm and Friday until 5 pm. Donations may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or BONES – (Beagles of New England States),  P.O. Box 1510, New Boston, NH 03070.

Sophia Fleishman-of Needham, on June 14, 2016, at age 102.Beloved wife of the late Saul Fleishman and Hyman Needle. Devoted mother of Stephen Needle and his wife Terri and the late Lorelei Geller and her surviving husband Herbert. Also survived by stepsons Howard, Arthur and Jerry Fleishman. Dear grandmother of Pamela Shuman, James Needle, Harley Needle, Valerie Ahern and the late Scott Geller. She also leaves 10 step grandchildren. Dear great- grandmother of 9, and step great- grandmother 0f 15. Graveside service at Roxbury Mutual Society Cemetery,10 Washington St., Woburn, on Wednesday, June 15, 2016 at 2:00pm.Memorial observance at her residence on Thursday, June 16,2016 from  5-9pm.In lieu of flowers remembrances in her memory may be made to The National Kidney Foundation, 85 Astor Ave., Suite 2,Norwood, MA 02062,or Chabad House Jewish Center,34 Cedar St., Milford, MA 01757  www.gotchabad.com.

On June 11, 2016, of Newton. Survived by her beloved husband of 71 years, Rabbi Reuben M. Katz and by her devoted children Devi Stern and her husband Martin Stern of Chicago, Naomi Katz Mintz and her husband Rabbi Lewis Mintz of Acton, and Jonathan Katz and his wife Norah Wylie of Newton. She was the proud and loving grandmother of Sarah and Rachel Stern, David Mintz, and Rebecca, Daniel, and Michael Katz, and the ecstatic great grandmother of Ella Smith and Nadav Mintz. Also survived by numerous loving nieces and nephews. Mrs. Katz previously lived in Freeport, NY and was a gifted teacher in the Baldwin School District for more than 25 years.  Services at Temple Emanuel, 365 Ward St., Newton, MA at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, June 14, followed by calling hours during Shiva from 5-7:30 PM on Tuesday and continuing 5:30-7:30 PM Thursday, June 16^th at Cabot Park Village, 280 Newtonville Ave, Newton MA. Shiva observance will continue on Sunday at the Mintz home in Acton, 4:30-8:30 PM.

of Lexington, on June 10, 2016. Wife of Sam Silverman, with whom she shared a passion for the intellectual life, a commitment to Judaism, and a determination to grow and learn together over their 50 year marriage. She raised five children: Ann, Bill, Nancy (Ariel), Gila, and Aaron (Debra), and was the proud grandmother of nine: Zohar (Kelly), Maya, Inbal, Eran, Malia, Koby, Silvia, Miriam and Isaac. Sister of Sondra Patraker; aunt, cousin, friend, and colleague of many.

Phyllis was a qualitative researcher, writer, and teacher, best known for her contributions to the study of bereavement, and in particular, children’s grief. She was a knitter, a swimmer, a lover of all things red, hostess of dinner parties and holiday feasts, maker of chicken soup and apple pie.

Born to Joseph and Rose Rolfe, on July 10, 1927, she was raised in Queens, New York. She graduated from Brooklyn College in 1948, and spent 1949-50 in the newly-established state of Israel, working with refugees. She received Master’s degrees from the Smith College School of Social Work and the Harvard School of Public Health, and a PhD from the Heller School at Brandeis University.

Beginning in the late 1960’s, her research explored the needs of the widowed, and served as the basis for the development of many mutual help programs for the bereaved. She later conducted research with birthmothers and widowers, and was the Co-Principal Investigator and Project Director of the Harvard/MGH Child Bereavement Study, a longitudinal prospective study of the impact of the death of a parent on school age children. She taught for over 20 years at the MGH Institute of Health Professions and was subsequently a Scholar in Residence at the Women’s Studies Research Center at Brandeis University. She spent the 1993-94 academic year at the School of Social Work at Haifa University in Israel, as a Senior Research Fulbright Fellow, and was the 1998 Scholar-in-Residence at Mandelbaum House, the University of Sydney, Australia. She was one of the founders of the Children’s Room, in Arlington, MA, which provides caring support for grieving children, teens, and families.

Phyllis was a passionate advocate for the view that bereavement is a normal life cycle transition, and not an illness to be medicalized. Her research and teaching influenced a generation of researchers and practitioners, by demonstrating that mourning was not about moving on or getting over the loss, but about finding a new sense of self, that incorporates a continuing bond with the deceased into a new life that we build without them. She was also one of the first scholars to explore gender differences in grief, and to take a developmental approach to the grief of children.

Her many publications include the books: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Grieving Children (with Madelyn Kelly); Never Too Young to Know: Death in Children’s Lives; Continuing Bonds: New Understandings of Grief (with Dennis Klass and Steven Nickman); Living with Dying (with Joan Berzoff); Widow to Widow: How the Bereaved Help Each Other; Helping Women Cope with Grief; and Widower: When Men are Left Alone (with Scott Campbell).

Phyllis received many awards for her work, including Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Association for Death Education and Counseling, and the Israeli International Center for the Study of Loss, Bereavement, and Human Resilience; the Herman Feifel Award for Achievement in Thanatology from the International Work Group on Death, Dying and Bereavement; the Day-Garrett Award from Smith College School of Social Work; the President’s Medal and the Second Harvest Award, both from Brooklyn College; and the National Center for Death Education Award from Mt. Ida College.

Services at Temple Emunah, 9 Piper Rd., Lexington, on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at 10:00 AM.  Interment will be in Beit Olam – East Cemetery, Wayland.

Minyanim at the Silverman residence will be held Tuesday at 7:45 pm, Wednesday and Thursday at 8 am and 7:45 pm, Friday at 8 am, Sunday at 9 am and 7:45 pm, and Monday at 8 am. The house is open to visitors between the services.

Memorial contributions can be made to The Children’s Room, 1210 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA 02476

Michael Wayne Peisel, fondly known to many as “Miko”, 58, of Provincetown, formerly of Dedham and Boston, passed away peacefully at his home on June 10, 2016 from natural causes. He struggled for many years to maintain his sobriety while working tirelessly to help others along the road of recovery.

Born in Portland, ME, beloved son of the late Muriel (Bernier) Peisel, he was raised in a large loving family in Westbrook, ME. He attended St. Hyacinth School and was a graduate of Chevrus High School in Portland, ME. He went on to study music at Rollins College in FL returning to ME to attend the Portland School of Beauty.  Well known and respected as a master hair stylist, he worked in salons in FL, Boston, Newton, and ultimately with his dear friends at Salon 54 in Provincetown.

A sweet, gentle, and kind man, Michael truly never had a bad thing to say about anyone. His smile and laugh were infectious. He was an accomplished musician mastering the piano, flute, violin, cello, and harp.  His creative ability knew no limits proven by the many sweaters he made and gave as gifts as well as numerous beautiful needlepoint projects. An opera aficionado, he enjoyed having season tickets to the Metropolitan Opera for a number of years. Michael’s gentleness was truly evident in his love of animals, especially to his beloved 3 dogs, Giavana, Savannah, and Jacoby.  He loved the beach, the ocean, and the solitude of Cape Cod. His personal struggle has ended but his spirit will live on in those that were so fortunate to have called him their friend.

Michael is survived by his beloved aunt Pauline Brassard of Brunswick, ME, many cousins, his former husband and best friend Brian Falvey of Dedham and North Truro, and so many friends whose lives were enriched by knowing this truly amazing man.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by his friend, Fr. George Winchester, S.J., on Saturday, June 18, 2016 at 11:00 am in the Parish of St. Anthony of Padua, located in St. Hyacinth Church, 268 Brown St., Westbrook, ME.

A memorial service will be planned after Labor Day in his beloved Provincetown.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Carrie A. Seaman Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 1374, Provincetown, MA 02657.

Kruger- Bernice (Lefkovich), of Florida, formerly of Weymouth and Hyde Park, on June 8, 2016. Beloved wife of the late Jerome Kruger. Devoted mother of Richard, Howard, Mark and the late Alan. Dear grandmother of Stefanie, Michelle, and Hallee. Loving sister of the late Wilfred Lefkovich. Graveside services at Jewish Benevolent Cemetery, Grove St. West Roxbury, on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at 1 pm. Memorial observance will be private. Remembrances may be made to a charity of your choice.

Dr. Elliot M. Finkelstein-of Chestnut Hill,on June 5, 2016. Beloved husband of the late Bette Jane (Epstein) Finkelstein. Devoted father of Happy Rudnick and her husband Robert, Dr. Macie Finkelstein Himmel and her husband Robert and Andrew Finkelstein and his wife Tirza. Loving grandfather of Max Rudnick, Bennett Himmel, Cobi and Selah Finkelstein. Dear brother of Dr. Gerald L. Finkelstein and his wife Jill, and the late Ruth Sandler and her surviving husband Arthur. Service at Wilson Chapel,234 Herrick Road, Newton Centre, on Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at 10:00 am. Following interment at Sharon Memorial Park, memorial observance will be at his residence until 5:00 pm and continuing  7-9 pm, and Thursday 2-5 & 7-9 pm.In lieu of flowers remembrances to The American Academy of Ophthalmology,655 Beach St., PO Box 7424,San Francisco, CA 94120.

Sylvia Salzman Richlin-of Newton, on June 5, 2016. Beloved wife of the late Dr. Padie Richlin. Devoted mother of William Gar Richlin and his wife Migsie, Dr. David Mark Richlin and his wife Maida, and Dean Richlin and his wife Pamela. Dear grandmother of Kimberly Ann Richlin, Jenny Rebecca Richlin, Eli Bard Richlin and his wife Sabrina Kate Blum, Sara Bard Richlin, Johanna Bard Richlin and her husband Gabriel Benjamin Paquette, Benjamin Louis Richlin, Anna Frances Richlin and Harrison Samuel Richlin. Loving great grandmother of Isabel Richlin Gonzalez, Abigail Goodman Gonzalez, Dalia Grace Richlin, Lucy Judith Richlin,Calla Juliet Richlin, and Antonia Bard Paquette. Dear sister of the late Herbert Salzman and Sylvia’s late twin Miriam Mintz. Devoted aunt of Nikki Brown and loving great aunt of Diana Miriam Brown and Alexander Ted Brown. Memorial service at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave., Boston (parking on the Riverway) on Tuesday, June 7, 2016 at 10:30 am.The family will receive guests at the home of Pamela and Dean Richlin from 5-7 pm on Tuesday only. In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Hebrew Senior Life, 1200 Centre St. ,Roslindale, MA 02131.