Chapter Eternal

Obituaries

By State

Alabama

William D. Levy, Psi (University of Alabama) 1956

William David “Bill” Levy passed away peacefully on January 29, 2023.

He was born in Anniston, Alabama, on August 4, 1934, the only child of the late Sidney Levy and Ida Binder Levy. He grew up in LaFayette, Alabama, and graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in journalism. Ten years later, after marrying, serving in the U.S. Army, and becoming State Editor of the Columbus, GA, Enquirer, he resumed his education and received a Juris Doctor law degree from Memphis State University.

Bill met his wife Marcia Fortas on a blind date at a ZBT fraternity party at Bama. It was obviously a match made in heaven. They were married in 1956 right after his college graduation, and their marriage lasted until his death. Bill was drafted in 1957 and served his active duty with the 4th Armored Division in Furth, Germany. Upon receiving his law degree, he remained in Memphis, where he worked as a trial specialist for the National Labor Relations Board. He later went into private practice with the firms of Young and Perl and Baker Donelson.

Bill enjoyed traveling and watching Alabama football. But most of all, he doted on his three daughters and five grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Marcia; his daughters Debbie Levy, Leslie Stallings, and Beth Levy (JP Partland); and his grandchildren Shale Pagel, Britt Stallings, Brock Stallings, Oscar Partland, and Madeleine Partland. After moving to the Village at Germantown, Bill could often be seen walking the halls, greeting his many friends along the way. He could also be found in the Village Bistro sipping hot chocolate or a root beer float.

Bill Levy will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, journalist, lawyer and friend. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, thoughtfulness and integrity, and above all, as the epitome of a gentleman.

Services were in February.

Originally published by The Daily Memphian.

Arizona

Kenneth Fenster, Alpha Omicron (University of Arizona) 1952

Kenneth Fenster passed on in his sleep, on November 17, 2022, surrounded by family. He died of great old age, having lived a long and happy life.

Ken was born in New York on January 27, 1932 to George and Kitty Fenster.  The family moved to Tucson when Ken was a small boy to open the Fenster School of Southern Arizona, a college preparatory K-12 school, and the summer Fenster Ranch Camp. Ken fell in love with the big open spaces of Arizona, with horses and all things Western.

He graduated from the U of A in 1952 with a degree in psychology, and a lifetime of brothers from the ZBT Fraternity. He was in touch with these men for the rest of his life.

Ken joined the Army and served in Korea.   Upon returning from the war, Ken took over managing the family business: the Fenster School of Southern Arizona. Education was the center of his life and the impact he had on hundreds of students was profound. Over the next 50 years, former students continued to contact him to express their gratitude. Thousands of Tucson kids spent their summers at the Fenster Ranch Camp, and to this day, many have fond memories of that time. While he was running the school, Ken married his first wife Durice Miller and acquired a son, Bill.

After retirement, Ken and his second wife Mary Vine, created a mortgage business that continues to this day. The Tucson Rodeo played a big part in Ken’s life: he volunteered for over 65 years, most of it running the ticket sales office.  Travel also played a large part of his life. He traveled all over the world and especially loved Africa.  Ken loved horse ride-outs, travel, and sailing. He loved life and Tucson.  He gave to Tucson all of his life and in the last two years, to ensure those contributions supporting children’s education continued for generations to come, Ken started the Fenster Family Fund through the Community Foundation of Southern Arizona. Ken is survived by his wife Mary, son Bill Fenster, stepdaughter Linh Pike, his sister Beverly Gammon, twelve grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.   There will be private family services.  In remembrance, Ken would have asked friends to please read a book to someone, take a trip, or go for a horseback ride.

Originally published by Arizona Daily Star.

California

Seymour Canter, Alpha Delta (University of Southern California) 1956

May 22, 1932 – December 23, 2022 Our beloved Seymour was born and raised in Los Angeles. He attended L.A. High School, where he was an All-City Running Back. Later, he attended and graduated from USC, where he was an active ZBT. After serving in the army, he began his career at Prudential Life Insurance Company. He later founded his own insurance business.

Seymour was community minded: A long-time member of Wilshire Blvd. Temple, the Kiwanis Club, and past president of the USC Half Century Trojans where he was presented with the Distinguished Award for Outstanding Leadership and Contribution to USC.

His other loves were football, tennis, swimming, travel, history, and jazz music. Above all, he loved time spent with family and friends.

His warmth, sense of humor, and kindness will be greatly missed by his beloved wife of 68 years, Barbara, his adoring daughter, Caren (Rick) Sheckter, his cherished granddaughters, Dana and Laura, his treasured sister, Sandra (Robert) Pereida, sister-in-law Phyllis (Daniel) Epstein, and his nieces, nephews, and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his son, David.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the USC Half Century Trojans Endowed Scholarship Fund at tinyurl.com/HalfCenturyTrojans.

Originally published by Los Angeles Times.

Colorado

Gary A. Agron, Theta of Phi Sigma Delta (University of Colorado Boulder) 1966

Gary Alan Agron died peacefully surrounded by the love of his children on Friday, January 27, 2023.

Gary was born on December 21, 1944 in St. Joseph, Missouri, the only child of Ruth Bernstein Agron and J. Harry Agron. He moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1950, after spending a year and a half in Brooklyn, New York. Gary attended Tucson High School and spent a year at the University of Arizona. Gary transferred to and graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder where he earned both his undergraduate degree and his Juris Doctor (with highest honors). While in college, Gary was a proud member of the Phi Sigma Delta fraternity where he made friendships that stayed strong for the remainder of his lifetime. When Gary graduated from law school he initially joined a large law firm, but quickly realized that he was more cut out to be a solo practitioner and entrepreneur. Gary started his own law practice, initially doing all kinds of legal work, but later focused his practice on securities law. He was an invaluable and indispensable partner to his clients and an attorney with a brilliant mind and impeccable ethics.

Gary married Vicki Morris (Agron) with whom he had three children, Adam, Megan (Sherr) and Noah. He later married Janice Puder and gained a stepdaughter, Jennifer Frenkel, who he helped to raise as his own daughter. Gary had twelve grandchildren.

Gary lived life to the fullest and had no regrets. He was an avid runner, loved traveling the world, eating at great restaurants, and spending quality time with friends and family. Everyone who knew Gary loved and respected him. He leaves behind an unmatched legacy and will be dearly missed.

Services were in January.

Originally published by Denver Post.

District of Columbia

Stephen P. Lichtstein, Beta Psi (American University) 1968

Steve’s dedication to excellence in the practice of trust and estate, tax and transactional law set a standard for our firm, which will continue and serve as his legacy. His tenacity, expertise and discipline as a practitioner were balanced by the warmth of his smile and his unique ability to form genuine and lasting human connections with his clients and colleagues.

We will miss him deeply as a leader and a beloved friend.

Originally published by Berkowitz, Lichtstein, Kuritsky, Giasullo & Gross LLC.

Georgia

D. Keith Bailey, Mu (University of Georgia) 1979

D. Keith Bailey, Mu (University of Georgia) 1979, long-time Mu Chapter advisor and former ZBT International Headquarters staffer, passed away suddenly on Feb. 21 in Indianapolis.

Brother Bailey was a native of Cordele, Georgia, and was initiated into Mu Chapter of ZBT at the University of Georgia in 1976. He lived in Athens for many years, remaining active in ZBT as an alumnus, serving as Mu Alumni Association president from 1983 to 1985. He was a founding member of the ZBT Atlanta Area Alumni Association and a frequent volunteer at international events. He was Chapter Advisor to Mu at UGA from 2000 to 2018.

Professionally, Brother Bailey spent 20 years as a store operations manager for a large retail chain, and over 10 years as an adult technology training specialist. In 2014, he served on the Fraternity staff as Coordinator of Volunteer Development.

Please consider supporting the Athens Area Humane Society at athenshumanesociety.org/donate or  the Zeta Beta Tau Foundation at  zbtfoundation.org/donate in Brother Bailey’s honor.

Indiana

Jacob G. Mayes, Alpha Alpha (Purdue University) 2014

Jacob Glen Mayes, age 30, passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2022.  He was born in Indianapolis and raised in Avon, Indiana. Jake was a member of Plainfield Christian Church and graduated from Avon High School class of 2010. Jake’s high school sport was golf. He and his team won state season of 2009-2010.

He was a proud graduate from Purdue University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was a brother of ZBT  Fraternity  at Purdue along with many other great men. He completed an internship with Rolls-Royce and was a 5 year employee following college. The past 4 years Jake has been an employee at Aerodyn Engineering and held a title as their Manufacturing Department Manager.

Jake was an outdoorsman. He enjoyed deer and turkey hunting, crappy and bluegill fishing, boating, golf, cornhole, bonfires, riding his side-by- side and family trips to Kentucky and Georgia.  Jake had an overflowing love in his heart for his family and friends.  Jake was known as a family man.  He loved making memories with them more than anything.

Jake married Arika Frye in July of 2020. Jake and Arika welcomed their first baby girl, Rylee Rae, in 2021 and will have another girl, Reagan Jacob, in January of 2023.   He is  unforgettable and was a remarkable man. Jake’s humor could be  matched by no one and his smile could light up the world.  His loving and kind nature will be missed by so many.   Jake is survived by his wife, Arika and daughter, Rylee; his parents, David and Jethonia “Tonna” (Norris) Mayes; paternal grandmother, Mattie Mayes, maternal grandfather, Billy Norris;  a brother, Jeremy (Morgan) Mayes; and 4 nieces.

Services were in October.  Arrangements by Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.

Originally published by Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home.

Louisiana

Brian Kaplan, Pi (Louisiana State University) 1958

Brian Kaplan was born to his parents Jack and Libby in in the town of Kaplan, Louisiana which was named after his family. After attending Kaplan public schools he enrolled at LSU where he received a BS in Kinesiology. At LSU he played on the tennis team and was president of the ZBT fraternity. He and his brother Connie were high school basketball referees during their college years and were known as the James Brothers.

After graduation from the LSU ROTC program, Brian was commissioned as second Lieutenant at Fort Benning, GA where he completed basic officer’s training and spent six months as Platoon Leader of the First Division located at North Fort Benning. Following his service he returned to LSU to complete his Masters in Education. Brian eventually moved to New Orleans and began teaching at Behrman High School and then became the athletic director at the Jewish Community Center where he met Jill, the love of his life to whom he was married for 60 years.

Following his time at the JCC Brian entered the insurance business where he managed the New Orleans office of Home Life Insurance and was a member of the Million Dollar Round Table and the Top 20 among other honors. Following the passing of his father, Brian took over the management of Liberty Rice Mill in Kaplan commuting regularly from New Orleans until its closing. Brian was active in the community serving on the Board of the JCC and was President of the Make A Wish Foundation in LA. He was a regular and competitive tennis player at Audubon Park Tennis Club for which he served in many managerial and organizational roles. He was also a member of New Orleans Lawn Tennis Club. He was instrumental in restoring the tennis courts at Audubon Park after Hurricane Katrina destroyed them and in reviving the Audubon Park Tennis Club for which he was honored by the City of New Orleans.

Brian was the consummate gentleman, well known for his charm and sweet demeanor. He was a very proud parent and even prouder grandpa. He loved coaching youth sports and reading the Cajun Night Before Christmas to elementary students at Isidore Newman School. Brian was a lifelong supporter of LSU – once a Tiger, always a Tiger. He was a New Orleans Jazz and Saints season ticket holder in the 1970’s and always up for a good session watching and debating sporting events. Brian was also a frequent traveler, crisscrossing the globe with Jill and taking family trips when his boys were younger. A true pet lover, Brian was referred to as the doting Uncle Brian by the dozens of dogs and several cats that he took care of in addition to the many pets that he had during his lifetime. Any charitable donations in his memory can be made to Animal Rescue of New Orleans (ARNO). Brian is survived by his wife Jill, their three sons Michael (Matthew), Jack (Margot), David (Jackie) and adoptive son David Johnson (Jen) as well as his grandchildren Conrad, Zach, Veronica, Henry and Trevor.

Originally published by The Times-Picayune.

 

Henry Rosenblum, Sigma (Tulane University) 1963

Henry Mark Rosenblum passed away on February 4, 2023 following a battle with lung cancer.

Henry was born January 23, 1942 in Tyler, Texas to Sylvia and Marcelo Rosenblum. Henry graduated from Bellaire High School, Tulane University, where he was a brother of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity, and UT Law School. In 1964, he married Phyllis Ravel.

Henry and Phyllis moved to Houston in 1971, where Henry opened a law practice and was active in the ACLU. While he primarily represented people of color and women, his most notable case, McDonald v. Santa Fe Trail Transp. Co., was a reverse discrimination case resulting in a landmark Supreme Court decision. In 1981, Henry opened Apple Travel with Phyllis, his sister Marilynn Eisenberg, and his mother Sylvia Rosenblum. With its “Please go away!” tagline, it became one of Houston’s largest travel agencies.

Henry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis. He is survived by his daughter Elyse Rosenblum & Matthew Pawa; his son Marc Rosenblum & Katie Sellers; his daughter Yvonne Cosgrove & John Cosgrove; and his sister Marilynn Eisenberg & Al Eisenberg. The highlight of his final years were his six grandchildren: Zach, Hazel, Phyllis, Iris, Jake and Phoebe.

Services were in February. Donations in Henry’s memory may be made to the Houston chapter of the ACLU or the charity of your choice. To read the complete obituary, please visit josephjearthman.com.

Originally published by Houston Chronicle.

Maryland

Robert B. Cutler, Beta Zeta (University of Maryland-College Park) 1960

On Thursday, February 28, 2023 Robert Cutler, of Potomac, MD, peacefully passed away at the age of 85. Beloved Husband of the late Elaine Cooper Cutler; devoted Father of Michelle Cutler Goodman (Stephen Goodman) and Howard Cutler (Melissa Cutler); loving brother of Stephen Cutler; cherished grandfather of Max & Derrick, and Jimmy, Zachary & Brady. Also survived by Sheila Kramer, Pamela Forcheimer, Stacey Peiken, Jodi Cutler, Nikki Cutler, Fred & Stephanie Goodman, and countless cousins, friends, Maryland Terrapins and members of the brotherhood of Zeta Beta Tau at UMD.

Robert, mostly known as “Bobby” was born and raised in Washington DC & Chevy Chase MD. He graduated from Bethesda Chevy Chase High School in 1955 and the University of Maryland in 1959 as a Certified Kitchen Designer where he worked designing kitchens all over the entire DMV for over 60 years. Bobby’s family and friends meant everything to him as he was the consummate camp counselor ever since his days as a youth at Camp Belgrade in Maine. Bobby never missed an occasion in someone’s life no matter how big or small and was someone you could always count on to be there for you.

Services were March 2. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The University of Maryland College Park Foundation – Athletics. Services entrusted to Sagel Bloomfield Danzansky Goldberg Funeral Care.

Originally published by Baltimore Sun.

 

Alan S. Miller, Beta Zeta (University of Maryland-College Park) 1971

Alan Stanley Miller, 74, of Pikesville, passed away early in the morning of October 3, 2022 at Baptist Hospital West in Boynton Beach, Florida, following a long battle with cancer. His wife of 46 years, Carson (née Cosgrove), was by his side.

Born August 15, 1948 in Baltimore, Maryland to Ruth (née Fink) and Henry J. Miller, Alan was a member of the first graduating class of Pikesville High School before attending The University of Maryland, College Park. At Maryland, “Mills” majored in communications and foreign affairs; he played club lacrosse and was a brother of Zeta Beta Tau.

Following his graduation from College Park, Alan enlisted in the District of Columbia Army National Guard, serving in the 471st Military Police Company and as a reserve of the Army until his honorable discharge. While in the Armed Forces, Alan boxed as a middle weight, going undefeated in over two dozen bouts, the majority ending by knockout.

Alan’s boxing prowess took him to Israel to compete in the 9th Maccabiah Games, and he went on to spend significant time in Israel, and throughout the world, culminating in a career in international travel, tourism, and telecommunications.

Alan married Carson Christine Cosgrove in September 1976. The pair settled in Baltimore, raising two sons, Joshua and Caleb. An extremely dedicated father, Alan could be heard loudly cheering on their teams from the sidelines of hundreds of baseball and lacrosse games throughout the Mid-Atlantic, proudly boasting of their athletic and academic accolades. In 2005, with their children out of school, Alan and Carson left Baltimore for the warmth of Palm Beach County.

Alan is survived by his wife, Carson; their children, Joshua (Cory) and Caleb (Catherine), and six grandchildren; and his brother, Fred, and sister, Anne. He is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ruth. Alan loved his family fiercely, and they loved him back.

Originally published by Baltimore Sun.

 

James Smulian, Beta Zeta (University of Maryland-College Park) 1949

James “Jim” Smulian passed away peacefully early in the morning (his favorite time of day) on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 at the age of 94 (two weeks shy of 95). Jim was born on November 7, 1927 in Baltimore, Maryland, second son of Pearl and Samuel Smulian. He attended public school in Baltimore until the start of the Second World War, when he entered Staunton Military Academy, Staunton, Virginia. Jim played the French horn and the xylophone for several years with the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestra. He had his own swing band as a teenager and often stated that Lionel Hampton was his idol.

He attended the University of Maryland School of Engineering and Johns Hopkins McCoy School of Business from 1945-1949. While in college he founded the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity chapter at the University of Maryland. In 1951 he married the love of his life, Betty Forman of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and they lived in Baltimore for 7 years, where their oldest son, Rob, was born, before moving to Atlanta, where their second son, John, was born.

In 1962 Jim and Betty started Trimblehouse Corp., an international lighting fixture manufacturing company. Trimblehouse was known for its innovative custom interior and exterior lighting designs and Main Street projects bringing historic street lighting back to cities and towns across the country, including and especially Atlanta. The company flourished until 1998 when Jim and Betty retired and moved to Dahlonega, Georgia. Jim loved people and was always deeply involved in the community. Jim was a devoted Rotarian since 1961, serving as District Governor of the North Georgia District 6910 and President of three Rotary Clubs: Buckhead Rotary Club, Peachtree Corners Rotary Club and the Dahlonega Sunrise Rotary Club.

Jim was also incredibly proud to be the founding President of Atlanta’s Temple Sinai, which started in 1968, and has become one of the largest and most successful Reform Jewish congregations in the country. Jim served on the founding board of Northside Hospital, on the Sandy Springs Planning Council and the American Jewish Committee board, and was active in the Executive Committee, an organization of business CEOs, and in Junior Achievement, the Architectural and Engineering Society, and the Plastic Engineering Society. Jim also served as President of the Atlanta Chamber Players board. Jim was a loving, fun and wonderful husband of 71 years to Betty, an amazing father and father-in-law to Rob & Lynne and John & Elaine, and a delightful Dadu to Liz, Laura and Jacob. Happily, Jim was able to meet his first great-grandchild, Elijah, in September. Jim was a natural leader, loved working with his hands and building things, and thoroughly enjoyed engaging with people and connecting people to each other. The world is a better place for his having lived in it, and he will be so very deeply missed.

Donations in Jim’s memory can be made to Temple Sinai (Atlanta), the Dahlonega Sunrise Rotary Club or The Northside Hospital Foundation. Funeral services were in October. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Originally published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Massachusetts

Mark Lebkuchner, Delta Chi (Bentley University) 1992

Mark Lebkuchner, 52, a lifelong resident of Warwick passed away on Wednesday, December 7, 2022. He was the devoted son of Benno and Janet (Melkonian 2002) and stepmother Joan (Sparling). In addition to his father, Mark is survived by his brother Karl (Lanna), their daughters Janet and Mae of Cranston RI, his sister Amy (Edgar Ramirez), and their sons Zachary, Erik and Derek of Dumont NJ, as well as his cat Buckaroo.

A 1988 TollGate High School graduate, Mark attended Bentley College where he was awarded a BS in Finance and Environmental Science in 1992. Mark was an active member of Zeta Beta Tau. During his thirty-year career as a Financial Services Representative, Mark used his uncanny story telling ability to make personal connections with his numerous clients.

In addition to being an avid New England sports fan, Mark was also a tennis, golf and skiing addict. Well-versed in the latest political, world and local news, Mark used every opportunity he had to debate/converse with his numerous friends about the stories that piqued his interests. A true people person, Mark loved the opportunities that Facebook provided for him to engage with colleagues, personalities as well as friends, new and old, near and far. He enjoyed spending time tending to his garden and listening to alternative music, particularly SKA and punk music.

Services were in December. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02906.

Originally published by Urquhart-Murphy Funeral Home – Warwick.

 

Leon D. Zaimes, Delta Chi (Bentley University) 1983

Saugus – Leon D. Zaimes, 61, of Saugus, MA, passed away, October 15, 2022, at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA. Leon was born in Lynn, MA, May 28, 1961, the son of Anna (Paraskevopoulos) Zaimes and the late Demetrios L. Zaimes.

Leon graduated from Peabody high school class of 1979. While in high school, Leon established T’s N Things, selling t-shirts in JJ Newbury’s at the North Shore Mall. Leon graduated from Bentley University and was a proud brother of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity.

After obtaining his CPA accreditation, Leon worked for Grant Thornton in Boston as an audit supervisor until 1990. From 1990-2002 Leon worked as the CFO and Director of operations of Hellenic college in Brookline. After leaving Hellenic college Leon became Vice President for finance and administration for Hebrew College in Newton until 2015. In 2016 Leon decided to lose the monkey suit and went to work with his brother at TMC Concrete Coatings and Finishes in Peabody as CFO and Head of Business Development until his death.

Leon is survived by his mother, Anna Zaimes, brother, Philip Zaimes and wife Jennifer and two sisters, Alice Zames-Strong and husband Donald and Diane Brillant and husband Ray. He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews Demetri and Lauryn Zaimes, Anya and Kataryna Brillant, Jared Strong and Shelby Clark. He also leaves behind many close aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.

Services were in October. In lieu of flowers, donations in Leon’s memory may be made by visiting www.massgeneral.org/neurology/support. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.ccbfuneral.com.

Originally published by The Salem News.

Michigan

Stanley R. Weinberger, Phi (University of Michigan) 1952

Stanley Robert Weinberger of Glencoe, IL, age 92, died on December 5, 2022 in Branford, CT. Stanley was the husband of the late Betty Weinberger (nee Kiralfy). He is survived by his son John Weinberger (Sara Weinberger), his daughter Beth Weinberger (Mark Schaefer), his grandson Simon and his granddaughter Kira. He is the son of the late Simon and Jean (Frankel) Weinberger of Troy, Ohio.

Stanley was a devoted friend, law partner, father, and above all, husband to Betty, his wife of 61 years. Stanley was born in Troy, Ohio, graduated from the University of Michigan in 1952 and the University of Michigan Law School in 1954. His ZBT fraternity brothers were life-long friends. After law school he served in the U.S. Army.

Stanley worked for more than five decades as a corporate attorney in Chicago, most of that time as a partner in the law firm Rosenthal and Schanfield. Following his law career, Stanley served as trustee for a charitable trust that supported social services for Chicago youth. Stanley served as President of the Glencoe Board of Education, President of the Chicago Chapter of the American Jewish Committee, member of the Glencoe Planning Commission and member of the board of directors of the Chicago Chamber Musicians. He consistently gave his time and wisdom to family, community, and friends. He donated to and worked for political candidates who shared his values of a fair and just society. Although he could have retired at a reasonable age, towards the end of his law career Stanley taught 4 semesters of American history at Roosevelt University and continued working and remained active in philanthropic causes into his late 80’s. Stanley will be remembered for his humor, generosity, a steady sense of responsibility, and a deep desire to contribute to his community.

Services were in December. In lieu of gifts or flowers, contributions in Stanley’s honor can be made to the American Jewish Committee, www.ajc.org, and Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly, www.lbfechicago.org.

Originally published by Chicago Tribune.

Missouri

Samuel Broh, Omega (University of Missouri) 1967

Samuel J. Broh passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 after a long illness. Sam was born in St. Louis on October 14, 1945 to Janet and Harry Broh. He graduated from Clayton High School in 1963 and the University of Missouri in 1967. While at Mizzou, Sam was a proud member of the Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity. After serving in the Army based on Okinawa, he entered Emory University. After graduation, Sam moved to Huntington, West Virginia to join his father in the Coca-Cola bottling and distribution business. He eventually returned to St. Louis where he was engaged in the bottled water business. Sam served as the Secretary-Treasurer and Executive Director of the Central States Bottled Water Association from 2009 until his death.

While in Huntington, there was no organized youth or high school soccer programs in the state of West Virginia. He began coaching and refereeing youth soccer. In 1978, Sam led a group of five youth coaches to start the first Varsity High School soccer league in the state. For several years, Sam continued coaching the Vinson High School soccer team while serving as the administrator for other coaches and referees in the Huntington League. Sam was instrumental in developing the Marshall University Men’s Soccer Program in 1979. He was in attendance when the team won the National Championship in 2020 and was so proud.

Sam was always involved in sports, both as a participant and a spectator. He participated on tennis teams in both high school and college, and continued playing as an adult. His love for tennis eventually turned into a love of golf and Sam played regularly at Meadowbrook Country Club. In 2018, Sam was inducted into both the West Virginia Soccer Association Hall of Fame and the St. Louis Jewish Sports Hall of Fame

Sam is the beloved husband of Judith Scissors and the dear step-father of Michael Scissors (Lori) and Melinda Conley (Reed). He is survived by brothers Stanley Sclove (Caryl), Robert Scharff, Jr. (Martha), David Sclove (Carol), Andrew Broh (Nancy), Richard Scharff and sisters Patricia Bort (Steve), Lisabeth Margulus (Michael), and Virginia Scharff (Chris Wilson). Sam is a beloved step-grandfather, uncle, great-uncle, cousin, and friend to so many.

Services were in April.

Memorial contributions preferred to the Julius and Harry Broh Scholarship Fund at Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia or a charity of your choice.

Originally published by Dignity Memorial.

Robert R. Rosenthal, Omega (University of Missouri) 1958

Robert Reicher Rosenthal, 86, passed away peacefully at his home in St. Joseph, on Oct. 26, 2022.

Born in St. Joseph to Morris L. and Jeannette (Reicher) Rosenthal, Robert was a lifelong St. Joseph resident. He grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. He graduated from Central High School in 1954 and attended University of Missouri where he was a brother of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity.

Robert was a fixture in the community. He was a past president of both Temple Adath Joseph and Shaare Shalom Cemetery, and a member of Moila Shrine Temple and the Lovers Lane Association. As part of the Missouri Western State University Foundation, he was instrumental in securing the funding for Spratt Stadium. For more than 20 years, he was a trustee of the Hofheimer Trust, an organization responsible for distributing more than $200,000 annually to local charitable organizations.

As a young man, Robert began his career in the family business, Stevens Hat Company. He went on the road, calling on customers and learning the hat business. Many of his customers became friends, and he developed a work ethic that was unmatched. He met Cathie at the factory, and they were married for 57 years. Stevens Hat Company became Stetson Hat Company and, after retiring, he began a new career at Brown Transfer & Storage.

At age three, Robert became fascinated with cars, and that passion never wavered. From a fire engine and ’49 Cadillac to many cars in between, he kept his cars immaculate and usually spent Saturdays washing them in the driveway or winning trophies in area car shows. Attending the Barrett-Jackson auto shows in Phoenix was always a special treat. He proudly participated in the Apple Blossom Parades in his 1931 Lincoln and often drove Missouri Western State University president, Dr. Robert Vartabedian, in the homecoming parades in his 1962 Mercury convertible. He drove many newlyweds, including Dana and Brian, away from their nuptials. Up until recently, he still enjoyed taking rides in the convertible, sporting a Hemmings baseball cap and Ray-Bans.

Robert took great pride in his lawn. It wasn’t unusual to see him mowing the yard in the tie and dress shirt he wore at work all day. Well into his 80s, he walked along the Parkway and down Ashland Avenue, never missing the opportunity to stop and say hello to a friend. Always a gentleman, he knew how easy it was to brighten someone’s day with a visit, phone call or card. He took extra care to call on friends who were ill or recuperating. He was a very kind man who will be missed by many.

Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Cathie, in July 2021.

Survivors include his daughters, Maggie Ross, Platte City, Missouri, and Dana Campbell (Brian), of the home; grandchildren, Brad Staples (Kendal), Zachary Ross, Josh Campbell and Samantha Campbell; great-grandsons, Clayton and Reed Staples; brother, James B. Rosenthal; and many loving family members and friends.

The family will be forever grateful to Robert’s caregivers, Tammy, Kim, Melanie, Helen and Pam. They are selfless, patient, creative and loving. Most important, they helped him know he was never alone. A heartfelt thanks to Sarah, Laurie and Shelli with Mosaic Life Care Hospice.

Services were in October. Memorial contributions may be made to the Noyes Home for Children, Mosaic Life Care Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Originally published in the St. Joseph News-Press.

New Jersey

Anthony A. Guerriero, Zeta Tau (Seton Hall University) 1984

With heavy hearts we announce the death of Anthony “Tony” Guerriero, 60 of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, born in Paterson and raised in Oakland New Jersey, who passed away on November 13, 2022.

Predeceased by parents August and Lillian Guerriero (nee Piccoli), Tony lived in Oakland and Wyckoff, NJ before moving to Franklin Lakes 25 years ago. He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help RC Church in Oakland while growing up where he served as a lector, and then was a parishioner of St. Elizabeth of Hungary in Wyckoff and Most Blessed Sacrament in Franklin Lakes, NJ. He attended Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey where he participated in student government and was President of his fraternity Zeta Beta Tau (ZBT).

He worked at American International Group (AIG) for most of his career in the insurance industry. Tony was a classic car enthusiast and enjoyed coaching many recreational sporting teams throughout the years, particularly wrestling. Tony was loved and cherished by many people especially his sons Anthony and John, his sister Donna Flynn (Jack), his brother Angelo Guerriero (Themi) and many beloved nieces and nephews including Kristin Flynn, Kevin Flynn, Augustine Guerriero, Alexander Guerriero, Molly Tsipouras (John), Vincent Budds, Kevin Budds, Caitlin Wells, Tricia Murphy, John M Kennelly, Allison Serrano and Michael Kennelly.

Originally published by Vander Plaat Funeral Home – Wyckoff.

New York

Steven E. Cohen, Gamma Phi (Hofstra University) 1974

Steven Elliot Cohen, age 69, of Monroe Township, New Jersey passed away on Thursday, October 6, 2022. Steven was born January 23, 1953 in New York, New York.

Steven is survived by his spouse, Randy Cohen; his daughter Jessica Nussman; and his daughter Alana Weinberg; his father Daniel Cohen; his brother Andrew Cohen and his brother Mitchell Cohen; his grandchildren Savannah Nussman, Lily Nussman and Brianna Weinberg.

Funeral Services for Steven were in October. Donations in Steven’s memory may be made to either Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts or American Heart Association.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bloomfieldcoopermanalapan.com for the Cohen family.

Originally published at dignitymemorial.com.

 

David Curtis, Gamma (New York University) 1951

David Curtis was born on November 23, 1930 and passed away on June 24, 2021 and is under the care of Riverside Memorial Chapel.

Graveside Service was in June 2021.

Originally published at dignitymemorial.com.

 

Dr. Richard H. Fine, Kappa (Cornell University) 1962

Richard H. Fine, MD, died November 10 , 2015. He was profiled in news obituaries in the San Francisco Chronicle and the Point Reyes Light. The Clinic he founded at San Francisco General Hospital was renamed in his honor as the Richard Fine People’s Clinic.  A film about him is on YouTube: Search Biker with a Moral Compass: Dick Fine and the Evolving Culture of San Francisco General Hospital.  His papers are archived at the University of California San Francisco Medical Library. His photos of medical care to the student strikers injured by police and San Francisco State College in 1968-69 are at San Francisco State University Library. Audio of his speeches are on the Freedom Archives. His website is www.richardhfine.com.

 

Fernan M. Flores, Epsilon Iota (Hunter College) 1990

Beloved husband of Noeme M. Flores, loving father of Kyle Flores and Milyza Flores, cherished son of Eliza M. Flores and Ferdinand Flores Sr., dear brother of Ferdinand “Ferdie” Flores, Jr., and also survived by many loving aunts & uncles, nieces & nephews, cousins and friends.

Services were in January in care of Papavero Funeral Home.

Originally published at papaverofuneralhome.com.

 

Samuel O. Kesselman, Kappa (Cornell University) 2022

KESSELMAN, Samuel Ozure Of Newton, on Monday, March 27, 2023, at age 22. Samuel is survived by his mother, Alison Schecter; his father, Stephen Kesselman; his older brother, Ross; his younger sister, Rose; his maternal grandmother, Barbara Schecter; and by his beloved, Irene Partsuf. He was predeceased by his maternal grandfather of blessed memory, Martin Schecter; and by his paternal grandparents of blessed memory, Edith and William Kesselman.

Samuel was a 2018 graduate of Newton North High School and a 2022 graduate with distinction of Cornell University’s Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy. He was an exemplary president of the Cornell chapter of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity. Sam was fluent in five languages, a great public speaker, and a vibrant intellect. He was working as a government consultant for Ernst & Young, living in Washington, D.C., when he was the victim of a hit and run accident. He fought a valiant 5-month battle to survive traumatic brain injury, but ultimately succumbed to his injury.

Services were in March. Remembrances would be appreciated to Jewish War Veterans of the USA (jwv.org). Levine Chapels, Brookline 617-277-8300 www.levinechapels.com

Originally published by Boston Globe.

North Carolina

Frederick Berger, Alpha Upsilon (Duke University) 1968

Dr. Frederick A. Berger of Franklin, NC, passed away on October 18, 2014, in Winston-Salem, NC, after a brief but intense, courageous battle against cancer.

To summarize Dr. Berger’s life and character in a short composition is not possible, but the words of one of his lifelong friends may help to convey what we all will miss: “Fred was one of the most highly intelligent, talented people you might know, who was completely devoid of ego and 100 percent honest. He was an ultra-sweet man…who was completely comfortable with who he was and wasn’t, and lived a beautiful life…”

Dr. Berger was born in St. Louis, MO, on July 11, 1946. He graduated from Clayton High School, Clayton, MO, in 1964, where he was known to his friends as “Bert.” He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Duke University in 1968. A brother of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity at Duke, his mellow demeanor and gentle sense of humor earned him the nickname “Amiable Fred.”

After graduating from Duke, he received his M.D. degree from St. Louis University. After completing his residency in 1975 at the University of Florida, Dr. Berger dedicated his career as a pediatrician in Franklin to serving his patients and their parents. He was, in fact, the only pediatrician in Franklin from 1975-1996. A throwback to the country doctors of yesteryear, Dr. Berger routinely took calls at home from those in need. In addition to his pediatric practice, he was the Center Physician at the Lyndon B. Johnson Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center since 1980.

Active in the Franklin community, Dr. Berger was a Rotarian; a founding member of Mountain Synagogue, for which he obtained a Holocaust Torah; past Director of the Carolina Mountain Bank, Franklin Office; past President and Secretary of the Mountain Pediatric Society; member of the Macon County Board of Health; member of the NC Pediatric Society; Fellow, American Academy of Pediatrics; member on the Health Advisory Board for Macon Program for Progress and Early Head Start; and past Chief of Staff and Secretary at Angel Medical Center (AMC). On July 1, 2005, the AMC Women’s and Children’s Nursery was named for Dr. Berger in honor of 30 years of service.

Dr. Berger also shared his thespian and musical talents with the community. An enthusiastic singer, dancer, and actor, he was well-known as a regular performer with the Overlook Players, for which he was a founding member in 1996. He starred in comedic and Broadway musical roles ranging from Pharaoh and Pseudolus to Tevya and Snoopy. Athletic and fit, Dr. Berger was an accomplished triathlete. To relax, he enjoyed guitar and golf, and for excitement he was an avid, loyal fan of the Duke Blue Devils.

Most of all, Dr. Berger was a family man — a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He also was a dear friend to many, staying in close touch with buddies dating back to his early childhood.

Dr. Berger is survived by his wife, Lee; daughters Jennifer Brown (Robbie), Amy Richmond (Lea IV), and Stephanie Case (Brian); grandchildren Benjamin Brown, Nathaniel Brown, CeCe Richmond, Lea Richmond V, Zachry Richmond, and Della Case; his brother, Mike Berger (Janet); and nephews Matthew Berger and Marc Berger.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in memory of Frederick A. Berger, MD to Hematology and Oncology Gift Fund for Melanoma Research, WFBMC Office of Development and Alumni Affairs, PO Box 571021, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1021 or to the Foundation for Angel Medical Center, PO Box 1209, Franklin, NC 28744

Services were in November. Macon Funeral Home in Franklin is in charge of arrangements.

Originally published at maconfuneralhome.com.

 

William Schneider, Alpha Pi (The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) 1962

William Martin Schneider was born in Richmond, Va., to Florence (Fine) Schneider and Milton Schneider.

Bill graduated from high school in Greensboro, N.C., in 1958 where he was active in the Aleph Zadik Aleph (AZA) fraternity. He then went on to the University of North Carolina where he was a brother of Zeta Beta Tau (ZBT). A man of wide experience, Bill had a variety of part-time jobs while in high school and college. He sold men’s clothing, drove a late-night taxi and a commercial truck, worked for an accounting firm, was an admissions officer at the UNC hospital, worked in the library at UNC, and was an assistant in the UNC sociology department.

At UNC, he received a bachelor’s degree in business (accounting) in 1962, a law degree in 1964, an M.A. in anthropology in 1967, and finally a Ph.D. in anthropology in 1974. He was awarded a National Defense Education Act fellowship for graduate study and a National Science Foundation grant for his dissertation study. He attended an ethnographic methods field school in Great Whale River, Canada, and spent two years living among the Selako Dayak of Borneo, during which time he gained fluency in Indonesian. He was on the anthropology faculty for a year at Rollins College in Florida before going to Borneo. In 1971 he accepted a faculty position in cultural anthropology at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville where he worked for 25 years.

His wife, children, and grandchildren know that Bill always looked after their best interests. He read fairy tales to his children, lifted them up to see the moon, taught them to read and write and did his best to remember calculus. He modeled patience, integrity, and honesty. Bill had an encyclopedic knowledge of a wide range of subjects–science, social science, literature, and the arts. His research was meticulous. Bill made sure that his wife of 47 years knew how deeply he loved her. Three of his children obtained medical degrees at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Daniel is a pathologist in Amarillo, Texas. Michael is an anesthesiologist in Little Rock. Annie is a pathologist in Springfield, Mo. Jake is a lawyer in Philadelphia, Pa., and Bekah is an artist in Fayetteville. Having successful children was the accomplishment of which Bill was most proud. Bill Schneider was a thoroughly good man. An exceptional man.

Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Josephine Grinstead Schneider, three sons, two daughters, three daughters-in-law, one son-in-law: Dr. Daniel Lewis Schneider and Mary Sears Schneider of Amarillo, Texas; Dr. Michael Glasson Schneider and Rachel Reynolds Schneider of Little Rock, Ark.; Dr. Anne Schneider Hayes and Dr. David Powell Hayes of Springfield, Mo.; Rebekah Ellen Schneider of Fayetteville, Ark.; and Jacob Stephens Schneider and Deirdre Aaron of Philadelphia, Pa. Also surviving are nine grandchildren: David, Lucy, Henry, Cecelia, Jack, Reynolds, Adele, William, and Oscar; and a sister, Esta Schneider Geoffroy of Atlanta, Ga. He loved them all dearly, and they admired and respected him.

Services were in October in care of Nelson Berna Funeral Home. To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com.

Originally published by Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Ohio

Joseph Bauer, Nu (The Ohio State University) 1967

Joey Bauer, although in official circles known as “Joseph” or “Joe,” to friends and family he was – and preferred to be called “Joey,” passed away Feb. 11, 2023. He was born Aug. 12, 1945.

A rambunctious child growing up in Shaker Heights, Joey was well known for early pranks. Like the backyard birthday party when he turned on the garden hose and soaked his startled grandmother while she was serving cake to the kids. Or the time he “ran away from home” and told the police officer who found him on the nearby school playground, “Sir, you have the wrong man!”

It was at Shaker Heights High School that Joey matured, blossomed and showed his true potential. Playing junior varsity football, starring in student musicals like South Pacific and Bye Bye Birdie, socializing with friends, he thrived on the athletic field, in the classroom, and on stage. His parents Ben and Rose Bauer and brother Dan Bauer beamed with pride from the front row.

Joey loved his undergraduate education at The Ohio State University as a brother of Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity. It was there he discovered his fanaticism for Buckeye football. He always said that, next to Yom Kippur, the most important day of the year was surely the Ohio State vs. Michigan football game – at least when the Buckeyes prevailed.

Upon college graduation, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, taking him to Parris Island, S.C., and Camp Lejeune, N.C., for grueling infantry training. Relying on new friendships and a winning personality, Joey performed with flying colors in fulfilling his military obligation.

A talented writer, Joey then chose to pursue a master’s degree in public relations at Kent State University. Most comfortable in an academic setting, he decided to become a teacher. Starting as a substitute special education instructor at an urban high school, he earned his teaching certificate at Cleveland State and went on to become an English instructor at the University of Akron and Cuyahoga Community College.

After a few years, Joey decided to relocate to sunny Los Angeles where he would remain for the next 30 years. With a continuing joy for teaching, he became an English instructor, but not in a conventional way. He had two kinds of students – by day he taught in a facility for juvenile felons and by night was a “studio teacher” tutoring Hollywood child stars such as Macaulay Culkin, Katie Holmes, and Christine Applegate.

Next, Joey became a teacher in the California State Women’s Prison. Locked in each morning, he taught women from every walk of life. From millionaire physicians incarcerated on drug crimes, to members of the infamous Charles Manson Family, every day was an adventure for the next dozen years.

In 2012, Joey retired from teaching and returned to Cleveland where old friends and a new pastime awaited him – writing. He created, refined and submitted a wide variety of works for the stage and screen. Joey’s greatest engagement and satisfaction came from being an active member of the Ensemble Theatre’s Stagewrights, where he crafted and critiqued plays in the company of supportive, talented, like-minded writers and actors who became dear friends.

With deep Jewish roots, Joey found a welcoming haven at Suburban Temple Kol-Ami in Beachwood. His active participation in weekly Sabbath services and a group tour of Israel proved exceptionally gratifying and grounding.

Declining health in recent years slowed Joey’s pace but never dulled his spirit. Selfless, caring and always optimistic, he brought boundless love to his brother Dan, sister-in-law Debra, nephews Brian and Brad, their respective wives Kelly and Michelle, grand-nephews Dylan, Griffin and Brady, and grand-niece Brooke.

Joey Bauer will be deeply missed but never forgotten by those fortunate enough to have been his family and friends.

Donations in his memory may be sent to Suburban Temple Kol-Ami, 22401 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood, OH 44122 and to Ensemble Theatre, P.O. Box 181309, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118.

Services were in February. Arrangements under the direction of Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel.

Originally published by Cleveland Jewish News.

 

Gerald H. Rothschild, Omicron of Phi Sigma Delta (The Ohio State University) 1952

Jerry Rothschild built his life on the foundation of family and faith. His deep love for both, his home at Chautauqua Institution, his volunteer pursuits, and his inimitable sense of humor sustained him for nine decades and enriched all those who had the good fortune to be in his orbit.

Gerald H. Rothschild, 92, a Holocaust survivor, died on Sunday, November 13, 2022, in his home and surrounded by family. Born Gerd Hans Rothschild on February 2, 1930, in Frankfurt, his youth in pre-war Germany and the family’s fortunate decision to leave for the U.S. shortly after Kristallnacht would shape the rest of life. The family was taken in by Cleveland’s close Jewish community, and Jerry graciously and humbly spent a lifetime giving back.

He served on the B’nai Jeshurun Congregation Board of Trustees, chaired several of its committees, and established a fund there for Holocaust education so that lessons learned from his past could pave a better future. He was a member of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Endowment Book of Life and Legacy Society in recognition of his support for the broader Jewish community. He was a strong and determined man, literally and figuratively larger than life, who, to his final day, scripted each phase of his life. After graduating from Cleveland Heights High School and The Ohio State University, where he was a member of Phi Sigma Delta, he became a CPA for Price Waterhouse.

Before long, he launched a private practice that eventually became Rothschild Meckler & Co., which served clients for nearly 30 years. After a series of mergers, he retired from American Express. Along the way he served in the Army, working in the finance section after completing basic training. A fortuitous transfer to Camp Kilmer, N.J., enabled a cousin to introduce him to New Jersey native Marcia Laufer. For Jerry, it was love at first sight from their first date to see a movie. Marcia was initially less certain, but within a year they were engaged, got married, and moved to Cleveland to set up their first home and begin their family together. While Jerry laid a foundation for the family’s success, Marcia was the matriarch who made sure each of the four children had a loving, encouraging, and secure home — while still having paying jobs of her own.

When the children were young, the family’s first-time summer vacation at Chautauqua Institution in western New York built a new foundation for the family. Drawn by the institution’s arts, recreation, and education – and especially the lectures, symphony, boating, and good friends – it was not long before they purchased a house that remains a family legacy to this day. Very little fazed Jerry, who would greet everything and everybody with a smile – although some might say a slightly mischievous one. He was as quick with joke as he was with a comment of love and pride for his close-knit family. He enjoyed nothing better than seeing them succeed. His incredible loyalty and friendships are best demonstrated by a weekly gathering of lifelong friends – the ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out) – the last of which he attended just three days before he left us.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Marcia Laufer Rothschild; children Laura (Michael) Bennett, Joyce (Dan Mansoor), Barry (Debbie), and Linda; and seven grandchildren: Andrew and Miriam Bennett; Jesse and Emma Mansoor; and Lilly, Bradley, and Melissa Rothschild. He was predeceased by his sister, Helga Gleisser; and parents Ernest and Hilde Rothschild.

Services were in November. Those who wish to make contributions may consider the Rothschild Family Holocaust Remembrance Fund at B’nai Jeshurun Congregation, the Chautauqua Institution Foundation.

Originally published by The Plain Dealer (Cleveland).

Pennsylvania

Norton Baskin, Beta Phi (University of Pittsburgh) 1950

Norton (“Norty”) Baskin, 93, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marilyn (“Lyn”) Weiss Baskin, and son, Craig Baskin. He is survived by his beloved brother Howard and sister-in-law Cheryl Baskin of Pittsburgh, his daughter Janice (“Jan”) Baskin and son Scott Baskin of Tampa, Florida, beloved granddaughter Alexandra (“Avi”) Baskin of Paris, France, beloved grandson Joshua (“Josh”) and wife Shira Baskin of Baltimore, Maryland, and their daughters, Norty’s four great-granddaughters, triplets Aliza, Meira, Naomi, and Naava. He is also survived by niece Wendy and husband Jess Hutchinson of Pittsburgh, grandnephew Zachary Hutchinson of Charlotte, North Carolina, nephew Jeff Baskin of Tampa, Florida, grandniece Alexa Baskin of Louisville, Kentucky, the Kanel-Cermak family of Pittsburgh, and the Fried and Sedwick families of Virginia. Norty was born and raised in Pittsburgh.

He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at age 19 and earned his master’s degree from NYU at age 20. He worked in his family’s businesses in Pittsburgh, including serving as president of the Red Head Archery Company, among the largest in the country at that time. Norty started a long career with IBM in 1965 in Pittsburgh as a manufacturing industry system engineer. He later moved to Cleveland to manage the Ohio Bell Telephone Company account, and then to Tampa where he was the National Account Manager of IBM’s GTE (now Verizon) account. He retired from IBM in 1994.

Norty, or “Gaga,” as named by his beloved granddaughter, Avi, was excellent at building and fixing just about anything and passed along his engineering and logic acumen on to her. They worked on many projects together from the time that he gave Avi her first tool box at the age of 3. They also grew butterfly and tropical gardens together, leading to Avi’s lifelong love of gardening and interest in ecology. Her Gaga was Gaga to all of her friends, and remains so even to this day. He was always so proud of her many accomplishments.

Norty loved playing the clarinet and bassoon as a high school and college student, including playing the bassoon in the University of Pittsburgh Marching Band when he was 14 years old. He was an avid reader, loved music of all kinds but especially symphony and opera, loved his dogs, and was a dedicated (but not very good) golfer. He played several days a week with a retiree group at Carrollwood Country Club until the group disbanded due to a lack of players. He finally gave up golf when, as he said, “I had to quit when I started shooting my age in nine holes.” Norty also enjoyed monthly lunch with a group of IBM retirees which continued for 20 years until that, too, disbanded from lack of participants.

In 1947, Norty was involved in restarting a Kappa Nu fraternity chapter at Pitt, which eventually was merged with Zeta Beta Tau (ZBT). He was a trustee of ZBT at The Ohio State University during the ‘70s. He became involved in starting a chapter at the University of South Florida and served as a chapter advisor.

For several years, he was on the board of trustees of Congregation Kol Ami. For the past five years, Norty was blessed to be a member of Congregation Mekor Shalom. Norty’s wicked sense of humor and loving devotion to his family will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Congregation Mekor Shalom, Collie & Homeless Pet Rescue of Tampa Bay, or Tampa Bay Beagle Rescue.

Originally published by Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle.

 

Frederick Feibelman, Theta (University of Pennsylvania) 1950

Frederick (Fred) W. Feibelman, 94, of Columbus, Ohio passed away on November 2, 2022 at Riverside Methodist Hospital with his loving family by his side.

Fred was born in Terre Haute, Indiana on April 14, 1928, son of the late Frederick and Inez Feibelman. He is preceded in death by his wife, Minna L. Feibelman and his cherished son, Daniel J. Feibelman. He is survived by his beloved daughters Libby Goldman and Joy Alfonso and son in law Mark Alfonso and adored grandchildren, Alex Alfonso and Jamie Polzin, Emily Goldman, Elena Alfonso, Victor Alfonso, Joey Goldman, and Izzy Alfonso.

Fred received his Bachelors in Economics from The University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business. He was in the fraternity ZBT. He spent many successful and rewarding years as an investment broker in the Akron/Cleveland area.He was involved in the community as a member of the Masons and Rotary and as a president of Temple Israel. After retiring to Tucson, Arizona in 1998, he spent his days hiking, biking, and swimming, as well as gardening and volunteering as a docent at Saguaro National Park. He moved to Columbus after his wife passed and spent his final years at Westerwood Retirement Community as an active loved resident and participant in any activity and committee available to him.

He loved his children and grandchildren beyond measure and enjoyed every moment spent in their lives. Fred was intelligent and thoughtful and his zest for life was observed and felt by all who knew him. He savored every new experience. He was an amazing conversationalist as well as an avid listener. He loved music , a good show tune or the standards had his toes tapping and head moving in time even during his final days. Fred prided himself on staying relevant by reading daily periodicals, including the Wall Street Journal , The Barron’s, and The Columbus Dispatch from front to back. Food, travel, and a good scotch were everything to him. He was a friend to all, and touched the hearts of many. His infectious smile and positive spirit will be with all who had the privilege of meeting him.

Donations in memory of Fred Feibelman can be made to: The Lori Schottenstein Chabad Center, 6220 East Dublin Granville Road, New Albany, OH 43054-9381. Memorial Garden being planned at Westerwood Retirement Community.

Originally published in Columbus Dispatch.

 

Dr. William T. Fritz, Gamma Alpha (Washington & Jefferson College) 1982

William Fritz, aged 62 of Richland Township, passed peacefully with his family by his side on March 15, 2023, in Durham, North Carolina. He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 35 years Mary E. (Pillage) Fritz, his parents Thomas V. and Barbara L. (Jacob) Fritz, his parents-in-law Ralph N. and Patricia L. (O’Connor) Pillage, and brother-in-law Thomas J. Pillage. He is survived by his four children and their families: Kristine Fritz of Raleigh, NC; Dr. Andrea Fritz and Devin McDermott of Durham, NC; Mark Fritz and Selena Hernandez Fritz of Raleigh, NC; and Kaitlin Fritz and Andrew Barton of Cambridge, UK. In addition to being a loving father, he was a proud Oompa to his grandchildren Brielle, Elise, and Ian McDermott. He will also be missed by his fiancée Vivian Boyer of Scottdale, PA; his sister Juliann Fritz Brigham and her husband Chris Brigham of Park City, UT; and his siblings-in-law Billy Pileggi, Lynda Pillage, and Paul Moran-Pillage of Pittsburgh, PA.

William was born in Pittsburgh, PA, on August 14, 1960. Even as a child, he was a social butterfly and had a gift for cultivating life-long and meaningful relationships. In fact, he started courting Mary, his soulmate, in junior high. Together, they weathered many storms and created a beautiful life. With Mary by his side, William pursued his dream of becoming a doctor. The two graduated from Churchill Area High School, after which William attended Washington & Jefferson College. He majored in Biology and Economics, was a proud member of ZBT Fraternity, and graduated in 1982.

Following graduation, William, Mary, and little Kristine moved to Philadelphia, where William studied medicine at Hahnemann University from 1982 through 1986. Combining his interest in patient care, knack for physiology, and enjoyment of procedures, he pursued anesthesiology through residency at Hahnemann University. In the more than three decades that followed, William served patients across the country, especially in Johnstown, PA, where he at one point was Director of Anesthesiology at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center. As a physician, he took great pride in the care of every patient, the camaraderie of his colleagues, and the scholarship of his work. Beyond his professional work, William found immense fulfillment mentoring local college students in Conemaugh’s Mentoring in Medicine Program. From formal lectures, visits to universities, and chats in the backyard, he shared his insight with hundreds of future doctors and medical professionals. But anyone who stopped by the house or spoke to him realized that his mentoring and desire to help knew no bounds.

William was also a loving and dedicated family man who always supported his children and grandchildren, from cheering the loudest at graduations and dancing around at preschool celebrations to being a shoulder to cry on and a hand to hold in the hard moments. He lived life to the fullest, which included having adventures across the US and abroad, learning a new language in his last years of life, keeping park dates with his grandkids, and never saying no to a good show or concert. With any spare time he had though, he also sought opportunities to serve others and the community he loved. He was a faithful member of St. Benedict Catholic Church, an advocate for his children’s alma maters St. Benedict’s Catholic School (now Divine Mercy) and Bishop McCort High School, and a supporter of various universities in Western Pennsylvania. William left a trail of kindness wherever he went, and he will greatly be missed. But his legacy—professionally and personally—will live on in the hearts of all those he touched. Services were in March.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in William’s memory to any of the educational scholarship funds close to his heart: The Dr. William Fritz Family Fund at Bishop McCort High School; The Mary E. and William T. Fritz Memorial Fund at St. Vincent College; The Mr. Thomas V. and Dr. William T. Fritz Memorial Prize at Washington and Jefferson College; The Zeno and Thomas Fritz Endowment Fund at Duquesne University; or The Sandzimier Endowed Memorial Scholarship Internship Fund at Seton Hill. To share memories or donate online, please visit https://everloved.com/life-of/william-t-fritz/

Originally published by The Tribune-Democrat.

 

Elihu Hendon, Esq., Alpha Tau (Franklin & Marshall College) 1948

HENDON–Elihu, Esq., 87, passed away Wednesday, May 22, 2013. Survived by children Dan and Amy; four grandchildren and partner Carole Miller and her family. Graduated F & M, New York Law School.

Originally published by New York Times.

 

Thomas B. Horwich, Theta (University of Pennsylvania) 1963

Tom Horwich of Winnetka passed peacefully at home October 31st surrounded by his family. Tom was born on July 20, 1940 in Hyde Park, Illinois and graduated from The Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. He was the grandson of Chicago Jewish Philanthropist Bernard Horwich of the Bernard Horwich JCC in Skokie, IL.

Tom was a quiet force in Chicago real estate, beginning in commercial real estate development and management. In 1996, Tom purchased Rubloff Residential Properties and under his leadership and vision created a firm often credited with changing the residential real estate landscape of Chicago.

Family and philanthropy were Tom’s true passions. He firmly believed that people could achieve success and have a positive effect on the world around them when afforded opportunities. Tom was instrumental in assisting countless students receive scholarships to attend college. Charitable commitments close to his heart included JUF, Western Golf Evans Scholars Foundation and The Hun School.

Tom loved walking his golden retrievers as much as he enjoyed staring down a birdie putt. He was influential in establishing the first dog beach in Winnetka and took great joy watching the canine community enjoy the waves. Tom was an avid golfer and was fortunate to play rounds with Tiger Woods, Tom Watson and John Daly.

Tom had a great sense of humor and was a master joke teller. He had a joke for every occasion and likely would be making one about writing obituaries if he had the chance.

He was a quiet man who was an exceptional listener. When he spoke, he graciously commanded the attention of a room.

Tom is survived by his wife Vicki, his daughter Jamie (David Thompson), grandchildren Lyla and Zoe Thompson and his son Doug.

Tom was a gentleman and a gentle man…

He will be missed by all who were lucky to cross his path…

Originally published by Chicago Jewish Funerals.

 

Ronald Newmark, Theta (University of Pennsylvania) 1954

Ronald J. Newmark, 89, of Boynton Beach, Florida, passed away on September 23, 2022.

He passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family members.

Ronald Newmark was born in Brooklyn, NY to Bertha and Ralph Newmark on January 12, 1933. He grew up with his sister Jacqui. He attended Poly Prep Country Day School, graduating in 1950. He graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Arts in Insurance in 1954.

While in college, he met his beloved Helen, of Seguin, Texas. They fell in love and were married in 1956. Shortly after they were married, Ron was drafted into the Army and was stationed at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis, IN. This was to become their home of over 60 years. In Indianapolis, they started a family and had three children, Gregg, Jay and Nancy. After his service in the military, Ron joined the independent insurance agency, Affiliated Agencies, where he became a partner and worked for over 40 years.

In Indianapolis, Ron was a civic leader, serving on the Boards of Directors of many not-for-profit and community organizations including the American Red Cross, the Jewish Welfare Federation, the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation and the Children’s Bureau of Indianapolis where he served on the Board and as Board President.

Ron was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He loved gathering the family for holidays, family celebrations and reunions. He enjoyed being an active participant in the lives of his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Helen and his three children, Gregg Newmark (Jodi), Jay Newmark and Nancy Liffmann (Reid), Ron is survived by his sister, Jacqui Tenzer and nine grandchildren: Allison, Rebecca, Daniel, Deborah, Amanda, Lauren, Max, Josh and Zachary.

Services were in September. Donations in Ronald’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Encompass Fund to benefit adults with disabilities at the Jewish United Fund.

Originally published at TributeArchive.com.

 

Joe Pasternack, Jr., Theta (University of Pennsylvania) 1954

Former Ferriday businessman and civic leader Joe Pasternack, Jr, died Wednesday in New Orleans. He was 90.

Pasternack was a cornerstone of Ferriday for years. He was born on August 1, 1932, in Ferriday, Louisiana, the son of Agatha and the late Joe Pasternack Sr.

The Pasternacks lived in Ferriday for over a generation and played a central role in the community.

“Ferriday was near and dear to his heart,” Joe Pasternack III said of his father. “Growing up in Ferriday at an early age, Ferriday was such an important part of life for his family and for him specifically.”

Joe Pasternack III has been the head men’s basketball coach at Cal-Santa Barbara since 2017, earning Big West Coach of the Year honors in 2020-21.

“My dad’s work ethic at the store rubbed off on me,” Pasternack said. “His work was his passion. He was sleeping recently one night, and in the middle of the night he woke up and told his sitter he had to go to Ferriday.”

Joe Pasternack Jr., graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1954.  Joe was a brother of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity. Following graduation, Joe joined the United States Air Force where he served as a Deputy Finance Officer at Edwards Air Force Base in California.  After serving his country, he returned to Ferriday and joined his father in the family business, the Pasternack’s Store.

In 1972, he married Sarah Teles. The family then moved from Ferriday to New Orleans.  Joe is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Sarah Teles Pasternack, their son Joe Pasternack III (Lindsay) and grandchildren, Joe Pasternack IV, Lilly Rose Pasternack, Max Saltz, and Sarah’s daughters Leslie Mcgavran (Greg), Paige Lubritz (Randy) and Jody Dorsey (Bren), and a devoted circle of friends.

Pasternack’s building on First Street housed a variety of businesses – furniture, clothing, grocery, hardware and drug stores since 1913. It closed in 1983.

Joe operated the family business for over 20 years before moving to New Orleans. In 1958, Joe was elected to the Board of Directors for Concordia Bank and Trust Company and later would become Chairman of the Board. After 50 years of service, he retired from the Board in 2008. In the early ’80s, he built Pasternack’s Mini Storage, a self-storage facility in Metairie which continues to operate today.

“Joe Pasternack, Jr., was a family man and a very smart and dedicated businessman,” said Concordia Bank President and CEO Patrick Biglane. “He was firm, honest, and caring.  He was a good friend and mentor who served Concordia Bank & Trust Company for 50 years as a director.  Pasternack served as Chairman of the Board during his last four years as a director. Even though he moved from Concordia Parish to New Orleans over thirty-five years ago, he still cared for the Miss-Lou region.

Always active in the community, Joe volunteered in multiple capacities, including as President of the Ferriday Chamber of Commerce, President of the Rotary Club of Ferriday, the Board of Temple Ban’s Israel in Natchez, President of the Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana (JEF), the Boards of Willow Wood Jewish Home, Jewish Children’s Regional Service, and the Goldring-Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life. He received the Young Family Award for Professional Excellence for his years of service and leadership with the JEF.

The Family would also like to thank Joe’s wonderful caregivers including Doris Mesias and Jannel Edwards and many others.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to The Jewish Endowment Foundation, One Galleria Blvd., Suite 1040, Metairie, Louisiana 70001, or the charity of your choice.

Originally published in Concordia Sentinel.

 

Stanley B. Smulyan, Eta of Phi Epsilon Pi (University of Pennsylvania) 1951

WILKES-BARRE – Stanley Bertram Smulyan passed away peacefully at home in Wilkes-Barre on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022, at age 94, in the presence of loved ones after a brief bout of cancer.

He is survived by his partner of seven years, Terry Nelson, his two children, Deborah and David Smulyan, his daughter-in-law Betty Smulyan, and three adoring grandchildren, Stephanie, Sam and Xochi.

Preceding him in death are Gladys Smulyan, his mother, Myra Smulyan, his wife of 61 years, and his sister, Lois Sugar. Stanley was born in Scranton on Feb. 3, 1928, and grew up in Wilkes-Barre.

He graduated from Meyers High School in 1946 and was awarded a scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania, where he joined the Phi Epsilon Pi fraternity. He graduated in 1950, and returned to Wilkes-Barre, accepting a management position at Sperling Tobacco, a wholesale business he later purchased. In 1951, Stanley proudly joined Fox Hill Country Club and has the distinction of being the longest tenured member in its history. Stanley married Myra Zeff Kornzweig in 1953. That same year, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, receiving specialized training to provide psychological services in the medical corps.

After retiring in 1997, Stanley and Myra spent winters at The Landings in Fort Myers, Fla., where they made deep, year-round friendships. In 2003 Stanley and Myra celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, feted by family and friends, and reached another milestone 60th wedding anniversary in 2013. Stanley was universally loved, no matter who you ask. He was well-read, worldly, intellectually curious and professionally accomplished, but admired and appreciated most for his sincerity, generosity, decency and genuine lust for life. Stanley lived for the game of golf, was a much sought after bridge partner, and could not go a day without reading his New York Times and doing the paper’s crossword puzzle. Seven years ago, Stanley and Terry Nelson of Wilkes-Barre met and formed a lasting relationship. Their romance reminds us it’s never too late for love. Stanley was one of a kind, and the love he leaves in his wake will last forever.

Services were in November. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the loving, warm staff at Erwine Home Health and Hospice for their care.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund through Global Giving at https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/ukraine-crisis-relief-fund.

Originally published by Times Leader.

Tennessee

Gerald M. Hamburger, Alpha Gamma (Vanderbilt University) 1964

Gerald Marc Hamburger, born January 15, 1943, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2023. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Marc was a true gentleman who was passionate about life and all that it offered. Marc was born in Baltimore, Maryland to loving parents Alvin and Dorothy Hamburger. The family moved to Atlanta, Georgia as a child where he grew up and lived most of his entire adult life aside from college attendance at Vanderbilt University and graduate school at The Wharton School at The University of Pennsylvania.

Marc was a loyal and devoted friend, and had built many deep friendships throughout his life, including those made while growing up as a child on East Wood Valley Road in Atlanta, his loyal ZBT fraternity brothers, and his fellow classic car enthusiasts from the Pierce-Arrow Automotive Society. In 1970, Marc married Nancy Fern Robbins with whom he had his two children, Robert and Katherine.

Marc was a man of great professionalism, exemplified by his tenure of 33 years at Coca-Cola as VP of Marketing and commitment to the community volunteerism and mentorship after his retirement. He was also a lifelong supporter of Camp Coleman, a Jewish overnight camp which Marc’s father was a founding member, Atlanta Interfaith Broadcasters, and multiple organizations in support of the state of Israel. Marc was known for his eloquence, his love of language, and his congenial nature, and was the beloved patriarch of his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Deedee, and an adoring father and grandfather to his children, Robert (Tanya), Katherine (Hal) and granddaughters, Evelyn and Addie. He was also a loving, generous bonus dad and grandfather to Carrie Leavitt (David Mann), Rich Zatcoff (Farrah), David, Noah and Chloe Leavitt and Eli and Hannah Zatcoff.

Marc’s family was the focus of everything he did and his most important priority, whether he was giving sage advice, supporting family members in times of need, or hosting the annual family vacation at the beach or in the mountains. In addition to his parents, Marc was predeceased by his brother, Alan Hamburger.

Special thanks to Marlene Handley, Deedee and Marc’s devoted and caring friend and household manager. The family requests that any contributions in Marc’s memory be directed to Camp Coleman by mail to: URJ Camp Coleman, 1580 Spalding Drive, Atlanta, GA 30350. Checks should be made payable to Union for Reform Judaism. Alternatively, donations may be made to The Temple in Marc’s honor. The donation can be sent and the funeral services will be held at The Temple, 1589 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309. Services were in March. Marc always had a kind word and a warm smile, and will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.

Originally published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Texas

Todd A. Chilton, Zeta Lambda (Stephen F. Austin State University) 1995

Todd Chilton, 48, of Irving went to his heavenly home on August 11, 2022. Todd was born into a career Air Force Family on August 15, 1973, in Bitburg, West Germany, to parents Thomas Allan Chilton and Jean (Harrington) Chilton. He saw the world until his father retired and settled in Texas. He graduated from Weatherford High School in 1991, and later graduated from Stephen F. Austin University where he met the love of his life, Cindy. He was a brother of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity while at Stephen F. Austin. He worked as a finance manager for J.P. Morgan for the last twelve years.

Todd was a huge Steelers fan; the only thing more important than his Steelers was his love for the Lord and his family. He was a member of Irving Bible Church for many years. Todd enjoyed seeing movies at the theatre and cooking for his family who called him a true grill master. He will be remembered as the best loving husband, dad, son, brother, uncle, grandson and friend to many. He had a goofy sense of humor and made Cindy laugh every day. Todd is preceded in death by his mother-in-law Yvonne Mullen; grandparents Russell and Marion Chilton; and Frank and Dorothy Harrington. He leaves behind to cherish his memory wife of 24 years Cindy Chilton; son Nathan Allan Chilton; daughter Emily Reese Chilton; parents Tom & Jean Chilton; sister Kellie Brickhouse and husband Anthony; nephews Will and Alex Brickhouse; niece Maryann Riley; sister-in-law Connie Riley and husband Mark; father-in-law Glenn Mullen.

Services were in August. Memorial donations may be made to M.D. Anderson at www.mdanderson.org.

Originally published by Legacy Remembers.

 

David G. Genecov, M.D., Lambda of Phi Sigma Delta (University of Texas at Austin) 1986

David Glenn Genecov, 59, passed away suddenly on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022. Born in Dallas Oct. 17, 1963, David was the third child of Sally and Dr. Edward Genecov. David attended St. Mark’s School of Texas where he was a stellar student and athlete. He was captain of the baseball and wrestling teams and won the Texas state championship in wrestling his senior year. He was also a varsity cheerleader and performed his standing backflips on the football sidelines. David was a third generation member of Congregation Shearith Israel. In his youth he went to Israel with the Dallas Jewish Federation’s Teen Tour and was active in the Henry Monsky chapter of AZA. From age 16, David knew he wanted to be a physician. He graduated with a B.A. in Liberal Arts Studies from the University of Texas Plan II Honors program. At UT, he was active in the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity and began his long triathlon career. Ultimately, he finished 5 Ironman Triathlons, including the World Championships in Kona, Hawaii in 2017. David attended medical school at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.

There David met the love of his life Lisa Weinburger. They were happily married for 34 years and raised four children – Michael, Max, Matthew and Megan. David completed his general surgery residency at West Virginia University and did his plastic surgery residency at Wake Forest University-Bowman Gray School of Medicine. He was selected for a fellowship at the International Craniofacial Institute in Dallas and later became its director. He was also the medical director of the Craniofacial Program at Children’s Medical Center, Plano and an Adjunct Associate Professor at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry.

David was an internationally recognized expert in reconstructive craniofacial surgery for both children and adults. He was on the surgical team at Medical City that separated the Egyptian conjoined twins Mohamed and Ahmed Ibrahim in a 34-hour surgery in 2003. Both children remain alive and well to this day. He maintained relationships with all his patients for decades after their initial surgeries and treated people from all over the world. David volunteered for the Children’s Craniofacial Foundation and Smile Train to make sure that underserved children received the reconstructive surgery they needed. In addition to his clinical work, David was an entrepreneur. His intellectual curiosity, selflessness and business savvy led to the development of multiple companies and to revolutionize medicine in adult stem cell storage, gene therapy, leading to the cure of spinal muscular atrophy. Most recently he was working to develop drugs to treat cancers and fight addiction, which will add to his legacy of medical achievements.

When not working, David enjoyed the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing with his brother Jeff, his children, and his late father; golfing; skiing; running triathlons; walking his beloved dog Grover, and traveling. He enjoyed music and was a Board Member of the Dallas Opera. He also served on the board of St. Mark’s where he and Lisa endowed the Sally and Edward Genecov Master Teaching Chair. He was active in the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, Congregation Shearith Israel, and many other Jewish causes. In addition, David was a member of the Advisory Council of The George W. Bush Presidential Center at SMU.

David expressed his love for the University of Texas at Austin and Plan II by his deep involvement in the school. He was a member of the College of Liberal Arts Advisory Council, Plan II Visiting Committee, UT Austin Development Board, and Chancellor’s Executive Council of the UT System. He and Lisa established the Lisa and David Genecov Family Professorship in Plan II Biology and the Lisa and David Genecov Family Professorship in Plan II Social Sciences. Because of his good works, David was honored by many organizations. These include the B’nai Zion Foundation, the Dallas Jewish Historical Society, the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, the Dallas Chapter of Hadassah, D Magazine, Texas Monthly, Consumer Choice Awards, the DFW Alliance for Healthcare Excellence and many others. Dr. Genecov maintained his American Board of Medical Specialties certification in plastic and reconstructive surgery and was active in several professional associations.

In addition to his wife and children, the light of his life was his first granddaughter Lily. He relished his role of Zayde for the past 11 months. David was eternally optimistic, loving, sensitive, thoughtful, driven and generous. His family, friends and colleagues knew how much he loved and respected them; his patients knew how much he cared for them. He left nothing unsaid and lived every day to its fullest.

David was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Edward Genecov. He is survived by his wife Lisa; his four children, Michael (Mackenzie), Max, Matthew and Megan; granddaughter, Liliana; mother, Sally Genecov; brother Jeff (Lisa) Genecov; sister Julie (Rob) Shrell; and nieces and nephews, Adam (Bre) Genecov, Becca Genecov, Marissa (Josh) Kaufman, Simone (Aaron) Noble, Gavin Shrell, Jamie (Garret) Staudinger, and several others.

Services were in November. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in David’s memory to Congregation Shearith Israel www.shearith.org/shearith-foundation.html, the David Genecov Memorial Research Fund at the Be The Difference Foundation bethedifferencefoundation.org/support-us/donate-to-be-the-difference-foundation, the Dallas Opera give.dallasopera.org/donate, or a charity of your choice.

Originally published by Dallas Morning News.

 

Harry R. (Ricky) Haikin, Lambda of Phi Sigma Delta (University of Texas at Austin) 1970

Harry Richard “Ricky” Haikin passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, after a stroke on Sunday, January 29, 2023.

Ricky was born on December 2, 1948 in Houston, TX, to the late Mike and Josie Haikin. He graduated from Lee High School in Houston and most importantly, the University of Texas. Ricky, as it is said, was raised by the neighborhood. He very proudly grew up in Knollwood Village on Laurie Drive and was a fixture of the entire neighborhood. He loved little league, his time at Emanu El, SAR and then as the FratDog of ZBT in Austin.

After graduating from UT in 1970 with a BBA in accounting, he became a CPA and moved home to Houston to be an auditor for what would become Grant Thornton. His move back to Houston allowed him to meet a delightful education student at the University of Houston. In short time, Ricky married that Cougar, Roslyn Fuchs, and they made their home together in Houston. Ellyn and Jennifer followed soon, and they became the center of his universe.

After a few years at the accounting firm, Ricky joined a small oil & gas business, Forney Oil Corporation where he spent 38 wonderful years. The Forney family took him in as their own, and he was so proud of the work they did. He retired in 2015 as the Chief Financial Officer.

Ricky was never “all business”. He loved his time on the golf course, in Memorial Stadium, the Astrodome and the Juicebox. But what he loved most, was the time he spent with his family, especially his five grandchildren – their Pops. He never missed a game, a performance, or a celebration. He soaked up every single second of this life, and he was so proud of the family he and Roslyn built.

Ricky was a fixture of Houston. He had literally hundreds of friends, and he was always everyone’s favorite. He knew more information on more topics than most people knew about one, and he was happy to discuss them at length. His sports knowledge was unmatched, and only his grandchildren made him happier than the World Champion Houston Astros.

Ricky is survived by his wife of fifty-one years, Roslyn, their children Ellyn & Adam Josef, Jennifer & Ron Zach, and their cherished grandchildren Ryan, Avery, Hudson, Hogan and Harper. He is also survived by his sister Hildi Cabot, father-in-law Bernard Fuchs, and many cousins’, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Mike & Josie Haikin, his sister Roxanne Meyerson, his sister-in-law Maura Fuchs and his mother-in-law Sally Fuchs.

The family would like to thank the incredible team at Methodist Hospital, who deftly and compassionately cared for him this last week.

Services were in January. Donations in Ricky’s memory may be made to Congregation Beth Israel (5600 N. Braeswood Blvd, Houston, Texas 77096) or the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center of Houston (5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, Texas 77096) or to a charity of your choice.

Originally published by Houston Chronicle.

Virginia

Harry Dennery, Alpha Epsilon (Washington and Lee University) 1966

Harry Dennery, 78, of Louisville passed away November 20 in Jupiter, Florida.

Born in New Orleans to Phyllis Sugarman Dennery and Moise Waldhorn Dennery, he graduated from the Isidore Newman School in 1962 – with a 12 year perfect attendance record. The legendary musician, Al Hirt, gave the young Harry his first trumpet lessons.

In 1966, Harry graduated from Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia where he was President of the Zeta Beta Tau Social Fraternity. He worked as a Traveling Field Secretary for the fraternity before entering the US Army Transportation Corps in 1967. After serving two years as a Lieutenant at the Strassbourg Kasserne in Idár-Oberstein, West Germany, Harry served a year in the Far East as a Captain on the 38th Parallel, the Border between North and South Korea, the famous Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

Harry married Linda Lieberman of Philadelphia in 1967; they divorced 1995. They had one son, Michael Dennery, who passed away in 2020 and is survived by his widow, Kitty Devecky Dennery of Manchester, NJ. Harry married Laura Frazier in 2006 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Harry spent most of his career in the food service industry, starting out at the Charles Dennery Company in New Orleans and then Atlanta, where among other things he introduced professional bakers to the benefits of the then latest technology -microwave ovens! – before launching his own food service brokerage firm, Dennery Enterprises, in Louisville from 1985 to 2008. Harry’s early food service career included regional representation of SAF Instant Yeast. Later, he was a regional representative for Krispy Krunchy Chicken from 2008-2020.

Harry Dennery became the leader of, or had a tremendous impact on many organizations he was involved with, such as the National Food Broker Association, the Kentucky Restaurant Association, the Visually Impaired Preschool Association, the Bluegrass Sales and Marketing Association and a member of the Kentucky Derby Festival Board of Directors. He was also named ‘Man of the Year’ by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Once Harry adopted a cause… or city… he gave it his all. He was perhaps the best ambassador Louisville could ask for.

An inveterate lover of cars, travel, golf and gadgets, Harry was intrigued by the idea of a personal computer, investing in the possibilities of The Osborne before ordinary people had even heard of Apple.

Predeceased by his parents, Phyllis and Moise Dennery and his son, Michael Dennery; he is survived by his brother, Richard E. Dennery and his wife Terry, former wife Laura Frazier, various nieces, nephews, cousins as well as numerous friends.

Services were in November. In lieu of flowers, donations in Harry’s memory can be made to the American Heart Association PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 57284-0692 (www.heart.org), or Gilda’s Club of Louisville, 2440 Grinstead Drive, Louisville 40204.

Arrangements under the direction of Pearson’s, “Where Louisville Goes To Remember”.

Originally published by Pearson Funeral Home.

West Virginia

Leo Grob, Gamma Epsilon (Marshall University) 1964

Leo G. Grob, Jr. (“Butch”), loving husband, father, and opa, passed away at home on Friday, February 3, 2023, at the age of 79.

Leo was born March 26, 1943, in Wheeling, West Virginia, to the late Leo and Elizabeth Grob. In addition to extended family and lifelong friends, he is survived by his wife of 50 years, Allegonda “Liesje” Grob; son, Aaron Grob and partner “Kimmy Cakes” Wendt; daughter and son-in-law, Tiffany and Adam Shindler; grandson, Aiden Grob; and Golden Retriever, Bella.

Leo graduated from Marshall University with a degree in Accounting (Go Herd!). While not Jewish, he was a founding member of the ZBT fraternity there. He started his career working for the state of Ohio and went on to work for BF Goodrich during which time he traveled to almost every area of the United States. He lived in San Francisco during the early 70s and ultimately married and raised his family in Portage Lakes, Ohio. Leo enjoyed sunsets from the boat, golf, traveling, beach vacations, and lake life. There was never a shortage of parties and good times.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no calling hours.

For those who have asked, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Francis de Sales.

Originally published at mooreffh.com.

 

John C. Hammat, Gamma Epsilon (Marshall University) 1972

John Charles Hammat, 76, of Parkersburg, West Virginia, passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023, with the compassionate care of WVU Camden Clark Medical Center and Housecalls Hospice.

John was born on June 12, 1946, in Marietta, Ohio, to George and Eleanor Kendall Hammat.

He graduated from Williamstown High School in 1964 and went on to attend West Virginia Wesleyan, Buckhannon, WV, on a swimming scholarship. He later attended Marshall University, Huntington, WV, and received his bachelor’s degree in Language Arts in 1971. He was the president of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity and the Greek Council while at Marshall. He would later complete a master’s degree in Human Services and Counseling from Murray State University, Murray, KY, in 1978.

John taught English, Speech and Drama at Hurricane High School, Hurricane, WV, in the early 70s. He then worked in residence life at Murray State University and the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point. He then moved to Florida and worked in the fitness industry for several years. While in Florida he volunteered to hold the sick babies in the neonatal unit. He moved back to West Virginia to be close to his mother and sister in the late 90s. He loved animals, beautiful home furnishings, and good food. He was kind, loving, and loyal.

John was fortunate to have many dear friends who loved him and considered him family. Chief among those friends were Millie Weber Coty and Betty Rector. His friends enjoyed time spent with John, his laugh, his empathy, and his ability to show up for people when they needed him or wanted company. Many of those sweet friends were able to spend time with John in the weeks leading up to his passing. He was blessed by all who loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Gary King.

John is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Hammat (CJ), and his son, Brock (Allison) Hammat; their mother, Paula (Chuck) Hulick; three grandchildren, Kane, Brooklyn, and Alex; one sister, Sandra King; one nephew, Robert (Erica) King; and two nieces, Carrie King, and Ashley (Terry) King Sayre.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to Housecalls Hospice, 417 Grand Park Dr. #204, Parkersburg, WV 26105. Please make checks payable to Hospice Promise Foundation – and put Parkersburg/John Hammat in the memo line.

Those wishing to share a story, fond memory, or their condolences, please visit MOVCremation.com (Mid-Ohio Valley Cremation Society)

Originally published by WTAP.

 

Thomas J. Hastie, Gamma Epsilon (Marshall University) 1973

THOMAS JAMES HASTIE, 71, of Milton, W.Va., passed away peacefully on Monday, August 15, 2022, at Hospice House of Huntington. Tom was born in Charleston, W.Va., on June 21, 1951, to Jim and Connie Isner Hastie. Tom was a 1969 graduate of Capital High School and a proud alum of Marshall University. There, he was an active brother of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity where he formed life-long friendships. Tom held many jobs over the years, but the ones that proved to be most meaningful to him were the years spent in ministry, as Pastor of Milton Presbyterian Church, and Chaplain at both major hospitals in Huntington.

Tom never knew a stranger and loved everyone. But he especially loved working with children, whether through the Boy Scouts of America, River Park Hospital, Huntington’s various community theatre programs, or Sunday school and youth leadership roles in the church.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Mike (Lynne) Hastie of Brevard, N.C., and Ken (Brenda) Hastie of Ocala, Fla. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 49 years, Carol Copeland Hastie, son Matt (Nikki Provost) Hastie, and daughter Brittney Stover of Huntington, W.Va.; daughter Allison (Aimee Brown) Hastie of Columbus, Ohio; grandchildren Eli Hastie, Olive Hastie, Elliott Hastie-Brown, and Isaac Hastie-Brown; brothers Keith (Donna) Hastie of Jacksonville, N.C., and John (Debbie) Hastie of Vincent, Ohio; several nieces and nephews; and many, many friends.

Services will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Huntington, W.Va., on Saturday, August 27, 2022, at 1 p.m. Hall Funeral Home and Crematory, Proctorville, Ohio, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ehallfuneralhome.com.

Originally published by The Herald-Dispatch  (Huntington, West Virginia).

 

Larry R. Hoylman, Gamma Epsilon (Marshall University) 1975

Larry R. Hoylman, 70, of Scott Depot, WV passed away on February 3, 2023. He is survived by 3 sons, 2 sisters, and several grandchildren.

Services were in February. Anyone wishing to leave an online memorial may do so by visiting Larry’s tribute page at: www.chapmanfuneralhomes.com.

Chapman Funeral Home 3941 Teays Valley Road Hurricane, WV 25526 is honored to handle the Hoylman family arrangements.

Originally published at chapmanfuneralhomes.com.

 

David W. Moehling, Gamma Epsilon (Marshall University) 1968

DAVID WILLIAM MOEHLING, 76 of Huntington, passed away March 25, 2023.

He was born September 27, 1946, in Huntington, W.Va., son of the late Frederick William “Fritz” Moehling and Kathryn Ester Kincade Moehling. He was also preceded in death by brother Frederick Ernest Moehling and sister Mary Hedwig Moehling-Powell. He is survived by his wife Beverly Kirk Moehling; son Rodney W. Moehling (Crystal); stepsons Christopher Michael Withrow (Melanie) and Matthew Ryan Withrow (Elizabeth); grandchildren Preston Moehling (Grace) and Palmer Moehling, Tierney Withrow and Kirk Withrow. He attended Marshall University and became a mechanical engineer having worked at Union Carbide, Dow Chemical, Middough Engineering, and CDI Engineering.

Services were in March. In lieu of flowers honorarium gifts can be made to Erma’s Angels Inc., 2930 Merritts Creek Road, Huntington, WV, 25702 (a non-profit company that held a special place in Dave’s heart) or Little Victories Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 247, Barboursville, WV, 25504 www.littlevictories.org Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.

Originally published by The Herald-Dispatch.

 

Frederick Nickels, Gamma Epsilon (Marshall University) 1971

Fred Nickels, 73, passed away on December 12, 2022, in Cape Coral Florida. He is survived by his wife Patti and daughter Jennifer Nickels. Preceded in death by his parents, David G Nickels and Virginia D. Burgess, and his brother, Marshall G Nickels.

Fred had a zest for life and loved sharing adventures with his wife Patti. He loved to travel and explore. He was kind to everyone and always had a smile. He loved to talk about his travels and his life experiences, which were many. He had a good eye for details, and had no problems telling you how something could be improved, but it just seemed that he was right, every single time. He would open up his heart, his home and his life to anyone that wanted to come in, and those that did, are better for it.

Fred loved the holidays, decorating and setting up his massive Christmas Village every year. He has friends from all over the country and the world. He could enjoy himself on big long trips or just sitting outside enjoying the evening.

On some of the adventures they dress for themes and Fred never disappointed, and his and Patti’s outfits were always a big hit at the event. Probably again attributed to his attention to detail. Fred would want everyone to continue on in adventures in their own lives. And we ask that you honor him this coming year by dedicating one of your adventures in his memory.

Fred could be called the Master of caring and friendship. When he spoke to you, you knew he had his complete attention focused on you. He truly valued every word you had to say. When you were accepted into Fred’s group of friends, you knew that you could trust him completely and that he knew he could trust you as the same. Fred was one who was never in a friendship for what he could gain. It was a friendship of what he could share.

His love and respect for his Angel, Patti, knew no bounds. Watching them together would bring a sense peace to all that knew him. He was always there to open each door, to bring the car around so she would not need to step out in the rain, and his face showed the joy, the pride, the complete love, when he looked at her. She gained strength and confidence through him he experienced what unconditional love can bring to a person.

His respect for his friends was much the same. Whether it was a simple dinner out, an outing to the Renaissance Fair, or a trip to a Caribbean Island, the place was never more important to him than the person. Those who were there could feel his caring and concern. Fred wanted all to be happy, not because he planned so many details, but because he wanted those who were with him to be happy, not to have a major care in the world. Fred was the finest planner of all things. Not because he wanted control, but because he hoped he could give people a time of bliss.

Fred traveled the world for some of the jobs he had, he saw things that most don’t, he experienced many cultures and sub-cultures. And even for those that he met but once he gave them the respect that they deserved. Yet in all that he did and saw, he seemed to be most happy when he could return home to be with those he loved and those he cared deeply about.

It is said by some there are three deaths “The first death is the failure of the body. The second is the burial of the body. The most definitive death is the third death. This occurs when no one is left to remember us.” For those who knew Fred, remember him. Say his name, tell stories about him, repeat his jokes. It is up to each of us to not allow Fred’s third death to occur.

To honor Fred, there will be no formal services. There will, however, be a Celebration of Life after the holidays because, as we all know, Fred loved a good party!!

Originally published at baldwincremation.com.

Wisconsin

Walter M. Mirisch, Alpha Kappa (University of Wisconsin – Madison) 1942

LOS ANGELES — Walter Mirisch, the astute and Oscar winning film producer who oversaw such classics as “Some Like It Hot,” “West Side Story” and “In the Heat of the Night,” died February 27 of natural causes, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said Saturday. He was 101.

Mirisch died on Friday in Los Angeles, according to a statement from the academy’s CEO Bill Kramer and its president Janet Yang.

“Walter was a true visionary, both as a producer and as an industry leader,” they said, noting he had served as academy president and an academy governor for many years. “His passion for filmmaking and the Academy never wavered, and he remained a dear friend and advisor. We send our love and support to his family during this difficult time.”

Mirisch received the best picture Academy Award for 1967′s “In the Heat of the Night,” and the company run by him and his brothers also produced the best-picture Oscar winners “The Apartment” and “West Side Story.”

Born eight years before the first Academy Awards ceremony, he served as president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences from 1973 to 1977 and received two honorary Oscars, in 1978 and 1983, for his body of work and his humanitarian efforts.

As a producer, Mirisch aggressively recruited top filmmakers such as Billy Wilder and Norman Jewison, then gave them freedom to craft the movies as they saw fit.

The company he founded in 1957 with his brother Marvin and half brother Harold was one of the most successful independent production outfits to arise from the old studio system as television cut into movie attendance.

The Mirischs made a string of hits from the 1950s to the 1970s, among them “The Magnificent Seven,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “The Great Escape,” “The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming,” “The Thomas Crown Affair,” “The Pink Panther” and its sequel, “A Shot in the Dark.”

After his oldest brother, Harold, died in 1968, the surviving siblings continued their company with Marvin as chairman and Walter, the youngest brother, in charge of production. Marvin died in 2002.

Walter Mortimer Mirisch was born in New York City on Nov. 8, 1921. After studying at City College of New York, he earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin in Madison in 1942 and a graduate degree in business from Harvard in 1943.

In 1947, Mirisch married Patricia Kahan, who preceded him in death. They had three children, Anne, Andrew and Lawrence.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to the Motion Picture and Television Fund (MPTF).

Originally published by NY Post.