Archive: February, 2025

CLICK HERE TO VIEW RECORDING OF GRAVESIDE SERVICE 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW LIVESTREAM AT NEWBRIDGE ON THE CHARLES   12N

Robert “Bob” Sharkansky passed away on February 20, 2025 after a brief illness in his 89^th year of life.  He was surrounded by his family and caretakers at the time of his peaceful passing.  Born on September 30, 1936 in Fall River, Massachusetts he was the son of Abraham and Ethel Sharkansky (of blessed memory).  He was a proud graduate of Durfee High School Class of 1954.  After high school Bob enlisted in the US Army and was stationed in West Germany.  Upon returning home, having limited resources and options his mother sent him to attend Bryant College in Providence RI where he would study accounting and “become a successful accountant like your Uncle Eddie.”

Bob did just that.  After school he met and married his wife Linda Hibel of Brockton.  They remain married and in love after 64 years.  His love for business, however, was very close second. In 1960 Robert Sharkansky opened his own accounting firm and developed a client base fueled by professionalism, client attention and expertise.  His practice grew for over 50 years into Sharkansky LLP, a premier regional accounting and business consulting firm.  With numerous partners, associates and staff the firm was ultimately sold to a large national firm.

Growing both a business and family in Brockton, Bob was always active in the Greater Brockton community feeling strongly about the role citizenship played in his life.  He committed significant time to the leadership at the Old Colony YMCA, Brockton Hospital and Temple Beth Emunah as well as various local business organizations. He was an avid runner at D.W. Field Park and enjoyed the frustration of tennis and golf.

Most importantly, Bob lived to provide stability for his family.  His most precious gifts are his grandchildren Emma Rose and Cooper Sharkansky and Sophie and Max Singer.  Bob is also survived by his wife, Linda Sharkansky of Dedham, MA, his son James Sharkansky of Mashpee, MA and granddaughters Olivia and Mia Sharkansky.  He also leaves a daughter, Jan Singer and her husband David of Cotuit MA a son Edward Sharkansky and his wife, Jennifer of North Easton MA, his brother Richard and sister-in-law Barbara of West Palm Beach FL, his sister Carol Weinberg of Stoughton, MA and sister in law Elaine Stone of West Palm Beach, FL and Scituate MA along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Monday, February 24, 2025 at 12N at NewBridge on the Charles, 5000 Great Meadow Rd., Dedham, MA.  A luncheon will be held following the service.  Memorial Observance will be held at the home of Ed and Jen Sharkansky Monday evening from 6-9 pm.

To view livestream, please click here.

Norman Tasgal of Newton, MA., died peacefully at home surrounded by family in the evening of Feb. 19, 2025. He was 88 years old. Born on Oct. 17, 1936, in Montreal, Canada, Norman was the devoted husband for 62 beautiful years of fellow Montrealer Carol (Brotman) Tasgal, who survives. He was the loving father of Richard (Reena) Tasgal, Ralph (Janae) Tasgal, and Peter (Jessica) Tasgal. He was the beloved grandfather of Sarit, Aviv, Harel and Hadas Tasgal; Faye and Cole Tasgal; and Rachel and Ozi Tasgal. He was the brother of the late Bernice (Tasgal) Goldwater. Norman was a successful businessman, including co-owner of Intransit Container in Mansfield, MA. He was an accomplished athlete all his life, from hockey and skiing to tennis and squash. The highlight of each year was biking the Pan-Mass Challenge, which he did for nearly two decades, raising thousands of dollars for the Jimmy Fund. He was generous to a fault to all, both with his time and money. Norman had many cherished friends from his childhood and continued to make new friends throughout his life, wherever he went. He had a deep connection to the Jewish community and Israel and embraced his Jewish identity all his life. Funeral service on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at 12:30 pm at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave., Needham, MA.  Interment following at Mishkan Tefila Memorial Park, 2659 Centre St., West Roxbury. Donations to Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Pan-Mass Challenge and Combined Jewish Philanthropies.

To leave a note for the Tasgal family please click here.

Stanley S. Treitman died of natural causes at the age of 98 on February 18, 2025 at NewBridge on the Charles Senior Living in Dedham. He is survived by his loving wife and life partner of 76 years, Ruth, and his four children, Rick, Bob, Beth, and Jim.

Born in Los Angeles to Sigmund and Celia Treitman, Stan attended LA public schools and served in the Navy as a radio technician in the Philippines during the closing period of World War II. Upon his return, he enrolled at UCLA where he met Ruth. After UCLA he did graduate work at Cal Berkeley, before returning to Southern California to teach high school science in Colton.

Stan was an early member of the Physical Sciences Study Committee (PSSC) and helped develop a new method of hands-on science physics education. Before he implemented PSSC at Colton High, a handful of students studied physics – within a few years, five full sections of students enthusiastically enrolled in his classes. In 1965 Stan joined a USAID/Harvard project to implement PSSC at a model secondary school in Nigeria, where the family lived for two years.

Upon returning to The States, Stan taught in the science department at Wheelock College. The family moved to Wellesley where Stan and Ruth lived for over 50 years. In 1982, Stan and Ruth, who taught math at Dana Hall, left the world of education and went into business, opening a retail software store in Burlington. Stan, Ruth, Jim, and later Rick and Bob, built Softpro into a successful software and technical bookstore.

Upon retirement in 2005, Stan continued to share his technical and accounting expertise in his numerous volunteer positions. He served Wellesley Weston Lifelong Learning and the Friendly Aid Society. He was a board member and VP/Membership Chair of The Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Boston who honored him in 2018 for his outstanding contributions building their database and communications technology. Ruth and Stan were among the founders of Wellesley Neighbors where they published the newsletter, built the web site, and took part in many of the activities – particularly the jazz concerts.

Ruth and Stan spent summers on Newfound Lake in New Hampshire for many years where the family gathered and many of their grandchildren learned to swim. The lake house continues to host memories for those Stan leaves behind.

In 2018, they moved from Wellesley to NewBridge on the Charles, where they joined old friends and made new ones. They were regulars at the evening concerts and lectures for many years.

For many NBOC computer users, Stan was the help desk, and he used his expertise at page layout for newsletters for multiple organizations including NBOC publications.

In addition to the love of his life, Ruth, Stan leaves behind his children Rick (Louise) of Lexington, Bob (Leslie Fisher) of Concord, Beth (Michael) Paysnick of Longmeadow, and Jim (Chris Garlasco) of Golden, Colorado. He also leaves nine grandchildren, Sarah Paysnick, Annie Treitman, David Paysnick, Kate Brown, Amy Paysnick, Jo Hogan, Lauren Treitman, Olivia Treitman, and Rachel Treitman, and nine great grandchildren.

The family thanks his caregivers, Dianne Wilks, Pearl Cashman, and Vida Atakpo, and hospice nurses who worked hard to keep Stan comfortable and at peace in his final days.

A service in his memory will be held at NewBridge on the Charles at 2pm on March 30.

Donations in Stan’s memory can be made to the Wellesley Food Pantry (wellesleyfoodpantry.org), the NewBridge Employees’ Scholarship Fund (send check payable to “NewBridge on the Charles” with “Scholarship Fund – Stan Treitman” on the memo line to NewBridge Scholarship Fund, NewBridge on the Charles, 5000 Great Meadow Rd, Dedham, MA 02026), or the charity of your choice.

Nancy Lois Spitz (née Rosoff) passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 17, 2025, at the age of 75. A devoted mother, pioneering stockbroker, and fierce competitor, Nancy lived a life of ambition, resilience, and love.

Born on August 25, 1949, in Springfield, MA, to Howard and Elnore Rosoff, Nancy was the younger sister of Susan Rudman, who predeceased her in 2009. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from American International College in 1971 and briefly worked as a teacher before embarking on a groundbreaking career in finance. At a time when women were rarely seen in sales roles, she shattered expectations, becoming one of the first to rise from secretary to licensed stockbroker on Boston’s Wall Street. Once she established herself as a top performer, she made it her mission to help her family build careers in finance, knowing the opportunities it could provide.

Nancy’s competitive spirit extended beyond the office—she was a world-class backgammon player, winning the Ladies Open Championship in Nassau and finishing as runner-up at the World Championships in Monaco. She never shied away from a challenge, whether at the office, backgammon board or in the stands as a passionate sports fan. Sundays were sacred in her household—not for rest, but for football, and everyone knew better than to interrupt her during a game.

In 1985, she married Marshall Richard Spitz, and in 1986, they welcomed their son, Preston Harris Spitz. Soon after, she retired from finance to focus on her family, channeling her leadership into her faith and community. She became president of the Sisterhood at Temple Beth Avodah in Newton, MA, and was later named to the Board of Trustees. She also had a deep love of music, performing as a child under the name “Jazzbaby Nancy.”

In 2014, Nancy was diagnosed with lung cancer, a battle she fought with grace and determination. Though she completed treatment in 2023, its toll—combined with the heartbreak of losing her beloved husband—was immense, and she soon faced rapid-onset dementia.

Nancy is survived by her son Preston Spitz, brother Jay Rosoff, nephew Stephen Rudman, stepdaughters Sarah Spitz and Hilary Arens, and many beloved grandnieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Sharon Memorial Park on Friday, February 21st, at 12:45 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Combined Jewish Philanthropies, reflecting her lifelong dedication to faith, family, and community.

May her memory be a blessing.

Gail (Wasserman) Epstein, of Newton, MA, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025.

Beloved wife of Alan Epstein, for almost 60 years.

Devoted mother of Lisa Epstein of MA, Ellyn Epstein and her partner, Eric Draeger of NH. She was predeceased by her adorable, loving companion dog, Teddy.

She is survived by her sister, Joyce Brodkin and her husband, William. She also leaves many wonderful nieces, nephews, and cousins. She made and kept lifelong friendships.

Gail enjoyed working many years as a Rabbi’s secretary. She had a creative side to her, which she always loved to share with friends and family.

Services will be held at Temple Beth Avodah, 45 Puddingstone Lane, Newton, on Friday, February 21, 2025 at 10:30am. Interment will follow at  Crawford St. Memorial Park Cemetery, 776 Baker St, West Roxbury.

Remembrances in her memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 320 Nevada St #201, Newton, MA 02460, ALZ.org.

Marlene (Segal) Wise “Mimi”, of Sharon MA, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, February 14th, 2025, at the age of 74.  The beloved mother of Jennifer Weinstein and Gregory Wise and mother-in-law to Michael Weinstein and Paula Wise. Cherished grandmother of Jordan, Jake, Max and Maddyn. Loving sister of Barbara and Jerry Rutberg and adored aunt and friend.  Marlene was the devoted wife to the late Jeffrey Wise and the adored daughter of Helen and Jack Segal of New Haven, CT.

Marlene’s warmth, kindness and unwavering love touched everyone who knew her bringing light and comfort to those around her. Her greatest joy was her family.  Her gentle spirit, generosity and compassion made her a source of strength and comfort to all who knew her.  Marlene was not only the most loving mom and grandmother, but a woman of remarkable drive and determination. An entrepreneur at heart, she built a successful career fueled by her passion, hard work and unwavering commitment to provide for her family.

Marlene’s presence was a gift and while she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, strength and generosity will live on in the life of those she leaves behind.  Marlene has also left her mark on the medical community, pioneering novel medical treatments that will save future lives.

A celebration of Marlene’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 18 at 1:00 pm at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Ave., Needham, MA. Shiva will follow at the Temple until 4:00 pm and 5:00- 7:00 pm. A private burial will be held on Monday morning.

A fund at Dana Farber Medical Center will be created in Marlene’s memory.  In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the fund in her name.

Lawrence Paul Cohen- of Boca Raton FL, and Mashpee, MA, formerly of Newton, age 80, on February 13, 2025. Beloved husband of Meryl (Weiner) of 53 Years. Devoted Father of Neil (Lainie) and Michael. Proud Grandfather of Max, Leah, Remy, Alexander, Andrew and Zachary. Son of the late Aaron L. and Evelyn (Winetsky) Cohen. Loving sibling of Robert, Martin and Shellee (Golden). Funeral Service at Temple Sinai, 25 Canton St., Sharon, MA  on Tuesday, February 18th at 11 am. Shiva luncheon to follow burial at Blue Hill Country Club 23 Pecunit St., Canton, MA. Additional Shiva will be at the home of Lainie and Neil Cohen on Tuesday, February 18th from 6-9 pm, Wednesday, February 19th from 2-4 pm and 6-9 pm, and Thursday, February 20th from 2-4 pm and 6-9 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, in Memory of Lawrence P. Cohen, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.

We are heartbroken to share the passing of Michael Perry Fink of Wellington, FL, formerly of Sharon, MA on February 13, 2025. Son of the late John & Lillian (Bloom) Fink, Michael was the beloved husband of Susan Fink and a proud and devoted father to his two children Lisa London and Joshua Fink, as well as to his son-in-law Michael London and daughter-in-law Anita Fink. He absolutely loved and adored his three grandchildren, Maddy and Marc London, and Liliana Fink. He was a devoted brother to Stephen and sister-in-law Myra, the late Norman Fink, and sister-in-law Jan and the late Sid Klein. He was a caring uncle to Lindsay, Andrew, and Matthew Fink and an amazing stepfather to Lorrie and Bill Thomson and their children.

Michael was proud to be an active board member of Temple Beth Tikvah, Greenacres, FL, and spent hours on the golf course. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, creating connection and community wherever he went. The most genuine and thoughtful man, he lived for his family and was a dedicated friend to everyone lucky enough to have known him.

Private services will be held at Sharon Memorial Park, Sharon, MA. Shiva will be held on Monday, February 17 from 1pm to 8pm at the home of Joshua and Anita Fink. If you wish to make a donation in memory of Michael, please consider the American Diabetes Association or a charity of your choice.

Jennifer Ann Swidler of New York City, daughter of Michael Swidler of Framingham and the late Nancy Swidler, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2025, after a brief illness.  Jennifer was born on December 23, 1970, and was a graduate of Framingham North High School and Brandeis University.  She was a devoted Granddaughter of the late Mildred and David Lurensky of Newton and Hannah and George Swidler of Peabody. Funeral service will be held at 1 PM, Sunday, February 16, 2025 in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA.  Burial will follow. In remembrance of Jennifer, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center.

To join the zoom recording of the service please click here

Arlene Feinberg, age 77, of Watertown, MA, died February 10, 2025.

Funeral Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at Beth El Temple Center, 2 Concord Ave. Belmont, MA 02478.  Interment to follow at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA. Shiva following from 7-9 pm at the home of Marsha & Ed Mattison.

To view the livestream please click here.

Fred Ezekiel loved four institutions: His family, Temple Emunah in Lexington, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and the United States of America. They gave him the life he lived. He died peacefully in his sleep Sunday morning, February 9, 2025.

He is survived by his daughter, Karen Ezekiel Handmaker (David Handmaker), his son, David Ezekiel (Elise Richman Ezekiel), grandchildren Maina Handmaker (Richard Joyce), Orli Handmaker (Sam Howe), Callan Handmaker, Hilana Ezekiel (Adam Schlitt), Micah Ezekiel and Nili Ezekiel, great grandsons Tavi Howe and Ronen Joyce, his sister, Flo Urbach, and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his wife, Bess Ezekiel, sisters, Clarette Freedman and May Stein, brother, Shaoul Ezekiel, and his parents, Naima and David.

Born in June 1929 in Baghdad, Iraq, Fredrick David Ezekiel of Lexington grew up focused on his education. In Iraq, he attended the Baghdad Alliance Israelite Universelle and the American Jesuit Baghdad College, the latter a rather uncommon place for a Jewish boy to attend high school.

He was accepted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with help from his Jesuit teachers and his considerable brain power. His arrival in America in 1948 marked the beginning of the end for Iraq’s “Babylonian” Jews. A few years after Fred left Baghdad nearly all would be expelled after more than 2,000 years.

The United States enabled the brilliant Fred to live the life he wanted – a life that would not have been possible in his native country. He earned several degrees including a doctorate in mechanical engineering from MIT and became an assistant professor. He continually credited education and MIT as his tickets to success.

As he was starting his career, he wanted to look for a wife. He met Bessie Robinson of Brookline and proposed within a month. They were married at the MIT Chapel in August 1956. He became a U.S. citizen in 1959. Fred and Bess built a family together. They welcomed Karen in 1957, and David in 1960.

His career took off as his children grew older. He left MIT and worked for several years as a consultant to technology companies and later started his own company, Servoflo Corporation, in 1977. He sold his own inventions, including the patented magnetic shaft seal for computer hard drives. He and Bess made the magnetic liquid in their own basement! In the 1990s, his son David joined him at Servoflo, building a successful electronics distribution company.

Fred took an active role at the local synagogue, Temple Emunah. While not a particularly spiritual man, he valued the Jewish traditions and the communities that formed out of religious observance. He served as the congregation president in the ‘70s. In the last 15 years, he was primarily concerned with fostering social connection and shared interests among congregants. Just over a decade ago, he endowed the Ladle Fund to bring people together through social events at synagogue.

Fred lived the American dream. He was an entrepreneur and family man thankful to his adopted country. He had a sense of civic pride evident in his desire to build social connections among countrymen, coreligionists, and family members, whether at Emunah, MIT, or beyond. All who knew him will miss him dearly.

The funeral will be at 1pm on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at Temple Emunah, 9 Piper Road, Lexington, MA 02421. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Fred’s honor to the Temple Emunah Ladle Fund or the MIT Education Innovation Funds for Teaching and Learning.

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

Steven M. Goldstein, husband, father, grandfather, brother, scholar, and teacher passed away on February 10, 2025, at the age of 84. Steve Goldstein was the Sophia Smith Professor of Government at Smith College for nearly 50 years, from 1968 until his retirement in 2016. He was widely respected for his groundbreaking work in the field of Chinese domestic and foreign policy, particularly his studies of Sino-American relations, Sino-Soviet relations, and the development of a Chinese Communist worldview. He taught thousands of students in these areas as well as in the general class, “Gov 100,” which he loved to teach.

After retiring from Smith College, Steve continued his academic endeavors as an Associate at the Fairbank Center and as the director of the Taiwan Studies Workshop at Harvard University. His career also included faculty appointments at the Tufts Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Columbia University, and the United States Naval War College. He was passionate about fostering understanding between China, Taiwan, and the United States and spent many years traveling to China and Taiwan, often in the company of scholars and government officials. He had a particular expertise in cross-straits relations between China and Taiwan., In addition, Steve was active at Hebrew University’s Truman Institute in Jerusalem, Israel, where he contributed to international academic and policy discussions.

In addition to his academic work, he was an avid traveler, exploring the world through his extensive research and personal adventures. Outside the world of academia, Steve was known for his love of sailing and his ability to engage in spirited and thoughtful debates—he truly enjoyed a good argument. He was a fierce competitor on the squash and tennis courts and was hard on ideas, but soft on people.

Steve is survived by his wife, Erika Kates; his son, Ken Goldstein; his daughter-in-law, Amanda Goldstein; his grandchildren, Samantha Goldstein and Nathaniel Goldstein; his sister and brother-in-law, Lois and Jerry Lowenstein; his nephew. Ben Lowenstein; his stepdaughter, Shira Kates and her daughter, Zella. He was predeceased by his parents, Nathaniel and Etta Goldstein and his son, Daniel.

A funeral will be held. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Brandeis Hillel and Harvard Hillel.

Judith Towvim Murad April 26, 1939 – February 8th, 2025

To view livestream please click here.

Judith (“Judy”) Towvim Murad, 85, of Newton, passed away peacefully on February 8th, 2025. She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Edmond, as well as her nephews Joshua Towvim, Daniel Towvim (wife Geri and children Ava and Jacob), and Adam Towvim (wife Laura and children Benjamin and Rebecca). 

Sister of the late Harvey Towvim and daughter of the late Theodore and Miriam Towvim, Judy was raised in Newton, Massachusetts and lived the majority of her life there. She attended the Newton Public Schools and graduated from The Winsor School in Boston and Smith College.  She received a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of California, Berkeley.  

She began her career as a therapist for children and adolescents at The Beth Israel Hospital in Boston and continued for many years at the Harvard Community Health Plan (later Harvard Vanguard), alongside a private practice.

Judy had a passion for gardening and tennis and was a devoted wife, aunt, and friend, always making the effort to stay connected to those she loved.

Funeral at Temple Israel Sanctuary on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, 11am, 477 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02215.

Burial will follow the service at Temple Israel Wakefield Cemetery. Shiva will follow the burial, 2-6pm, at the home of Adam and Laura Towvim.

Donations can be made to: 

Temple Israel of Boston
Attn: TILLI Fund, for Judy Murad
477 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02215 

Mozart, Munch and Myrna:

these were Robert William Guterman’s essentials.

Born in Boston May 6, 1932 to Abraham and Ada Guterman, died February 6, 2025 in Dedham. He enjoyed skiing, and sailing at Community Boathouse at an early age. He attended Colby College in Waterville, Maine and was graduated  from Tufts University with a B.A. in History; attended Rhode Island School of Design, and was graduated as a Master of City Planning from the University of Rhode Island.

Predeceased by his granddaughter, Ariel, he is survived by his wife, Myrna, his son, David, his daughter, Anne, his granddaughter, Eliana, his sister, Marjorie Dembitzer, and cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Monday, February 10, 2025 at Temple Reyim, 1860 Washington Street, Newton, at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Lindwood Cemetery, 492 North St., Randolph, MA.

Contributions in his memory may be given to Joslin Diabetes Center, at //www.joslin.org/support-joslin/ways-give or Community Boating at //portal.community-boating.org/donate.

Nancy (Pollock) Stavis of Key Biscayne Fl, Brookline, Ma, W Harwich, Ma

Daughter of Ida Cohen Pollock and Hyman Pollock, born on 10/24/1934

Died on Thursday February 6, 2025.

Loving and devoted wife of 60 years to Edward Stavis(deceased). Loving Mother to Sara Stavis Altman (Stuart) and Emily Stavis (David Polstein). Loving grandmother to Jennifer Altman, Evan Altman (Lucy Kissel), August Polstein (Sara Fields Polstein) and Harry Polstein. Loving Great Grandmother to Edward (Teddy) Polstein, Isadore Altman and Murray Polstein. Sister of Samuel Pollock(deceased).

Nancy graduated with a BA in Psychology from Brown University in 1956. Member of Sigma Psi and Phi Betta Kappa.

Nancy was an avid and skilled tennis player and competed and played in New England, Cape Cod and Florida. Nancy was a lover of architecture and took great pleasure in designing and building attractive and efficient spaces in each of her homes and consulted on her family members’ projects as well. Nancy and Eddie were the perfect pair. They balanced each other out with their unique personalities and skill sets. Together they shared 60 years with a love of the arts, swimming in the ocean, enjoying great dining experiences and spending time with lifelong friends and family.

Nancy was a loving, generous, frugal, caring, organized extrovert. She maintained close and long friendships with her friends from elementary school to the new friends that she’d met on the beach a week ago.

Donations can be made to: The Edward and Nancy Stavis Scholarship Fund at the Heller School at Brandeis University 415 South St. #035, Waltham, Ma 02453 or The New World Symphony 500 17^th St. Miami Beach, Fl 33139.

Funeral Services will be private

Edward James Ravelson, “Ed”, 75, of Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts passed away peacefully in his home on February 2nd, 2025 after his courageous battle with chronic kidney disease.

Ed was born in Charleston, West Virginia to Arthur and Bessye Bedrick Ravelson. He grew up in Worcester, MA, graduating from Doherty High School, then attending several years at Bentley College. In 1971 Ed’s passion for fashion and his entrepreneurial spirit led Ed, along with his brother Scott to found one of the Boston region’s pioneering recycled clothing stores, The Pennsylvania Company/PA Company. The business grew over the next 40 years into a 6-store regional chain of fashion-forward boutiques located in Harvard Square, Boston and on Cape Cod. Ed had a sixth sense for fashion, and saw trends before most, leading him to be the first in the region to feature many iconic brands. He closed his last store in Provincetown, MA in 2018 to enjoy his retirement.

Ed had an appreciation for all professional sports, but especially baseball. Despite living in Massachusetts, he always remained a diehard NY Yankees fan. Ed valued physical wellness as seen in his exercise regiment, including daily gym workouts and outdoor activities such as biking and kayaking.

Ed was deeply loved and respected for his warmth, subtle humor and integrity by all who knew him. Ed always put family and friends first. He was a kind, loyal, loving, sentimental, giving, and gentle man. His laughter was unmistakable and would light up a room. Ed was the ultimate gentleman warrior.

Ed met the love of his life, Patti and they were married for 23 years. They were truly inseparable, enjoying a life filled with friends, family, and travel. Ed and Patti especially loved hosting family and friends at their homes in Chestnut Hill and Provincetown.

Ed is survived by his wife Patti Kinzer, his beloved and cherished daughter Jennie, her husband Gregg McGuire and their daughter Savannah (whom he especially adored and who helped brighten his final years), his first wife Theo, with whom he remained dear friends, and her husband Michael Belsky.  He is also survived by his devoted brother Scott Ravelson, his loving sister-in-law Elaine Ravelson, nephews Cory and Ben Ravelson whom he treated like sons, Ben’s wife Sarah and their daughter Audrey. Ed also leaves his many cousins, family members and lifelong friends, too many to mention here.

Ed was truly an inspiration on how to live a good, well-purposed life. He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten, and his spirit will live on through all the lives he touched with his kindness, care, sense of humor, and love.

There will be a Celebration of Ed’s life. Please reach out to the family for details.

Donations in Ed’s honor can be made to help serve, solve and care for the blind by donating to an institution Ed cared about, Perkins School For the Blind: https://www.perkins.org/tribute

If people prefer to donate via check ,send your donation to the address below.

Perkins School for the Blind

Attn: Development Department

175 N. Beacon Street

Watertown, MA 02472

Please note that the donation is in memory of Edward Ravelson

Helen Myrna Tack (nee Goodman), 94, of Newton, MA, passed away peacefully on Feb 1, 2025, in her home of 72 years. The funeral service will be held at Temple Shalom of Newton on Wednesday, Feb 5th, at 1 pm. Shiva will be held at 131 Wiswall Rd., Newton, on Feb 5th after the funeral service until 6 pm, continuing from 7:30-9 pm, and Thursday, Feb 6th, from 1 -5 pm.

Helen Tack was born in Chelsea, MA, to Betty and Samuel (George) Goodman on May 7, 1930. She graduated from Brookline High School, where she cultivated her passion for the arts. Her entrepreneurial spirit later led her to become an owner of Fancy That, a bath boutique in Newton Center that reflected her flair for elegance and appreciation of the beauty in everyday life.

When she called you “my darling,” a deep and long-lasting relationship began. She was always there for her family and friends. She was loving, thoughtful, and giving. She loved her husband, Bernie; they were married for 65 years, and together, they enjoyed a life filled with world travel and reading on the beach at their beloved homes in Cape Cod, MA, and Longboat Key, FL.

Helen is survived by her son Michael Tack & Heidi Shenker, daughter Margi Loyer & son-in-law Roger Loyer; five grandchildren and their partners, Jessica Loyer & Tim Brierly, Sarah Loyer & Georgia Lassner, Molly (Tack) Leighton & Brian Leighton, Alex Loyer, Ben Tack & Stephanie Kolozie, five great-grandchildren: Saffron, Bryce, Bobby, Maisie & Millie, and nine nieces and nephews.

She is preceded by her husband, Bernard Tack, and sisters, Elaine Werther and Ruth Tobin.

Memorial donations may be made to VNA Care Hospice (vnacare.org)

or  Congregation Shalom (congregationshalom.org) or Temple Shalom of Newton (Templeshalom.org)

The family wishes to thank VNA Hospice Care and our wonderful, dedicated caregivers for their incredible guidance and loving care during this difficult time.

WACKS, Dr. Jerry, of Lexington, died on Monday, January 31, 2025, at age 86 of complications from ALS. He was preceded in death by parents Ida and Harry Wacks, survived by wife Sue Wacks, son David Wacks (Katharine Gallagher), godson Nicholas Cotterpong (Lindsay), and grandchildren Zev and Zohar Wacks and Coral and Everly Cotterpong. He was a Psychiatrist in Lexington, MA, for over 50 years. His main goal was to help everyone and anyone who crossed his path. He had a legion of friends. The funeral will be held at 10:30 am on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Temple Emunah, 9 Piper Rd., Lexington, MA. Burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Compassionate Care ALS, P.O. Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574, ccals.org, and Temple Emunah.

Miriam Etta Bernstein was born August 17, 1956, to Dr. Alan and Mrs. Doris (Rabinowitz) Bernstein in Montgomery, Alabama, when her father was working for the United States Communicable Diseases Center (CDC).  She died after a 3 year battle with ovarian cancer at Newton-Wellesley Hospital on Feb 1, 2025.  When Miriam was 2 years old, the family relocated to Lancaster, PA in order for her father to begin working at Wyeth Laboratories in Marietta, PA. Miriam attended the Lancaster public schools and in 1974 graduated from Hempfield High School, where she was the yearbook editor.  After high school Miriam attended Tufts University in Somerville, MA, where she graduated with a degree in Sociology.  After graduation, she worked at Family Services of Greater Boston and also at Platinum Construction LLC as an office manager. Within the family she went by “Mim” or “Aunt Mim” – a ray of sunshine to all who knew her. She was quick witted and ready with a pun on even the most mundane topic.  Miriam was an avid Boston Red Sox fan, watching each game on television, and able to recite every player’s statistics. Miriam is survived by her brother, David (Kathe) Bernstein of Wayland, MA; her brother Saul Bernstein of Lancaster, PA, her nephews, Jon (Deepthi) Bernstein of Los Angeles, CA, Brian Bernstein of New York and beloved partner of many years, Merick Bahm of Newton, MA.

Barbara (Wasserman) Gulman of Peabody, MA passed away on January 29, 2025 at age 92. Barbara was born in Boston, MA and raised her family in Peabody, MA.  Loving mother to Richard Gulman and his wife Susan, Max Gulman and his wife Linda, Gary Gulman and his wife Sade.  Proud grandmother to Jonathan Gulman & his wife Alison, Kerry Zwierzko & her husband Johnny, Jessica Miller & her husband Adam, and Paige Gulman. She was a doting great-grandmother to Beckett, Hadley, Hailey and Henry. And was adored by her nieces and nephew. Devoted daughter to the late Lillian and Louis Wasserman. She is survived by her sister Jeanne Goldberg. Predeceased by her twin brother Norman Wasserman and her ex-husband Philip Gulman. 

Barbara had a tremendous personality and a great sense of humor. She found the good in everyone and always made them feel special. 

Funeral services will be private.  Shiva observance will be on Sunday February 2^nd at the home of Max and Linda Gulman, 96 Oxford Rd., Newton, MA from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lung Immunology Research Fund at MGH Make a Gift to Mass General c/o Development Office, attn. Connor Burns.

or the charity of your choice.

To view livestream please click here

Rhoda Lee (Proman) Potischman of Newton, MA, formerly of Framingham, Mashpee, and Boynton Beach, FL, on January 29, 2025. Beloved wife of 61 years of the late Bernard Potischman. Loving daughter of the late Louis and Sophie Proman. Devoted mother of Lisa Bellin and her husband Jeffrey, Lauren Kracoff and her husband Gary, and Karen Wise and her husband Andrew. Cherished grandmother of Daniel Bellin and his wife Ashira Loike, Deborah Bellin Cohen and her husband Henry Cohen, Jennifer Kracoff Berk and her husband Jeremy Berk, Brian Kracoff and his wife Lauren Cassel Kracoff, and Stephanie, Peter, and Julie Wise. Treasured great-grandmother of Naomi, Yehuda, and Sharona, Ezra and Brielle, Maya and Maggie, Austin and Vivian.  Loving sister of the late Anita Cohen and the late David Proman. Dear sister-in-law of Kenneth Cohen and the late Phyllis Proman Rosenblum, Ernest and Roz Potischman, and Norma Potischman. Graveside service at 1 PM on Friday, January 31, 2025 at Polonnoe Cemetery, 776 Baker St., West Roxbury, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jewish National Fund (www.JNF.org ) or the synagogue of your choice.

To view the livestream please click here.

David M. Marson- of Dedham, MA formerly of Jupiter, Florida, age 98, on January 29, 2025. Beloved husband of the late Dorothy (Sheppard). Son of the late Julian and Fanny (Slosberg) Marzynski. Devoted father of Marsha Moller (Edward) and Deborah Marson (John Faldetta of blessed memory). Proud grandfather of Jessica Sargent (George), Mark McNulty (Marisa) and Samuel Moller. Great-grandfather of Charlie and Whitney Sargent. Brother of the late Richard Marson and his wife Vivian Marson and their children Lisa Marson, Barry Marson (Kathleen) and Judith Jacobs (Ronald). David was a Navy veteran of WWII and the Korean War. He was devoted to his family and his alma mater Colby College ‘48 where he served as a trustee for twelve years. David followed his grandfather and father as third generation running the family business NewCan Company and sailing on his beloved yacht Hero with his intrepid family crew. Service at the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA on Thursday, January 29 at 1:00 pm. Memorial Observance at NewBridge on the Charles in Dedham following interment until 6:30pm and on Friday, January 31 from 1-3 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Colby College or Combined Jewish Philanthropies or the charity of your choice.

Grimberg, MaryLou (Lyons), of Harpenden, United Kingdom, passed away in Brookline, MA on January 27, 2025. Unconventional, brilliant, funny, and an adventurer, MaryLou lived a life on two continents. She left home at 17, studied Hebrew and worked on a kibbutz for a year in the late 1950s, and travelled by freight train to Moscow in 1957 to experience the world festival of youth and students.

In April 1960, she met Singaporean Joseph Grimberg at a party in London. They married that September and went to live in Singapore. During her years in South East Asia, she had five children and became a book editor. She would go on to write a book about the sports and games of the region. Later in life, she would write poetry. Several of her poems were included in anthologies published by The Poets of Highgate. One of her poems won an award that was presented to her by Spike Milligan’s wife.

In her 50s, MaryLou went to college, got an undergraduate degree and then earned a PhD in linguistics at University College London. She went on to lecture at the University of Hertfordshire. In her retirement, she volunteered as an editor for Jewish Renaissance magazine and as a docent at the Jewish Museum in London. She also organized a knitting group of her church-going neighbors to knit blankets for poor Jews in Ukraine.

Throughout her life, MaryLou loved learning languages. She learned German, Latin, and French in school. She studied Hebrew in Israel. She learned Malay and Mandarin while living in Singapore. She took up Italian because she wanted to read Primo Levi in his original language. She studied Akkadian because she wanted to read the ancient text Gilgamesh as it was written. She learned Yiddish and fell in love with Yiddish poetry. Many of her grandchildren called her Nonna, because of her love of Italian. One of her grandsons was so inspired and influenced by her interest in Akkadian that he is studying it too.

MaryLou was kind and generous to people she knew and strangers she didn’t, providing a lifeline to those who needed help getting back on their feet and offering guidance and support to young people trying to figure out a way forward in life.

She was also a fierce believer in the rights of animals and a strict vegan. She loved and cherished her many dogs and cats, who were so lucky to have her. She also enjoyed riding and for many years rode her horse Ben through the Hertfordshire countryside, sometimes stopping for lunch at country pubs, tethering Ben outside.

Throughout her life, MaryLou was up for new challenges and adventures. In her fifties, she learned to fly gliders over the Dunstable Downs. Around the same time, she climbed Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia. She went white water rafting in the American South. She learned to scuba dive. In 1975, when her eldest three children were 10, 9, and 7, she took them by river boat into the jungles of Borneo to stay with the Iban, the indigenous people of Sarawak.

MaryLou is survived by her beloved children Sharon, Ruth, Adam, Deborah, and Dana and by her ten grandchildren of whom she was very proud: Jake, Mischa, Bren, Moe, Talia, Ben, Toby, Sam, Noah, and Emma. MaryLou is also survived by her dear sons-in-law Peter Frumkin, Allan Stevenson, Mark Franklin, Eddie McFall, and daughter-in-law, Helen Grimberg. MaryLou also leaves her much loved niece Katie Lyons-Duncanson, her great niece Shiloh, and her cousin Joan Hootman. Marylou’s sister Hetty Lyons predeceased her.

In lieu of flowers, donations in MaryLou’s memory may be made to World Jewish Relief.

Miriam Siegel. January 26, 2025 passed away at Care Dimensions Hospice House in Lincoln, MA. Before she passed away at age 93 years, she was the “Queen Mother” at the facility, greeting everyone with a smile and a warm and gracious word or chat. She brought humor and kindness to everyone she met.

Miriam spent all but her last 4 years in Fall River. She taught pre-school there for 45 years, preparing many hundreds of children for kindergarten. She loved her work and continued to talk about it with great joy throughout her retirement years. She volunteered at Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River for over 20 years following her retirement from teaching.

Miriam was a tremendous animal lover and had many, many pets throughout her life.

Miriam was the daughter of Harry Nulman and Rose (Bieler) Nulman. She was the sister of Saul and Edith Nulman; both preceded her in death.

She was the loving and devoted mother to Edith Siegel Wolfson and Steve Siegel and to their families: Jim Wolfson and Andrew and Isaac Wolfson; and Barbara Siegel and Eli Siegel and Jaime Korner and Noah Siegel and Chanelle Diaz Siegel.

Miriam was a bright light in this world and will always be loved, remembered, and greatly missed.

Graveside service will be held at 1 PM, Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at the Hebrew Cemetery, 73 McMahon St., Fall River, MA. Shiva will be observed at the home of Edith Siegel Wolfson following burial 4:30 -7:30pm, Thursday 5:30-7:30pm, Saturday & Sunday 6:00-7:30pm. Additionally, shiva will also be observed at the home of Steve Siegel Thursday (1/30), 5:00 to 8:00. Donations in Miriam’s memory may be made to The Northeast Animal Shelter, Salem, MA OR to Animal Rescue Front (ARF), PO Box 1654, North Eastham, MA, 02651.

***********Please see second obituary shared by family***********

Miriam Ann Nulman Siegel passed away on January 26, 2025 surrounded by love after a brief illness. She was born in Fall River, MA to Haskel (Harry) Nulman and Rifka (Rose) Bieler Nulman on September 14, 1931. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Edith and her brother Saul.

Miriam was a graduate of Bridgewater State and spent 45 years as a preschool teacher, the majority of the years at Head start, where she became the Assistant Director, until her retirement. After her retirement, she was a volunteer at Charlton Memorial Hospital for over 20 years.

She is survived by her daughter Edith Siegel Wolfson and son in law Jim Wolfson (Natick), their children Andrew (Austin, TX) and Isaac (Brooklyn, NY) and her son Steve and daughter in law Barbara Siegel (Leeds, MA), their children Eli Siegel & Jaime Korner (Victoria, BC), and Noah Siegel and Chanelle Diaz Siegel (Brooklyn, NY).

Interment will be on 1/29/25 at 1:00 at the Hebrew Cemetery, Section 50, in Fall River. Shiva will be held at Edith’s home on 1/29 (4:30-7:30) and 1/30 (5:30 – 7:30). Shiva will be observed at Steve’s home on 1/30, 5:00 – 8:00 pm.

Miriam found much joy in children and animals and filled her life with both. Donations can be made in her memory to Animal Rescue Front (ARF), PO Box 1654, North Eastham, MA 02651.

To view livestream click here

Dorothy Claire Silver passed away on January 21, 2025. She was born on November 2, 1949, in Roxbury Mass, the only child of Eunice and John Silver z’l.  When she was three, her family moved to Newton and soon joined Temple Reyim which played a large part in her life for many decades.  She attended Countryside School, Meadowbrook Junior High and was a member of the class of 1967 at Newton South High school where she was a majorette.  She attended UMASS Amherst and then Boston University where she earned a PhD in Dietetics and Nutrition.  Dorry worked for several years as a dietitian and then head dietician in hospitals in the Boston area. She eventually left the profession to start her own business, At Home Health Care, which placed nurses and aides in homes. Her care and compassion for others made for a perfect fit and her business grew.  Her office staff loved her humor, her warmth and her willingness to accommodate their needs in emergencies large and small. Her clients loved her for always sending in the right people who showed kindness and compassion for their patients.

Dorry was an astute businesswoman who also owned a building in Florida which housed a trio of businesses. She chose good tenants and treated them well especially in times of disasters, such as the recent hurricanes which devasted the businesses. She loved spending time in Florida away from the cold winters which she hated. She also loved the MFA and was a long-time member who visited frequently, often taking friends on what she called adventures which included a visit to the museum and lunch in Boston.

Dorry had the good fortune to travel extensively with her beloved parents, Eunice, z”l and John Silver, z”l. She enjoyed her travels but was mostly, as she put it, a homebody, who loved her house, her friends and her cats.

Dorry leaves behind her cousins and many close friends who will miss her dearly. Contributions in her name may be made to the charity of your choice, but she especially loved charities that took care of animals all over the world.

Funeral services will be held at 1 pm on Sunday, January 26, 2025 in Sharon Memorial Park Chapel, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA. Interment will follow.

Erwin Zonis -Of Dayton, Ohio, formerly of Brookline, on January 24, 2025.Beloved Husband of the late Ellen May (Abrams) Zonis. Devoted father of Linda Bohman and her husband Robert.Dear grandfather of Benton.Devoted Brother of the late Bernice Bernstein. Dear Uncle of Roberta, Steven, Robert, and Judy, Services were private. Remembrances to Hadassah.

age 97, of Dedham, formerly of New Bedford, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

Paul was the son of Eva and Jacob Chervinsky of New Bedford and for almost 71 years the beloved husband of Elaine Chervinsky, who passed away in 2022.   Paul and Elaine lived what each of them would call a “charmed life” in which they always took care of each other and were each other’s #1 priority.  They traveled the world together and were avid golf partners.   Paul was the father of Gerry and his partner Holly Boyer, and Debbie Moll and her husband Jonathan, grandfather of Sarah and her husband Leon Roche, Jake and his wife Lindsay, Benjie Moll and his wife Anna, and Danny Moll and his wife Marina.   He was so enchanted by his three young great granddaughters, Sophie Moll, Janey Moll, and Maddie Moll, and was excited by knowing that this summer he would welcome a great grandson into the family.

Born in New Bedford in1927, Paul was the youngest of three children, doted upon by his older sisters Mildred (Molly) and Gertrude (Gitty).  A graduate of New Bedford High School, Paul enlisted in the navy and trained stateside as a communications officer but considered himself fortunate that the war ended before he was deployed overseas.  He then matriculated to Tufts College, graduating in 1948, by which time he had met Elaine Silver, the sister of his fraternity brother Norman.  Paul and Elaine were married in 1951, and when he graduated Tufts Medical School in 1952 they moved to New Bedford where he established his medical practice.  Originally a general practitioner, Paul decided to specialize in allergy due in large part to Elaine’s hay fever.  The medical practice he established ultimately became one of the foremost allergy and pulmonary disease specialties in the country, and many medications that were tested in research conducted by his practice, most notably the allergy medication Claritin, were brought to market due to the results of his studies.

Over the years Paul partnered with Elaine in multiple philanthropic activities, many of which focused on providing educational opportunities for deserving recipients.  They established the Paul and Elaine Chervinsky Charitable Foundation which, among other gifts, provided college scholarships through the Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts, UMass Dartmouth and Tufts Medical School where they endowed 4 scholarships.  They also established the Paul and Elaine Chervinsky Professorship in Immunology at Tufts Medical School which currently supports Dr. Linden Hu’s work in Lyme disease.  They supported many other charities in New Bedford, Israel, and all across the world.

Paul spent much of his leisure time on the golf course, setting records at Allendale Country Club for most appearances in the championship round of the annual fourball tournament which he won twice.  Later he would also win the annual satellite fourball tournament at The Country Club of New Bedford.  Paul was happiest on the golf course while playing with family members, having taught his children and grandchildren to play the game as well, and the annual golf trips taken with his family to Arizona were cherished by all.

Seven years ago Paul and Elaine moved to Newbridge on the Charles to be nearer to family.  In short order they developed many new close friendships and everyone seemed to know Paul. Always with a joke at hand, Paul had a talent of making everyone he met feel important to him.

The family is very grateful to Antoinette Ntananga, Joy Mugamba and Maggie Kigunda for their compassionate, loving care.

Funeral services are private.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Paul’s memory to Tifereth Israel Synagogue of New Bedford or Newbridge on the Charles/Hebrew Senior Life.

Shapira, Harriet (Koretz). It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Harriet, who at the age of 78 died peacefully at her home on January 22, 2025, after a long illness.

Harriet was born in Brookline in 1946 to Lee and Louis Koretz. She grew up in Dorchester with her mother and graduated from Jeremiah Burke High School. She married Herbert Shapira in 1969 and together raised four loving sons.

Harriet enjoyed her career in advertising, working alongside Herbert almost every day for over 30 years. Her magnetic personality made her a gifted salesperson. But her favorite roles in life were closer to home, as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt, and her greatest joy was spending time with her family.

She lived life fully, talking often with friends, reading and participating in her book group, playing word games, going to the beach, watching her favorite shows, following politics, traveling around the country and internationally, and giving back to her community as a volunteer tutor for English learners. She will be remembered as a smart, funny, sweet, kind woman, whom her family and friends adored.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Herbert, and her sons: David of Brookline; Michael and his wife, Alicia, of Parkland, Florida; Daniel and his wife, Lauryn, of Ashland; and Andrew and his wife, Stephanie, of Jamaica Plain. She was the loving grandmother of Zachary and Aiden.

A graveside funeral service for family is planned. In lieu of flowers, donations in Harriet’s memory may be made to the Good Shepherd Community Care hospice or the American Cancer Society.

Dr. Reservitz died peacefully on Monday, January 20, 2025 at the age of 89. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 67 years, Phyllis; his children Donna (and Steven) Schragis, Wendy Reservitz (and Dani Inbar); grandchildren Rachel Schragis, William Schragis (and Poppy Addison), Jacob Inbar, Nellie Inbar, Jonathan (and Molly) Flash; brother Edward (and Rochelle) Reservitz; many nieces, nephews, dear friends and grateful patients.
Dr. Reservitz was a urologist and surgeon at Mt. Auburn hospital and held positions including Chief of Urology, Chief of Staff, Director of The Baron Center for Men’s Health, Consultant of Urology at MIT for 31 years.
Funeral service will be held at Temple Isaiah 55 Lincoln St., Lexington, MA on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 10:00 am. Interment to follow.
George Reservitz was loved by many and respected by all who knew him.

Julian Fleischman December 6, 1933 – January 18, 2025

Julian Fleischman, 91, of Sharon, MA passed away peacefully on January 18th, 2025. He is survived by his partner Carol Warner, his sister Naomi Towvim, his nephews Joshua Towvim, Daniel Towvim (wife Geri and children Ava and Jacob), Adam Towvim (wife Laura and children Benjamin and Rebecca). He was “Grandpa Julian” to Carol’s grandchildren: Jacob, Eli, Benjamin, and Abigail Kruger (daughter Cindy and husband Nathan’s children), and to Madelyn Warner (son Jeremy and wife Sarah’s daughter).

Son of the late Arthur and Sylvia, Julian was born in Philadelphia and spent his early years in Japan and London, before finally settling in the Riverdale section of the Bronx, NY. Julian attended The Fieldston School in Riverdale, NY, graduated magna cum laude from Yale, and received his Phd from Harvard. He completed postdocs at Stanford and St. Mary’s hospital in London, and spent a year at the Pasteur Institute in Paris, followed by a year at the Weizmann Institute in Israel.

Julian started his academic career at Washington University in St. Louis in 1964, where he remained as a Professor of Molecular Microbiology until he retired in 1998.  Upon retirement, he was introduced by a mutual friend to Carol Warner. He then moved to the Boston area to share his life with Carol as his life partner. Julian was a true Renaissance man – academic, scientist, traveler, sports enthusiast, and could read or speak six languages.

Funeral service on Monday, January 20th at 12pm at Walnut Street Minyan, 858 Walnut Street, Newton, MA. Burial will be at King Solomon Memorial Park Cemetery, Clifton, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/donate

June 3, 1949 – January 15, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Deborah Louise Goldberg (June 3,1949 – January 15, 2025). Debbie was a remarkable woman whose life was full of love and generosity. She brought light into the lives of everyone she met and will be remembered for her enormous heart, her unwavering love for her children and grandchildren, her famous chocolate chip cookies, and her boundless affection for her cherished dog, Molly.

A true enthusiast of life’s simple joys, Debbie was known for her deep appreciation of long walks that soothed the soul and shared laughter over a perfect Caesar salad. Debbie had a way of making people feel seen and valued, offering kindness and support even during life’s most challenging moments. Her strength and generosity of spirit will leave a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter Stacey Olesh and son-in-law Evan Olesh, her son David Goldberg and daughter-in-law Natalie Goldberg, her son Scott Goldberg, her many grandchildren, her sister Connie Feingold Paquette, and her life partner Barry Charton.

A celebration of her life will take place on Friday, January 24th at 12:15pm at Temple Beth Shalom in Needham. In honor of Debbie, we invite you to share a memory, a story, or simply take a moment to appreciate the beauty of a walk or the taste of a crisp Caesar salad.

Her memory will forever remain a source of inspiration, reminding us to embrace life with love and compassion.

Robert M. Friedman-Of Boynton Beach, FL, on January 15, 2025.Private graveside services were held on Sunday, January 19.

Ida Celia Gordon-Of Newton, January 13, 2025. Beloved wife of the late William Gordon. Devoted mother of  Linda Gordon Aronson, Dr. Richard Gordon and his wife Patricia, and the late Stuart “Stuey” Gordon.Dear grandmother of  Jaclyn Rubin, her husband Alex, son Benjamin Michael Aronson, and his wife Allie.  Miriam, Paul, Sarah, and Richard. Services were held at Temple Emanuel, Newton, on Wednesday, January 15. The interment took place at Sharon Memorial Park. Remembrances may be made to The Charles River Center, 59 East Militia Heights Drive, Needham, MA 02492.

Debra Friedman, our beautiful mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, at the age of 73, surrounded by the love and care of her family.

Born in New York, NY, Debra was the daughter of Henry and Ethel Weglinski. She was a devoted mother to Rachel Friedman and Adam Friedman and his wife Christine and a proud grandmother to Jackson and Logan Friedman. Debra also shared a close bond with her brother, David Weglin and his wife Barbara and shared a cherished love with her fiancé, Irwin Swartz.

Debra found her greatest joy in spending time with her loved ones, especially her children and grandchildren.  Known for her strength, selflessness and caring nature, she formed many lasting friendships throughout her life.

Private services at Staro Konstantinova Cemetery in West Roxbury.  Shiva at her late residence in Needham on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 3-6 pm.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Debra’s memory may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute https://www.dana-farber.org/how-you-can-help

May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

Elliot Nelson, of Canton, MA formerly of Brewster, MA, Westfield, NJ, and Brooklyn, NY died peacefully on Friday, January 10^th two weeks after celebrating his 95^th birthday with his loving family.  Elliot was born on December 25, 1929 to Elsie (Yaffee) and Nathaniel (Ned) Nelson in Brooklyn, NY.  He attended Johns Hopkins as an undergraduate, and graduated from Chicago Medical School in 1956. Following a residency, Elliot joined his father in practice as an ophthalmologist in Borough Park, Brooklyn where he was revered by his patients for more than 40 years.  He was past-President of the Brooklyn Ophthalmological Society.

Elliot was an avid sailor and spent frequent summer days sailing aboard his boat, the Sonata.  He loved taking friends and family out on the boat, first on Long Island Sound, and later on Buzzards Bay.  He would share his love of charts and winds with anyone that cared to join him.

Elliot was fortunate to travel and took great pleasure in experiencing different cultures and learning to speak other languages.  He spent his first year of medical school in Leiden, The Netherlands, where he lived with a family with whom he remained in touch until the end of his life.  Another meaningful travel experience occurred in 1963 when he spent a month volunteering in a surgical clinic in Haiti.  In addition to enjoying travel with his wife to many countries, favorites being Japan, Polynesia, Suriname, Israel, and Ireland, it is not surprising that many family vacations involved being aboard a sailboat in the Caribbean.

Elliot was most proud of his family; his wife of more than 59 years, Nancy (Brooks), his adoring daughters, Elissa Sherman and Lori Chesloff, their husbands, Adam Sherman and Jondavid Chesloff and his four grandchildren, Alexander Sherman, Marley Sherman, Sadie Chesloff and Tessa Chesloff.  He took immense joy spending time with his family whether walking along the Brewster flats, celebrating holidays and birthdays or watching his children and grandchildren participate in their various sports and performances.  Elliot was also the loving older brother to C. Richard (Dick) Nelson of Palm Beach Garden, FL.

Elliot was a kind and gentle man, and he and Nancy were always surrounded by close friends throughout their lives in Brooklyn, Westfield, Cape Cod and especially in the last six years at Orchard Cove.

Funeral service Monday, January 13, 2025 at 10 am in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA. Burial to follow.

Shiva will be Monday, January 13, 2025 from 3-5 pm at Orchard Cove, 1 Del Pond Drive, Canton, MA.

Remembrances may be made to the Orchard Cove Scholarship Fund, or to the charity of one’s choice.

Edward Michael Bloom, attorney, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, died Saturday at his home in Wayland. He was 83.
Edward was a lawyer for 60 years, concentrating on commercial real estate at Sherin & Lodgen LLP. He was president of the Real Estate Bar Association and The Abstract Club and a member of the American College of Real Estate Lawyers. He attended Boston Latin School, Tufts University, and Boston College Law School.
Edward will be dearly missed by his wife, Ellen Harder; his daughter, Janice Bloom and her husband Adam Grumbach of Brooklyn; David Bloom and his wife Rochelle of Natick, Massachusetts; Nick Harder and his wife Amber Smith-Harder of Williamsburg, Massachusetts; Daisy Powers and her partner Michael Bacus of Wayland, Massachusetts; Nell Getz and her husband Geoff of Wayland, Massachusetts; and his brother Robert Bloom of Newton, Massachusetts. Edward was a devoted grandfather to his 12 grandchildren: Isa and Jesse Grumbach-Bloom; Ryann and Julia Bloom; Ivan and Julian Harder; Lila, Sarah and Campbell Powers; Grayson, Ella and Sawyer Getz. His face lit up when his grandchildren called him Sabah. He tolerated his 13th grandchild, Acer the horse, from afar.
Edward was an avid Boston sports fan and could not have been happier when the Curse of the Bambino was broken in 2004. He loved The Mick and rued the day when the Dodgers moved to Los Angeles. Funeral Services will be held in the Chapel at Temple Ohabei Shalom at 1187 Beacon Street, Brookline on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 11:00 am.The interment will be private. Shiva will be held at his residence on Tuesday, January 14, from 1:00-4:00 pm and Wednesday, January 15, from 1:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00pm.
Donations in Edward’s memory can be made to Greater Boston Legal Services (gbls.org) and
Community Legal Aid (communitylegal.org).

Ira Jay Kuznick, formerly of Arlington, MA, age 83, on January 9, 2025. Dear son of the late Bernard (Ben) and Frieda Kuznick. Devoted father of David Kuznick and father-in-law of Jessica Kuznick. Proud grandfather of Amelia and Isabel Kuznick. Loving brother of the late Helene Jacobstein.

Funeral services at 2 pm, Sunday, January 12, 2025 at Temple Emunah, 9 Piper Rd., Lexington, MA. Burial will follow at Beit Olam East Cemetery, 42 Concord Rd., Wayland, MA. Shiva will be at the home of David and Jessica Kuznick on:

Sunday January 12, 7-9pm with minyan at 7:30pm

Monday January 13 – Thursday January 16, 2-4pm and 7-9pm with minyan at 7:30.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to The American Cancer Society or Temple Emunah     or     Temple Beth El

To view livestream of funeral service click here

Of Dedham, age 90, January 10, 2025. Beloved wife of the late Laurence L. Rubin. Loving mother of Rachel Coppersmith and her husband Curtis. Devoted grandmother of Nathan Coppersmith and his wife Jeanette and Daniel Coppersmith and his wife Sarah. Great grandmother of Owen Coppersmith. Funeral Service on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025 at 1:00 PM in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park 40 Dedham St. Sharon, MA. Remembrances may be made to the MGH @ giving.massgeneral.org.

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

Harvey L. Keller, of Boynton Beach, FL, formerly of Newton, passed away on January 9, 2025. He was the beloved husband of the late Selma C. Keller.

Harvey is survived by his loving children: Susan Mouckley and her husband Jeffrey, Richard Keller and his wife Christina, and Nancy Goldberg and her husband Michael. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Benjamin and Sarit Mouckley, Bess and Joerg Bohmann, Alex Keller and Christina Barkhorn, Lucy Keller, and Katie Goldberg. He also cherished his role as a great-grandfather to Josef, Levi, and Nora Bohmann, and Mia, Ella, and Eve Mouckley.

Harvey was a dear brother to Lawrence Keller and his wife Karen of Naples, FL, and the late Norton N. Keller and his wife Jacqueline.

Graveside services will be held at Temple Emeth Memorial Park, 776 Baker Street, West Roxbury, MA, on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Shiva will be private.

The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at the Rehabilitation Center of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach, FL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.

Framingham, MA – Arthur Swotinsky, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, January 2, 2025, surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply. He was 90 years old.

He is survived by his loving wife Marlene (Okstein) Swotinsky and his three daughters, Lisa Smith (and her husband Dale) of Marblehead, MA; Amy Swotinsky of New York City; and Debra Bruckner (and her husband Eddie) of Needham, MA. Arthur was also the proud and doting grandfather of Shanna, Jocelyn & Adam Smith, and Rachel & Sam Bruckner.

Arthur was predeceased by his brother Jack Swotinsky and sister Frances Regen (and Al) and brother-in-law Alan Okstein (and Sheila). He is survived by his sisters-in-law Anita Swotinsky and Karen Okstein as well as his nieces and nephews: Mark Swotinsky (and Arlene), Robert Swotinsky (and Michelle), and the late Glenn Swotinsky; Karen Regen-Tuero (and Walter), Sarabeth Okstein, and Larry Okstein (and Lisa).

Arthur was born in 1934 in Brooklyn, NY to Bertha (Leeman) and Isidore Swotinsky. He spent his childhood playing stickball in the streets and dreaming of becoming a professional baseball player, all while cheering passionately for his beloved Brooklyn Dodgers.

Arthur met the love of his life, Marlene, on a blind date. He knew immediately they were meant to be and their love story inspired everyone around them for 63 years. They celebrated life hand in hand and enjoyed dancing to Frank Sinatra’s music. Arthur and Marlene built a beautiful life in Framingham, MA where they raised their three daughters. Known to his children and grandchildren for his playful spirit, boundless energy and unwavering support, Arthur never missed an opportunity to cheer them on, share a laugh or teach them something new.

Education was a cornerstone of Arthur’s life. After graduating from City College of New York, he earned a Master’s degree from Northeastern University. For 37 years, he worked as an electrical engineer at Raytheon Microwave and Power Tube Division, where he contributed to cutting-edge advancements with his sharp intellect and dedication.

Arthur and his family were longtime members of Temple Beth Am in Framingham, MA.

Arthur embraced life with a positive attitude and unmatched zest for living. He was known for his radiant smile, which could light up any room, his love of jogging, and enjoying the tranquility of nature especially his cherished woods. An active and healthy lifestyle kept him young beyond his years.

A service to celebrate Arthur’s remarkable life will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, MA.

Shiva will be observed on Monday, January 6, following the interment until 4:00 PM at the home of Marlene Swotinsky in Framingham and on Tuesday, January 7, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the home of Debra and Eddie Bruckner in Needham, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

Arthur’s warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His laughter, sense of humor, and generous heart will be deeply missed. He was, and always will be, a light in our lives.

Arthur, you truly lived life your way.

Of Framingham, January 3, 2025. Beloved husband of Andrea Lee (Geller) Zalcman. Loving father of Suzzette (Neil) Freedlander and Dana (David) Schuman. Devoted grandfather of Carter and Emma Freedlander and Zev and Zane Schuman. Brother of Herb Zalcman. Funeral Service at Temple Israel of Natick, 145 Hartford St., Natick on Sunday, January 5, 2025 at 8:00 am. Burial at Sharon Memorial Park at 9:45 am. Shiva at the Zalcman residence Sunday 7-9 pm, Monday – Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM, Minyan at 7:30 pm. Morning Minyan Monday – Friday at 8:00 am. Remembrances in memory of Mel may be made to an Israeli charity of your choice or to a fund of your choice at Temple Israel of Natick.

A Link to view the livestream can be found here.

Emily (Binder) Blau, Age 79, of Norton, formerly of Sharon, entered rest on December 28, 2024. Beloved daughter of the late Charlotte (Sheingold) and Arthur Binder. Beloved wife of Sumner Blau. Devoted mother of Jennifer Schulman, Joshua and Erica Rattet. Stepmother to Curtis, Richard, Andrew, and the deceased Jeffrey Blau. Cherished grandmother of Jonah & Anna Schulman. Maxwell, Dylan, Brandon Rattet. Ryan & Mark Blau. Dear sister of Jane Streisfeld and her late husband Andrew. Beloved sister-in-law to Dennis and his late wife Marsha, and the deceased Stanley & Leonard Blau. Also survived by loving cousins, nieces and nephews. Services at Sharon Memorial Park Chapel on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 10:00AM. Following Interment at Sharon Memorial Park, friends and family are invited to a reception at One Bistro at Four Point Sheraton, Norwood until 3pm. Remembrances may be made to New England Village and mailed to Development Dept., 664 School Street, Pembroke, MA 02359, or donate by phone at (781) 293-5461 x215.

Kenneth Berkowitz-Of Canton, on December 28, 2024. Service at Temple Sinai, 25 Canton St., Sharon, on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 12 noon. Following interment at Sharon Memorial Park, a reception will be held at Temple Sinai until 4:00 p.m. and will resume Friday from 12:00-3:00 p.m. Remembrances may be made to Cops For Kids With Cancer, PO Box 850956, Braintree, MA 02185.

Eunice Bortman-On December 28, 2024.

A Link to view the Livestream Service can be found here.

Marilyn M. “Mickey” (Bornstein) Breslau, 89, of Chestnut Hill, MA, and Hull, MA (formerly of West Newton, MA, and Delray Beach, FL), passed away suddenly but peacefully surrounded by family and her devoted caretaker, Valerie Webbe. Born in Brighton, MA, to Anna Goldman and Joseph G. Bornstein, Mickey was the youngest of three daughters. She attended the Brighton, MA schools and studied at Emerson College.

Mickey was born prematurely on March 15, 1935, noting that she weighed just one pound and ten ounces, and never expected to live to the age that she did — a fact that she was always cognizant of and grateful for.

In 1961, she married Maxwell Breslau, and together they built a life filled with warmth, resilience, and family. Mickey gracefully stepped into a complex and evolving family dynamic, embracing her role as a devoted wife and mother to Max’s three older children whose mother had passed away. She and Max had two children and shared 37 years of marriage until his death in 1998. They made their home in West Newton, MA, where they raised their blended family.

She devoted herself to raising her young children, and as they grew older Mickey went to work at the Dow Jones Company and at The Gillette Company – where she enjoyed the camaraderie, friendships, and the contributions she made.

Summers at Nantasket Beach were a highlight of Mickey’s life for more than 55 years, where she delighted in creating lasting memories with her family. She loved to entertain guests on the porch, whether it was a planned gathering or just folks popping over for an impromptu visit.

Mickey had a unique sense of style, especially with fashion, and she loved to wear bright and colorful clothing. She was a voracious reader with a lifelong passion for all things artistic. A talented artist in her youth, Mickey later explored varied artistic pursuits such as bargello, glass beaded flowers, needlepoint, and other crafts. She also enjoyed lively games of Mah Jong with her friends, which brought her great joy — especially when she won!

Mickey’s life was a testament to resilience, having experienced difficult childhood years, a subsequent number of serious health challenges, and several tragic family losses. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and creativity. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, especially her beloved grandchildren who she loved endlessly and who will fondly remember her ear-shattering kisses.

Mickey is survived by her children: Howard and his wife, Jane, of Needham, MA, Ellen Breslau and her husband, Eric Leventhal, of New York City, daughter Jill Breslau of Palmdale, CA, and her daughter-in-law Carol Breslau (Robert z”l.) She was the proud “Bubbie” to her cherished grandchildren Mitchell and Max Breslau, Ava and Will Leventhal, and David and Laura Breslau, and “great-Bubbie” to her great-grandchildren Trevor and Sloane Breslau. Mickey was predeceased by her husband Maxwell (z”l), and their children Wendy Breslau (z”l) and Robert Breslau (z”l.) Mickey was the dear sister of Beverly Adel (z”l) and Roberta Myers (“z”l) and loving aunt to a number of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will take place at the chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 120 Canton Street, Sharon, MA  02067 on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at 1:00PM with burial to follow. Immediately following interment, all are invited to celebrate her life at her late residence through 8:00 pm with a shiva minyan at 7:30 pm. Shiva will continue at her late residence as noted below:

Monday, December 30 from 7:00-9:00 pm with minyan at 7:30 pm, Wednesday, January 1 from 7:00-9:00 pm with minyan at 7:30 pm, Thursday, January 2 from 7:00-9:00 pm with minyan at 7:30 pm

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mickey’s memory can be made to: Temple Israel, Hull, MA, or to a charity of your choice.

To view the livestream please click here.

Sylvia Cohen, of NewBridge on the Charles in Dedham, formerly of New York and Flemington, NJ, passed away on December 24, 2024. She was the daughter of Samuel and Victoria Wieder. Sister to Alvin, Mae and Evelyn. She was the loving wife to the late Arthur Cohen, and mother to Ann Sherman, and the late Denise and Lawrence Cohen.  Mother-in-law to Stephen Sherman, Lawrence Shapiro, and Robin Cohen.  Adoring grandmother to Geoffrey, Pam, Matthew, Vikki, Susan, Lee, Reed, Victoria and Aaron; great grandmother to Zachary, Ben, Ike, Jacob, Teddy, Alexander, Levi, and Maayan.

She worked at Rutgers Agricultural Extension Service for many years and was active and volunteered in many community organizations.  Sylvia loved to travel with her husband, Arthur, and enjoyed travelling the world. She also spent many happy hours at the 92 Street Y. Her legacy of compassion, leadership and adventure will be cherished by all her knew her.

Funeral Service on Sunday, January 5, 2025 at 1 PM in the Chapel at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St. Sharon, MA. Following the burial Shiva will take place at the home of Ann and Stephen Sherman until 7 PM. Remembrances may be made to JDRF@diabetes.org.

Barbara Weiner-On December 22, 2024.

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

Stephen T. Kunian

A man of the modern Back Bay, Stephen Toby Kunian passed away with his family close by on December 20, 2024 at the age of 85.  He lived on Marlborough Street for almost 58 years, first in an apartment and then in a townhouse which he truly loved.  He participated in the updating of the Back Bay.  He was on the board of the Neighborhood Assn. of the Back Bay, the Back Bay Architectural Commission, and The Back Bay Garden Club (one of the first men to join). He was on the City of Boston Conservation Commission for more than 20 years.  Among the most important institutions to him were St. Botolph Club and The Boston Atheneum.

Stephen graduated from Phillips Academy, Amherst College, Harvard Law School and the London School of Economics. He was the son of the late David and Charlotte (Greenstein). He leaves his wife, Lois Rome Kunian, his sons and their families, Andrew and David Kunian & his wife Renee Bigelow, and their daughters, Charlotte & Leila.  He leaves his brother Dennis, his wife Janie, and family Danielle & Derek Wallis and children Sophia & Owen ,and Alexandra Kunian, and her daughters Zahra & Samira Nicola.  He also leaves his sister-in-law Ellen Rome, her husband Wayne Wibby, his niece and her husband Samantha and Brendan Kelley, and their children Liam, Graham, and Harrison.

Stephen practiced law for more than 50 years. He enjoyed his retirement sitting in his library with a Marlborough Street view and a glass of wine. He was an avid reader, a world traveler, a fan of classical music, and a connoisseur of Asian ceramics.  He will be missed for his wit and general good nature. Funeral service will be held at Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave., Boston, (parking on the Riverway) Monday, December 23, at 11:30 am. For those who wish to make a contribution in Stephen’s memory, please consider The Boston Athenaeum, The Emerald Necklace Conservancy, or Mother Caroline Academy and Education Center (MCAEC).

Beth S. Budd, December 20, 2024. Funeral service will be held at 1 pm, at Sharon Memorial Park Chapel, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA, Monday, December 23, 2024. Burial will follow.

To view livestream of funeral click here

Jacqueline Amy Miller was born to Dr Harold I Miller and Maida Rosenberg Miller on April 21, 1949. She attended Brookline High School and then matriculated at the University of California at Berkeley and Boston College Law School earning a Juris Doctor. She was a warm, brilliant, funny, quirky individual who left her mark wherever she traveled. She passed on December 18, 2024. She is survived by brothers, cousins, nieces and nephews. She will be buried at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, MA, on February 3, 2025, at 1:45 PM. Links for Zoom attendance will be made available.