36 minute read
Obituaries
DR. THEODORE (TED) ADLER
VIRGINIA BEACH—Early Monday morning, January 11, Dr. Theodore (Ted) Adler passed away peacefully at home. He was 91 and died from complications of COVID.
Ted defied simple categories and possessed a modest nature, a gentle and quiet manner. He had a deep curiosity about the world and a joie de vivre that was contagious. He knew how to love well and to make this world a better place.
Ted grew up in West Ghent and attended Taylor, Blair and Maury High School. He graduated from University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill and gave his lifelong loyalty to the Tar Heels. He graduated with honors from Medical College of Virginia (MCV, now VCU) and was a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. He had a surgical internship at Mass Memorial Hospital in Boston. Then he returned to MCV for his surgical residency. The family packed their bags and drove west so Ted could fulfill his two-year military obligation, he was assigned to Ft. Ord, Calif., where he assumed the leadership role of Chief of Surgery when his commanding officer suddenly was transferred to Japan. The Adler family embraced the experience, discovering new territory and new interests, which, for the parents included exploring wine country and playing golf.
He returned to the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area and practiced at Norfolk General and Leigh Hospitals and became Chief of Surgery at DePaul Hospital. When Virginia Beach General Hospital opened in 1965, the practice responded with a Virginia Beach office. Later the practice expanded even further, and Ted held titles of Chief of Surgery and Chief of Staff at Bayside Hospital. Ted was easily recognizable in the hospital with his characteristic bow ties and a smile and kind word for all those who came his way. He became an Assistant Professor of surgery at Eastern Virginia Medical School where he trained and mentored surgical residents. He was an innovator, he performed the first laparoscopic gallbladder surgery at Virginia Beach General Hospital. Rarely one to grab the spotlight, he couldn’t contain his excitement about this advancement in medical care. “It’s simply a better way of doing it,” Dr. Adler told The Virginian-Pilot in 1990. Ted’s specialty training in burn surgery at MCV enabled him to advance burn care; his expertise saved the life of a severely burned child as a result of a jet crashing nearby.
Dr. Adler retired from practice in 1999, but he continued to contribute, including participating in a Physicians for Peace mission to Kazakhstan in 2001.
It should be said that Ted was not about titles. He was about healing and leaving the world a little more whole than he found it. His central lesson to his children was to treat every person with kindness, compassion and humanity.
Ask Ted what he was proudest of and he would tell you—his family.
Ted met his beloved Sally Segal in Richmond and together, they “had a great ride” as Ted said. They travelled the world and were well versed in history, culture, politics, food and wine. They were soulmates blessed with 65 years of a marriage, ever adventurous and new. Ted was a Renaissance man. One would only discover the depth of Ted’s knowledge because he was so passionate about sharing his interests. His love of books spanned James Joyce and Marcel Proust to Samuel Beckett. He was passionate about opera, and Ted and Sally would have regular jaunts to New York City to attend the Met and enjoy Broadway shows. He was known for his exquisite rose garden. Strangers would ring the doorbell asking for advice on their roses. After his retirement, he and Sally earned the title of life master duplicate bridge players. They traversed the country competing in bridge tournaments, where they developed connections with other duplicate bridge players. During COVID, his on-line bridge “table” consisted of Sally and his two adult children, Leslie Guth and Harry Adler.
Ted adored his children, Leslie Adler Guth (Peter) in Newtown, Pennsylvania and Harry Adler (Leslie) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He parented through his quiet example of service, kindness, and acceptance. He was smitten by his grandchildren, Isaac Adler (NYC), Michael Guth (NYC) and Maya Adler (Wellington, NZ), delighting in their unique personalities and their different life paths. He was overjoyed at being able to attend his grandsons’ weddings and welcome their brides, Dr. Sharon Chacko (wife of Michael Guth) and Claire Goscicki (wife of Isaac Adler) as additional granddaughters. He is preceded in death by his parents Minnie and Irwin Adler and brothers, Marvin Adler and Jerome Adler. He is also survived by dear sister-in-law, Evelyn Adler and many wonderful nieces and nephews.
We will miss him.
He was a member of Ohef Sholom Temple, and the Cavalier Golf and Yacht and Club.
Donations to Eastern Virginia Medical School or to the charity of your choice.
H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments. A service was conducted by Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg at Forest Lawn. Condolences may be sent to the family through hdoliver.com.
BESSIE BANKS
VIRGINIA BEACH—Bessie Banks passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on December 24, 2020. She was the daughter of the late Morris and Gussie Cohen. For the past 3½ years, she resided at The Terrace of Beth Sholom Village.
Bessie was born and raised in Norfolk, Va. She graduated from Maury High School and during her later years, was very proud of the BA degree in Fine Arts she earned at Old Dominion University.
Bessie was blessed to have two extraordinary husbands. She was married to her first husband, Louis Ginsburg of Portsmouth, Va. for 22 years until his untimely death in June, 1965 at the age of 47. In August, 1975 she married Adolph Banks of Norfolk, who instantly became a beloved family member. They were married for 31 years until his death at age 94.
Bessie was preceded in death by her sisters and brother’s-in-law, Minnie and Sam Kurzer and Nettie and Frank Levy and by her son-in-law, Mike Eisenberg. She is survived by her daughters and son-in-law, Beverly and Alan Frieden and Ellen Eisenberg, and by grandchildren Leslie Frieden (Seth Feldman), Natalie Herskovic (David Herskovic), and Toby Eisenberg-Nelson (Zach Nelson). She is also survived by 6 great grandchildren, Alicia and Ilana Feldman and Abbi, Isiah, Jordyn and Charlotte Herskovic. All of Bessie’s grandchildren and great grandchildren live out of town and no matter how many updates and photos we shared with her, she always wanted more.
While we are saddened by her passing we are content knowing that she had 99 wonderful living years.
The family would be grateful for memorial donations to Beth Sholom Village, 6401 Auburn Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464. Due to the pandemic, funeral arrangements were private. H. D. Oliver Funeral Apts. Online condolences may be sent to the family through hdoliver.com.
DR. JACK I. CHERIN
VIRGINIA BEACH—On January 4, Dr. Jack I. Cherin, slipped away unexpectedly and peacefully in Virginia Beach.
He was born on December 26, 1936 to Minnie and Joseph Cherin in Long Island, New York. His family moved to Norfolk when Jack was a toddler. Jack graduated from Maury High School in Norfolk, Va. and was a proud graduate of the University of Virginia.
He continued his studies at Temple University Dental School, and subsequently joined the Air Force where he was stationed in Blytheville, Arkansas. In 1965, Jack opened his private dental practice in Virginia Beach, where he worked happily and tirelessly until he was 80 years old.
Jack was a member of multiple dental associations and served on staff at select hospitals. He was a diplomate in the American Board of Craniofacial Pain, serving on their board of directors and as an editor of their journal and monthly newsletter. He also lectured widely on TMJ to encourage the practice of treating craniomandibular problems without prolonged drug therapy or surgery to eliminate pain.
Jack was a scholar and an athlete with an eternal smile and never-ending positive attitude. Tennis was his favorite pastime and Jimmy Connors was his idol. He was a 32 degree Mason and recently received recognition as a 60-year Masonic Veteran of Atlantic Lodge No. 2 in Norfolk. He loved telling stories about his time in the
OBITUARIES
Air Force, old Norfolk life, dental school and the UVA fraternity house. Jack was a tennis playing, bike riding, neighborhood walking, beach loving, pier fishing, Jeopardy watching, classical music listening Tidewater native. He was also a WWII buff, haunting the hangars of the Military Aviation Museum.
He was a devoted family man and his greatest joy was spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Susan Cherin, his adoring daughters, Elle Land (Lawrence) and Joanne Eder (Brian), and six grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sister, Leona Stern and his brother, Howard Cherin. His boundless love, loyalty, and commitment to his family are a profound loss.
There was a graveside service for immediate family members only. Donations may be made in Jack’s memory to the University of Virginia College of Arts and Sciences. Online condolences may be sent to the family through hdoliver.com.
JUDITH SCHAPIRO EICHELBAUM
NORFOLK—Judith Schapiro Eichelbaum passed away on Thursday, January 14, 2021.
Judy, most delighted in being known as Nana or Nana GG, was born on April 4, 1927 to Lee Haber and Harry Charles Schapiro who are both deceased. Nana was also predeceased by her beloved husband Joseph Eichelbaum, son Steven Eichelbaum, and sister and brother-in-law Joan and Hap Harrison.
Nana graduated from Maury High School and went on to obtain her degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She used this education in her career as a social worker for the City of Norfolk.
Nana is survived by her daughters Linda Eichelbaum Collier, Cathy Eichelbaum and Beth (David) Buckman; her daughter-in-law Lisa (Murray) Rosenbach; nieces Gail (Steve) Grossman and Nancy (Alvin) Wall. She is also survived by her grandchildren Leigh (Charlie) Penner, Jill (Jeremy) Silbert, Suzanne (Liz) Kellam, Julia Buckman, Daniel Buckman, Staci (Jason) Levine, Melissa Eichelbaum, Andrea Eichelbaum, Erin (Greg) Stockburger, Jamie (Dustin) Dingenthal, great grandchildren Joe, Eva and Sam Penner and Jordan Silbert. She also had many great nieces and great nephews. Nana loved her family and was proud to be the matriarch of this crew.
Nana was known for her positive outlook on life and being a strong woman to the very end. She will be missed by her many friends and family.
Due to COVID-19 the family chose to have a private service. H.D. Oliver.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Steven Eichelbaum Camp Scholarship Fund, c/o Jewish Community Center, 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 100, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 or at foundation.jewishva.org.
SONIA “SUNNIE” FRIEDLANDER FINE
RICHMOND, VA.—Sonia “Sunnie” Friedlander Fine passed away Friday, November 13, 2020 at the age of 91, after a brief illness, in Richmond, Va.
Born in Bronx, N.Y. on February 8, 1929 to Victor and Hilda Friedlander, “Sunnie” was one of six children with brothers and sisters Daniel, Emil, Norma, Henie, and William. Sunnie attended James Monroe High School and the School of Industrial Arts. She worked at Macy’s until she met and married Myron “Mike” Fine. They moved to Richmond in 1950 and opened Fine Brother’s Supermarket. Together, they had three children and were married for almost 30 years.
Sunnie spent time playing duplicate bridge and was a Life Master, loved watching NY Yankees baseball games, and owned and operated Virginia Table Pad Company for over 35 years. Sunnie was always quick witted and never hesitated
continued on page 28
Southside Chapel • 5033 Rouse Drive Virginia Beach • 757 422-4000
Chris Sisler, Vice President, Member of Ohef Sholom Temple, Board member of the Berger-Goldrich Home at Beth Sholom Village, James E. Altmeyer, Jr., President, James E. Altmeyer, Sr., Owner Maestas Chapel • 1801 Baltic Ave. Virginia Beach • 757 428-1112
• Family owned and operated since 1917
• Affordable services to fit any budget
• Advance funeral planning
• Professional, experienced, caring staff
• Flexible burial options
• Flexible payment options
Chesapeake Chapel • 929 S. Battlefield Blvd. Chesapeake • 757 482-3311
Denbigh Chapel • 12893 Jefferson Ave. Newport News • 757 874-4200
Approved by all area Rabbis and Chevrah Kadisha
Riverside Chapel • 7415 River Road Newport News • 757 245-1525
www . altmeyerfuneralandcremation . com
OBITUARIES
continued from page 27 to say what she thought. She made us all laugh with her antics and “Sunnieisms.” Not only was she a mother to her own children, many of their cousins and friends would call her their “second mom.”
Sunnie is survived by her children, Steve Fine (Lezlie), Larry Fine, and Jody Fine Korman (Dale Talley); grandchildren, Aaron (Sarah) and Liza Fine, David Fine, and Max (Amanda) and Hillary Korman; and great-grandson, Miles Korman. Also William, Emil, and Norma and many loving nieces and nephews. She was welcomed to heaven by her mother Hilda, sister Henie, and brother Danny. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
MARTIN MYRON FREEDMAN
VIRGINIA BEACH—Always thinking of his family, Martin Myron Freedman 76, wanted us to be able to enter the New Year knowing that he is at peace, passing away on Thursday, December 31, 2020 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Marty was born in Norfolk, Virginia. He was predeceased by his parents, Ada and Morton Freedman and sister-in-law, Sandra Freedman.
Marty is survived by the girl of his dreams, Judith Berg Freedman. He was an amazing and loving father to his three children Aaron and wife Pennie of Miami, Florida, Jason and wife Pamela of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, and Rachael and husband Brett Trussell of Virginia Beach. He was the most wonderful Papa to seven grandchildren, Ari, Abigail, Benjamin, Lucia, Eli, Morgan, and Huck. He was a loving brother to his sister, Sandra and husband, George Keim; brother, Ronald Freedman and sister and brother-in-law, Ilene and Mark Snyder. He is also survived by his niece and nephew, Michelle and Robert Fryman and their children, Sean, Sydney, and Michael Fryman.
Marty attended Old Dominion University and graduated from The Medical College of Virginia School of Pharmacy. He was treasurer of Phi Delta Chi Professional Fraternity. While attending MCV, he met the love of his life, Judy, on a blind date. Judy and Marty married on Christmas Eve in 1967 and were inseparable for 53 years.
Marty was the proud owner and operator of Ghent Pharmacy. He loved being a pharmacist, helping others and becoming a friend to his customers. I think we were the only family that got excited for the flu season to see the pharmacy pill count increase as he would excitedly come home and tell us how many prescriptions he filled.
He served on the medical advisory board of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Hampton Roads for many years in addition to being an expert pharmacy witness. He was past president of Ohef Sholom Temple Men’s Club and volunteered for Jewish Family Service. He was one of the first male Cub Scout leaders in our area and went on to become a Webelos leader and then treasurer of Boy Scout Troop 66. He was so proud to have a part in both of his sons becoming Eagle Scouts.
After retirement, Marty continued to give of himself becoming the Pharmacist
100% Service Appreciation, Commitment Guarantee Courtesy A er Hours Drop O Room and Private Pet Viewing Available Specialty Urns Available to Preserve Your Pet’s Memory Equine and Large Pet Services
Now o ering gentle and environmentally friendly Alkaline Hydrolysis! “Water-based Cremation” Owner, A. Neal Kellum Pet Cremation Services of Tidewater 757-340-0016
105 Happy St. | Virginia Beach, VA 23452 | Corner of Bonney Rd. & Happy St. Read our customer testimonials at www.petcremation.com in Charge of the Virginia Beach Free Health Clinic and teaching the Pharmacy Tech class at Tidewater Community College. Judy and Marty were very fortunate to be part of a medical mission to the Dominican Republic each summer for several years.
Marty was by far the best husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He laughed at the silliest jokes and always wore a smile. He was hardworking and fun loving. He ran everyday and completed the Marine Corp Marathon. He loved his ice cream and Hallmark movies.
The graveside service was conducted by Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, King David section.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, please memo Papa’s Peeps, 6350 Center Drive, Suite 102, Norfolk, Virginia 23502. Donations will go towards research that will help the first survivor to end the “Longest Day.” Altmeyer Funeral Home.
ELAINE RUTH GROSS
VIRGINIA BEACH—Elaine Ruth Gross, a resident of the Beth Sholom Village in Virginia Beach, peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 19, at the age of 85.
Elaine was born in Brooklyn, N. Y. to Alex and Claire Solomon. She attended school and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and Master Degree of Education from Brooklyn College. Elaine was married to Harold Gross for 63 years and they had three sons, Alexander (Joanne), Fredric (Laura), and Michael (Kim).
Elaine taught elementary school at PS 236 in Brooklyn, and at Flamingo Elementary school in Cooper City, Florida. She was loved by her students and was remembered as being “amazing,” “my favorite teacher of all time,” and “great at teaching science.” One student fondly recalled a time that the school principal came into her classroom, asking for someone intelligent to assist him with a project. Without hesitating Elaine instructed the entire class to rise and follow the principal to his office. The student noted “I never felt so good in my life. I loved your mom.”
Elaine was equally loved by family and friends. She was an avid golfer and tennis player. She loved pets and at one point shared her home with a dog and three cats, all of which were rescue animals. Along with Harold, she traveled to Mexico for tennis tournaments, on cruises with her grandchildren, on safari with close friends, and on numerous road trips.
In addition to her husband and her children and their spouses, Elaine is survived by her brother Bob and his wife Eleanor, and grandchildren Ben, Alyson (Michael), Rachel (Aviv), Harrison, Sam, Andrew, Matthew, Charlie, and Jack. As a result of COVID, a memorial service will be held at a later date.
NAOMI ABIGAIL HECHT
VIRGINIA BEACH—Naomi Abigail Hecht, 27, of Los Angeles, CA died December 8, 2020 of BRCA-related breast cancer at a temporary home in Virginia Beach with her parents and devoted fiancé by her side.
She was born in Los Angeles, graduated from the Hamilton High School Humanities Magnet, and graduated with a double major in biology and sociology from Wesleyan University, where she was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa during the fall of her senior year. Naomi worked at a health clinic in Glendale, Calif. and tutored high school students before attending the Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, where she was a third year medical student. She had an exceptional ability to grasp difficult concepts and then explain them to others in a very understandable way, which she was able to utilize in her responsibilities as a teaching assistant, or TA, for three semesters of organic and inorganic chemistry at Wesleyan, as well as informally in medical school where she would use white board and marker to clarify material to study group peers.
Naomi was remarkable, not only for her many accomplishments, but for who she was. She always wanted to help youth who were struggling socially and academically, whether she was working as a camp counselor, a high school tutor, or a volunteer at Wesleyan’s confidential listening service. She was passionate about those less fortunate and was involved in improving women’s health and that of
OBITUARIES
underserved populations.
She was the most loving daughter, sister, fiancé, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend, who always really listened to others. When she was ill, friends and acquaintances across the country recalled being inspired by her kindness, her intelligence, her radiant smile, and lovely laugh, and her gentle and thoughtful ways.
She is survived by her parents, J. Randolph Hecht, MD and Lori Winer Hecht, MD, and her beloved brother, Matthew Hecht of Los Angeles, Calif., as well as her grandfather, Norman Hecht of Virginia Beach. She is also survived by her amazing fiancé, Lucas Van Gorder, the love and light of Naomi’s life who never left her side throughout her illness. She is predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Dr. Herbert and Phyllis Winer of Shawnee Mission, Kan, and her paternal grandmother, Gloria Hecht of Virginia Beach. She is also survived by loving and supportive aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family across the country.
She was buried at Hillside Memorial Park in Los Angeles. Donations to the UCLA Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation for breast cancer research.
REGINA SENTER KATZ
VIRGINIA BEACH—Regina Senter Katz passed away peacefully at 100 years of age on December 9, 2020.
She was born September 19, 1920 in Norfolk, Va., the daughter of the late Rebecca and Edward Senter. Regina was predeceased by Louis Katz, devoted husband of 73 years, and three younger siblings. Regina was a loving mother and “Grammy.” She is survived by sons Stuart Katz (Cynthia) of Newport News and Barry Katz (Kitty) of Chesapeake; granddaughters Leah Rosenberg (Jason) of Norfolk and Erin King (James) of Hampton; and great-grandchildren Annabelle, Judah, Dallas, and Zahava.
Regina lived an exceptional life. She is remembered for her warmth, compassion, generosity, and humility. She was an accomplished pianist who performed, composed, and published 14 piano solos. Regina was a dedicated educator known for her expertise instructing children in her home studio. She was an organist at Gomley Chesed Synagogue and taught at Tidewater Community College.
Special thanks for the dedicated care provided by Beth Sholom Terrace and Freda Gordon Hospice. Memorial donations to Beth Sholom Terrace, 1049 College Park Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23464 and Freda Gordon Hospice, 5000 Corporate Dr., Suite 500, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.
A graveside service, officiated by Cantor Elihu Flax was held at Gomley Chesed Cemetery in Portsmouth. H.D. Oliver. Send condolences at www. hdoliver.com.
EDWARD KRAUS
VIRGINIA BEACH—Edward Kraus, 95, passed away on January 8, 2021.
Edward Kraus was born in Cambridge, Mass. and lived much of his early life in the Boston area. He spent 12 years in the Navy and met his late first wife, Audrey Hite, in Norfolk, Va., then settled in the Washington D.C. and Baltimore areas, where he lived for many years with their two daughters. During this time, Ed developed an incredible love for dogs and had several, mostly collies, which he doted on and enjoyed for many years. He then moved back to the Boston area and married his wife Margaret Blevins Kraus in 1983, where they lived for several years before moving to Virginia Beach.
In his earlier years, Ed was a prolific salesman in the insurance industry, winning awards and doing presentations on telephone sales techniques. He later used his skills as development director at the Italian Home for Children in Boston, and as city manager for Norwood, Mass. where he used his techniques and creative fundraising ideas to revitalize and expand the business community. Later in Virginia Beach he would work for The Sentara Health Organization running a senior HMO and doing presentations for the hospital. Then there was his fundraising and advertising effort for the Simon Family JCC and Jewish News.
Ever since the 1970s, in his spare time, Ed had always come up with creative and grandiose ideas for projects he was planning, like the railroad he envisioned that could go from Boston up to Bethlehem, New Hampshire leading to an all-inclusive retirement community with assisted living facilities and activities that could involve all ages, arts and music. The entire community, through his Senior Planning LLC would be a first, before retirement communities were even being planned at that time. His final, most recent project idea through his Senior Planning LLC was for the “Noteworthy Tower,” with what would be a Norfolk Arts Residence Tower with musicians and artists on the upper floors and retail on the lower floors. He was indefatigable in writing proposals, meeting with architects to do drawings and find suitable lots and government officials to obtain permits and funding, but unfortunately the projects never came to fruition.
The main joy of his life, aside from his wife Margaret herself, was singing with her in choir and at Jewish Community Centers, and traveling with a large elder hostel choral group to perform at Penn State every year. Following Margaret’s death, he became very involved with the Samaritan House, whose mission is to help those affected by domestic violence.
He is survived by his daughter Sandra Kraus of Oceanside, Calif.; stepdaughters Megan Shipman of Marshfield, Mass; and Laura Beth Brotman of Burton, Ohio; stepbrother David Blevins; and grandchildren Jacob and Sasha Brotman, and Liam and Gwyneth Shipman. No local service will be held as his burial will be in Marshfield, Mass. Memorial donations in his memory may be made to the Samaritan House.
RONALD MARVIN MILLER
VIRGINIA BEACH—Ronald Marvin Miller died on Dec 3, 2020 at Beth Sholom Village where he resided since 2018. His transition was sudden and he passed peacefully.
Ronnie was born on July 4, 1945 in Brooklyn, New York to Hyman and Vivian (nee Adcock). He was raised in Norfolk with his loving sister, Janet. Ron lived in Norfolk most of his life, proudly serving on the police force in the 1960s and 70s.
Many loved ones include: sister, Janet; daughters, Kim and Laura; son-in-law, Tim; brothers, Mike and Rob (pre.m.); granddaughter, Rebecca and her husband, Chuck; cousins, Wayne, Scott, and Ken; niece, Leah; lifelong friend, Beth; and grandchildren, Simon, Stiles, and Layla.
Ron was fortunate to have many close friends and exciting adventures in his 75 years. Every positive thought, word, or deed that occurred during his life is concentrated into a pristine spiritual light which will continue to shine and have an effect on those above and below.
No funeral services will be scheduled. May each person whose life he touched celebrate him in their own way.
Memorial donations to bethsholomvillage.com or hopeforliferescue.com.
NOAH JON OPPENHEIM
VIRGINIA BEACH—Noah Jon Oppenheim, 24, passed away Monday, November 23, 2020 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Noah was born on March 17, 1996 in Richmond, Virginia but raised in Virginia Beach. He was a graduate of First Colonial High School and a proud founder/owner of Coastal Instrument Sharpening Service.
Noah’s humor would light up any room and he deeply cared to be a great friend to everyone he encountered. He enjoyed skiing, modifying his corvette, and spending time with his friends, family, and most importantly, his son, Jaxon.
He is predeceased by his grandparents. In addition to his parents, Dr. Arnold and Jo-Anne Oppenheim, he is survived by his twin sister Rachel, his wife Brittany, his precious son Jaxon, and countless relatives and friends.
A graveside service was officiated by Rabbi Panitz of Temple Israel at Princess Anne Memorial Park. Altmeyer Funeral Home.
In memory of Noah, please contribute to Shatterproof, a national nonprofit dedicated to reversing the addiction crisis in the United States.
DR. JEROME DAVID PERLMAN
NORFOLK—Dr. Jerome David Perlman, 91, passed away on December 24, 2020.
He was the son of the late Abraham and Rae Winer Perlman. He was born
continued on page 30
OBITUARIES
continued from page 29
at the Hospital of St. Vincent de Paul in Norfolk, Virginia on July 19, 1929.
A lifelong resident of Norfolk, he attended John Marshall Elementary School, Blair Junior High School, and graduated from Maury High School in 1947. He attended the University of Virginia for his undergraduate studies and graduated from the University of Virginia Medical School in 1955. Dr. Perlman’s medical residency was interrupted by his service in the United States Army. In 1957 he was stationed in Hanau, Germany and served as Commander of the Medical Detachment of the 899th Tank Battalion and later, as the Commanding Officer of the 209th General Dispensary serving troops and their families. Upon his discharge from the army, he returned home to Virginia where he completed his residency at Norfolk General Hospital.
Dr. Perlman opened a private practice in family medicine in 1959 and became a charter Diplomate of the American Board of Family Practice. He was a member of the American Medical Society, the Virginia Academy of Family Practice, the Medical Society of Virginia and the Norfolk Academy of Medicine. Dr. Perlman was an assistant professor in the Department of Family Medicine of Eastern Virginia Medical School. Medical students from EVMS and the University of Virginia rotated through his office observing and evaluating patients with him. Dr. Perlman served on the DePaul Hospital Board of Trustees, as well as the lay board. He was chairman of the Department of Family Practice and served as president of the medical staff.
In 1983, Jerome retired from medical practice for health reasons and put his talents to use elsewhere. He was an honorary member of the Beth Sholom Home board and served on the admissions committee there for many years. He and his wife, Pansy, were awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for their outstanding dedication, commitment, and support to the mission of Beth Sholom Village. In retirement, his energy was directed to the Virginia Endowment for the Jewish Aged, an organization which he served until it merged with the United Jewish Foundation. He was a member of Ohef Sholom Temple.
Everywhere he went, Dr. Perlman was greeted by a handshake, a hug, a kiss, and a pleasant exchange of words. He had a gentle and kind manner that was endearing to all. He will be missed by those whose lives he touched and there were many. He would like to be remembered for his love and devotion to family and medicine.
Jerome was preceded in death by his beloved wife and soulmate, Pansy Donsky Perlman. They were married in 1953 and were inseparable for 67 years.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Susan Scholsohn and her two children, Todd Scholsohn of Norfolk, and Amy Jo Scholsohn of Playa Vista, Calif. He is also survived by a devoted son, Dr. Steven Perlman, his wife Sharon and their daughters, Lauren Perlman of Brooklyn, N.Y. and Erica Perlman of Lakewood, Col. His four grandchildren brought him much joy and so many bright tomorrows.
He will be lovingly remembered by a sister, Saralee Warnick of Bellevue, Wash. and sister-in-law, Lolly Bernstein of Norfolk, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Memorial donations may be made to Beth Sholom Village, Ohef Sholom Temple, or a charity of one’s choice.
HD Oliver Funeral Apartments. Burial at Forest Lawn Cemetery was private. A live-stream of the service was conducted by Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg. Online condolences are welcomed and may be sent to the family through hdoliver.com.
JUDY SELDES PETOCK
RICHMOND, VA.—Judy Seldes Petock passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning after a brief illness.
She was born in Richmond to Aaron and Fannie Seldes, who predeceased her. She graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School, married the love of her life, Jerry Petock (who preceded her in death), and lived in Tidewater throughout their marriage. Judy was involved in the Portsmouth and Norfolk communities as a volunteer for Gomley Chesed Sisterhood, Hadassah, and Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. She was a lifelong poll worker, but her greatest satisfaction came from her “Just Judy” gift business and her position as a “Boutique Lady” at Stein Mart.
Guests were always welcomed in the Petock home and Judy loved entertaining. Whether she was hosting a weekly mahjongg game or a drop-in for friends and neighbors, everyone knew good fun and good food would be on the menu! She enjoyed her morning walks and breakfasts with neighbors and spending summers at Virginia Beach. Judy returned to Richmond in 2014, rekindled treasured friendships, and volunteered at Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital and the Massey Cancer Thrift Store.
Left to cherish fond and zany memories of Judy are her daughters and their husbands—Amy and David Nisenson and Mindy and Art Bloom. She adored her three grandchildren—Daniel (Julie) Nisenson, Austin (Jay) Heller, and Stacey (Brian) Newman. Great-granddaughters, Tabor Nisenson and Ella Newman, were her greatest joy. She also enjoyed close beloved relationships with Norman and Selma Petock, Ed and Sara Rosenbaum, and her nephews and their spouses.
H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. A LiveStreamed service was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Donations to the Ronald McDonald House of Winston-Salem or Hadassah.
RITA MARIE SHELANSKI
WYNNEWOOD, PA.—Rita Marie Sheleanski (nee CARDILE) passed away peacefully at home in Wynnewood, Pa., on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at age 91.
Born in Philadelphia to Sicilian immigrants Salvatore and Anna Cardile, and one of 8 children, she converted to Judaism and was married to Dr. Morris V. Shelanski for 65 years.
She was a member of the 1951 graduating class of Philadelphia General Hospital School of Nursing and worked as a nurse at that hospital. There, she met her future husband, who pre-deceased her in July 2020.
She is survived by 5 children, Joseph, Herman, Samuel, Anne (Dougherty) and Stephan; 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Rita was warm, feisty, fun-loving, and a fantastic cook with an infectious laugh. She was exceptionally proud of being a nurse, wife, mother, and grandmother, as well as sister, aunt, and friend. She gave so much love and so many lives are better because of her. West Laurel Hill Funeral Home, Inc.
PEARL SLUSKY
VIRGINIA BEACH—Pearl Slusky, 97, of Virginia Beach, formerly of West Hartford, Conn., passed away on December 31, 2020.
Pearl was the beloved wife, for 72 years, of the late Melvin Slusky, DDS. After more than 60 years in Connecticut, they relocated to Virginia to be closer to family. Pearl will be remembered for her love and devotion to family and friends, her graciousness, hospitality, and sense of style.
She is survived by her children, Carol Tickton (Stan) of Virginia Beach and Robert (Audrey) of Vermont; grandson, Jeff Shinn (Cattina) and great grandchildren, Alyssa and Jacob, all of Chesapeake.
The family wishes to thank the entire staff at Beth Sholom Village for their friendship, love, and care during the past four years.
Donation’s in Pearl’s memory may be sent to Beth Sholom Village, 1049 College Park Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23464, online www.bethsholomvillage.com or a charity of your choice. Burial was held in Connecticut.
ANNETTE VOOSS
VIRGINIA BEACH—Annette Vooss, 83, passed away on December 30, 2020.
Annette was born in the Bronx, New York to the late Benny and Rose Hartman on October 27, 1937.
Annette was very devoted to family traditions and food. She always loved a good joke and truly loved her faith. She was active with the United American Hebrew Congregation (UAHC) and Eisner Camp.
Left to cherish her loving memory are her children, Scott Vooss and wife Melinda and Tami Furgerson and husband Charlie; grandchildren, Zoey Vooss, Maxwell Vooss and Carly Davis and husband Dr. Toren Davis; great-grandchildren,
OBITUARIES
Elodie Davis and Violet Davis; and many extended family members and friends.
Donations to Jewish Family Service Food Pantry.
FRANK ANDREW ZELENKA
KNOXVILLE, TENN.—Frank Andrew Zelenka, age 83, of Oliver Spring, passed away on Monday, January 4, 2021 at the Parkwest Hospital in Knoxville, Tenn.
He was born in New York to the late Frank Andrew and Evelyn Zitek Zelenka on September 16, 1937.
Frank was a member of St. Therese Catholic Church in Clinton. He retired from the United States Air Force and spent many years as Deputy Director for Knights of Columbus.
In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by wives, Barbara Jean Zelenka and Vicki Rene Zelenka; and brother, Alan Zelenka. He is survived by children, Patricia Z. Youngman (Robert), Frank Joseph Zelenka (Amy), Theresa Ahmad; step-children, Debra Haynes (JL), Wayne Hunsicker (Dawn); brothers, Andrew Zelenka (Sue), Alfred Zelenka (Noreen); several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
The family had a funeral mass at St. Therese Catholic Church. Frank’s interment was held at Anderson Memorial Garden with full military honors presented by Campbell County Honor Guard. www.holleygamble.com.
SHELDON ADELSON, MEGADONOR TO ISRAEL AND REPUBLICANS
(JTA)—Sheldon Adelson, the billionaire casino magnate whose philanthropy had an unparalleled influence on American and Israeli politics and Jewish causes, has died at 87.
One of the world’s richest people and a megadonor who set records for his political giving to Republicans, Adelson was known for his deep and polarizing involvement in local, national, and international politics, especially his support for Israel and the Republican Party.
The extent of Adelson’s giving to causes and institutions he believed in had few equals in American philanthropy. He was the largest donor to Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential bid at $25 million, as well as the nation’s biggest giver in the 2012 election at nearly $93 million. A newspaper he owns, the Las Vegas ReviewJournal, was one of the few publications to endorse Trump.
Adelson also contributed enormously to pro-Israel causes. He donated $127 million to the Jewish identity-building program Birthright Israel since 2007, according to IRS filings cited by the Center for Public Integrity. He was a major backer of Israel’s Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Republican Jewish Coalition. And he was a significant funder of the Israel lobby AIPAC until he shifted his giving to more conservative pro-Israel organizations.
He was a major backer of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with his support of Israel Hayom, a free daily newspaper seen as supportive of the Israeli leader. Adelson also was an eminent funder of the Israeli-American Council, a group for Israelis in the United States that has also engaged in political advocacy, and the Zionist Organization of America, a staunchly right-wing pro-Israel group.
His aggressive approach resulted in conflict at times: In 2019, a federal judge ordered Adelson to pay millions of dollars in fees to the National Jewish Democratic Council for using what the judge called “legal sadism” to effectively put the group out of business. The Jewish Democratic group in an ad had linked to an Associated Press report outlining an allegation that Adelson had allowed prostitution at one of his casinos. The courts agreed with the group, which argued that allowing litigants to punish people for linking to verified reporting would be a dangerous imposition on free expression, but Adelson doggedly pursued the issue through appeals.
Adelson was certain of his moral convictions—sometimes to a fault. In 2012, his Las Vegas resort hosted what was to have been a polite debate between Jewish Republicans and Democrats. Adelson walked into the room, took over the proceedings and called President Barack Obama a “crybaby” who should “be in diapers,” infuriating the Democrats in the room.
As a major donor to AIPAC— the American Israel Public Affairs Committee—Adelson breached the unofficial custom of its donors of entrusting policy to the lobby’s seasoned professional staff. If Adelson was giving money, he made clear, he would determine policy to its most minute detail.
In 2007, AIPAC supported an initiative to increase U.S. funding to the Palestinians as a means of accelerating peace talks favored by the Bush administration. That led to an ugly showdown and a split in the relationship just months after Adelson’s name had graced the lobby’s gleaming new headquarters. Adelson likened AIPAC to a friend assisting Israel’s suicide.
“If someone is going to jump off a bridge, it is incumbent upon their friends to dissuade them,” Adelson told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency at the time. He added, “I love and admire the concept of AIPAC.”
“After the fight, Adelson turned to funding the Israeli-American Council because he saw the group as a means of filling the vacuum he believed to be left by AIPAC and robustly defending Israel’s positions.
His working-class Boston roots cropped up in his blunt, some would say offensive, manner. He and his physician wife, Miriam Adelson, liked to tell young people participating in Birthright, the free trip to Israel organization he helped fund, that he expected them to procreate.
Adelson also made controversial statements over the years. In 2013, he suggested that the United States drop a nuclear bomb on the Iranian desert as a negotiating tactic. The next year, at a conference of the Israeli-American Council, he said, “The purpose of the existence of Palestinians is to destroy Israel,” and added, “So Israel won’t be a democratic state, so what?”
Adelson admired the Israeli sensibility, interpolating his remarks with Hebrew phrases his wife taught him. He was a major funder of the Israeli scouts movement, Tzofim, in the United States. The Adelsons assumed control of a Las Vegas Jewish school and reshaped it according to the famed Haifa Reali school, where Miriam Adelson was educated. What is now called the Adelson Educational Campus emphasizes a Jewish identity that is less religious than in most Jewish day schools and more nationalistic.
Ahead of November’s presidential election, Adelson reportedly fell out of favor with Trump over the size of his gifts. In one of his final big purchases, Adelson reportedly paid $67 million for the mansion in Israel that was the American ambassador’s residence until Trump moved the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv.
During the coronavirus pandemic, Adelson also gained attention for continuing to pay his casino employees long after other Las Vegas casinos cut off paychecks to their workers.
In 2007, Adelson started Israel Hayom to compete with other dailies that were less friendly to the Israeli right. Its popularity—it became Israel’s most-read paper—has been considered instrumental to Netanyahu’s continued success. Netanyahu expressed “deep sorrow and heartbreak” at news of Adelson’s death, lauding his “tremendous efforts to strengthen Israel’s position in the United States and to strengthen the connection between Israel and the Diaspora.”
Adelson’s millions also transformed smaller Israeli projects. In 2014, he gave $16.4 million to SpaceIL, a nonprofit that attempted to land a small spacecraft on the moon.
Adelson also was a major supporter of drug addiction programs, a specialty of his wife, who specialized in treating addiction. A drug abuse treatment clinic in Las Vegas is named for the couple.
“Sheldon was the love of my life,” Miriam Adelson said in a statement. “He was my partner in romance, philanthropy, political activism and enterprise. He was my soulmate. To me—as to his children, grandchildren, and his legions of friends and admirers, employees and colleagues—he is utterly irreplaceable.”
The Adelson had two children together. He also adopted his first wife’s three children, one of whom predeceased him.
