We are deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Samuel on November 10, 2020, from complications of heart disease. Devoted husband of forty-nine years to Linda, loving father to Adam and Sarah, father-in-law to Andrew and Whitney and adoring grandfather to Toby Samuel and Evelyn Rose. Sam leaves his devoted brother, Burt, dear cousins and in-laws, and many friends and colleagues. A private graveside service will be held this week.
Born in Boston in 1939 and raised in Newton, Sam was a 1963 graduate of Boston University. In addition to his beloved family, he leaves many dear friends and former colleagues from his successful fifty-five year career in business and real estate. In 1989, Sam helped design his award winning “green” office building, the first of its kind in Watertown. Always hardworking and innovative, Sam was the Founder and President of the New England Building Wreckers Association/ Environmental Remediation Specialists, from 2005-2019.
Sam loved his work and embodied the self-made man, self- taught and knowledgeable in many areas; construction, demolition, engineering, finance, architecture, law and more. His skilled hands and innate problem solving ability defined his famous “hobby” –the ability to “fix” anything, broken or not!
Facing retirement, Sam’s greatest regret was dismantling his much loved demolition company “Edifice Wrecks”. From hundreds of demolished buildings, he collected architectural antiques and treasures, which were stored and sold in a large warehouse (or brought home). Sam’s favorite expression was: “I never worked a day in my life!” He reluctantly retired at age 75.
Alav-ha-shalom…may peace be upon him.
Sam will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Remembrances may be sent to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284, Boston Children’s Hospital Trust, Attn: Gift Services, 401 Park Dr., Suite 602, Boston, MA 02115 or charity a of your choice.
Lorraine R. (Cooper) Tobin, 91 of Brookline, MA. Wife of the late Daniel Tobin, Beloved mother of Herbert of Needham, Rhonda Davis and her husband Howard of Sharon and Stuart and his wife LeAnn of Baltimore. Grandmother of Rachel Monn and her husband Matthew, Adam Tobin and his fiancée Nora Conklin, Scott Davis and his wife Lindsay, Emma Hensley and her husband Henry, and Ethan Tobin. Great Grandmother of Noah Monn and Blake Davis. Loving sister of Thelma Shuman, Howard Cooper, the late David Cooper and Loving aunt to several nieces and nephews.
Lorraine loved reading, playing bridge with friends and teaching her grandchildren to master scrabble and card games. She enjoyed a discussion on local and national politics as well as scoring a bargain at Filenes and the Star Market.
A private family service will be held.
Donations may be made to the Carroll Center for the Blind, 770 Centre Street, Newton, MA 02458.
Written by Bryan Marquad Boston Globe November 10,2020
A curious boy who gazed at the stars from his mountainside Greek village and wondered how the universe came to be, Kosta Tsipis was only 11 when news arrived that the first atomic weapon had been dropped on Hiroshima, Japan.
“After the bomb went off, I sent away for a book because I wanted to understand it,” he told the Globe in 1987. That moment set him on a course toward studying nuclear physics and becoming a prominent voice for disarmament during the Cold War arms race. “I had come to believe that reason must prevail,” he said, and for him, that meant using his knowledge of the destructive capability of nuclear weapons to persuade politicians and ordinary people that a war of that magnitude was a dangerous folly.
Dr. Tsipis, who formerly directed the Program in Science and Technology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for International Security, died at home Saturday in Lasell Village in Newton after a period of declining health. He was 86 and had previously lived in Brookline for many years.
“So great are the excesses of the era of nuclear overkill that the American and Soviet strategic nuclear arsenals can be reduced by 50 percent — and more — without risking security,” he wrote in a 1988 op-ed for The New York Times. “Political, military, and psychological reasons strongly point toward the wisdom of reductions.”
Along with writing books and essays that appeared in publications such as the Times, the Globe, and Scientific American, Dr. Tsipis traveled to Washington, D.C., to lobby US senators, representatives, and officials of President Ronald Reagan’s administration.
During an era when that administration’s Strategic Defense Initiative — the “Star Wars” missile defense system — was much in the news, Dr. Tsipis published his book “Arsenal:
He offered a “layman’s primer on America’s present and planned nuclear arsenal,” reviewer Sue Halpern wrote in the Times.
“Writing from a scientific, not a political, perspective and drawing on unclassified government documents,” Halpern added, “Mr. Tsipis addresses vital questions: How, theoretically, does the hardware work? What are its vulnerabilities? Will it work in practice? Does it enhance American security?”
And his research ranged beyond weapons to the havoc they would wreak.
Dr. Tsipis was the lead author for “Nuclear Crash,” an MIT study that was based partly on four years of computer simulations of the consequences of nuclear attacks. The study found that a limited attack on the United States by only 1 percent of the nuclear arsenal of what was then the Soviet Union would set off a decades-long collapse of America’s economy and lead to mass starvation.
An attack aimed at energy production, transportation, and other key industries could leave survivors at “near-medieval levels of existence,” said the study, which was released in 1987.
“Ours is the first study to be quantitative on the minimum needed for so-called mutual assured destruction,” he told the Globe that year.
Dr. Tsipis “was very much in a tradition that had been established, especially at Harvard and MIT, of scientists — especially physicists — getting involved with issues regarding defense and disarmament,” said Fred Kaplan, who had been one of his students at MIT and later was the Globe’s defense reporter. Those scientists were not simply lobbying for arms reductions, “but were applying their fields of science to actually researching the effects of these things and ways they can be controlled,” said Kaplan, an author who is now the national security columnist for the online site Slate. “They got deeply involved with public policy, and Kosta very solidly fell into that tradition.”
An only child, Kosta M. Tsipis was born in Athens on Feb. 12, 1934, and grew up in a small village near Delphi on Mount Parnassus. His parents were Michael Kosta Tsipis, an engineer, and Zoe Alexiou.
“His life is an amazing story,” said Dr. Tsipis’s son Yanni of Westwood.
During World War II, “his parents took in a Jewish family and sheltered them,” Yanni added. “If the Germans had discovered that, they all would have been executed.”
Sitting in his MIT office during the 1987 Globe interview, Dr. Tsipis said that the “war was existentially terrorizing. It completely defied rationality.” At times, German soldiers conducted sweeps of the village, counting residents and mattresses to see if families were hiding anyone.
“I think that experience informed his whole life and forged a moral compass,” Yanni said.
After completing high school in Athens, Dr. Tsipis secured a spot at Rutgers University in New Jersey and traveled to the United States in 1954. He married Magda Yannousi, whom he met on the ship on the way over. They had a son, Mikel of Framingham, and their marriage ended in divorce.
Dr. Tsipis graduated from Rutgers with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in 1958 and a master’s in atomic physics in 1960. He received a doctorate in high energy nuclear physics from Columbia University in 1966 and began teaching at MIT. While there he met Judith Ebel, a graduate student in another department, and they married in 1970. After finishing her doctorate in biology at MIT, she was a biology professor at Brandeis University, where her husband also taught for about a decade after his time at MIT. “He was a wonderful loving husband,” she said.
They had two sons, including Andreas, who died in 1998 of Canavan disease, a fatal, progressive neurological disorder. The experience led Judith to found the Genetic Counseling Program at Brandeis in 1992.
“He inspired the founding of the most respected program in genetic counseling in the country that trains specialists to help people like his mother and his father,” Kosta Tsipis said in a eulogy at Andreas’s funeral. Andreas “made the lives of many people richer and their understanding broader” and he “made his family stronger and wiser,” Dr. Tsipis added. “That’s quite a list of achievements for a young man who communicated mostly with his smile.”
In addition to his wife and two sons, Dr. Tsipis leaves four grandchildren.
A celebration of his life and work will be announced.
Though Dr. Tsipis was a renowned physicist, he also “had a Greekiness about him,” his wife said. “Even though he became an American citizen, he maintained that Greekiness verve of life that was very special.”Dr. Tsipis, who was an informal adviser to George Papandreou, a former prime minister of Greece, was “a warm and passionate soul who loved life — people, food, a good tray of baklava — and always carried with him a concern for human beings that I think came from his experiences as a child,” Yanni said.
Kaplan recalled that Dr. Tsipis “was very keen on the central experiences of life in a way that you wouldn’t always expect from someone coming out of this field. He understood that the whole point of this is to build a life that is more creative and enriching.” Speaking Greek, English, French, and some Italian, Dr. Tsipis “was an amazing life force,” his wife said.
Over the door of their second home in Truro was a sign they had made with the Latin phrase hic habitat felicitas — here lives happiness.
ALTMAN, Diane (Kleinberg), 81, of Weston, passed on November 8th. Beloved wife, of 61 years, to Stuart Altman; devoted mother to Beth and Scott Marcus, Renee and David Nefussy and Heather Altman and James Shortridge; proud grandmother of Taylor Nefussy, Allison and Rachel Marcus, Sydney and Leah Shortridge; loving daughter of the late Hyman and Tessie Kleinberg and sister of the late Arthur Kleinberg. Diane grew up in the Bronx, New York. In the early years of her marriage she moved frequently with her husband and family, but settled in Massachusetts for over 40 years. In addition to her home in Weston, Diane loved her time in her homes in Tuftonboro, NH and Chapel Hill, NC. Diane graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Psychology and worked for many years in the probation department of the Quincy District Court. In her retirement, she enjoyed participating in the adult education programs at Brandeis and Duke universities. Diane was the happiest when spending time with her family and extended Altman and Kleinberg families. Services will be private. Donations in her memory may be made out to “Brandeis University” with “BOLLI” in the memo line, and mailed to Brandeis University, Office of Development and Alumni Relations, MS 126, PO Box 549110, Waltham, MA 02453 or online here
Dangel, Joan of Belmont, Brookline & Newton, on November 5, 2020, age 73, after leading a courageous life. She leaves her sisters, Nancie Dangel of Cambridge, Barb Irwin of VT (& her family John, Caitlin, Ian, & Bryn). Graveside service to be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joan’s memory may be made to OpenDoorArtsMA.org.
Peter Ulin, 89, of West Newton, Massachusetts, died at home on November 5th, 2020 of Parkinson’s and Lewy body dementia. Beloved husband of Bonnie (Handmaker) Ulin for 62 years, loving father of Jennifer Ulin and Daniel Ulin and his wife Kelli Maroney of Los Angeles, devoted Grampy to Rachel and Emily Ulin Polansky. Peter was pre-deceased by his brother Jeremy Ulin, whose wife Jessie Ulin resides in California. Peter was born in Chestnut Hill to Rebecca and Benjamin Ulin. Peter attended Roxbury Latin School, Harvard College, and Columbia Business School. This was followed by three years in the U.S. Army in Japan. After a stint on Wall Street, Peter and Nicholas Holland founded their corporate finance firm in Boston specializing in mergers and acquisitions. In retirement, Peter served on the boards of Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly and Beth Israel Hospital, among others. Peter also loved volunteering as a teaching assistant at the Angier School in Waban, was a published columnist, loved to discover new restaurants and bakeries, cooked amazing meals, and traveled the world with Bonnie. His favorite saying was “Life is uncertain, eat dessert first.” He is remembered for his quick wit, generous mentoring, fine character, and deep devotion to his family and friends. There will be a private graveside service at Temple Israel Cemetery in Wakefield. In lieu of flowers, please send remembrances in Peter’s memory to 2Life Communities (formerly Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly), 30 Wallingford Road, Brighton MA 02135 or Good Shepherd Community Care, 160 Wells Avenue, Newton, MA 02459.
Eric B. Berenson – Of Cranston, RI, formerly of Boston, on November 5, 2020. Beloved husband of Gerry (Lamb) Berenson. Devoted son of the late Estelle and Joseph Berenson. Devoted father of Michelle and Louis Berenson. Loving brother of Lisa and Paul Berenson. Dear uncle of Robin Berenson and great uncle to Eva Ingemanson. Dear brother in law of Carol Lamb. Devoted son in law of Edythe and the late Harold Lamb. Private services will be held. No Flowers Please. Remembrances in his memory may be made to Providence Animal Rescue League, 34 Elbow St., Providence RI 02903.
Bernard Glassman, 101, of Newton, MA, devoted father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great grandfather, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 4, 2020. He is survived by his son Leonard Glassman and his wife Lynda of Framingham, granddaughter Melissa Lasoff of Westboro, Dr. Seth Glassman and his wife Abhi of Niagara-On-The Lake Canada, great-grandchildren Gabrielle Lasoff and Jordan Lasoff of Westboro. Bernard was the loving husband of Phyllis (Kouffman) Glassman for 74 years. Bernard was an army veteran of the European theater of World War 2. Bernard and his brothers founded Boston based Hampden Automotive Sales Corp. The company was an early pioneer in the automotive remanufacturing industry. Bernard loved tennis, golf, music, and was an avid Boston sports fan. Bernard was known for his great sense of humor and wry wit. His deep devotion to his family will be a lasting legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. A private graveside service will be held. Donations in his memory may be made to the charity of your choice.
Burton Rubenstein (Grampy) two months short of 103, of Brooklyn New York, and then Newton, Ma passed away peacefully November 3rd, 2020 leaving a true legacy behind.
He was the devoted husband to the late Thelma Geller Rubenstein, loving father of Ellyn and Richard Penn of Newton and Laurie and Andy Levin of Wellesley. Dedicated grandfather to Melissa and Fred Post, Tracy and Dan hoffman, Jamie Penn and Meredith and Harry Shafer.
Loving brother of Martin Rubenstein, the late Cecile Welsch, Willard, Arnold and Gerald Rubenstein and brother in law to Harriet Rubenstein. He also leaves behind his great grandchildren Ally, Dylan and Griffin Post, Jordan and Kendall Hoffman and Madeline, Jameson and Theodore Shafer. Loving son in law to the late Dorothy and Louis Geller and brother in law to Sumner and Carol Geller and the late Albert and Roslyn Geller. Grampy was also beloved by many very special nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. For the last 30 years he truly loved and was grateful for his very special relationship with Eudene (Eudie) Alleyne, a beloved member of our family. His overwhelming devotion to his family was his lasting legacy. Grampy moved to Boston at the age of 18 and worked at his family textile business, Security Mills, for many years, however ended his career at the age of 86, when he retired from Barrow Industries of Norwood, Ma. He was a constant in the lives of those closest to him, but also an everlasting presence for those who knew him in a fleeting way. Born in Brooklyn, New York, while rooting on all Boston teams, Grampy was a diehard Yankee fan. He never missed a Patriot game as long as Tom Brady was at the helm. Grampy was a man of routine. He read the newspaper from cover to cover, as well as exercised for 30 minutes daily. He was advocate for lengthy dental hygiene, a lover of red wine, mallomars, tongue sandwiches, the Sunday crossword puzzle and beautiful young ladies. He had a handshake that could crush a grown man and a heart that knew no bounds. While in many ways he was a simple man, for those who knew and loved him, he loomed larger than life. He was our Superhero. He will be deeply missed, celebrated and remembered forever. Due to current restrictions, a private graveside funeral will be held Monday November 9th. To honor his memory, donations can be made to the National Breast Cancer Coalition, 1010 Vermont Ave NW Suite 900 Washington DC 20005, or go online to www.stopbreastcancer.org.
Millard M. Kay-Age 96, of Dedham, formerly of Newton, on November 1, 2020.Beloved husband of the late Lucille (Katz) Kay. Devoted father of Ronna Niederman and her husband Dr. Michael Niederman, Terry Kay Bargar and her husband Dr. Richard Bargar, Jonathan Kay and his wife Linda Sloane Kay. Loving grandfather of Alex Niederman and his wife Sarah, Eric Niederman and his wife Andrea, Emily Bargar and Stephen Patrias, Jillian Bargar and her husband Sam Donovan, Joshua Kay and his wife Brooke Patkin Kay, Rachel Kay and Franklin Ross. Dear great- grandfather of Leah and Chloe Niederman and Bette Niederman. Services are private. Remembrances in his memory may be made to NewBridge on the Charles,7000 Great Meadow Road, Dedham, MA 02026.
Eli Botkin, 94, of Dedham, MA, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, cousin and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 30, 2020. He is survived by his loving wife Evelyn, his children Dianne, Brad (Renee), Naomi (Josh) and Josh (Deb), seven grandchildren, and four great -grandchildren. Born in New York City, Eli received undergraduate and graduate degrees from New York University (where he was captain of the riflery team) and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). A lifelong student of math and physics, he enjoyed a nearly 60-year career as an aerospace engineer specializing in trajectory analysis – including as a member of the Grumman team that developed the Lunar Excursion Module (LEM), which was flown from lunar orbit to the moon’s surface during the Apollo program. In recent years, Eli served as a volunteer teacher at the Rashi School in Dedham, where he shared his love of math and science (particularly Einstein’s theory of special relativity) with middle school students. Due to Covid restrictions, the family held a private graveside service. Donations in Eli’s memory may be made to The New York Times Neediest Cases Fund or another charity of your choice.
Arnold Nathanson, 92, of Newton, MA and Boca Raton, FL, devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 26, 2020. He is survived by his loving wife Gloria Nathanson of 68 years and his children Debbie Osheroff and husband Alan of Needham and Nancy Nathanson and husband Lee Bardin of Newton, grandchildren, Julie Kohn and husband Andrew, Lauren McEneaney and husband Douglas and Lily Bardin, and great grandsons Dylan, Jordan and Ethan Kohn. Brother of Gerald Nathanson and wife Gale and the late Herbert and Louise Nathanson. Brother-in-law to Arlene Modest and the late Marvin Modest and uncle to many nieces and nephews. Arnold was a visionary and a brilliant businessman. He was the President and COO of Arley Merchandise Corporation and was well known in the industry as a pioneer in Home Fashions. He was a passionate New England sports fan and an avid golfer who played in many PGA Pro-Am tournaments throughout the country. He was extremely philanthropic and generous to both family and friends. Reserved by nature, he lit up when in the company of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and his beloved granddog Sammy. His deep devotion to his family will be his lasting legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Due to Covid restrictions, a private graveside service will be held on Monday, November 2nd. Donations in his memory can be made to American Diabetes Association or a charity of your choice.
LEVY, Sylvia (Lipsitz), Of Needham, passed away on October 26, 2020 at the age of 93. Beloved wife of the late Jacob “Jack” Levy. Devoted and proud mother of sons Robert Levy of Needham, Massachusetts and David Levy and his wife Judie (Winner) of Sharon, Massachusetts. Devoted and proud grandmother of Jacob Levy. Loving sister of the late Zelda Cope and Erving Lipsitz. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Sylvia was born and raised in Athol, Massachusetts. Her family home was flooded by the 1938 New England Hurricane. After graduating high school, she enrolled in the United States Cadet Nurse Corps. She later graduated from Boston University School of Nursing, and was a Registered Nurse at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston for many years. She often told stories about working at the hospital during the Blizzard of 1978. Sylvia loved flowers and gardening. Sylvia loved to travel. She drove cross country twice, and traveled to China, Alaska, Europe and Israel during her lifetime. Sylvia loved to vacation with family and friends during the summer, especially in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire (Rust Pond) and all over Cape Cod. Sylvia also enjoyed hosting cookouts during the summer with family and friends. Sylvia loved to read The Boston Globe and discuss current events and politics. Sylvia was looking forward to seeing a new president elected in the upcoming 2020 election. Private burial at Sharon Memorial Park. Donations in Sylvia’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
Eileen Ruth Lewis, May 17, 1934 – October 24, 2020 of Brookline, MA, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA. Eileen was born and raised in Pittsburgh and lived in the neighborhoods of the Hill District, Greenfield, and Squirrel Hill, until 2017, when she moved to Brookline, MA to be closer to her sons. Eileen was born in 1934 to Samuel Cohen (“Zadie”) and Ethel (Rubenstein) Cohen (“Bobo”,) both of Pittsburgh. She remained an only child. After attending Fifth Avenue High School, Eileen worked as a bookkeeper until she met her husband, Norman Lewis, at a dance at the YMWHA in Oakland. They were married in September 1953. Four years later, their son Mark was born. Allan was born eleven months later. Eileen was a devoted wife and mother. While her children were growing up, she was active in various organizations, and enjoyed playing mahjong with friends. Eileen did not learn to drive a car until around age 40. After her two boys went to college, she began working again. She had a long career at Jewish Family and Community Services, which was like a second family to her. She kept working there into her early 60s. Eileen also liked sports. In the 1960s and 70s, she regularly watched Studio Wrestling, and was a big fan of the professional teams, particularly the Steelers. She rooted for the Boston teams after moving there, especially the Patriots, Red Sox, and Celtics. Her loyalties were torn when the Steelers played the Patriots. Eileen watched golf on TV, despite having never played it. While living in Squirrel Hill, she walked many places and exercised at the JCC. Music was a big part of Eileen’s life. She played the violin some as a youngster. She loved classic Broadway musicals. She used to go on bus trips to New York City to see Broadway shows. After retiring, Eileen sang in a chorus that performed at senior residences. In her 3+ years in the Boston area, Eileen made friends with many at her wonderful apartment building run by Center Communities of Brookline. Eileen was predeceased by her husband Norman Lewis, Norman’s many siblings and their spouses, her parents, her uncle and aunt, Joseph and Mildred Rubenstein, and by many of her friends. She is survived by her sons Mark Lewis of Boston, MA (and Stella Bondar) and Allan Lewis of Newton, MA (and Susan Weiner), her grandson Brian Lewis of Providence, RI (and Anne Lewis), and many cousins in Pittsburgh. Graveside Services and Interment will be held on Tuesday at 11:30 am at Tree of Life Memorial Park. Donations in Eileen’s memory should be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of America, Hebrew Senior Life of Boston, MA, or the charity of your choice.
Benjamin Hyman – Of Natick, on October 23, 2020. Beloved husband of Claudia (Donahue) Hyman. Dear son of the late Wolfred and Lillian (Bluestein) Hyman. Dear brother of Wendy Hyman Segel. Dear uncle of Jamie Noone Segel. Also survived by loving cousins. Private services will be held. Remembrances to Congregation Mishkan Tefila, 384 Harvard St., Brookline, MA 02446.
Allan Michael Kline, 75, of Sudbury, MA, passed away on October 23, 2020 after a courageously fought battle. Fearless until the end, he was a proud, loving, and dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, friend, Chief Financial Officer, and the ultimate Red Sox fan.
Born in New Rochelle, NY and raised in West Orange, NJ, he was the adoring son of the late Terry and James Kline. For 52 years he was the devoted husband to wife, Nan Kline. Proud father of Rick (Karen) of San Carlos, CA and David (Amy) of Brookline, and cherished grandfather of Casey, Brady, Noah and Annie. Dear brother of Linda (Walt) Anderson. He graduated from UMass and Wharton Business School.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, some of his favorite memories and proudest accomplishments were on the basketball court, golf course, and baseball field. Winning his NJ High School state championship in 1963 remained a highlight; he maintained lifelong friendships with many of his teammates. His extreme passion for the Red Sox is a metaphor for the wholehearted pride, undying loyalty, fierce commitment, and endless support that he offered all whom he loved. Even more significant than his prized Red Sox, the role of sports fan he relished most was played out while watching his children and grandchildren play their respective sports.
Private graveside services will be held at Beit Olam East Cemetery in Wayland at 12:30 pm on Sunday in compliance with COVID protocols. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168 or to National Brain Tumor Society, 55 Chapel St, Suite 200, Newton, MA 02458.
Chansky, Harvey B., of Newton Centre, passed away October 22, 2020. Son of the late Edward Chansky and Lillian (Lewis) Chansky. Beloved husband of Lucille (Lucie) N. Chansky. Devoted father of Matthew (Matty), John A. Chansky and his wife Stacy, and Lynne Flattery and her husband James Flattery. Loving and proud grandfather of Evan and Brian Chansky and Devin Flattery. Dear brother of the late Allen Chansky and his wife Janice Chansky.
Harvey was a United States Army veteran. He held an MBA and spent his career as an executive in the building materials industry. After retirement he pursued his passion for finance. He was an avid golfer and sports fan. His amazing memory of details small and large was renowned, he excelled in trivia. He was devoted to his family. To quote him “don’t be sad, I have had a good run—celebrate my life.”
Private burial with military honors was held at Sharon Memorial Park. Donations in his memory may be made to The Price Center, 27 Christina St., Newton Highlands, MA 02461.
Stanley Norman DeHaan of Northbridge, MA, age 75, peacefully passed away on October 22, 2020. Stanley was a beloved and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend who is survived by his wife, Linda Merrill DeHaan of Northbridge, sons Marc Justin DeHaan of Northbridge and Jeffrey Michael DeHaan and his wife Emily Flinter DeHaan of Cheshire, CT. Proud grandfather of Evan and Andrew DeHaan and beloved brother of Larry DeHaan and his wife Arlene Dorenfeld DeHaan of Framingham. Also a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. Stanley was the son of the late Jacob K. DeHaan and Jeanette E. (Goldberg ) DeHaan. He was a dedicated Mason for 54 years and served as Master and Secretary of several lodges in Massachusetts. Due to Covid, services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to support the Linda Bi, MD Research and Education Fund. Memorial gifts may be made online at www.bwhgiving.org or checks may be made payable to Brigham and Women’s Hospital with “in memory of Stanley DeHaan” in the memo line and sent to: Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Development Office, 116 Huntington Ave., 3rd floor, Boston, MA 02116.
Galina Krylova-Of Brighton, October 22,2020.Beloved mother of Eugene Krylova and his wife Victoria Tentler-Krylova. Dear grandmother of Alexander and Jacob. Dear sister of Lida and Nina Krylovar. Private interment at Newton Cemetery.
Leonard Berman, 87, passed away peacefully at his home in Waban, MA on October 21, 2020. He was born in Brooklyn, NY, to a loving family, parents Harry and Mabel (Kasnetz) Berman, sister, Ruth, and brother, Stewart. He is survived by his siblings, his son, Bill, daughter-in-law Anna, their children Vinnie and Reece and by three nieces.
Leonard graduated from Hobart College and NYU Medical School, followed by residency at Children’s Hospital in Boston. He performed his national service through a two-year stint at the National Institutes of Health. In 1962, he married Audrey Buchman of Brooklyn. They had attended the same high school concurrently, without meeting each other!
After a year each in London, Paris and Stockholm on cancer research grants, and a further period of research in Jerusalem, the couple returned to the States, where Leonard taught and did research at the Boston University School of Medicine. He served for a period of time as Chief of the Pathology Department at Boston’s V.A. Hospital, after which he returned to Boston University.
In addition to his medical career, Lenny was an inveterate fisherman who shared his bounty with the neighborhood, an ardent philatelist, and he had a lifelong passion for music. As a flutist, he participated extensively in chamber music and ensemble performances. He also greatly enjoyed the company of his little dog, Houdini.
Lenny’s calm, soft-spoken demeanor belied a quick and sometimes mischievous wit. Someone said to Audrey, “he was a man of few words and gentle humor.” His neighbors will never forget his kindness, nor think of him without smiling.
Lamb, Hyman of Sharon, October 21, 2020 of natural causes. Beloved husband of the late Marilyn (Greenfield) Lamb. Loving son of the late Samuel and Gussie Lamb. Devoted father of Paul Lamb and his wife Susan and Marty Lamb and his wife Peri. Proud grandfather of Audrey and her husband Todd, Joanna, Elissa and Simma. Step great-grandfather of Evelyn. Loving brother of the late Bertha Kline, Harold Lamb and Mildred Friedman. Private services will be held at Sharon Memorial Park. Remembrances in memory of Hyman may be made to the Lamb-Ellowitz Scholar in Residence Endowment Fund at Temple Israel, 125 Pond St. Sharon, MA 02067.
Rapoport, June (Vogel) of Westborough, formerly of Surfside and Boynton Beach FL., and West Hartford, CT. October 20,2020. Beloved wife of the late Dr. Murray Rapoport. Devoted mother of Michael and his wife Carole Rapoport of North Grafton, Dr. William Rapoport and his wife Dr. Shirley Press of Miami Beach, FL., and Dr. Steven Rapoport and his partner Patricia St. Germain of Pawcatuck, CT. Also survived by 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Sister of Marjorie Solomon of Daytona Beach, FL. A private Graveside Service will be held at Staro Konstantinov Cemetery 776 Baker St. West Roxbury. www.brezniakfd.com.
Stone, Paula M. of Natick, formerly of Canton, MA, on October 19, 2020. Dear daughter of the late Harold and Laura (Schiraga) Stone. Loving sister of Dr. David Stone. Due to current restrictions, graveside service will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Paula’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452.
Elizabeth Pennington Wolf (Haughey) entered into eternal rest on October 17, 2020 at the age of 90. Elizabeth was born in Newton Highlands to John D. and Grace (Fowler) Haughey. She also chose Newton as the home in which to raise her children with her husband of 64 years, Irving Wolf (1924-2014). During this time she earned her BA and MFA at Boston University, with a concentration in piano. She tried her hand at elementary teaching and she loved to travel, read, and play and listen to music. She also spent several years singing in choirs and volunteering with the Washington Savoyards along with husband Irving.
Leaving Newton with her family for Washington, D.C., she became a fundraising professional in development offices at the Kennedy Center and Mt Vernon. When she returned to New England, she chose to reside in Wayland and worked in the Development Office at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. She moved to North Hill in Needham in 2015, following the death of her husband.
She is survived by her four children, Susan Abrams and husband Jacques, Richard Wolf and wife
Denise, and Robert and William Wolf, four grandchildren, Michelle Abrams, and Steven, Jessica and Rachel Wolf. She was predeceased by her parents as well as her siblings; the late John Duncan, Jr., Daniel, Grace (Kroschell), David, William, and Lawrence Haughey.
Due to current conditions, graveside service at Lakeview Cemetery in Wayland will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Elizabeth’s memory be made to the charity of your choice.
Irene (Renee) Rachel Wolfe of Revere formally of Newton entered into rest on Friday October 16th. She passed peacefully at home at 101 years old. She was the daughter of the late Max and Lottie Labovitz of Revere. She preceded her late husband Morton (Morty) L. Wolfe of Newton. She was loved by her daughter Ellie Wolfe Tassel of Framingham and a son Sandy Wolfe of Braintree. Daughter in law Donna Wolfe of West Roxbury, her late brother Theodore (Teddy) Walker of Swampscott, and her late sister Rita Felleman of Brookline. She leaves her grandchildren, Sophie Wolfe, Jenny Wolfe and Matthew Wolfe, Nicki Wolfe and her daughter Zoe of Santa Rosa CA, Ranaan and his son Dominic of Boston, Loving Aunt to Richard and Robert Felleman, Stanley and Evelyn Sugarman of FL formerly of swampscott,Diane and Steve Hatfield of FL, Barry Sugarman and his wife Inchi of CA and David and Lisa Sugarman of Marblehead, Ethan Felleman and Jillian Felleman. She was a resident of The Jack Satter House in Revere for twenty three years. She had many close friends and interests. Donations may be made to Care Dimensions of Danvers, 75 Sylvan St Suite B102, Danvers MA 01923.
Zarrow, Gerald “Gerry” – age 91, of Needham, MA and Center Harbor, NH on Wednesday, October 14, 2020. Husband of the late Myra Wegman Zarrow. Son of the late Louis and Dora (Ferman) Zarrow, brother of Rhoda Friedman of Milford, DE. Beloved father of Lisa Zarrow of Needham, Mark Zarrow (Lynda) of Reading, MA, and Karen Zarrow of Needham; proud grandfather of Rebecca and Mallory Zarrow. Survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Gerry was a graduate of Boston English High and Boston University. He was a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy for 26 years, a Korean War veteran, and advisor to three U.S. Presidents and Secretary of State Dr. Henry Kissinger in his role with the Department of Defense in Industrial Security.
Private graveside services on Friday, October 16. Shiva held at his late residence after interment. Visiting hours held at the residence of Mark Zarrow on Saturday, October 17th.
Remembrances may be made to Jewish War Veterans Newton-Brookline Post 211, 832 Dedham St., Newton Centre, MA 02459 or Mogan David Adom, AFMDA New England, 20 W. 36th St., Suite 1100, New York, NY 10018.
of Canton, MA, Stoughton, MA, formerly of Randolph, MA, passed away on October 7, 2020. Beloved husband of Joan (Jacobs) Brown. Devoted father of Ellen Brown-Schwanke and her husband Todd, and Robert Brown and his wife Marci Wendroff Klein. Proud grandfather of Leah Schwanke, Lexi, and Haley Brown. Dear step grandfather of Melanie and Kelli Klein. Loving brother of the late Abraham, Calvin, Sylvia, Ruth, and Dorothy Brown. Loving uncle to many nieces, nephews, and greats. Private funeral services will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lenny’s memory may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, MA/RI Chapter, 220 N. Main St., #104, Natick, MA 01760.
Annette Zimmerman Singer-Of Brookline,Age 101.Born in Baltimore, MD, she was a graduate of Eastern High School class of 1935, just prior to her sixteenth birthday; and she graduated from the Maryland Institute of Art in 1938.She was the first civilian woman staff photographer at the Holabird Signal Depot in Baltimore during World War II.In 1976, she moved to Florida with her husband Milton Singer, who died in 1988.Annette worked at and enjoyed art for all of her life. Her art was exhibited in numerous juried shows, including the Baltimore Museum of Art, Maryland Federation of Art Gallery in Annapolis, and the Norton and Flagler Museums in Florida.In 2004, she left Florida for Massachusetts to settle near her beloved children.She was a member of the National League of American Pen Women, the Newton Art Association, the Needham Art Association, and she was a life member of Hadassah.She is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Ginger and Dan Kenney of Corte Madera, CA; a son and daughter-in-law, Neil and Rhonda Singer of Lexington, MA; four grandchildren: Adam Kenney, Margot Kenney, Rebecca Lewis, and Morris Singer, and spouses; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Pauline Chapin of Baltimore, MD.
Shirley Richie Robinson born in Detroit, MI October 6, 1924 died peacefully at home on October 1, 2020 surrounded by her loving family in Brookline, MA. She was a teacher, a learner, a good friend to many. She leaves behind her husband of 72 years, Berol Robinson, her children David Robinson, Judith Robinson Levine (Daniel) and Joanne Robinson (Alan Adamsky), her grandchildren: Ben (Laurie), Hephzibah, Keziah, Hannah, Nat (Ali), Sarah Levine Woodard (Chadwick), Amy Levine (Jamie Schuster), Rachel and Naomi Adamsky. Her great-grandchildren Chaya, Ziva and Ada Robinson. She is mourned by her family, friends and the whole House of Israel.
Affectionately known to friends and family as Geri or Gigi, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones on October 6, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Samuel Gerson, she is survived by her 3 daughters, Dana Unger and her husband Jeffrey, Michelle Wartell and her husband Robert, and Jill Mark. Also survived by 5 grandchildren, Grayce, Spencer, Sammy, Lily, and Finn, her sister-in-law, Wendy Cheever, and her niece, Andrea Sklar. The family will be holding a private graveside burial. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave., SW120, Boston, MA 02215. https://fs2.formsite.com/0Cm5y0/form1/index.html
Sandy Noymer, 89, of Newton, passed away peacefully September 28, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Bernie Noymer and sister of Judy Walker. Caring mother of Ruth Budelmann & Sam Silverman, James Noymer, Karen Noymer, and Michael Noymer & his wife Carol. Loving grandma of Jason Budelmann & his wife Cecile, Leah Budelmann, Jennifer Noymer & Craig McLaughlin, Greg Noymer & his wife Lindsay, Nicole Sprenger, Alexandra Noymer, and Sydney Noymer. Also survived by four great-grandchildren. In addition to her family she enjoyed many years with her late friend Joe. Sandy had a life-long commitment to teaching. She taught in both Framingham and Dover-Sherborn as a reading specialist. After retiring, Sandy was a dedicated volunteer and continued to tutor well into her eighties. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Tippett Hospice Home, 920 South St., Needham, MA 02492, or to the charity of your choice. Due to COVID restrictions, burial and shiva will be private.
Bernard Berkman, age 89, loving husband, devoted father of 4, grandfather of 10, successful businessman and philanthropist, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on September 25, 2020 at his home in Newton surrounded by three generations of his loving family.
Bernard George Berkman was born in Roxbury and lived as an adult in Brookline, Wellesley, Newton, and in Florida near Sarasota. He attended public schools in Roxbury and Cambridge until asthma and an independent streak brought him to Arizona for middle school and high school and then Florida to attend the Admiral Farragut Academy.
He acquired his interest in business from his father, Samuel R. Berkman, a successful businessman in his own right, who offered his son opportunities to meet interesting and famous people like the heavy weight champion boxers Joe Louis and Jack Dempsey. He honed his natural entrepreneurial acumen at Babson College (where he remained as a Trustee Emeritus).
Strong-willed, whip smart, confident, persistent, with an abiding fairness and good humor, along with a strong sense of loyalty to friends and family, Bernard struck out on his own in his twenties, like a man on a mission. Confident in his vision and skill, he pursued several areas of commerce over a very successful and diverse 70 year career including Schrafft Candies, liquor sales and distribution, real estate sales/financing, health care and nursing home ownership/management, property management, venture capital, and perhaps most prominently investment finance – most of which ran through Bernard G. Berkman Associates based in Brookline.
A devoted father and husband, whose fervent wish was to support, encourage, take care, and guide his children and their children. His family was his whole world. He planned several family trips and cruises, generously creating time and space away together for family memories and to help its members build bonds that will last forever. He was often heard to encourage his children and their spouses to “take care of each other” and to lovingly admonish “may your tribes increase.”
He often shared his wisdom about life and business. Regaling listeners with stories – amazing tales of investments that through some wonderful alchemy of intelligence, knowledge, and foresight, that yielded healthy returns and lasting relationships. Patient but smart and diverse capital were his watch words, surpassed only by his motto: early to bed early to rise, work like hell and amortize.
A true mensch, he was also committed to Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, through his compassion and philanthropy. Among many other causes, he supported the efforts of low-income young people to pursue high school and college education, he supported the arts and medical science, and he helped young Israelis to learn how to play tennis and succeed in school through support for the Israeli Tennis Center.
He leaves his loving and devoted wife Nancy of Newton, MA; his daughter Debra Berkman of Westford; his son Robert Berkman and daughter-in-law Hilde Berkman of Wellesley; his daughter Linda Diamond and his son-in-law Joseph Diamond of Westford, MA; his daughter Jennifer Berkman of Newton; his grandchildren Stefanie Sparrow and her husband Steve Varney of Chelmsford, Shayna Sparrow of Cambridge and her husband Nick Aguilera, Lauren Berkman of New York City, Barrick Berkman of Scottsdale, AZ, Lindsey Berkman of Apache Junction, AZ, Sydney Diamond and her husband David Edwards of Burlington, VT, Ellie Diamond of Burlington, VT, and Samantha, Carly, and Talia Saada of Newton, MA. Bernard also leaves his beloved havenese dog Karma who helped Nancy through her battle with cancer and comforted Bernard over these past difficult days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bernard Berkman’s memory to: The Mass General Cancer Center MGH Cancer Center At Newton-Wellesley Hospital www.giving.massgeneral.org ,MGH Development Office, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 54, Boston, MA 02114 ,The Babson College Fundwww.givecampus.com , or The Israeli Tennis Centerwww.itecenters.org.
SALWEN, Howard Telecom Titan, co-inventor of the internet router Howard Salwen died on Friday, September 25th of complications from Alzheimers at Rogerson House in Boston. He was born in New York in 1937, son of Norman and Hannah (Bernstein) Salwen. He was a graduate of the Horace Mann School and received bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in engineering from MIT. He was widely considered to be “the father of the token ring,” an early internet router technology, which evolved into founding his company, Proteon, where he was Chairman and CEO and took public in 1992. After ethernet technology became the standard, Howard went on to become CEO and Chairman of Telco systems, Chairman of Ultranet, Chairman of Scaleable Display, and a board member at Marathon Technologies as well as many other technology companies. Howard was a major force in Massachusetts’ then burgeoning telecom industry and became Chairman of the Mass Telecom Council in 1995, where he worked on Net Day, the effort to computerize and connect all the state’s schools to the internet. He also worked nationally to set standards for the telecom industry. Always ready to share his knowledge, he preferred making his points by telling stories, simplifying sometimes very complex ideas. He lectured, wrote and presented white papers all over the world for the IEEE. A music lover and gifted piano player, he served on the board of the Celebrity Series of Boston for many years. Other philanthropic board service included the American Technion Society, the DeCordova Museum, and MIT’s class of 1958, for which he served as Treasurer. He was known for his colorful bow ties and his big smile He was always ready to share his knowledge and mentored countless young MIT grads on their start-ups. He loved to race his Porsche and play tennis. He was an avid skier at his second home in Jackson Hole, where he took great pleasure in showing friends around the mountain. He is survived by his wife, Sheryl Resnick Marshall; his son David Salwen and his wife Barrett Tilney of Washington D.C.; his daughter Andrea Salwen Kopel and her husband Ed Kopel of New York; step daughter Dana Fisher and her husband Matt Fisher of New York; his grandchildren Madeleine and Camilla Salwen, and Ruby Salwen Kopel; his stepgrandchildren Keaton and Ezra Fisher; his sister Joan Salwen Fields of New York and brother-in-law Jay Lief of New York. The family is grateful to everyone at Rogerson House and his longtime caregivers, Lilian Assuncao and Juan Gonzalez. Donations in his memory may be made to the American Technion Society, Celebrity Series of Boston, or the Alzheimer’s Association. Funeral services were held.
of Boston, formerly of Newton, passed away peacefully September 24, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Melvin Adelson. Loving mother of Merle Adelson and her partner Paul Freedman, and the late Frederic Adelson. The family gratefully thanks Valerie Webbe for her loving care of Henriette in her final years. Henriette will be remembered for her love of family, food, and great wit. There will be a private service at Sharon Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Mass General Hospital, c/o Geriatric Department, 55 Fruit St., Boston, MA 02114.
Frances Ruth Goldman Karsh, born August 23, 1923 in Boston, a resident of Boca Raton and New Seabury and formerly of Waban, MA, passed peacefully at her Cape Cod home on September 23, 2020; she had a good heart, a “lev tov”, all her life. Frances was the much loved daughter of Annie Bank Goldman and Abraham Goldman, beloved wife of the late Henry Karsh, loving and devoted mother to Ellen Karsh Dubois (Lawrence), Bruce Karsh, Donna Karsh Carlson, cherished grandmother to Emily Dubois deVries (Jeremy), Abigail Dubois, and great grandmother to Lily deVries. Devoted sister to Verna Cooper and to predeceased siblings Ida Goldman Goodman, Philip Goldman, Benjamin Goldman, and Frank Goldman.
Lovingly remembered for her kindness, warmth, love of family, peace and of life, humor, creativity, intelligence, perseverance and her pioneering working woman spirit as a copywriter in both Boston and New York City and then, with Henry, founding Jobs Unlimited employment agency where they worked for decades while raising their children. The family matriarch, dedicated to her Jewish roots, Frances enjoyed family gatherings, especially on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. She created many fond memories for her family and friends and she will be extraordinarily missed by all who had the honor of knowing her. Private services will be held October 1. In lieu of flowers, expressions in her memory may be made to: The Good People Fund, 384 Wyoming Avenue, Millburn, NJ 07041 (973-761-0580).
WESTON, Mass. – Julius “Zeci” Goos of Naples Fla. passed away peacefully in his sleep the early morning of Sept. 21, 2020. Born Sept. 8, 1922, in Bangor, Zeci just celebrated his 98th birthday with his family by his side. Zeci was a quiet, unassuming, humble man – a real mensch! His Yiddish name “Zeci” appropriately translates in English to “Sweet”.
Growing up on York Street in Bangor, Zeci and his family were prominent members of the Bangor Jewish community. Zeci was proud of the fact that his father, the first in his family to emigrate to the United States in the early 20th Century, worked hard to bring over 10 family members from Europe to the United States and Canada. Religious observance was an important part of his family heritage and he remained committed to Judaism in all forms. Zeci remained close to his three siblings, Albert Goos, Ruth Goos Lotker, and Adelle Goos Rubin who predeceased him. Zeci’s childhood job was helping his father in his cow brokerage business translating English to Yiddish. As a school age child, Zeci was a great baseball player and loved baseball throughout his life. He was an avid Red Sox fan, watching the 10-2 victory over the Yankees the night he passed.
Zeci studied mechanical engineering at the University of Maine Orono class of 1944. During World War II his military service involved working on the Manhattan Project in Oakridge, Tenn. designing cooling systems for separating uranium and safety protocols to prevent radiation exposure during the manufacture of the atomic bomb. Following the war, he worked as an engineer for Union Carbide in New York City.
Zeci moved back to Maine where through his sister, Adelle, he met her good friend and his wife of 68 years, Charlotte Kofman Goos who predeceased him just 11 weeks ago. Zeci and Charlotte moved to Augusta and Zeci established a business as a wholesale distributor of poultry. He was very well respected by his workers and clients alike as an honorable, honest, hard-working businessman. Upon retiring, he partnered in Charlotte’s antique business traveling to antique shows throughout New England. For the past 25 years, Charlotte and Zeci divided their time between Naples, Fla. and East Winthrop. He and Charlotte were avid golfers at Augusta Country Club and Country Side in Naples. He and Charlotte remained jitterbug dancers well into their 90s.
Charlotte and Zeci were founding members of Temple Beth El in Augusta. Among his many roles at the synagogue, Zeci conducted Friday night services as a lay rabbi, led Passover community seder, and taught young students how to lay tefillin. In 2005, he celebrated a second Bar Mitzvah 70 years after his first. One of the fondest family memories was listening to Zeci simultaneously translate the Passover Haggadah from English to Yiddish to Hebrew during the family seder.
Zeci is survived by his children and in-laws, Stanley Goos and Susan Parker, Sylvia Goos Greene and Steve Greene, and Dr. Sam Goos and Sarah Goos. He is survived by his grandchildren, Dr. Ben Parker Goos, Sophie Parker Goos, Max Greene and his wife Caroline Greene, Jake Greene, Zach Goos, and Ariel Goos.
Zeci was be laid to rest next to his wife, Charlotte, in a ceremony at Temple Beth El Memorial Park in Portland.
Gloria Asquith passed away on September 17th, 2020. She was wife of the late Lawrence Asquith and they were married for 70 years. She was the sister of the late Roberta Shriber and Malcom Shriber. Beloved mother of Joan Asquith Shrier and Scott Shrier, Matthew Kaufman and the late Marcia Kaufman. Grandmother to Sara Kaufman (Danny), Emily Kaufman (Chris), Jason Shrier (Hannah), and Elizabeth Shrier Wolf (Georg). Great grandmother to Max, Zoe, Wilder, Brooks and Gray. Gloria lived in Newton all her adult life and raised her family there. She loved classical music, the arts, theatre and travel. Her favorite spot was Bellagio, Italy where she traveled to every year with her husband.
Donations in her memory can be made to the The Jewish National Fund, or The Dana Farber Jimmy Fund Walk, Team Tara.
Bornstein, Esther (Litcofsky), of Randolph, formerly of Brockton, MA, on September 17, 2020. Beloved wife of the late David Bornstein. Devoted mother of Paul and his wife Paula Bornstein, and the late Gary and Robert Bornstein. Proud grandmother of David Bornstein. Loving sister of the late Sylvia Brody, Mark Lane, Anne Mazor, and Sarah Bolin. Loving aunt of Karyn Smith and her husband Paul, and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Esther’s memory may be made to the National Tay-Sachs and Allied Disease Association, 2001 Beacon St., #204, Boston, MA 02135.
Rebecca “Becca” Mann Schmill of Needham, MA, passed away unexpectedly from an accidental drug overdose on September 16, 2020, at the age of 18. Becca was the loving daughter of Stuart and Debra Schmill of Needham, MA, and the adoring sister of Samantha Schmill. A recent graduate of the Cambridge School of Weston, Becca had been accepted at the University of Richmond.
Becca was a beautiful and caring person with a gift for making those around her feel loved and appreciated. Her smile could light up a room. Her passion for life and vibrant spirit were hallmarks of her personality. She was adventurous, curious, and willful. She was a sensitive soul.
Becca had an innate sense of equity and fairness that led her to become involved in issues of social justice. There is no doubt that she would have pursued these issues in meaningful ways had she not been taken so soon.
In addition to her parents and sister, Becca is survived by her maternal grandmother, Florence Mann of Newton, MA, her paternal grandfather, Hyman Schmill of St. Charles, IL, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins all of whom loved her more than words can express, and none of whom will ever forget her. She was also blessed with many close friends who share in the family’s profound loss.
Hers was a life full of potential, tragically cut short. But we are all grateful for each precious moment we had with her.
Becca’s passing at such a young age leaves a void in the hearts of all who loved her, a void that will never truly be filled. But we can all help provide some meaning to this otherwise senseless tragedy by supporting one or more of the following organizations in her memory, all of which were important to Becca: Jane Doe Inc., The Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault, donate online https://janedoe.org, or call (617) 248-0922, or Black Lives Matter donate online at https://blacklivesmatter.com, or Community Health Partnership-Honduras, donate online https://www.chp-honduras.org, or call (508) 237-1384.
Funeral Services will be private due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
A link to Becca’s funeral service can be found below.
“Our hearts ache. They ache for all the smiles we will never see, and the hugs we will never feel. Our hearts ache for the pain Becca’s death has caused our extended family, and each of her many, many close friends. Our hearts ache for the tragedy of losing our beautiful, kind, fun-loving daughter, before she reached her 19th birthday.
Our love for Becca was and is endless. No loss is easy, but this one is unimaginable and untenable. As has been mentioned by others, Becca was a bright light in a dark room. She was funny, adventurous, willful and determined. Not always determined in the ways we would have wanted, but it was still one of her most admirable qualities.
Her willfulness was evident even at a very early age, when as a toddler, her Uncle Ricky commanded her in a playful moment: “Don’t even think about being so cute”… to which she immediately replied with a twinkle in her eye… ”I’m thinking about it.”
From the time she was born, Becca was determined not to miss out on anything. As a result, we missed out on a great deal of sleep. Becca’s adventurous, fun-loving spirit was a source of great joy for everyone around her. She was absolutely adored by her grandmother and grandfather, and all her aunts, uncles and cousins. Likewise, Becca looked forward to every gathering of her local family members and every trip to see her family in New York and Chicago.
Becca quickly adopted a second family and home when she started spending her summers at Camp Chimney Corners. She spent the school year counting the days until camp. To her, there was nothing better than being with a bunk of girlfriends sharing their deepest thoughts and dreams, and challenging themselves and growing together. At camp, Becca was known as a peacemaker and a leader. Becca learned the strength of true friendship and loyalty, and developed a strong sense of self-worth as a female at camp. Camp was a highlight of her much too short life.
She made some of the most enduring friendships of her life at camp and many have contacted us since hearing of Becca’s death. This is a quote from one of those friends:
“Becca was a master of balance. Her life traveled with the present, her relationships grounded in a perpetual past. Both light and heavy, Becca defied the societal heaviness to which I conformed. She was, and she is. I don’t think I will ever meet someone like her again.
“The weight of Becca’s life will be with me forever, but so will her lightness. And this is what makes Becca so special because in the heavy folds of our friendship exists bursts of light—so many laughs and hugs, smiles, and dances.”
Becca’s belief in herself gave her a determination that was unwavering and not always welcomed by us. Whenever we asked why she was doing something she wasn’t supposed to do, she would say with a sly smile, “because it’s fun.”
Becca had a way of getting into your heart, with her big brown eyes, sweet demeaner and desire to heal what ailed you. She was not just our daughter. She was our friend. She comforted us when we were in pain.
For those who might not know, Becca was also a Busker (a street performer) for a short while when we lived in Jamaica Plain. She had decided that she needed to earn her keep. She was 14, and surely the youngest busker in JP at the time. She would carry her guitar and tip jar to Centre Street, sit on the sidewalk and play, often with voice accompaniment of her friend Dani. After a few hours she would collect her earnings and treat us all to dinner. Every time she headed out with her guitar, I would tell her she needed a permit to busk and that the police were going to approach her one day. And sure enough, one day a policeman approached her… and put a $1 bill in her tip jar.
Becca was a joy and we are left with so many wonderful memories of time spent with her:
– Our annual camping trips with friends, sitting around the campfire playing games and eating smores.
– Visits to various presidential libraries and museums (Becca knew more about Rutherford B. Hayes …. than Rutherford B. Hayes did)
– Dad and Becca’s annual summer trip to The No Name restaurant
– Mom and Becca singing the “Luna song,” always ending with a big laugh and a hug
– Family vacations filled with hand holding and hugs
– Long talks and walks together discussing her dreams and her struggles
By the time Becca was 18 and nearing her 19th birthday, she had faced quite a few challenges. But she honestly never complained. She was incredibly brave, and as her parents, we are so very proud of who she was, how she lived her life fully.
Today is a terribly sad day, but now is not only a time for tears. If all we do is cry, we will fail Becca and ourselves. Today we need to remember her smile, her happiness, and the unmitigated joy she brought to all of our lives.
A school friend of Becca’s maybe said it best: “She managed to make those around her smile even when she wasn’t in our presence and I know all will continue to remember how big of a role she played in our lives. She will always be loved and always be in our hearts.”
Today we also must remember Becca’s struggles and how she fought to overcome them. We must remember that Becca was, above all, a human being, full of contradictions, strengths and weaknesses. And that human beings die. That is the destiny we all share.
All we can really hope for… from a life well lived… is to be remembered as being kind to others and loved by those who truly knew us. In her almost 19 years, Becca achieved what many never achieve in a hundred.
She was kind, she was loving, and she was so very much loved.”
The following tribute was received from the Community Health Partnership-Honduras, an organization for which Becca volunteered in providing medical services to impoverished villagers in Honduras.
“In our decades of working in Honduras, we have had exactly one child out of hundreds, just one, come back to the states and of her own volition start organizing local drives to generate funds and materials to help the people in those rural regions- that was, of course, Becca. She and Deb came with us to La Florida, Honduras 4 years ago, and, according to the townspeople there, Miriam and Hugo, Doctors Gloria and Maria, the honey vendor next to the dental clinic, Dona Reina, and everyone who visited the clinic, they never left. On every subsequent trip, kids, parents, and practitioners, always ask about Becca. And although she was shy, quiet and unassuming, everyone, everyone, especially kids, gravitated to her- oftentimes she was surrounded, no, she was swarmed by kids in her clinic- they all just wanted to be near her. Her natural kindness, her humor, and her patience in a clinic filled with patients every day, resonated with them all. She was a light for our entire team and the Town of La Florida. And so, I offer not only our grief at the loss of Becca who we love, but the grief of a faraway community who, for their part, loved her too. She touched them all. May she know peace.”
Bernice Sandler-Formerly of Newton, MA, on September 13,2020. Bernice was the beloved mother of Barbara Brown and her husband Robert, David Sandler and his wife Yoko. Dear grandmother of Nicholas Brown and his wife Caitlin, Sara Berenson and her husband Evan, Molly Irwin and her husband Dennis, Michael Sandler, and Rachel Sandler and her husband James. Bernice is survived by 5 great-granddaughters. She often said she was grateful for having had two great loves, her husband Frank for 48 years and her close friend Louis Gershman for 14 years. She loved to dance, Frank Sinatra being one of her favorites. She had a very close friendship with her cousin Sandy Litner and family. Her friends were extremely important to her, especially Dorothy Freniere, Roberta and Bernie Cole and Lotte Goldberg. Her growing up years were difficult especially because of her brother Benjamin dying at 23 in World War 11 and her parents never really recovering. However, she was strong and made a wonderful life with her husband Frank. She worked for many years, first for the family dry cleaning business and then in various offices, the most years being at William James College which provided many friendships, earning the position of Assistant Registrar. She will be missed by many. Remembrances may be made to National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, 12221 Merit Drive, Suite 1950, Dallas, TX 75251. Email: nocc@ovarian.org. www.ovarian.org. Donation page:https://events.ovarian.org/nocc/Donate
Selvyn Seidel- died from a catastrophic fall. Beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle, lawyer and friend. Cherished for his optimism, kindness, intelligence, sense of humor, generosity and wisdom. Survived by Deborah, his wife of 50 years, daughter Emily Carroll, son-in-law Robert Carroll and grandchildren Claire and Charlie. Funeral private. Celebration of his life at a later date. Contributions in his memory to American Friends of Oxford University or UC Berkeley School of Law.
Leslie Karen Lerner of Brookline, MA passed away unexpectedly on September 11, 2020, at the age of 75. Leslie was the devoted daughter of the late Nathan and Anne Lerner, loving sister of John and Linda Lerner of Newton and Scott Lerner of Delray Beach, FL, and the caring aunt of Jeffrey and Jill Lerner, Adam and Stacey Lerner, April Van Dam, and Caroline and Alex Stangle. Leslie was also the proud great- aunt to nine nieces and nephews. A graduate of Brookline High and The Chandler School, she was a long-time executive secretary at Chelsea Industries. She was also the Administrator of The Joseph and Clara Ford Foundation, overseeing the philanthropic efforts made possible by one of the founders of Brandeis University. Leslie’s interests included the love of her dog Lulu, antiquing at Brimfield, walking around the Reservoir, playing Mahjong, and dedicating her time and support to many worthy charities. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and loved her. Due to current circumstances, her funeral will be private. Donations in Leslie’s memory may be made to Joslin Diabetes Center, Inc., One Joslin Place, Boston, MA 02215.
Stanley Jay Rosenberg, M.D. of Newton, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on September 9, 2020. As a physician, he was admired by patients and colleagues for his compassion and dedication to teaching. As a father and grandfather, he was adored for his complete and unselfish love, support, advice, and the humor with which he approached every situation. As a husband, he was a loving companion, hiking partner, and best friend for over 59 years.
Stan was born on July 13, 1937 to Harold and Marion Rosenberg of Boston, MA. He was raised in Dorchester and West Roxbury, MA and attended Boston Latin School, graduating in 1956. Stan prepared for a career in medicine by studying for a B.S. in Chemistry and Biology at Tufts University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1960. During his freshman year he met Maxine Lavine, who would later be his wife for over 59 years. He then attended the Yale University School of Medicine. Maxine joined him in New Haven after their marriage in 1961, where they celebrated the birth of their daughter Phylis and then their son Harold. Stan graduated M.D., Cum Laude, from Yale University School of Medicine in 1964. Their son Daniel was born while Stan was in the Public Health Service in Albany, NY in 1967.
Stan’s professional life was marked by his care and compassion for his patients, his dedication to teaching and mentoring generations of gastroenterology fellows, and a passion for improving the quality of care for patients. After graduating from Yale, Stan did residencies at the Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, served in the US Public Health Service, and completed his fellowship in the gastroenterology department of the Boston University School of Medicine. In 1971 he entered private practice in gastroenterology. In 1989, Stan joined the full-time faculty of the Beth Israel Hospital, where he remained until his retirement in 2015. Throughout his career he maintained a strong affiliation and involvement with teaching programs at Beth Israel Hospital and the Harvard Medical School. From 1971 until his retirement he held appointments as an Instructor, and then Assistant Professor of Medicine, at the Harvard Medical School. His clinical activities were primarily in general gastroenterology, with special interest in esophageal disorders and endoscopy. He was the Director of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy at the Beth Israel from 1985 through 1996 and was the acting Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology from 1994 through 1996. He also served as the Director of Quality Assurance and GI Endoscopy Training Director. Stan was the co-author of a number of published papers and studies, including as the primary author of a paper in the highly respected journal Nature. Even after his formal retirement he continued to practice, working with the Maven project to bring his expertise to under served communities.
Stan’s personal interests were driven by his family, an enjoyment of the outdoors, and a love of music. Family hiking trips to the White Mountains in New Hampshire led to a lifelong love of hiking and the outdoors. Stan and Maxine traveled the world, hiking in mountains all over North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. He loved sharing these experiences with old friends and those he met along the way. As an adult, he fulfilled his ambition to learn the oboe, and in the process became passionate about the mission of the All Newton Music School to bring musical instruction and experiences to the community. He volunteered at the school for many years and served as the President of the Board of Directors from 1984 to 1987.
Stan was always an interested listener, a trusted advisor, a steadying presence, and a beloved friend to his children and grandchildren. His caring and humor in difficult situations, his gratitude for the blessings of his life even when dealing with personal setbacks, and his constant care for the well-being of his family and friends have served as an inspiration for all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
Stan is lovingly remembered by his wife, Maxine Lavine Rosenberg; his daughter and son-in-law Phylis and Joseph Crosby; his son Harold Rosenberg and daughter-in-law Melora Goosey; his son and daughter-in-law Daniel and Sheri Rosenberg; his grandchildren: David Brunet, Corine Rosenberg, Raquel Goosey, Joshua Brunet, Jacob Rosenberg, and Ethan Rosenberg; his brother and sister-in-law Lewis and Paula Rosenberg; and his brother and sister-in-law Kenneth and Carol Rosenberg.
All are invited to share remembrances at https://tinyurl.com/rememberingSJR. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Stanley may be made to All Newton Music School at https://www.allnewton.org/donate or by check made payable to “All Newton Music School” with “Stanley Rosenberg” on the memo line and mailed to: All Newton Music School, 321 Chestnut Street, West Newton, MA 02465 or to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s GI General Fund at bidmc.org/giving or by check made payable to “BIDMC” with “Stanley Rosenberg/GI” on the memo line and mailed to: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Office of Development, 330 Brookline Ave – OV, Boston, MA 02215.
Joan (Hermine) Greenfield of Jamaica Plain, entered into her rest Wednesday, September 9th, 2020 after a fall.Joan was born on September 1, 1932, in Pittsburg, PA, the daughter of Sidney (Steve) and Claudia Greenfield and is survived by her brother Arthur and sister-in-law Jane.In early 1942 the family moved to Newton, MA where she grew to adulthood. After graduating from Newton High School, Joan attended the University of Wisconsin, graduating in 1953, after which she spent a year in Paris, attending the Sorbonne and traveling. Upon her return to Boston, she embarked upon a very successful career in direct mail advertising. This eventually led her to opening J.G. Creative, her own direct mail advertising firm in New York.
Joan enjoyed travel and making new friends both at home and abroad. She was a self-taught gourmet chef and was a dynamic and gracious hostess. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed the theatre.As a person, she was a loyal friend, a loving sister and devoted daughter and granddaughter; she was very involved with a number of community organizations.Services and burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery in Chicago, IL on Thursday, September 17th at 1 p.m. Central Standard Time ( 2 p.m. Eastern Standard Time). You may Live Stream her service by visiting Chicago Jewish Funerals website www.cjfinfo.com.In lieu of flowers, kindly make a donation in her memory to the charity of your choice.
Richard Alan Smith- Boston has lost a captain of industry and a leading light in philanthropy. Richard Alan (Dick) Smith, born November 1, 1924 to Philip and Marion Smith, died peacefully in his Chestnut Hill home surrounded by family, on Wednesday, September 9th.
Richard was raised in Brookline, MA. He attended the Runkle School, Browne & Nichols School, and graduated from Harvard College in 1946 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering in two and a half years as part of the naval program. Subsequently, he joined his father in the family business, Midwest Drive-in, later called General Drive-In. When his father died unexpectedly in 1961, Richard was thrust into the CEO role at the newly public company, which would be renamed General Cinema Corporation (GCC) in 1964. Richard guided the focus of the company toward movie theaters in shopping centers, which was then a novel idea. Under his leadership, General Cinema built the nation’s first shopping center theater in Framingham, Massachusetts. Sensing the opportunity, Richard built the company throughout the 60s and 70s into the nation’s largest chain of movie theaters, with over 400 locations and 1,200 screens.
In search of diversification from the theater business and having shed the company’s foray into fast food by the mid-1960s, Richard made a series of transformational investments, building what ultimately became three NYSE public companies: General Cinema Corp, the Neiman Marcus Group, and Harcourt General. His first important acquisition was in 1967, the American Beverage Corp. of Ohio. This Pepsi Cola bottling franchise became the cornerstone of 22 years acquiring and building the nation’s largest independent bottler of Pepsi, Dr Pepper and 7-Up, launching the Sunkist brand of soda along the way. In the 80s, in the spirit of further diversification, he led a series of significant investments in other public companies and ultimately acquired a position in Carter Hawley Hale. While profitably divesting his earlier stakes, it was the position in Carter Hawley Hale, acquired initially as a white knight in 1985, which was spun into the controlling interest in the newly created Neiman Marcus Group in 1987. After selling the beverage operations in the late 80s, Richard sought another large operating opportunity for his portfolio. In 1991, he acquired the Harcourt Brace Jovanovich publishing and information businesses.
Richard developed a well-deserved reputation for savvy timing and astute insight. He focused on strategy, acquisitions, and investments and led a talented team of executives. In the 90s, the holding company structure was split into three separate public companies. He then began a process to opportunistically take the family’s interests private. He proved to be an exceptional seller of businesses for record prices. The beverage business was sold in 1989, General Cinema in 2000, Harcourt in 2001, and Neiman’s in 2005. His record was extraordinary; he was recognized in the book “The Outsiders” for his exceptionalism. When he finally retired from active involvement in business, he said with a gleam in his eye, “we all just had so much fun.”
Richard was a leading figure in Boston philanthropy. As he stepped back from his active public company life, he concentrated more of his efforts on philanthropy. He was valued for his wisdom, acumen and mentorship as he served on several boards. Guided by a philosophy of engaged philanthropy, he led by example and gave generously of both his valuable time and financial capacity, leaving his community and family an extraordinary legacy. Among his proudest accomplishments is the gift he left to his children, grandchildren, and their families – the Richard and Susan Smith Family Foundation. Today, multiple generations work together on the foundation board, along with its professional staff, to guide the strategy and grant making of the foundation.
Richard was a lifelong believer in the power of biomedical research to transform the human condition. As an early supporter of Dr. Sidney Farber, he joined the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Board of Trustees in 1962. He would become a seminal leader in the Institute’s history as President and Chair of Dana-Farber’s board from 1973-1982. Along with his wife and partner in life Susan, he became Dana Farber’s largest individual donor. Additionally, he served on the Joslin Diabetes Center’s board from 2002 onward, the Beth Israel Hospital board as a Trustee and Honorary Trustee, and the United Cerebral Palsy Research and Educational Foundation. He was a significant supporter of leading institutions such as Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston Children’s Hospital, and early career biomedical researchers throughout New England.
Richard believed fervently in the importance of America’s leading universities and their unique role in the country and the world, and first among these was his alma mater Harvard University. He served as a Fellow of the Harvard Corporation from 1991-2000 and on the Board of the Harvard Management Company and the Board of Overseers for many years prior. The Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Campus Center opened in 2018 and is a testament to his dedication and decades of service to the University as a whole. He also was a trustee at Buckingham, Browne, and Nichols, Beaver Country Day School and the Park School, and a supporter of Tufts University. He received honorary degrees from both Harvard and Boston College.
He gave generously to Jewish causes, chairing the CJP Board of Managers from 1989-1995 and serving as Vice Chair of Temple Israel in the early 70s. He joined the Facing History and Ourselves board in 1979, and chaired the organization from 1989-1995 as Facing History and Ourselves grew to national prominence.
He served on the Boston Symphony Orchestra board from 1972 until 1996, when he was made a Lifetime Trustee. In his later years he served on the board of Year-Up. While most of Richard’s civic leadership was in the not-for-profit sector, he also served on a few corporate boards, including as lead director for First National Bank of Boston from 1973-1982 and at Liberty Mutual Insurance Company from 1975-1997.
Richard is survived by his three children and spouses, Amy Smith Berylson and John Berylson, Robert A. Smith and Dana Smith, and Debra Smith Knez; eight grandchildren, Jennifer Berylson Block and Jonathan Block, James T. Berylson, Elizabeth Berylson Katz and Robert Katz, Jessica and Andrew Knez, Madeleine, Ryan, and Jackson Smith; six great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Zachary, and Alexander Block, Thomas, Sara, and William Katz; his sister Nancy Lurie Marks, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beautiful, devoted wife of 63 years, Susan Flax Smith in 2016 and son James A. Smith in 1970.
Lamb, Marilyn Greenfield of Sharon, MA, passed away of natural causes in her home on September 7, 2020. Beloved wife of Hyman Lamb. Dear daughter of the late Louis and Bertha Greenfield. Devoted mother of Paul Lamb and his wife Susan, and Marty Lamb and his wife Peri. Proud grandmother of Audrey, Joanna, Elissa, and Simma. Dear step great-grandmother of Evelyn Bertoson. Loving sister of Charlotte and Robert Abrahms, Dear aunt of Jill Sholes. Private services will be held at Sharon Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations in Marilyn’s memory may be made to the Lamb-Ellowitz Scholar in Residence Endowment Fund at Temple Israel, 125 Pond St., Sharon, MA 02067.
Graveside services at Maple Hill Cemetery, 99 Canterbury Rd., Peabody, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations in Shelley’s memory may be made to the MDS Foundation, 4573 South Broad St., Yardville, NJ, 08620.
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