ANNUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2026
PRO GRAM WELCOME Michael Balaban President and CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia
REMARKS Susanna Lachs Adler and Karen Kramer Co-Chairs, Jewish Community Foundation
MEMORIAL SERVICE Rabbi Seth Haaz Senior Rabbi, Har Zion Temple
REFLECTIONS AND REMEMBRANCE Jennifer Brier Chief Planned Giving Officer, Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia
M AY THEIR MEMORI E S B E F O R A BLE S S I NG In loving tribute to those community members who passed away in 5786 and remembered the Jewish Federation through their estate plans.
Bennett L. Aaron* Nina and William “Billy” Albert* Barbara “Bobbi” Brodsky* Mildred Brooks Arthur and Janet E. Cherry Bruce J. Cutler* Iris Cutler Leonard Denbo* Suzanne and Richard Feld* Joseph J. Fenkel Annabelle and Bernard Fishman* Roberta and Robert Goodman* Burton Klein* Carol S. and Howard Lidz* Arnold Lincow* Lena Miller Audrey F. Pollin* Jay Rosenbluth Marcia Rubin* Judie Shapiro* Marvel Shmiefsky Janet Elizabeth Sluizer Ruth N. Smith Shirley Sobel* Robin Stein Barbara Wertheimer
As of Sept. 1, 2026
*Legacy Society Members
WE REMEMBER THEM In the rising of the sun and in its going down We remember them. In the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter We remember them. In the opening of buds and in the rebirth of spring We remember them. In the blueness of sky and in the warmth of summer We remember them. In the rustling of leaves and in the bounty of autumn We remember them. In the beginning of the year and when it ends We remember them. So long as we live, they too shall live, For they are now a part of us We remember them. Gates of Prayer – The New Union Prayer book
T WEN T Y- TH IRD P SA LM The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness, for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
M OURNER’S KADD I SH
Yit-gadal v’yit-kadash sh’mey raba, b’alama di’ v’ra chir-utey, v’yam-lich mal-chutey b’cha-yey-chon uv’yomey-chon uv-chayey d’chol beyt Yisrael ba-agala u-vizman kariv, v’imru - amen. Congregation and Mourners: Y’hey sh’mey raba m’varach l’alam ul’almey alma-ya Mourners: Yit barach v’yish-tabach v’yit-pa-ar v’yit-romam v’yit-na-sey v’yit-hadar v’yit-aleh v’yit-halal sh’mey d’kud-sha, b’rih chu, l’eyla min kol bir-chata v’shi-rat tush’b’chata v’ne-chemata da-amiran b’alama, v’imru – amen. Y’hey sh’lama raba min sh’ma-ya v’cha-yim aleynu v’al kol Yisrael, v’imru – amen. Oseh shalom bim-romav, hu ya’aseh shalom aleynu v’al kol Yisrael, v’imru – amen.
REFLECTIONS
The following reflections were lovingly submitted by families and friends to honor the memories of their loved ones.
BENNETT L. AARON Bennett’s L. Aaron’s heart was firmly rooted in service to the Jewish community of Philadelphia and in steadfast support of the State of Israel. He devoted countless hours to Jewish communal organizations, where he served at the highest levels of leadership at synagogues, educational institutions and philanthropic initiatives. Bennett believed that sustaining Jewish life required both leadership and action, and he gave both generously. Whether serving on boards, organizing fundraisers, advocating for communal priorities or quietly assisting families in need, he carried out his volunteer work with humility and purpose. His connection to Israel was deeply personal and enduring. Bennett saw the State of Israel not only as a homeland for the Jewish people, but as a living testament to resilience, history and hope. He traveled there often with Carol, his beloved wife of nearly 71 years, and on countless solo trips, strengthening relationships and reaffirming his commitment to its future. Through advocacy, philanthropy and education, he worked tirelessly to foster understanding and solidarity between his Philadelphia community and Israel. Above all, Bennett will be remembered for the values he embodied: integrity, generosity, loyalty and faith. He understood success not as personal acclaim, but as a contribution – to his profession, to his community, to Israel, and to the people he loved most, his dearest family. His legacy lives on in the legal standards he upheld, the institutions he strengthened, the causes he championed and the family who will carry forward his devotion and principles. Philadelphia has lost a distinguished attorney and dedicated communal leader. His family has lost their center of strength and love. But all who knew him carry forward the example he set – a life lived fully, purposefully and with a really, really big heart. – Steven Aaron, Son
WILLIAM “BILLY” ALBERT Affectionately known to many as “Sweet Will,” Billy Albert was born in January 1930 in Philadelphia to Meyer and Sara Albert. He attended Lower Merion High School and then Penn State University before marrying the love of his life, Nina Albert, in 1952. That same year, Billy joined his father and brother Harold in business and ultimately served as president of Albert Tire Company for more than half a century. Throughout his long and successful career, Billy was well-known for his commercial acumen, strategic thinking and personal integrity. He was beloved by customers and employees alike. Billy’s community William "Billy" Albert service and philanthropic interests included local and global Jewish of Palm Beach, FL & causes. Philadelphia, PAHe was president of the Temple Beth Hillel Board of Directors, and he donated generously to the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History. Billy’s commitment to Obituary Service Schedule social justice and human rights was exemplified by his steadfast support of the William "Billy" Albert Soviet Jewry movement during the 1980s and early 1990s. He traveled twice to the Soviet Union to visit Jewish Refuseniks, bringing messages of hope and assurances that the West had not forgotten them.
nd, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, in his e of 96 surrounded by loved ones.
lliam-billy-albert
Billy loved traveling the world with Nina, and their adventures included trips to Europe, Africa, Japan, Australia and South America, among others. Billy was especially thrilled to celebrate Nina’s 80th birthday in Israel with their entire family. 1/5
Billy was also an exceptional athlete, winning golf and tennis tournaments in Philadelphia, New Jersey and Florida, and he was a brilliant poker player. One of his greatest pleasures was teaching and playing sports and card games with his grandchildren. An avid history buff, Billy would have been an extraordinary history professor, but he chose instead to bestow his outstanding knowledge of Jewish history upon his children and grandchildren. Billy is survived by his loving children, Jim and wife Bette Ann, Dini and husband Michael, Pamela and husband Mike; predeceased by his late daughter Linda; and survived by his six grandchildren who adored their Pop-Pop: Brittany, Remy, Sydney, Danny, Julian and Eliana. – The Albert Family
BARBARA “BOBBI” BRODSKY Bobbi Brodsky’s heart was deeply ingrained in her community, defined by a lifelong dedication to healthcare, philanthropy and the State of Israel. She began her life’s journey in West Philadelphia and then Wynnefield, PA. She attended Harcum College, where she graduated with a degree in medical technology. She then secured a position as a medical technician at Jefferson Hospital. That early exposure to the importance and benefits of outstanding medical care would prove to be pivotal in her life. As a two-time breast cancer survivor, she established the Barbara Brodsky Comprehensive Breast Center at Bryn Mawr Hospital and provided funding for high-tech equipment, top medical talent, and rehabilitation services at Lankenau Hospital and Saunders House. Her inspirational gifts to Main Line Hospitals, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, The Franklin Institute, and the Philadelphia Zoo ensured that medical research flourished and that underprivileged children and individuals with special needs could experience the wonders of science and nature.
Her passion for social services led to her tireless quest to build the Barbara and Harvey Brodsky Enrichment Center in Merion, Pennsylvania, creating a lasting beacon of education and support for Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Greater Philadelphia. Bobbi’s commitment to Israel was equally deep, funding educational programs for Israeli Defense Forces veterans and support camps for grieving children, and sponsoring travel for adults with special needs. Beyond her philanthropy, she brought a vibrant energy to everything she touched, whether entertaining friends, enjoying the theater, playing Mahjong, reading or traveling with her beloved Harvey. She was a true “foodie” who wasn’t ashamed to tell you what she thought of a meal and wasn’t too proud to tell you that nothing made her happier than a fresh box of dark chocolate from Jagielky’s. Above all, Bobbi will be remembered for the values she embodied: vitality, creativity, generosity, and her joie de vivre. She always said she wanted to leave this world knowing that she had made it a better place and she most assuredly did. Bobbi was predeceased by the love of her life and best friend, the late Harvey Brodsky, and her adoring daughter, the late Lori Brodsky. She is survived by her loving and most caring daughter Marjorie Brodsky, beloved brother-in-law Melvyn Brodsky (Penny), niece Stephanie Mittman (Brian), nephew Matthew Baker (Marisa) and devoted cousins Kevin Levensten (Alyssa), Scott Levensten (Tara), Joelyn Levensten (Neal) and Harriet Vitale. – The Brodsky Family
ARTHUR AND JANET ELLIS CHERRY Arthur and Janet Ellis Cherry’s lives were centered around family, civic duty and dedicated service to Philadelphia’s Jewish community. After meeting at a singles mixer at the Germantown Jewish Centre and marrying in 1967, they built a 53-year partnership filled with devotion to their daughters, Deborah and Alisha (z’l), and their beloved granddaughters. Arthur pursued his bachelor’s degree through night classes at Temple, spending most of his career as a custom house broker with Davies Turner, RCA/GE, and later as an independent consultant. Janet earned her degrees from Wharton and Penn, serving as a member of Wharton’s second class to admit women, where she was also active in Hillel. She applied her expertise in statistics to public health, cancer registries, management consulting and leadership roles including executive director of Golden Slipper. Early in career, she also worked for the City of Philadelphia’s Public Health Department, where she helped with some of the early polio immunization roll outs. Together, they were early, active members of Society Hill Synagogue who loved to travel, attend the theater and lead local nonprofit initiatives right from their dining room table. In their retirement years, Arthur pursued pottery and engaged with his building’s Yiddish Club, while Janet served on the Board of Center City Concerned Citizens, edited its newsletter, tutored math for underserved students and led Hadassah’s Dona Gracia chapter. They took immense joy in their family, especially in having their granddaughters living just blocks away. Arthur and Janet were immensely civic-minded, especially when it came to Philadelphia’s Jewish community. They truly cared about everything they worked on and everyone they loved. We remember them as cherished parents and grandparents. – Deborah Cherry, Daughter, and Hannah Dubb, Granddaughter
BRUCE J. CUTLER Bruce J. Cutler was a proud Jew who loved Israel and visited to do volunteer work for the Israel Defense Forces. He always followed the news and was up on all topics of local and international concern, constantly analyzing and understanding the politics of the day. Bruce always had a smile, a good word and a bit of humor for everyone. His philosophy was, “Why be angry or hurtful to people when you can be nice and helpful?” These character traits got him productively through his time in Rose Tree and several difficult hospital experiences. The world has lost a kind and gentle soul who will be missed by all who knew him. Yehee Zichrono Livracha – May his memory be for a blessing. – Avi Weinstein, Cousin
LEONARD DENBO Leonard “Len” Denbo was a kind, devoted, and genuine person whose 96 years were defined by family, friendship, hard work, and caring for others. To those who knew him best, he was someone who could always be counted on. Born in Camden, New Jersey, in 1929, Len was the son of Simon and Rose Denbo and grew up alongside his siblings, Grace, Rita, and the late Maurice. After graduating from high school, he worked alongside his family at Simon Denbo and Sons before later serving as a bookkeeper for Bagliani’s Market in Hammonton. For 54 years, he called Kingston Estates in Cherry Hill home, creating lasting neighborhood bonds and building a deeply loving marriage with his wife, Sandra “Sandy.” His steadfast care for Sandy through years of illness reflected the quiet strength and selflessness that characterized so much of his life. Len extended that same devotion to his siblings and family. He routinely gave up his own spare time and weekends to help care for others, willingly, without hesitation or desire for recognition. His warmth also shone through his lifelong passion for Philadelphia sports. As an avid fan of the Phillies, Sixers, and Eagles, his regular game-day conversations provided a cherished way to stay connected with friends and relatives. Len passed away on February 12, 2026, at the age of 96. He is remembered by his sisters, Grace and Rita, who both celebrated their 100th birthdays this past June, as well as many nieces, nephews, family members and friends. Len represented the finest qualities of the “Greatest Generation.” But perhaps the simplest way to describe him is with a word from his childhood: “mensch.” Len embodied what it means to be a good and caring person. His greatest legacy is not simply what he accomplished, but the people he cared for, the lives he touched and the example he set. – Rachel Landry and Abby Geasey, Great-Nieces
L. RICHARD FELD L. Richard Feld (Richard) believed deeply in philanthropy, but was decidedly uncomfortable receiving recognition for it. A Philadelphia native, Richard was a man of wide-ranging interests and boundless curiosity. An audio engineer by profession, he was also a licensed pilot, HAM radio operator, accomplished cook, and not-soamateur meteorologist. Whatever captured his interest, Richard pursued it with an extraordinary appetite for knowledge. He also possessed a brilliant sense of humor and was firmly convinced that Blazing Saddles represented the pinnacle of comedic writing and cinematic achievement. Above all, Richard was a loving husband, Daddy, and Pop Pop. To his family, he was a man who could explain almost anything, had an opinion about nearly everything, and left absolutely no doubt about how much he loved them. Although he and his beloved wife, Suzanne, established this endowment together, Richard would have been the first to insist that any recognition for the gift belonged to her. Nothing would have given him greater satisfaction than seeing Suzanne honored for her longstanding dedication to Jewish causes, particularly the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. But the truth is that Richard and Suzanne both shared a fierce commitment to the Jewish people. A proud Jew, committed Zionist, and avid historian of World War II, Richard possessed an extraordinary depth of knowledge about the war and its consequences. For Richard, the lessons of history were never merely academic. His understanding of history helped shape his deeply held belief in the importance of sustaining Jewish life, supporting Jewish causes, and ensuring a secure future for the Jewish people. Richard’s legacy extends well beyond his philanthropy. This gift is a lasting expression of the partnership he shared with Suzanne, his devotion to the Jewish people, his Philadelphia roots, and the family he cherished. – Becca Feld Norton, Daughter
SUZANNE FELD Many of you knew Suzanne Feld as a friend or a colleague, but to us, she was Gram. If we had to describe her in one word, it would be “present.” She was always listening, always in the moment and always there for everyone. You could be doing something as simple as talking about your day at work and she would make you feel like the most important person in the world. It’s no wonder she made friends everywhere she went. She was our role model, our confidante and someone who held a piece of our hearts and souls. Gram had a special grace. She showed us what dignity really means, but what stands out most is her incredible empathy. She was the woman who could walk into a room, notice the one person feeling left out, and make them feel like the most important person there. When we think of our favorite memories with her, we don’t think of crazy stories or exciting adventures. We imagine the little moments no one thinks twice of – walking to the ice cream shop every night at the beach for 15 summers, playing dress-up in her makeup room, or lighting sparklers in the driveway every Fourth of July. The moments that are seemingly so trivial are where we felt the love and compassion that simply radiated from her. But Gram’s life was not just small moments. She traveled all around the world, including Paris, just last year. She went to New Year’s Eve parties at the young age of 82. She traveled to New York with her whole friend group to watch live theater. If you were ever lucky enough to visit Gram’s home, you would immediately feel her love for art. Whether in her Barnes classes or in her studio, she let you see the world through her perception, where beauty was everywhere. Her watercolors and needlepoint pillows gave her home the warmth and charm of a personal gallery. It feels like a part of us is missing, and we know that no matter how many stories we share, words can’t fully capture her true beauty. They say grief is the price we pay for love. There is insurmountable grief, but we can take some solace in knowing the amount of love that continues to surround Gram forever. We love you, Gram. – Julie, Samuel and Lauren Kleiner, Grandchildren
JOSEPH J. FENKEL Joe Fenkel lived 88 extraordinary years shaped by grit, generosity, humor, and a deep love of people, sports, boxes, and family. His unwavering morals, work ethic, reliability and integrity guided him throughout his life. Being a good person and living fully was always his compass, and it left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew him. Born in 1937 in the Broad and Olney section of Philadelphia, Joe grew up as the devoted son of Morris and Martha, sharing his boyhood determination with his younger sister, Fran, and brother, Bill. An exceptional athlete, he played basketball at Central High School and then at Penn State as a freshman, which was uncommon at the time. His toughness and quickness made him a standout for a short guard. On the golf course, his refusal to quit earned him the nickname “Bulldog” – a name that defined his relentlessness in sports, business and life. In 1961, Joe co-founded McLean Packaging with his father and partner, Ted Seidenberg, building it into an industry-leading box business that is now proudly led by his son, Stuart. His generosity matched his work ethic. When a friend asked for support for a charitable cause, Joe always gave without hesitation. He loved
supporting the Jewish Federation and Temple Beth Sholom, among other charitable organizations. Joe’s life changed in 1983 when he met Mary McCloskey, who had three children of her own. In 1988, they welcomed their daughter, Caroline. Weekends in Stone Harbor were filled with stories about Penn State, skiing trips in the 1970s and the early days of building McLean. Joe was a true character and made an impression wherever he went. He could not attend a game, eat breakfast at Hymie’s or take a flight from Philadelphia without running into people who knew him. He greeted everyone warmly, always asking questions about their families, and made each person feel remembered. He always found meaning in both the big moments and the ordinary ones, and he always encouraged his family to “go out and slay dragons” whenever they ventured into the world. Joe left a deep and enduring legacy of giving back to his community and living life to the fullest. He will be missed but never forgotten. – David Fenkel, Son
ANNABELLE AND BERNARD “BERNIE” FISHMAN Annabelle and Bernard “Bernie” Fishman devoted their lives to building a stronger, more vibrant Philadelphia and Jewish community. Together, they embodied the Jewish values of tzedakah, chesed and tikkun olam, leaving an enduring example for future generations. Annabelle was a visionary leader whose passion for philanthropy transformed the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. As a founding member of the Jewish Federation’s Women’s Division, she helped create opportunities for women to play meaningful leadership roles in Jewish communal life. She went on to serve as both campaign chair and Women’s Division chair, inspiring countless women to become involved in philanthropy and volunteer service. Annabelle had a remarkable ability to bring people together, encouraging them to contribute not only financially but also with their time, energy and hearts. Her warmth, grace and genuine concern for others made her a beloved mentor and friend to generations of volunteers and community leaders. Throughout her lifetime, she received numerous honors recognizing her extraordinary service, but those who knew her best understood that her greatest reward was seeing the community flourish. Bernie shared Annabelle’s passion for communal service and became one of Philadelphia’s most respected Jewish lay leaders. He served for many years as vice president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and also as campaign chair, helping to strengthen the Federation’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the Jewish community. As president of Har Zion Temple, he played a pivotal role in its historic move to Penn Valley, securing its future as a vibrant spiritual center. His commitment to improving lives also extended into healthcare, where he was instrumental in establishing the Likoff Cardiovascular Institute and the Philadelphia Heart Institute. To those who knew Bernie, he was, above all else, a true mensch – a man of integrity, humility, kindness and quiet generosity. Together, Annabelle and Bernie viewed support for Israel as a central part of their Jewish identity. To celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary, they dedicated a preschool in Ramat Gan, Israel, which continues to educate young children and thrive decades later. Their gift reflected their belief that investing in children and
education was one of the most meaningful ways to secure the future. They believed that every generation should understand the central role Israel plays in Jewish history and identity. To instill those values, they made it a tradition to take each of their grandchildren to Israel at the time of their bar or bat mitzvah. Annabelle and Bernie’s legacy continues through the institutions they strengthened, the leaders they inspired and the family they raised with those same ideals. Philadelphia is a better city, the Jewish community is stronger, and countless lives have been enriched because Annabelle and Bernard Fishman chose to dedicate their lives to serving others. Their example reminds us that a life of purpose is one measured not by what we accumulate, but by what we give, and that true leadership begins and ends with caring deeply for one’s community. – Mark Fishman, Son
ROBERT A. AND ROBERTA G. GOODMAN Robert and Roberta Goodman both grew up outside of Philadelphia near Levittown, Pennsylvania, and attended colleges in the Philadelphia area. They were married on May 26, 1991, at Temple Shalom in Levittown, with Rabbi Allan Cooperman Tuffs presiding. Robert and Roberta spent most of their married years at their lovely home in Richboro, Pennsylvania, along with several special canine friends. Roberta spent her career working for the National Testing Service and retired in 2016. She was a “larger-than-life” individual who was an entrepreneur, small business owner and inventor. In 2017, the Goodmans decided to move to Florida and say goodbye to their lives in Pennsylvania. They had previously owned a small condo near Fort Myers, Florida, which they sold in 2016 to purchase a larger single-family home in a retirement community. Robert referred to it as their “little slice of paradise.” Sadly, neither Robert, who had previously beaten cancer, nor Roberta was in the best of health. Robert passed away in February 2024 and Roberta passed away two years later in January 2026. Both are laid to rest at Lakeview Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Avon Park, Florida. – M. Frank DeMelas, Jr., Trustee
BURTON KLEIN Burton Klein enjoyed a lifetime of service to the Jewish Community as a longstanding member and contributor, with his wife Sandra, to Old York Road Temple-Beth Am and to youth theater programs at Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy. He devoted years of leadership in the B’nai B’rith Educators Unit and was a supporter of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. Burt was a West Philadelphia native and attended West Philadelphia High School and Temple University where he received his B.A.and M.Ed. degrees. He began his career in education, teaching at Lincoln High School, and then serving as the principal of Samuel Gompers Elementary School and principal of The Walton School before becoming assistant superintendent of District 4 of the Philadelphia School System. He went on to become the highest-rated, beloved professor at The College of New Jersey, affecting many students’ lives. He served as president of the Schoolman’s Club of Philadelphia and of the Principals’ Association of the School District.
Burt was also a noted lecturer, speaking on a variety of subjects on cruise ships, in public libraries and at senior groups. He has over a dozen episodes of his motivational series, “Burton Klein Speaks,” available on YouTube. He had a passion for travel, with a vast knowledge of the country and the world. He spent weekends for a time as a travel agent, helping plan trips for friends and family. Burt was married to his beloved wife, Sandra, for 67 years, having met as students at Temple University. They were inseparable, travelling the world visiting nearly every country, and enjoying great restaurants, theater and good times together with their many friends. He is greatly missed. – Mark Waldman, Brother-In-Law
ARNOLD LINCOW Arnold Lincow was the devoted and loving husband of Barbara Lincow (née Whitman) for 57 beautiful years and the proud, caring father of Beth Lincow Cole, Caren (Robert) Goldberg, Ronald (Robin) Lincow and Jeff (Jamie) Lincow. His greatest joy was being “Zeidy” to Brandon and Sara Cole; Emily and Zach Goldberg; Shane, Max and Ruby Lincow; and Shiloh, Hunter and Sawyer Lincow. Arnold was deeply proud to be a first-generation college graduate. He earned his degree from Temple University School of Pharmacy in 1967, later received a master’s degree in education, and graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1976. For 35 years, he cared for his patients in private practice, where he was affectionately known as “Dr. L.” He built lifelong relationships and served the Philadelphia community with extraordinary kindness, dedication, compassion and love. A lifelong learner, Arnold approached retirement with the same curiosity and enthusiasm that defined every stage of his life. He spent his later years immersed in continuing education, embracing the joy of learning simply for the sake of learning and inspiring others to do the same. Arnold firmly believed in giving back to his community and supporting the educational institutions that had shaped his life. Having worked multiple jobs to put himself through school, he understood firsthand the challenges of pursuing an education. Determined to help others on their own journeys, he established the Sara and Benjamin Lincow Scholarship Fund at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in honor of his parents. His family also created the Lincow Institute of Adult Education at Old York Road Temple Beth Am, reflecting Arnold’s lifelong belief in the transformative power of education. Through his legacy gift to the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, Arnold expressed his gratitude for the opportunities and support he had received throughout his life while ensuring that future generations would continue to benefit from his generosity. Above all, Arnold will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his generous spirit, his commitment to his community and his endless curiosity about the world. He was always learning, always teaching and always enriching the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of compassion, education, service and love will continue to inspire all who knew him. – Barbara Lincow, Wife
AUDREY FLORENCE POLLIN Audrey Florence Pollin was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Her life was one of grace, compassion and a boundless capacity for kindness, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Born on September 15, 1935, in South Philadelphia, Audrey lived a life full of beauty, love and selflessness. She was the heart of her family – supporting, nurturing and loving her husband, Arthur, for 71 years. Together, they shared a bond that was the foundation for a family built on love and a dedication to community. She always made her family feel valued, and her nurturing presence provided comfort and guidance in times of joy and sorrow alike. She was a pillar of strength and wisdom. Her home was always open to everyone and her love was a constant source of light and inspiration. Her generous spirit extended beyond her family. Audrey was deeply committed to giving back to her community. She was a dedicated philanthropist and volunteer for Congregation Beth El-Ner Tamid, Women’s ORT, Jewish National Fund, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, Friends of the IDF and City of Hope. She also served as a visiting clown for Caring Clowns as “Dr. Bandaid.” Her kindness knew no bounds and her acts of giving, whether big or small, touched the hearts of many. “Don’t let it be forgot that once there was a spot for one brief shining moment that was known as Camelot.” – Arthur Pollin, Husband
MARCIA RUBIN Marcia Rubin, my grandmother, was the kind of woman whose love knows no limits. Generous, compassionate and endlessly giving, she has always been much more than a grandmother – she was a guiding light, and a constant source of love and support. Her caring heart extended far beyond her family. She volunteered as a clown at the Children’s Hospital, bringing smiles, laughter and a little bit of joy to children and families during some of their most difficult moments. That simple act says so much about who she was – someone who gave her time, her energy and her heart simply because she wanted to make others feel better. She was also a gracious host who made everyone feel welcome, comfortable and loved. Whether opening her home to friends and family or offering a listening ear and a helping hand, she had a remarkable way of making people feel like they belonged. Above all, she was a loving person with a beautiful spirit. Her generosity, warmth and devotion touched so many lives, but perhaps one of her greatest joys was becoming a great-grandmother to Zachary. She truly saved the best for last. The excitement and happiness she felt becoming a great-grandmother was undeniable, and the love she shared with Zachary is a beautiful reflection of the love that filled her heart. – Scott Silberman, Grandson
JUDIE SHAPIRO Judie Shapiro launched her dedication to the Philadelphia Jewish Community and Israel by participating in the Jewish Federation’s Mission to Israel in 1975. Along with her husband, Ray, she participated in a number of missions that followed. She harnessed her energy and financial resources to support Jewish charitable organizations and activities. Judie served as a trustee of the Jewish Federation and on the boards of the JCC and the Jewish Publishing Group, publisher of the Jewish Exponent. She was active in the Jewish Federation’s Women’s Division and proud to be a Daughter of Rachel. Driven to support Soviet Jewish Refuseniks, she met with 24 families in Moscow, Kyiv and Leningrad, now St. Petersburg, during a compact 10-day visit. She was forever thankful that her grandparents emigrated to America, a land of freedom and opportunity. She was living their dreams. “Giving something back” was one of her core values and she was committed to assisting those less fortunate in the local Jewish community and in Israel. She worked as a legal secretary while Ray attended law school. After raising their children, she became a travel agent, first with Bartlett Travel and then with Rosenbluth Travel. Together with Ray, she visited over 40 countries. When his work at Blank Rome required a significant presence in New York, the door opened for Judie to embrace all of the culture the city had to offer – museums, theater, opera, play readings, art exhibits, independent films, lectures and more. She inhaled it all to satisfy the joy of “never stop learning.” She was always a student. Judie observed that the Holocaust occurred in her lifetime and Israel was born in her lifetime. While it was on her watch, she addressed the call to support Israel’s survival. Judie is survived by her husband Ray; three children, Joel, Todd and Lisa; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Her family cherishes her presence in their lives and the wonderful memories that sustain them. – Raymond Shapiro, Husband
BARBARA MORGEN WERTHEIMER Born to Melvin and Sylvia (Sobel) Morgen in Brooklyn, New York, Barbara Ann Morgen spent her childhood in White Meadow Lake, New Jersey. Her childhood was marked by time outdoors, and by summers as an overnight camp counselor for the NJY Camps. Barbara attended Douglas College at Rutgers University and went on to earn her J.D. at New England School of Law in Boston, MA. Barbara met her husband John at Club Med in 1982. They were married on October 2, 1983, and they spent 29 years together, raising their daughters, Julie and Sam, in Rydal, PA. A lover of all things musical theatre, Barbara enjoyed acting, dancing, and singing her heart out with local theatre groups. In early adulthood, she was part of The Barn Theatre in New Jersey, and then, as a congregant, she performed with the Beth Shalom and Adath Jeshurun Players in Elkins Park, PA. Later in life, she embraced a return to the stage and performed in several productions with The Willow Manor Players. Her presence onstage was complimented by her offstage passion for setbuilding with her best friend, Mary. Together, Barbara and Mary conceptualized, designed, and executed sets for over a dozen different community productions.
Professionally, Barbara practiced both family and zoning law, serving on the Abington Township Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board for over 30 years. In 2005, she became the Executive Director of Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy. Barbara’s involvement in Pegasus was born out of her own experience as the parent of a young rider - her daughter, Julie. Because of Julie, Barbara became increasingly involved in Pegasus and, as Executive Director, worked tirelessly and with the utmost compassion to enhance the programs at Pegasus. In 2010, under Barbara’s leadership, Pegasus was awarded the Non-Profit Organization Award from the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations. Her tireless dedication to Pegasus and its core mission ultimately touched the lives of thousands of riders and their families. Barbara’s life was a testament to compassion, resilience, and kindness. Known for her strength of character and unwavering advocacy for others, she was the heart of her family and a source of strength for her entire community. Barbara is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 29 years, Dr. John Wertheimer. She is survived by her loving daughters, Julie Wertheimer (Rep. Ben Waxman) and Dr. Samantha Wertheimer (Michael Padasak, Esq.), her devoted partner of 12 years, Ira Grindlinger, and her adoring grandchildren, Jack Oliver Padasak and Stevie Morgen Padasak. – Samantha Wertheimer and Julie Wertheimer, Daughters
JEWISH COMMUNITY F O U N D AT I O N L E A D E R S H I P Karen Kramer, Foundation Co-Chair Susanna Lachs Adler, Foundation Co-Chair Jennifer Brier, Esq., Chief Planned Giving Officer Max Moline, Foundation Director Sonya Aronowitz, Senior Philanthropy Officer
The Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Philadelphia is the planned giving and endowments arm of the Jewish Federation. The Foundation is steadfast in its commitment to providing top-tier, customized service to individuals, families and Jewish institutions by growing aspirations to create a better future and actualizing them through smart investments today.
J E W I S H F E D E R AT I O N L E A D E R S H I P Mark Fishman, Board Co-Chair Michele S. Levin, Board Co-Chair Michael Balaban, President and CEO Sarah B. Solomon, Chief Development Officer