Arnold Goldman, who brought credit to Israel’s high tech industry with the establishment of Luz Industries Israel Ltd. in 1983, passed away last month after a long illness.

Goldman had more than three decades of experience in the energy industry. He founded Jerusalem-based Luz International, Ltd. and served as its CEO. Goldman and the Luz International team first proved that solar power can be reliably produced in large quantities and cost effectively by building the world’s nine largest solar thermal plants in California’s Mojave Desert between 1984 and 1990. At the time, those nine plants generated 354MW of power, equivalent to 90 percent of the world’s solar electricity. The plants are still operating profitably today.

In 2011, Goldman was presented the annual Lifelong Contribution to Sustainable Energy Award from the Eilat- Eilot Renewable Energy Initiative. He was also the recipient of three other international awards for his contribution to solar energy development, including the International Solar Energy Society Achievement Through Action Award “To the Solar Energy Pioneer” (in memorial of Christopher A. Weeks), the European Solar Energy Association’s Euro Solar Augustin-Mouchot-Prize, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from SolarPACES (Solar Power and Chemical Energy Systems). He held numerous patents for his inventions and innovations.

But this is only a small part of the story as it does not provide a full picture of the man, his genius and his soul. When, in early 1984 he committed to building a small solar power generating facility in California by the end of the year, Luz, the company based in, at the time, Jerusalem’s small Har Hotzvim Tech Park, Luz had no solar technology. As a matter of fact the telex code for the company was IHPIS which, roughly, stood for Israel Home Products. But he believed it could be done and, in fact, when the year ended SEGS-I as it was known, was producing electricity in a field outside of Daggett in the high desert of California. Goldman’s genius allowed him to assemble a team, create the needed infrastructure, locate the required suppliers of parts in various parts of the world, and bring it to reality, all in 11 months.

I joined the Luz team in May, 1984 in the early stages of my Aliyah when I was still living in the immigrant absorption center in Gilo in south Jerusalem. I was part of the company’s senior staff and never stopped being amazed at the creativity, the vision, and the faith in his people that Goldman exhibited every day of his life.

Clearly, the additional solar plants that Luz built were testimony both to his genius and his ability to assemble a loyal team of professionals whom he inspired to achieve the challenging objectives he put in front of them. Of course, simultaneously he was always coming up with new ideas and new ways to impact humanity. A serious student of Torah and its hidden messages, he had a unique capability to creatively meld the message of Torah with modern technology that would enable mankind to realize God’s plan for the world. Truth be told, had he lived more of his dreams would have come to reality.

He was, of course, blessed with a loving and supportive wife, Karen, and children as well who imbibed his spirit and creativity. No doubt their lives will be the living testimony to his dreams.

The light of the world will now be a bit dimmer without his soulful presence. Y’hi Zichron Baruch…may his memory be for a blessing.

Sherwin Pomerantz is president of Atid EDI Ltd., a Jerusalem-based economic development consulting firm, and formerly administrative vice-president of Luz Industries Israel.

- Sherwin Pomerantz

( JTA)—Otto Warmbier, the University of Virginia student imprisoned by North Korea who died Monday, June 19 within a week of his release, was active at the campus Hillel and cared deeply about the Jewish community, its rabbi recalls.

Warmbier, 22, a Cincinnati native, was traveling on a student tour of North Korea last year when he was arrested and sentenced to 15 years of hard labor for stealing a propaganda poster.

After international outrage and over a year of imprisonment, North Korea released him this month, saying his health had deteriorated severely. Warmbier’s doctors say he suffered extensive brain damage.

Rabbi Jake Rubin, the University of Virginia’s Hillel director, said in an email to JTA that it was another overseas trip that sealed Warmbier’s connection to the Jewish community.

A 2014 Birthright mission to Israel, where Warmbier received a Hebrew name during a hike to Masada, left a strong impression on the young man. Following the trip, he became involved with the Jewish community on campus.

Birthright offers free trips to individuals who identify as Jewish, have at least one Jewish birth parent or have completed Jewish conversion. Rubin did not answer a question about Warmbier’s Jewish background.

The rabbi described Warmbier as “a beloved member of our Hillel community.”

“He was a regular at Bagels on Lawn, celebrated Shabbat and holidays at Hillel, and even led a seder for other students that focused on issues of environmentalism and sustainability,” Rubin wrote.

During that seder, Warmbier and another student used the Passover ritual as a way to introduce issues related to climate change.

“What are the 10 plagues of climate change? How can washing our hands remind us of the importance of water conservation? Throughout the Seder, we asked participants to reflect on how the story of the Exodus and the Seder traditions relate to environmental challenges,” Lia Cattaneo, who led the seder with Warmbier, wrote in a 2015 blog on the Hillel website.

Rubin recalled the joy that infused Warmbier’s day-to-day life.

“In the simplest interactions Otto always found something of interest and would make you smile,” said Rubin. “At every stop on Birthright he would try some kind of new food, strike up a conversation with someone new, or find some unique thing to bargain for. He loved life and it was infectious.”

Beyond Hillel, Warmbier was a leader on the University of Virginia campus, Rubin said. Warmbier served on the student council’s sustainability committee and spoke with a Tel Aviv councilman, Etai Pikas, about environmentalism in Israel.

“The opportunity to hear from the man voted one of Israel’s 100 Most Influential People on his work and passion was truly remarkable,” Warmbier wrote of the meeting in a blog for Hillel published in 2015. Rubin described Warmbier as a person who “was always full of life, intellectually curious, and cared deeply for his friends and community.”

“He was always interested in learning more about the world and the people around him. He put everyone at ease with his humor and genuine interest for others,” the rabbi added. “Otto was a leader at UVa.”

- Josefin Dolsten

Volunteering isn’t something to put off until you have extra time and money. There are numerous reasons why the returns far outweigh the time invested, especially during lean times.

Alene and Ron Kaufman both volunteer at Jewish Family Service. “Everyone has some skill JFS can use. Ron likes to drive and meet people, so he delivers Meals on Wheels. I happen to love numbers and computers, so I volunteer in the Personal Affairs Management (PAM) department,” says Alene Kaufman.

“We volunteer at JFS because we saw the good work it does with counseling and support for HAT and Strelitz students, families, and faculty,” says Kaufman. “Plus, both my parents used JFS in Richmond for home health. Ron’s parents lived in Florida and used JFS for home health, while my father-in-law, a Holocaust survivor, was sick. JFS Fort Lauderdale took him to doctors’ appointments and also provided excellent grief counseling for my mother-in-law.”

Tikkun Olam
The Kaufmans feel that volunteering is just one way to repay JFS. “We can’t volunteer in the communities where our parents are, but by volunteering here, we feel like we are doing something,” says Kaufman.

The couple takes volunteering as their responsibility for Tikkun Olam…repairing the world. “We’re incredibly grateful for our health and our way of life,” she says. “Recognizing that everyone is not fortunate or may not have support systems in place, encourages us to take our turn in this evolving world. We’re so proud of the work that JFS does and are so glad that we can support the wonderful employees and the programs it offers.

“We really enjoy what we do,” says Kaufman. “We feel connected to our community and look forward to our weekly volunteering. We feel that what we do not only helps the current clients, but helps sustain the organization and its future. After all, ‘you never know when you’ll need help, but you’ll always know where to find it.’ Everyone can assist in some way to ensure that the help will still be there.”

Another young volunteer at JFS is Alix Kloster, who helps deliver Meals on Wheels to elderly clients. “I began volunteering with JFS because I realized that every activity I was engaging in during the week was simply fulfilling personal obligations I had set up for myself,” says Kloster. “I wasn’t actively engaging with my community or putting myself out into the world to expand my network or give back. JFS has allowed me to connect with my community in a way that I may never have had the opportunity to do so and I look forward to coming to JFS each week. Hopefully, I am making others’ lives easier, but I have also found that volunteering has helped with my stress levels during the rest of my week and made me a happier person in general.”

To learn more about volunteer opportunities at JFS, call Jody Laibstain at 757-321-2227.

August, Leon Family Art Gallery

A Vintage Jewish fashion photography exhibit from the collection of Beit Hatfutsot, The Museum of the Jewish People in Tel Aviv, and the Bernard H. and Miriam Oster Visual Documentation Center, will be on display in the Leon Family Art Gallery in August.

Traditional costumes and other ensembles from Jewish communities throughout Israel, Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, as well as European Jewish school and sports uniforms, festive dress, Israeli labor clothing, and a famous Israeli fashion brand are showcased in the exhibit.

This photo exhibit of Jewish fashion in the 20th century represents only a fraction of the museum’s vast collection of more than 400,000 black and white images depicting Jewish history, heritage, and communal life. It is part of an initiative by Beit Hatfutsot to offer Jewish institutions and organizations ready-made curated photo displays to reinforce and build worldwide connections.

Beit Hatfutsot is dedicated to telling the entire story of the Jewish people, on site in Israel, online, and around the world, through exhibits, innovative technology, and creative programming. The Bernard H. and Miriam Oster Visual Documentation Center also systematically collects photographs and films documenting Jewish life, heritage, and history throughout the centuries.

Beit Hatfutsot appreciates any assistance in acquiring additional materials for their collections. The call is open to contribute historical photographs and films to ensure that memorabilia is available to the public for generations to come. For more information, visit dbs.bh.org.il.

At its annual meeting on June 21 (see article on page 27), Beth Sholom Village honored several employees who have been with the organization for 30 or more years. They include: Carolyn Tolman, Lana Chapman, Carolyn Dukes and Mary Parker.

Virginia Beach —Charles H. Dechter, 100, passed away at home on Sunday, June 25, 2017 accompanied by his daughters Lisa Dechter Spiegel and Aimée Dechter, son-in-law David Spiegel, and caregivers, Sabrina Dixon and Sherin Douzart.

Charles lived most of his life in Brooklyn, N.Y., where he was a CPA. He retired in his 80s and eventually moved to Virginia Beach to be near his family. He was a kind and jovial man who loved all whose paths he crossed, especially his family and friends, and a team of compassionate people who supported him in the last chapter of his life.

Charles was predeceased by his parents, Mollie Dechter Goldstein and Herschel Dechter; wife of 57 years, Deborah Harnick Dechter; sister, Shirley Eventoff; and brothers-in-law Samuel Eventoff and Robert Huber.

In addition to his daughters and son-in-law, Charles is survived by his granddaughters, Ariana and Alexandra Spiegel, nieces and nephew, sister-in-law, Miriam Huber, and chosen family members, David and Patricia Jones and Joan Goldberg.

A memorial service was conducted at Ohef Sholom Temple with Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg officiating. H. D. Oliver Funeral Apts. Online condolences may be offered to the family through www. hdoliver.com.

Norfolk —Joseph Sackler Goodstein, 87, died peacefully at his home on July 1, 2017.

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., he was the son of Hilda and Louis Goodstein.

He is survived by his “bride” of 62 years, Joan Hyman Goodstein; his beloved children Jeffrey Richard Goodstein (Cary), Mark David Goodstein (Ashley), Ronald Charles Goodstein and Renee G. Solandz (Lenny), as well as the loves of his life, grandchildren Grayson, Chesley, Lindsey and Sam, Alex, Matthew, Madison and Justin.

He reveled in the love of his family. He also cherished his many nieces, nephews, and friends. If someone was in need of a pal—Joe was it! Joe, always a resilient entrepreneur, was the owner of ELJO’S clothing store in Richmond, and Zachary’s in Norfolk, dabbled in real estate, and even owned a race horse. To him, life was a challenge and he met each new venture with determination. He loved life as long as his “Poochie” was by his side.

He was a member of Temple Israel of Norfolk and Temple Beth-El of Richmond, the Romeos, and many charitable organizations. He was a patriotic veteran and stood up for all people, praying for the day all of us would get along.

Funeral services were held at Bliley Funeral Home in Richmond, Va. Donations to a charity of choice.

NORFOLK—Rebecca Rosenberg Rubin, 90, was born in Cuba in 1927 and died peacefully Thursday, June 29, 2017.

She is survived by her son, Dr. Burt Rubin of Norfolk, and Ann Rodgers of Nags Head, N.C.; her daughter, Lisa Maki and her husband, Alan of Lunenburg, MA; and a step-brother, Jackie Rosenberg and his wife, Merci of Miami, Fla.

Rebecca moved from Cuba to New York at the age of 18 where she met her late husband, Stewart “Steve” Rubin. She had careers in retail, management, and as a medical seminar coordinator.

Since 1984, Rebecca and Steve vacationed in Nags Head, and New England, and in retirement, traveled to Europe, and vacationed in Cancun four weeks per year, developing life-long friendships wherever they went. Rebecca was always quick to smile and laugh, encouraging everyone to jump in and enjoy all of life’s gifts. She loved planning parties and gatherings for friends and family. She enjoyed trips to the opera and theater, and was an amazing knitter, cook, and would dance anytime the music played. She liked getting her hair and nails done and looking her best every day. She was generous and warm, welcoming everyone to sit and chat, always seeing the good in everyone. Her friends and family may celebrate her wonderful life privately in their hearts.

Online condolences may be offered to her family through www.hdoliver.com.

Norfolk —Thomas Gilbert Russel, 70, died May 25, 2017, at his home.

He was born in Philadelphia, the eldest child of Chester and Sally (Mendenhall) Russel. He was educated in the public schools of Catonsville, Md., and received his Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology in 1969. He received a Master in Business Administration and Master of Public Administration from Golden Gate University.

On October 21, 1979, he married Paula (Luther) Silver in Norfolk.

In his youth, Tom was employed as a lifeguard and police officer. After college, he worked for Stuart-Warner Corporation in Chicago for a few years, and in 1973, joined the NOAA Commissioned Corps. He served for almost a decade aboard NOAA Ship Mt. Mitchell.

In 1981, Tom began a new career as a civil service engineer at the St. Julian’s Creek Annex of the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where he worked until his retirement in 2010. Tom was a member of Temple Sinai in Portsmouth, serving as its treasurer for 17 years, and served as both a Jewish and humanist chaplain for the Portsmouth Police Department. After retirement, Tom became an enthusiastic volunteer for Project Lifesaver and the Virginia Medical Reserve Corp. He was also an active member of the Hampton Roads Amateur Radio Club and the Tidewater Society for Science and Reason.

Tom was exceedingly generous with his time, money, and love, and was treasured as a friend and mentor to many. In his free time, he enjoyed cooking elaborate meals for family and friends, and was famous for his baking. He told the worst jokes ever, most of which he’d stolen from Boys’ Life magazine, and could solve a New York Times Sunday crossword in 15 minutes. He loved rules and regulations, and was the first to tell you if your inspection sticker had expired or your tires needed air, and what dire consequences you would face unless you addressed the situation immediately. He was also the first to jump your dead battery, or pay for new tires.

He leaves his beloved wife Paula, as well as Paula’s children Rachel and James Silver, to whom he was the best father in the world. He also leaves two sisters: Alice Russel Lerp and Nancy Russel Grant and her husband, Mike. He also leaves his nephew Wil (Kathy) Lerp and niece Margarita Arambula, as well as grand-nephews Kristian, Zak, and Conor, and grand-niece Sarah. He was pre-deceased by his parents.

A service was held at the Fred Heutte Center with Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg officiating. Donations to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, the American Cancer Society, or a charity of choice.

The family wishes to express its gratitude to H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments, who assisted in donating Tom’s body to the Virginia State Anatomical Program.

Virginia Beach —Schwartz, Henry K. 92, Delray Beach, Fla., passed away July 2, 2017.

Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Marilyn Schwartz; daughters, Mindy Schwartz Katz (Jeffrey) and Ellen Schwartz (David), grandchildren, Carly Katz (Gregory), Rachel Feldman and Jana Katz.

A memorial service was held in Delray Beach and he was laid to rest in New Jersey. Contributions to PAP Corps Cancer Research www.papcorps.org.

Virginia Beach —Jean Medway Snyder of Virginia Beach peacefully passed away at home in the presence of her loving family on May 1, 2017. As the family matriarch, Jean was a singularly devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to those around her. Her dignity, humor, and courage during her two-year battle with cancer stand as inspiration to family and friends.

Born and raised in London, Jean came to the U.S. in 1956 to marry Edward Brown Snyder, her surviving husband of 61 years. Her family was her greatest passion in life. Their children are Susan Darnell (granddaughter Sarah Dodd and great-grandchild Riley and granddaughter Gwen Darnell); Robin Brickell (spouse Sean, grandson Alex Snyder and spouse Jessica and great-grandchildren Connor and Oliver; granddaughter Lesley Snyder and grandson Quentin); Stephen Snyder (spouse Anne and grandsons Benjamin and William); Kate Jones (spouse Eric and granddaughter Cameron King); and Tammy Murphy (spouse Philip, granddaughter Emmanuelle and grandsons Joshua, Charles and Samuel). While predeceased by four of her siblings, Jean is survived by two sisters, Irene Welton of Brighton, UK and Barbara Dyer of Sydney, Australia.

Jean was instrumental in founding and naming Checkered Flag Motor Car Company, the family’s business of more than 50 years.

Jean was a prolific reader of everything from business journals to historical manuscripts and keenly aware of world events. She shared her love of books with all around her and especially her children.

A lifetime member of the Britain’s Royal Horticultural Society, Jean loved working her gardens year-round. She embedded in her family deep respect and knowledge for growing plants of all sizes and types. Jean and Ed loved attending Queen’s Day of London’s annual Chelsea Flower Show, the premier such exhibition in the world.

Jean and Ed traveled the world together. They visited more than 100 countries discovering new cultures and destinations ahead of all trend setting travelers. Inspired by the many cultures, Jean studied and incorporated themes into her own home while also serving as a resource and inspiration to her children and grandchildren as they too created their own homes.

Prior to coming to the U.S., Jean was a runway model for Hardy Amies, one of the most prestigious fashion houses in the world, and universally known during this period as “dressmaker for Queen Elizabeth II .” Jean’s acute sense of understated style developed in London continued throughout her life.

A private memorial service took place at Ohef Sholom Temple. Donations to American Cancer Society or Arthritis Foundation. Online condolences may be made to the family at hdoliver.com.

Norfolk —Miriam (Cohen) Weisberg, 94, passed away peacefully in her home on July 5, 2017.

A native of Norfolk, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Sarah Cohen.

Miriam was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted wife of Harry Weisberg for 69 years before he passed away in 2012. Miriam loved spending time with her family, but she also had a number of hobbies, including reading, playing the piano, listening to music, especially opera and show tunes, sewing, and generally helping her family and friends. She was a renowned baker and could often be found in her kitchen baking special holiday treats.

Miriam was an active lifetime member and past president of Hadassah. She edited the Hadassah ad book for many years, which raised many thousands of dollars for Hadassah Hospital in Israel. As a member of Temple Israel Sisterhood, she often baked and made costumes and sets for their fundraising productions.

Her survivors include five children, Linda W. Drucker and her husband Dr. Jack Drucker of Virginia Beach; Carol W. Burgess and her husband Webb, of Raleigh, N.C.; Sandra Kay Taub and her husband Lawrence of Silver Spring, Md.; Dr. Edward J. Weisberg and his wife Janis of Norfolk, and Steven G. Weisberg and his wife Sherril Schlesinger of Los Angeles, Calif.; seven grandchildren: Lisa W. Cohn (Joel), Amie W. Blaschke, Kevin Drucker, Michael Burgess (Hadas), Marsha B. Thomas (Scott), Hannah E. Brandon (Matthew), and Alexander R. Taub; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces. Miriam was predeceased by her brother, Harry Cohen, and her sister, Pearl Brenner.

Graveside funeral Services were held at Forest Lawn Cemetery, with Rabbi Michael Panitz officiating. Memorial donations to Temple Israel, Hadassah, or a charity of your choice.

H.D. Oliver. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.

Virginia Beach —Dr. Stanley Howard Legum, 77, died peacefully on July 27, 2017, at home after battling Alzheimer’s for several years.

Stanley was the son of Buddy and Janice Legum and was raised in Norfolk where he graduated from Maury High School in 1957, University of Virginia in 1961, and later received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Medical College of Virginia. He was a lifetime member of Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity at UVA.

After serving as Captain in the U.S. Air Force, Stanley settled in Virginia Beach where he practiced as a dentist for 45 years. He always stayed active in the community and was a longtime member of Congregation Beth El. A boating enthusiast, one of his favorite pastimes was fishing and steaming crabs. He also enjoyed golf and was a member of the Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club for many years. Some of his happiest times were spent with family and friends at home or on the Lynnhaven River.

Stanley is survived by his wife of 32 years, Lin, and her children, Rachel Hale (David) and daughter Lillian and Jay Burnell (Shell), and daughters Grace and Julia; four children, Keith Legum, Paige Rothfeld, Robin Legum, and Lisa Sisler.

Services were held in H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. Interment was private. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Southeastern Virginia Chapter, 6350 Center Dr., Suite 102, Norfolk, VA 23502, (757-459-2405). Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.

Suffolk —Gerline Aronoff Lerner, 84, of Suffolk, passed away July 31, 2017 following a long illness.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Martin Lerner, MD, her parents Isidore and Bertha Aronoff, her sisters Annette Brenner, Rebecca Green and Harriet Klavan and brother Marcus Aronoff.

Born in Newport News on August 13, 1932, she eventually located to Norfolk, where she married Martin Lerner after meeting him at Fort Eustis where she worked as a secretary. A graduate of Newport News High School, Gerline continued throughout her life to increase her knowledge and vocabulary through her voracious appetite for reading. She married Martin Lerner on June 28, 1959 and they had two daughters and a son. She was a loving mother who was always there for her family, no matter what. She always made sure there was nourishing food on the table and it was never beyond her to grill up a quick cheese and tomato sandwich in the middle of the night. She remained married for 58 years until his passing. After her son left home for college, she decided to reenter the workforce and worked for Seaboard Investment Advisors in Norfolk, as office manager where she thrived in her capacity to properly run the office and motivate staff. Gerline was a true sports fan, superb duck pin bowler, the world’s greatest undiscovered comedienne and the life of the party, not to mention she made a fantastic Jello that was one of her signature dishes. She never met a soul that she didn’t know or try to help. She was an avid supporter of the Battered Women’s Shelter in Norfolk, B’nai B’rith Women, and numerous other charities where she would tirelessly devote her time and energies.

She is survived by daughters Leslie (Michael) Koenig of Leesburg, Va., Linda (Michael) Firnstahl of Suffolk, and her son David (Sparkmaster5) and his wife Andrea (Andy) of Suffolk; her eight grandchildren Jake, Jared and Colby Koenig of Leesburg, Tucker, Preston and Owen Firnstahl of Suffolk, and Katy and Jessie Lerner of Richmond. She is also survived by her nephews Theodore (Joanne) Brenner of Richmond, Stuart (Rene) Brenner of Jacksonville, Andrew Jacobson of Warren, N.J. and Gershon (Michele) Aronoff of Norfolk, and niece Suzy (Rick) Szymanski of Virginia Beach.

A funeral service was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments handled arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com. Donations to the charity of your choice would be something Gerline would look kindly upon. And if anyone happens to have her Jello recipe, please forward it to H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. ASAP.

Portsmouth —Irvin “Butch” Lichovitz, 78, of Richmond, left this life July 13, 2017.

He was born in Altoona, Penn. and spent his childhood there before moving to Baltimore, Md., where his heart resides with the Orioles. As an adult, he moved to the Tidewater area and made a success as a salesman, husband, and father. He spent the majority of his later years in the Richmond area overcoming obstacles to become a chef.

He was preceded in death by his wife Kielo, for whom he lovingly cared for.

He is survived by his devoted daughter, Lydia Smith Fletcher (Kate), daughter Linda (“Bobbie”) Lichovitz Cook Blake (CJ); grandchildren Victoria and Tommy, and great-grandson Gavin.

A graveside service was held at Gomley Chesed Cemetery, Portsmouth, where his parents, Michael and Lena Lichovitz are buried. Memorial contributions to Temple Beth-EL, 3330 Grove Ave., Richmond, VA 23221

Hopk inton , Massachusetts — Jerry Meldon, professor, passed away unexpectedly in Southmont, North Carolina on July 18, 2017.

Jerry was born in New York City on October 23, 1947 to Helen and George Meldon. He attended Stuyvesant High School, earned his bachelor’s in chemical engineering from Cooper Union and his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and completed his post-doctoral studies at the University of Southern Denmark in Odense.

He was a man of strong moral convictions with a wry sense of humor, and a generosity of spirit that charmed devoted friends from many walks of life and many corners of the globe that he so loved to travel. As a scientist and professor of chemical engineering at Tufts University, he left an enduring impression on countless students, and made important contributions to the field. He was a passionate and tireless champion for peace and justice, and a voracious reader of scholarly works of political history and current events. His keen writings on topics related to deep politics and foreign affairs were published in the Boston Globe, Consortium News, and elsewhere.

As a devoted husband, father, brother and friend, he enjoyed listening to all genres of music especially doo-wop, summers on Martha’s Vineyard with his family, and discussing different points of view with anyone willing to listen.

A tenured associate professor in the department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Tufts University, Jerry previously served as the chairman of the department and was also a proud member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Jerry is survived by his wife Robin, his sister Anne, and his children Jamie, Perri and Seth.

The funeral took place at Pine Grove Cemetery, Westborough, Massachusetts. Rabbi Jeffrey Summit of Tufts University officiated. Donations to the Trustees of Reservations or the American Civil Liberties Union.

Virginia Beach —Lenore R. Metz (80) of 1805 Wingate Court, Virginia Beach, born to the late Isadore and Sondra Cooperman, joined her loved ones in heaven on July 19, 2017. Peacefully as she departed, at her bedside was her husband David Metz of 59 loving years.

She leaves behind her sons, Kevin Metz and Earl Jones; daughter, Brenda McPhee; grandsons, Justin McPhee and Shawn Metz; and great grandson, Aiden McPhee.

Loved by all, she will be missed dearly. She was laid to rest at the King David Garden in the Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. Services were conducted by friend and Rabbi, Israel Zoberman.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.altmeyerfh.com.

Virginia Beach —Miriam Meyer, 94, passed away July 26, 2017 at the Beth Sholom Terrace.

A native of New York, she was the daughter of the late Morris and Sarah Kluger and the widow of Max Meyer, Jr.

She lived for many years in Enfield, N.C. where she raised her family and worked in the family business until her retirement to Virginia Beach.

She is survived by her son Michael Meyer and his wife Voleta; daughter Merle Schwartz and husband Robert; her brother Jules Kluger and wife Jean; sisterin- law Sura Goldner; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Graveside services were held at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations to Beth Sholom Terrace. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.

Chesapeake —Scott Bruce Rebby, born February 5, 1964 in Utica, N.Y, passed away peacefully July 22, 2017 after a valiant fight against an unbeatable foe, Glioblastoma Multiforme tumor.

He is survived by his parents Marilyn and Raymond Rebby, sister Jennifer Rebby, aunts and uncles Richard and Kathy Kopel, Stuart and Alexandria Kopel, Gary and Linda Kopel, as well as cousins Sherri Kopel-Haight (Aaron), Bridget Kopel, Alexander Kopel, Mark, Rosemary and Cyrus Gould, plus numerous Rebby relatives world-wide.

From day one, Scott did things his way. Family was of the utmost importance to him. He worked as a realtor and in home construction, loved being on the water, outdoor activities, cooking for others and playing “no-holdem poker.”

In lieu of a service, the family will honor him with a celebration of life gathering in the near future. Donations in Scott’s memory can be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Jupiter, Flor ida—Barbara “Bobbi” Saunders of Jupiter, Fla., formerly of Hampton Roads, passed away on August 3, 2017.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, Leonard W. Saunders, son Kenneth A. Saunders and wife Marybeth of Virginia Beach, daughter Karen S. Harrell of Tequesta, Fla., and granddaughters Hilary Saunders of New York and Chelsea Harrell of Jupiter.

A private memorial was held in South Florida. Contributions to a favorite charity or the American Cancer Society.