FRESMAN, died October 6, 2014; 12 Tishrei, 5775.

GRUBBS, Jack, age 80, died October 6, 2014; 13 Tishrei, 5775.

SONZ, Edythe, age 93, died October 9, 2014; 15 Tishrei, 5775.

STEVENS, Bernice, age 89, died October 10, 2014; 15 Tishrei, 5775.

ROSEN, Judge Jack, age 82, died October 10, 2014; 17 Tishrei, 5775.

JONAS, Hilda, died September 12, 2014; 17 Elul, 5774.

CARL, Alfred, age 85, died October 14, 2014, 20 Tishrei, 5775.

ANTEN, Toby, age 82, died October 14, 2014; 20 Tishrei, 5775.

LITTENHOFF, James, age 66, died October 15, 2014; 21 Tishrei, 5775.

BRATSLAVSKY, Ilya, age 28, died October 16, 2014; 22 Tishrei, 5775.

GARDNER, Elaine E., age 87, died October 17, 2014; 24 Tishrei, 5775.

BLATT, Gladys, age 82, died October 18, 2014; 24 Tishrei, 5775.

BANKER, Helen J, age 88, died October 20, 2014; 26 Tishrei, 5775.

Jonas, Hilda , 1913-2014

Hilda Jonas

After an extraordinarily full life of over a century, the internationally known harpsichordist and pianist Hilda Jonas passed away peacefully at her home in San Francisco on September 12, 2014. She was born in Düsseldorf, Germany, in 1913 to Anne and Moritz Klestadt, and had a very happy childhood. At the ripe young age of 5, she began taking piano lessons, and aside from excelling at that, she especially enjoyed languages, literature, and math at school. Little did she imagine how her life was to become intertwined with major world-historical events.

In 1932 she entered the Cologne Conservatory, but was dismissed one year later because of being Jewish – the first of increasing restrictions imposed on her and other Jewish citizens in 1930s Nazi Germany. She completed her music degree at the Gumpert Conservatory in Düsseldorf, also traveling to Switzerland to study with Rudolf Serkin, and to France for lessons with world-famous harpsichordist Wanda Landowska. Discovering the harpsichord gave her career a new focus, and her friendship with Landowska continued for years. Because of her frequent border crossings to study and perform, the Gestapo arrested Hilda in 1935, but after three hours of interrogation, she was miraculously released. Even at 22 years old, she turned adversity into strength.

By the mid-1930s she was restricted to performing for the Kulturbund deutsche Juden (Cultural Association of German Jews), as well as house concerts in Jewish homes. She met Gerald Jonas, a law student and close friend of her older brother Fred in 1928, and they were married in January 1938. Their marriage lasted for sixty-nine years, until he died in 2007.

They fled Germany in May 1938, and first went to Australia, but this proved unsatisfactory for them. After only six weeks there, they set sail for the U.S. They had to change ships in Honolulu, but having completely fallen in love with Hawaii at first sight, they decided to stay.

For three and a half years Hilda’s career as a performer and teacher flourished in Honolulu, including as a soloist with the Honolulu Symphony and radio broadcasts on the “Voice of Hawaii.” Everything changed, however, on December 7, 1941, when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. As holders of German passports and technically “enemy aliens” (even as refugees), they were interned by U.S. military authorities. Because she was 8 months pregnant with her first child, the authorities released Hilda shortly. She spent the next three weeks lobbying for the release of her husband Gerald and her mother Anne Klestadt, both of whom remained interned. Just one day after she won their release, they rushed to the hospital for the birth of daughter Susanne. But Hawaii, like California, now had a fortress mentality, so they soon left for the mainland, settling in Cincinnati, Ohio for thirty-three years.

In Ohio, her musical career continued to thrive, and she performed as a soloist with the Cleveland Orchestra and Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, including its prestigious May Festival; she also gave recitals in New York and many other cities. Invitations to perform abroad included concerts in Austria, France, Italy, Israel, New Zealand, and Australia. In a magnanimous act, she accepted the invitation for a recital to mark the 700th anniversary of the founding of Düsseldorf.

Her second daughter, Linda, arrived in 1945. As Hilda balanced career and family, her daughters grew up accompanied by her piano lessons to both children and adults, and her mother Anne was also an integral part of the household during those years.

In 1975 Hilda and Gerald moved to San Francisco, where they spent the rest of their lives. Here too she continued to perform, at museums, art galleries, and her favorite—the Episcopal Church of Saint Mary the Virgin. She played her final public recital there at the age of 86—J. S. Bach’s The Goldberg Variations, to a standing ovation. During the San Francisco years, she also gave numerous recitals—at community centers, museums, colleges, universities, churches, synagogues, and radio stations—up and down the California coast and inland, primarily in northern and central California. She also recorded four CD’s, mainly Bach.

As a teacher Hilda took a special interest in her students, and many remained life-long friends. Her humanity shone through with everyone she encountered, and she actively looked for ways to give back to the community. In Honolulu she gave fundraising concerts for European refugees at the Governor’s mansion, and she later became a dedicated supporter of Hadassah. Her commitment to fairness and justice has always been an inspiration to her family and friends. She also had a very special relationship with her three grandchildren—Rebecca, Emily, and Daniel. And her greatest pleasure in the last few years of her life was the birth of her three great-grandsons.

Hilda will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, sparkle, and also her extraordinary memory, including very early childhood recollections. She did not hesitate to speak of what happened in Germany, well aware that the way to prevent such a tragedy from happening again required the memory to be kept alive. Throughout her life she remained the consummate optimist, always finding the best in humanity, and without trying, showing that sense of humanity by her very presence.

As a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Hilda is predeceased by her husband Gerald Jonas, and survived by her daughters Susanne Jonas (her predeceased husband Thomas Holleran) and Linda Jonas Schroeder (her husband David Schroeder), her granddaughters Rebecca Bodenheimer (her husband Lázaro Moncada Merencio) and Emily Alexander (her husband Paul Alexander), her grandson Daniel Schroeder (his wife Sylvie Schroeder), her three great-grandsons Julián, Jayden, and Felix, and her niece Julie Keefer. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her name to the charity of your choice.

LEVY, Estelle Fern

Estelle Levy

Estelle Fern Levy, nee Ostrov, was born on August 27, 1932 in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Louis and Bessie Ostrov. She graduated from Hughes High School in Cincinnati and then attended Miami University of Ohio for one year. She married her first husband, Gordon Levy, and they were married for 23 years.

Estelle was a member of Isaac M. Wise Temple in Cincinnati. She enjoyed her family, spending time with her friends and going shopping with them.

Estelle passed away October 24, 2014, at the age of 82, in Salt Lake City, UT, in the company of her loving son Marc Levy. Loving mother-in-law of Robin Aufdenkampe-Levy and “adoptive mother” of Robert “Mickey” McMath. Caring aunt of Hilary Paradise (nee Ostrov) of Asheville, NC, Mark and Beth Feldman (nee Ostrov) of San Diego, CA, and Nancy Levy of Cincinnati. Cousins Herschel Ostrov, Cecilia Euster (nee Ostrov), Robert Ingberg, Carol Williams (nee Rapoport), and Paul Rapaport were also very special to her throughout her life, as were her great nieces Elisha Gud of Columbus, Brooke Khaz (nee Feldman) of Phoenix, AZ, Heather Feldman of Phoenix, AZ, and great nephew Louis Gud of Los Angeles.

Adoring wife of the late Gordon Levy, caring wife of the late Joseph Bernstein, and doting partner of Eugene Feldman of Salt Lake City. Protective mother of the late Barry Frederick Levy, daughter of Louis and Bessie Ostrov, and adoring sister of the late Herbert “Herbie” Ostrov. Estelle knew no strangers and will be remembered by those “lovies” she touched throughout Cincinnati, Flagstaff, AZ, and Salt Lake City.

Funeral services will take place October 30th at Weil Funeral home, 8350 Cornell Rd., at 1:00PM, followed by graveside prayer at Clifton Cemetery, 730 Ludlow Ave. A reception/Shiva will then be held at Raffel’s Banquet Hall, 10160 Reading Rd., Evendale, beginning at approximately 4:00pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Scleroderma Foundation, in honor of Gordon and Estelle, would have been appreciated by Estelle.

BANKER, Helen “Bubsy”

Helen Banker

Helen “Bubsy” Banker, nicknamed Honey Bunny, was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 20, 1926 to Louis and Elizabeth Appleton. Her family moved to Memphis, Tennessee when she was very young and they lived there until she was 10. Helen always had fond memories of the years she spent in Memphis.

At the age of 10 her family moved once again, this time to Cincinnati, Ohio. Helen graduated from Walnut Hills High School. Helen was married twice. First to Robert Friedman for 23 years and then to Edward Lee Banker for 24 years. Both her husbands pre-deceased her.

Helen was a part of the Cincinnati arts community. She loved to entertain. She was a Scottish dancer, sang professionally at The Playboy Club and other local venues, acted for television commercials, and was an actress with Playhouse in the Park and The Mariemont Theater. She loved painting, drawing, and enamel work. She shared her love of her art with children and adolescents by teaching art at Walnut Hills High School, Woodward High School and Chofetz Chaim Day School more commonly known as Cincinnati Hebrew Day School.

Helen was a charter member of Temple Sholom Synagogue. She was a lifetime member of Hadassah and supported multiple Israeli organizations.

Helen passed away on October 20, 2014 at the age of 88. She is survived by her children: Debra Kreindler (Dick Prugh), Diane [Dede] Kutzko (Mark), Louis [Tony] Friedman, and Pam McCutcheon (Cory Velligha). By her sister Winifred Mayer. By her beloved grandchildren: Karli Sherwinter (Danny), Justin Kreindler (Lizzy), Ali Gilliam (Duncan), Jennifer Kutzko, Nick Kutzko, Patrick McCutcheon, Liz McCutcheon, Isaac Friedman and great grandchildren: Kayla, Rueben, and Sarit Sherwinter.

Helen was predeceased by her parents Louis & Elizabeth Appleton, her sister Jane Schain (Larry), her husband Robert Friedman, and her husband Edward Lee Banker.

Funeral services took place at Weil Funeral Home on October 23, 2014 with Rabbi Scott Gellman officiating. Interment was at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens. Memorial contibutions can be made to The Robert H. Friedman Memorial Foundation, 3558 9 Mile Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45255.

LEVY, Estelle, age 82, died October 24, 2014; 30 Tishrei, 5775.

SCHAENGOLD, Carol S., age 94, died October 24, 2014; 30 Tishrei, 5775.

GOLDBERG, Betty, age 78, died October 25, 2014; 1 Cheshvan, 5774.

RHEINS, Rober L., age 91, died Octobre 25, 2014; 1 Cheshvan, 5775.

WEIL, Gordon (Buddy) Jr.

Gordon (Buddy) Weil Jr. was born to Gordon Weil Sr. and Cecille Stark Weil on October 15, 1924 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from Walnut Hills High School in 1943 and then enlisted in the US Army in February of 1943. He served in the 19th Weather Squadron and received and honorable discharge, with the rank of Sergeant, in April of 1946. Buddy then attended and graduated from the University of Cincinnati. His first wife Rita passed away in 1991; in 1994 he was married to Louise Byer.

Buddy went into the family business, Weil Funeral Home, and was the third generation of the family to run the business which had started in 1912. Buddy was the treasurer of the Jewish Funeral Directors of America for 7 years. He was devoted to his family and one of his sons, Robert A. Weil, is now the 4th generation of the family to run Weil Funeral Home.

Buddy was an avid baseball fan. His uncle, Sidney Weil, was the owner of the Cincinnati Reds from 1929 through 1933. Buddy’s son Robert said that the family has a picture of Buddy, when he was 7 years old, with Babe Ruth at the spring training site of the Reds in Tampa. The picture is signed by Babe Ruth. Buddy was also an avid golfer, playing golf until the end of his life; he was a longtime member of the Losantiville Country Club. He, and his first wife Rita, were avid travelers visiting much of the world. He also excelled at bridge.

Buddy was a long time member of Isaac M. Wise Temple and blew the shofar there on Rosh Hashana for more than 50 years.

Gordon (Buddy) Weil Jr. passed away on October 28, 2014. Beloved husband of Louise Weil and the late Rita Weil, devoted father of Gordon (Kathy) Weil III, Robert (Ceci) Weil, and the late James Weil, step-father of Amy Byer and Ally (Steve) Gwozdz, loving grandfather of Jeffrey (Rebeca Caro) and Aaron Weil, Jonathan, Brandon(Allycea) and Kevin Weil, step-grandfather of Poppy and Benjamin Gwozdz, dear great grandfather of Olivia CaroWeil, Jalen and Parker Weil.

Funeral services were held at Weil Funeral home, Rabbi Karen Thomashow officiated. Interment was at United Jewish Cemeteries. Memorial contributions to Plum St. Temple Preservation Fund c/o Isaac M. Wise Temple or Crayons to Computers would be appreciated.

BUNDMAN, Robert

Robert Bundman, was born to Philip and Clara (nee Ravine) Bundman on July 4, 1929 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He grew up in Avondale and graduated Walnut Hills High School in 1947. In 1951 he received his degree form the University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy.

Robert was Director of Pharmacy at Holmes Hospital for 28 years prior to his retirement in 1987. Bob continued working part-time at the former Visconti-Lechler Pharmacy in College Hill until April 2003. In addition to Visconti-Lechler, he spent several years working part-time at the former Northbrook Pharmacy and for a short time at Northern Hills Pharmacy. He taught, trained and mentored several area pharmacists throughout his professional career.

He was a lifelong fan of the Cincinnati Bengals, and also rooted for the UC Bearcats and the Cincinnati Reds. Robert enjoyed reading and watching animal/nature/historical programs

Bob served on the Board of Directors at Temple Sholom and was very active with their Brotherhood during the 1970s and 1980s.

Robert Bundman, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2014 at the age of 85, after a lengthy illness. Also preceding him in death were his beloved wife of 38 years Patricia (nee Laughlin), his brother and sister-in-law Max and Eileen (nee Kapson) and sister and brother-in-law Beatrice and Al Salzwas. Left to cherish his memory are his daughters Dawn Bundman and Amy Bundman Dunnett, his much-loved grandson Bari Raymond Cruze, several nieces and nephews, and his faithful companions Trixie, Smudge, Zelda and Milo.

Rabbi Gerry Walter officiated at the funeral services and interment took place at Rest Haven Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, condolences may be expressed to WGUC, 1223 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45214, Cedar Village, 5467 Cedar Village Drive, Mason, OH 45040 or the University of Cincinnati Winkler College Pharmacy, 3225 Eden Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45267.

GLADSON, Dr. Michael B., age 61, died October 27, 2014; 2 Cheshvan, 5775.

WEIL, JR., Gordon “Buddy”, age 90, died October 28, 2014; 5 Cheshvan, 5775.

BUNDMAN, Robert, age 85, died October 29, 2014; 5 Cheshvan, 5775.

FINKELMAN, Thomas S., age 60, died October 29, 2014; 5 Cheshvan, 5775.

FRIEDMAN, Philip B., age 68, died October 29, 2014; 5 Cheshvan, 5775.

SCHWARTZ, Irvin L., age 86, died October 29, 2014; 5 Cheshvan, 5775.

BERKOFF, Jeffrey A., age 66, died November 2, 2014; 9 Cheshvan, 5775.

SCHAENGOLD, Carol Stern

Carol Stern Schaengold was born to Eugene and Frances Stern in Little Rock, Arkansas, December 25, 1919. The youngest of four, she graduated from high school at 16 and went to study at Newcomb College, traveling by train and ferry to New Orleans. After earning her two-year degree she transferred to the Art Institute of Chicago, where she met fellow artist and lifelong friend Alice Balterman. She left Chicago to marry Bob Schaengold and raised her family in Cincinnati. She stayed active as an artist, continuing to work on her art and showing her paintings in many local venues. She campaigned door-to-door for art programs in the Wyoming schools, and was instrumental in starting up the Wyoming Art Fair. She also drew the original signpost and flower basket logo for the Wyoming directory.

Carol Stern Schaengold passed away on October 24, 2014 at the age of 94. Carol is survived by her devoted children Janet, Ellen, and Robert (Charlotte), grandchildren Morgan, Bevin (Jimmy), Zach, and David (Audrey), great-grandchildren Eli and Eleanor. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of over 55 years Bob Schaengold, brother Howard Seymour Stern, sisters Olive Hart and Virginia Stern. She will also be missed by the many other young people who called her “Grammy,” particularly fellow skating fan Mara Frisch and great-niece and nephew Nadda and Youssry Taha.

The funeral was held at Weil funeral home on Monday October 27. Rabbi Sandford Kopnick led the service and soprano Rachel Sachs sang an original recitative version of the 23rd Psalm. Donations in Carol’s honor can be made to the Cincinnati Art Museum or to Crossroads Hospice, or to art education in Wyoming: Wyoming City Schools (Art Department).

HERNANDEZ, Peter J., age 25, died November 1, 2014; 8 Cheshvan, 5775.

KELLER, Emmy, age 97, died November 5, 2014; 12 Cheshvan, 5775.

ESSIG, Thelma, age 90, died November 6, 2014; 14 Cheshvan, 5775.

SPITZ, Dr. Louis

Dr. Louis Spitz, M.D., was born in Cincinnati on March 3, 1936, son of Max and Rose (Signer) Spitz. He attended Walnut Hills High School, the University of Cincinnati, Ohio State University, and the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. He completed his internship at San Francisco General Hospital. He trained initially as a radiologist, and served in the United States Army, 11th Evac. Hospital, Pusan, Korea, and Kimbrough Army Hospital, Ft. Meade, Maryland, from 1964 to 1966. Upon his return to civilian life, Dr. Spitz trained as a psychiatrist and opened his first practice in 1969. He received his psychoanalytic training at the Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis, graduating in 1975.

Dr. Spitz was not only a practicing psychoanalyst; he was also a teacher, beginning as an instructor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in 1969, and continuing through appointments as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Associate Clinical Professor, and Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, a post which he held until his departure for the Washington, DC, area in 2003.

Beyond teaching and his practice, though, Dr. Spitz also believed strongly that expertise in the areas of psychiatry and psychoanalysis is a community asset that should be put to the service of that community and its members. One dramatic expression of this belief was his founding of the Psychiatric Emergency Service at Cincinnati General Hospital (now University Hospital) in 1972; it provided round-the-clock emergency care for patients experiencing psychiatric crises, including suicidal or homicidal thoughts. Dr. Spitz served as Director of the service from 1972 until 1977. Another example of his commitment to public service was his participation in a therapeutic/research project designed to provide care for and develop treatment for Vietnam veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder, a project that resulted in Vietnam: A Casebook (1987), of which Dr. Spitz was a collaborating author.

Dr. Spitz was one of the founders of the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute in 1973; he served there in several capacities, beginning as a faculty member in 1975, faculty advisor in 1980, Dean of Faculty (1981-6), Chairman of the Education Committee (1986-90), Associate Director (1988-89), Director (1990-95), and Associate Director of Operations (2002-03).

Upon moving to the Washington, DC, area, in 2003, Dr. Spitz established a new private practice and maintained an active schedule, teaching and supervising at the Washington Psychoanalytic Institute. He also served as Professor of Psychiatry at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, and at the Georgetown University School of Medicine.

Dr. Spitz died on November 11, 2014, in Washington, DC. Survivors include his wife, Ritha, daughters Leslie and Tullan, three grandchildren, and one step-grandson. He is also survived by his brother, Dr. Harold B. Spitz, M.D.

There will be a private graveside service for family on Friday, November 21, 11 AM, officiated by Rabbi Shena Potter Jaffee, at the Garden of Remembrance in Clarksburg, Maryland, followed at 1 PM by a memorial service at Somerset I Clubhouse, 5600 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, Maryland. Contributions in Dr. Spitz’s honor can be made to the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute, the Washington Psychoanalytic Institute, or a charity of choice.

HESSE, Michael Bernard, age 72, died November 1, 2014; 8 Cheshvan, 5775.

KELLAR, John W., age 88, died November 7, 2014; 14 Cheshvan, 5775.

EDELSTEIN, Fanny S., age 91, died November 8, 2014; 15 Cheshvan, 5775.

MILLER, Jean S., age 91, died November 9, 2014; 16 Cheshvan, 5775.

MARKS, Emanuel I., age 90, died November 11, 2014; 18 Cheshvan, 5775.

MAROWITZ, Diane H., age 83, November 11, 2014; 18 Cheshvan, 5775.

SPITZ, Dr. Louis, age 78, died November 11, 2014; 18 Cheshvan, 5775.

GONSKA, Henry, age 91, died November 12, 2014; 20 Cheshvan, 5775.

BLASBERG, Emily R., age 98, died November 17, 2014; 25 Cheshvan, 5775.

Howard Ain and Susan Bernstein

Rabbi Donald Splansky ended his eulogy for Susan Bernstein with these words from John Greenleaf Whittier:

“Alas for him who never sees the stars shine through his cypress trees.

Who, hopeless, lays his dead away nor looks to see the break of day

Across the mournful marble play, who hath not learned in hours of faith

The truth to flesh and sense unknown, that life is ever lord of death,

And love can never lose its own.”

Those words aptly describe Susan Bernstein’s love for her family, devotion to her community, passion for her beliefs, and dedication to her profession.

Dr. Susan Deborah Bernstein was born on June 11, 1953 in Alpena, Michigan. The family later returned to Cincinnati, where Susan and her three siblings were raised. A graduate of Yavneh Day School and Walnut Hills High School, Susan also spent a year during high school living in Israel where she lived on a kibbutz and studied at the Leo Beck High School in Haifa.

After receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Cincinnati, she graduated from The Ohio State University School of Dentistry in 1979. She returned to Cincinnati to establish her dental practice. Susan was dedicated to continuing education and graduated from the L.D. Pankey Institute for Post-Doctoral Dental Education and the University of Minnesota’s Esthetic Dentistry program. She was a principle investigator for the PEARL Research Network and was proud of her published work. A talented, caring dentist and an eager, inquisitive student, Dr. Bernstein’s motto was “gentle dentistry in a caring environment.” This was a reflection of her artistic talents and her commitment to patient advocacy. She frequently provided dental care for patients that could not afford her services.

Susan’s life was far more than her profession. Susan married Richard Ellison in 1974, with whom she had four children, Aaron, Joel, Rachel and Marissa. She later married Howard Ain, and became a mother to his two children, Jason and Andrew. Susan was the driving force behind blending the two families.

Rabbi Splansky said in his eulogy, “We saw how overjoyed she was to find love again, with Howard Ain, and how devoted she was to him and to help in the raising of his two sons, Andrew and Jason. She was dedicated to her children, Aaron, Joel, Rachel, and Marissa, and was always there for them. I never knew a mother who was more “on the go” every day and able to juggle innumerable responsibilities and errands.” Her son Aaron commented “My mother saved my life more times than I can count. She allowed me to pursue my passions and creativity with unwavering support. She held our family together in difficult times and blended our family into the close, loving unit we are today. She is my hero!”

Susan was deeply committed to her entire family and was an excellent role model. She taught her children the importance of family and working hard. Her daughter Rachel offered, “My mom was always willing to take the next step. She taught me to never leave a job half way done and to never second-guess my ability to succeed in my goals. She taught me to be the optimist that I am; she showed me how to be a strong woman.”

Susan lived “Shalom Bayit”. She constantly provided her children with insightful advice and support. Her daughter Marissa adds “My Mom always told me she was my biggest fan. She gave me great personal advice and has instilled a strong sense of Judaism in me. She made me the woman I am today and the woman I will become.” Susan believed that the family not only provided companionship and love, but also taught values while fostering a sense of identity that defines us as human beings and Jews.

Susan’s life culminated in her becoming a grandmother to Layla (Joel and Alyce Ellison) and Teddy (Andrew and Emily Ain). Being a grandmother was a great joy of her life. She spent every possible moment with her grandchildren, loving and doting on them.

Susan was also an extremely talented artist with dexterous hands. As a teenager she was a focused art student. She was accomplished in macramé, pottery, knitting and mosaic. She was an especially prolific knitter, making sweaters, scarves and blankets for her family and friends.

Susan was adventurous. She loved to travel with her husband, Howard, family and friends. Her favorite destination was Israel, which she was fortunate to visit many times throughout her life. Each time she visited a country, she made it a priority to seek out the Jewish community, visit the local synagogue and support the local Jewish economy.

Susan had a strong commitment to Jewish life. Susan was a gracious and welcoming hostess to guests in her home. She regularly made Shabbat and holiday celebrations for her family and friends. In her youth, she attended Hebrew School through her senior year of high school.  She also attended Jewish overnight camps and went on summer trips to Israel.   Drawing upon her personal experiences, she sent all four of her children to Yavneh Day School, to Goldman Union Camp Institute (GUCI), and to summer programs in Israel.

Carrying on her parents’ legacy, Susan was proud to spearhead a recent Rockwern (Yavneh Day School) event that ultimately raised significant funds for the school’s endowment.  Dr. David Finell, head of school at Rockwern Academy said “When we say that a person lives on through their deeds and through the lives they have touched Susan (and the whole Bernstein family, really), embodies this truth. She is part and parcel of our school and always will be.”

Susan was active in many other Jewish organizations that raised tzedakah for the community.  She was an avid supporter of the Breast Cancer Bricks Along the Journey project, founded by her late sister Ellen B. Ganson.  Susan and her mother Miriam were instrumental in the creation of  Women for Positive Change. She generously supported Camp Kesem, a non-profit camp geared to children who have or have had a parent with cancer.  She was an active member of Northern Hills Synagogue (B’nai Avraham).

Dr. Susan Deborah Bernstein, age 61, passed away November 18, 2014 surrounded by her family and loved ones. Loving daughter of Miriam G. Bernstein & the late Dr. I. Leonard Bernstein, beloved wife of Howard Ain, devoted mother of Aaron, Joel (Alyce), Rachel & Marissa Ellison & stepmother of Jason & Andrew (Emily) Ain, dear sister of Dr. David (Cheryl) Bernstein, Dr. Jonathan (Lisa) Bernstein & the late Ellen (Michael) Ganson, loving grandmother of Layla Ellison & Theodore Ain, loving aunt, cousin & friend. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions to The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, c/o The Howard Ain & Susan D. Bernstein Philanthropic Fund, 8499 Ridge Road., Cincinnati, OH 45236 would be appreciated.

BERNSTEIN, Dr. Susan D., age 61, died November 18, 2014; 25 Cheshvan, 5775.

WICK, Florence, age 89, died November 19, 2014; 26 Cheshvan, 5775.

BUCHHEIM, Gerd, age 89, died November 23, 2014; 1 Kislev, 5775.

STRICKER, Peggy K., age 90, died November 24, 2014; 2 Kislev, 5775.

HAUENSTEIN, William F., age 74, died November 26, 2014; 4 Kislev, 5775.

MAYERSOHN, Judith Knoop, age 75, died November 27, 2014; 5 Kislev, 5775.

LISCOW, Beverly J., age 84, died November 29, 2014; 7 Kislev, 5775.

CHERNYAKOV, Vera, age 87, died November 29, 2014; 8 Kislev, 5775.

LICHTIN, Beverly, age 90, died November 30, 2014; 9 Kislev, 5775.

KWIATEK; Jack, age 90, died December 1, 2014; 9 Kislev, 5775.

BUCHHEIM, Gerd

Gerd Buchheim was born to Willy Buchheim & Rose Oppenhein in 1925 in Bad Wildugen, a small resort town in Germany. His early years were spent in Nazi Germany and his family was fortunate enough to miraculously escape shortly after his bar mitzvah, and Kristallnacht. Just before Kristallnacht, Gerd was able to save and hide a Torah scroll from a synogauge in the city of Kassel and later another Torah scroll from his own synagogue in Bad Wildungen. Shortly thereafter, Gerd, his brother Fritz, and his father were sent to Buchenwald labor camp. An officer recognized Gerd as too young and sent Gerd back on the train home. Gerd’s brother and father were both released shortly after. Gerd’s father managed to secure visas to Bolivia and the family settled in Cochabamba in 1938. Somehow, Gerd had managed to hide and bring both Torahs with him and later donated them to local synagogues.

Mr. Buchheim began his career as a pastry chef extraordinaire in Bolivia first serving as an apprentice and later working in hotels in Argentina. His son Jay recalls, “Dad loved German and South American culture, music and dancing. He was particularly fond of a Bolivian dish called Salteñas and even asked my brother Gary to bring some from Washington D.C. just a week ago.”

Mr. Buchheim’s journey as a chef continued with his lifelong partner, Edith Block, who he married on September 26, 1953. Edith was another German émigré living in Bolivia. Shortly after their wedding Gerd and Edith moved to New York and within a year to Cincinnati, Ohio. After 5 years working for Busken Bakery he opened up his own shop.

Buchheim Bakery opened in 1960 and was located in Golf Manor. The bakery was kosher and was frequented by the Cincinnati Jewish community. Gerd worked there with his wife Edith, brother Fritz, and sister-in-law Lore. He sold his interest in the bakery in 1973 to his brother.

Although Gerd spent some time working in the baking supply business, his real love was always baking and pastry creations. In 1980 he took the position of Executive Pastry Chef at the Cincinnati Westin Hotel, joined by his wife Edith who worked there as Assistant Pastry Chef. After 6 years he and Edith again opened a place of their own, The Pastry Shoppe, in Montgomery. In 1990 the business moved to Blue Ash and was renamed Maya’s after Gerd’s first granddaughter. One of Maya’s specialties was the Salteñas that Gerd learned to loved in Bolivia. His son Jay joined the enterprise as well. Mr. Buchheim was named Entrepreneur of the year by the Blue Ash/Montgomery Rotary in 2000. Edith, passed away in 2000; they had been married for 48 years. The store closed in 2003.

Even without a business to run Gerd remained busy as a volunteer at a number of Jewish institutions and agencies. From 2004 – 2012 he served as a volunteer with the Jewish Vocational Service, working with handicapped adults, and then as a baker at Golf Manor Synagogue. He received honors from both organizations. Gerd was recognized by the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati as one of their volunteers of the year. He continued to bake at Golf Manor Synagogue until the age of 87 when his health forced him to retire.

Gerd Buchheim passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2014, at Cedar Village in Mason, Ohio. Survivors include Linda and David Tadir of Moshav Nir Moshe, Israel, Rebecca and Shmuel Birkan of Blue Ash, Ohio, Gary and Anita Buchheim of Springfield, Virginia, and Jay Buchheim and Thom Maxwell of Cincinnati. He also leaves eight grandchildren and four great- grandchildren.

Other survivors include his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Lothar and Anita Haas of Cedar Village, Mason, Ohio; his sister-in-law Lore Buchheim of Coconut Creek, Florida, and his dear friend and companion Juanita Weiss of Cedar Village, Mason, Ohio.

Services were held on November 24th at Weil Funeral Home, Rabbi Hanan Balk & Rabbi Stuart Lavenda officiated. Shiva was observed at the home of Rebecca & Shmuel Birkan. Contributions in his memory can be sent to Cedar Village Nursing Home or charity of one’s choice.

HOWARD SCHWARTZ, 77, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, formerly of Cincinnati, Ohio died December 1, 2014. Mr. Schwartz is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Sylvia and James Funk; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Jennifer and Brian Funk, and Jacob and Joshua Artley. He was the beloved husband of the late Patsy Schwartz and the cherished father of the late Kristina Artley. Services were held in Michigan. Arrangements by The Ira Kaufman Chapel. 248-569-0020.

STRICKER, Peggy Kaufman

Peggy Striker

Peggy Kaufman Stricker passed away on November 24th. She and George S. Stricker were married for 50 years, until his death in 1997. Peggy was the loving daughter of Mary Louise and Louis L Kaufman, and deeply devoted mother of George Stricker, Jr. (Marianne Schwab), of Cincinnati; and David J Stricker (Cathleen A Cavanaugh), and grandmother to their children Jonathan C Stricker and Keegan C Stricker, all of Newton, Massachusetts. She was the sister of Mary K Tobias and Jean K Spritz, both of whom predeceased her.

Peggy met George Stricker through his sister Maddy who was her good friend. She married George in 1946, right after the war. She was 21. The love and devotion that Peggy and George shared was only enhanced when Peggy contracted polio in 1953 at age 29. Peggy’s will and strength, along with George’s unfaltering support, fueled her quest for physical independence the rest of her life. She survived breast cancer for 20 years before succumbing to pancreatic cancer at age 90.

In her early years, Peggy lived in Avondale and then the Kaufman’s moved to Amberley, among the earliest residents. She grew up in Kaywoods, the home on Belkay that her parents had built. Peggy graduated from what became Seven Hills School. Her parents put her on a train to go to college at Hollins College where she spent a year, before returning to Ohio. Peggy graduated from Western College, which is now a part of Miami University.

Peggy’s tireless participation in community work was a cornerstone of the Kaufman family. She manage the Fountain shop at the Jewish Hospital of Cincinnati as a member the hospital’s Woman’s Auxiliary. Her work in behalf of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra spanned several decades. She was a lifelong member of Rockdale Avenue Temple. Rabbi Sissy Coran, Senior Rabbi at Rockdale Temple, said “Peggy was a woman with a clear understanding of right and wrong. I never needed to wonder what she thought and I appreciated her candor and her opinions, for it meant she cared about her world and her community. She had a great admiration for Classical Reform Judaism as she appreciated decorum along with intellectual conversation.”

Peggy believed strongly in helping others with disabilities. She was actively involved in Camp Stepping Stones, an organization that provides recreational activities for children with disabilities. She and George established the Peggy and George Stricker Fund at the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, with the declared purpose of contributing to local organizations whose charters include aiding people with disabilities.

Her mind remained amazingly sharp even in her later years. Everyone who had the good fortune to know her would remark about her wit, memory, and the curiously engaging character she always had shone, until days before her death.

Peggy’s devotion to those she loved, family and friends, led to their admiration for her ability to overcome her own physical limitations. She never lost her incredible mental strength and determination to carry on her life as a wife, mother, friend, community supporter, and champion of causes in which she deeply believed. Her niece, Dr. Barbara B Tobias (wife of nephew Tom Tobias), remarked, “Aunt Peggy was a model for living on her own terms.”

Peggy will be missed and forever cherished by her devoted community, composed of people from all walks of life, that she built and passionately nurtured.

A private graveside service was held at United Jewish Cemetery in Walnut Hills. Contributions in Peggy’s memory can be made to George and Peggy Stricker Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, payable to The Greater Cincinnati Foundation with a notation that it is in memory of Peggy Stricker and is for the George and Peggy Stricker Fund. The check can be sent to: 200 West Fourth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-2775. Website for online credit card contributions: www.gcfdn.org/stricker <http://www.gcfdn.org/stricker>

KWIATEK, Jack

Jack Kwiatek, known to many as “Captain Jack,” passed away suddenly but peacefully in Kettering, Ohio, on December 1, 2014 (9 Kislev 5775). Services were conducted by long-time family friend Rabbi Irvin Wise at Weil Funeral Home. Interment is at Hirsch Hoffert of Price Hill Cemeteries in Cincinnati.

Born in Kansas City, MO, in 1924 to Polish immigrants Samuel and Jennie Kwiatek, Jack grew up sharing a single room with his parents and siblings at the back of his father’s grocery store. During WWII, he served as a lieutenant on the battleship U.S.S. California in the Pacific. After the war, he completed his college education, the first in his family to do so, receiving a bachelor of science in chemistry from the University of Illinois. There he met the love of his life and wife of nearly 57 years, Lottie West, who had fled from Nazi Germany with her family.

He went on to receive a PhD in organic chemistry at Cornell and spent the majority of his career at U. S. Industrial Chemicals (later Quantum). There he published numerous research papers and was granted many patents, especially in the area of catalysis, polymers, and plastics. In 1974, he was named chemist of the year for the Cincinnati section of the American Chemical Society.

An early and ardent Zionist even before the creation of the State, he was instrumental in obtaining the support of Gerald Swope – a former GE President and renowned business innovator – as a major benefactor of the emerging Technion in Haifa. In the late 1960s he moved his family to Israel, where he worked at the Weizmann Institute in Rehovot. During the two years of his sabbatical there, he was engaged in research and the training of graduate students. Throughout his life, he was an avid collector of Israel stamps, coins, and medals.

A founding member of Congregation B’nai Tzedek in Cincinnati in 1964, he served in numerous leadership roles and was particularly noted for his many thoughtful sermons over the years. He was also a strong supporter of Jewish education, in particular at Yavneh Day School in Cincinnati. In his retirement years, he tutored synagogue students in Jewish studies and public and private students in high schools around the city in math and chemistry.

Known as a humble man, he was a willing donor to many worthy causes and an active volunteer with the food bank, meals on wheels, senior transportation, and other local activities in Cincinnati and in Dayton, where he lived close to family for the past decade. He delighted in simple pleasures – movies, good food, local festivals, and unexpected finds at garage sales. Through his actions, he taught his extended family to treasure family above all, to be generous with time and resources, and to express gratitude every day. He was beloved by everyone he met – from restaurant servers to CEOs – for his gentle manner, his clever humor, his upbeat attitude, and his ability to savor every moment.

Preceded in death by his wife Lottie, brother Benjamin (Kansas City, MO), and sister Ruth Lubliner (Denver, CO), he is survived by three children: Sandra Simenhoz (Haifa, IS), Kim (wife Candace, of Centerville, OH), and Sharon Gadoth (husband Doron, of Detroit). Continuing the generations are five grandchildren: Keren Stick (Jeremy), Oren Kwiatek (Keri), Aliza Kwiatek, Adva Gadoth, and Daphna Gadoth; and two great-grandchildren: Elijah Samuel Kwiatek and Kyla Kwiatek.

Contributions may be made in his memory to Jewish National Fund, American Cancer Society, or The Technion.

SCHWARTZ, Howard

HOWARD SCHWARTZ, 77, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, formerly of Cincinnati, Ohio died December 1, 2014.  Mr. Schwartz is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Sylvia and James Funk; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Jennifer and Brian Funk, and Jacob and Joshua Artley.  He was the beloved husband of the late Patsy Schwartz and the cherished father of the late Kristina Artley.  Services were held in Michigan.  Arrangements by The Ira Kaufman Chapel.  248-569-0020.

GOLDING, Stuart, age 78, died November 28, 2014; 6 Kislev, 5775.

ROSE, Sally M., age 81, died December 1, 2014; 10 Kislev, 5775.

SCHWARTZ, Howard, age 77, died December 1, 2014; 10 Kislev, 5775.

GOLDBERG, Jay M., age 96, died December 3, 2014; 12 Kislev, 5775.

KNOOP, Judith, age 75, died November 26, 2014; 4 Kislev, 5775

GANTZ, Lila Tashman, age 87, died December 10, 2014; 18 Kislev, 5775

MILLER, Daniel G., age 36, died December 10, 2014; 18 Kislev, 5775.

MAGARILL, Yevgeniy “Eugene”, age 87, died December 13, 2014; 21 Kislev, 5775.

HARRIS, Samuel, age 103, died December 15, 2014; 23 Kislev, 5775.

Gantz, Lila

Lila Gantz

KNOOP, Judith

Judith Knoop

Judith Knoop, pioneering women’s health advocate, passed away peacefully in her home on November 26, 2014. Born Judith Ann Mayersohn on March 2, 1939 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Judith moved to San Francisco in 1964, where she co-created “The Women’s Health Center” as a storefront educational resource on 24th Street. This led to the establishment of The Women’s Health Center and the Alternative Birthing Center at San Francisco General Hospital. She had deep love and passion for her family, friends and the disenfranchised. She especially loved and championed babies and is remembered by many as the nurse/midwife who brought their baby into the world.
Judith is survived by her children, Tanya Knoop, Michelle Knoop and Geoffrey Knoop and her grandchildren, Trevor Knoop, Tonatiu Anceno and Xochitl Anceno and her sister, Myrna Lauber.
Donations can be made in memory of Judith Knoop to support the Women’s Clinic at SFGH to the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation at sfghf.org. Click donate now, in “Gift Designation”, specify the Women’s Health Center. In “Gift Dedication”, click “In memory of” and fill in Judith Knoop under “Name of Designee”.
If you knew and loved Judith and want information about her memorial, write to judithknoopmemorial@gmail.com. Please state your connection.