In Remembrance of David Ellman, Class of 1968

There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you.  I'm sure there are many others that experience the same fond memories of your time on planet earth. Charlie Levine David was extraordinary in so many ways - charismatic, talented, handsome, and genuinely beloved.  He was a preternaturally gifted musician, but most of all, he was an extraordinary friend. To those of us fortunate enough to have been close to him, the hole he left will never be filled. Robby Merkin David, You still remain in my heart.  You were one of my first boyfriends when I moved to Belle Harbor.  You took me to your senior prom at the Copa Cabana in NYC and gave me a beautiful opal necklace, which I still have.  You were a great boyfriend and a great drummer.  When you left for college and you met a new girlfriend, I was heartbroken.  I loved you.  Cindy

In Remembrance of Michael Schwartz, Class of 1970

Michael was the first person I remember when I moved to Rockaway in the fall of 1963.  I was placed into a 6th grade classroom in September.  I was a little kid, about 4'11",  Michael was always tall.  His red hair, freckles and enormous stature scared me to death.  He knew that, and chased me home almost every day. That memory will be with me always.  Thank you, Michael....... Lenore Behar Mankof I got to know Mike only a few years before he passed away. Always had a smile on his face, and a good word. A real happy-go-lucky guy. Seemed to greet each new day (we met on the coffee line in the bagel store on many a morning!) with a refreshing and bright outlook. Joel Hamberger Michael Schwartz was my first real boyfriend.  We were around 12 at the time.  We remained best friends after that.  I think of his red hair, freckles and smile often.  Rest in peace, Michael.  Love,  Arny I knew Michael for many years. He was a great friend. He will be missed by everyone that knew him. I remember going to parties with him.  He was always fun-loving.  Your friend, Joan Tolin Today, March 14th, is the 11th anniversary of Mike's passing. I think of him every day....because I have a photograph on my wall reminding me of the great days we had together as friends. Todd is up there too. And today I've been recollecting more then usual about those times we had together. I miss those guys... Their "Brother in the Struggle"  Andy Krosnick This is a very belated post for Michael. He was truly one of the sweetest people I have ever known. I don't remember him saying a bad word about anyone. He was kind, fun, a great athlete and I guess a bit troubled. He was a very good friend and a special person. David Abelson

In Remembrance of Keith Gold, Class of 1974

Very sadly, Keith actually took his own life sometime during his 2nd semester at New Paltz. He knew a lot of folks as they did he, and I felt so terrible not seeing an acknowledgement of his being gone. It's 27 years later so...rest in peace, my friend. Michael Darby, Class of 1974 Whenever I hear Jackson Browne, I think of Keith. His laughter, irreverence and poetry are in my heart. I always wished that he had called and cried on my shoulder that day, instead I fear he fell into despair. I miss him now and always. Lynn Sherman, Class of 1974 Keith and I were friends before and during high school.  He taught me how to play chess.  We lost touch when he went away to school. I was shocked when he killed himself.  Waste of a life. Mark Coopersmith, Class of 1973

 

In Remembrance of Arthur Vilardi, Class of 1953

Artie and I were close friends who went to PS 104 and FRHS together. Even though we went to different colleges, we remained good friends and spent the summer vacations together. After I got married, we still saw each other for another couple of years, but like a lot of friends, we drifted apart. I'm devastated to learn of Artie's death. He was a great guy and I shall miss him. Carl Salland, Class of 1953

 

In Remembrance of Rochelle "Shelley" Spanier, Class of 1965

So many years have gone by since you passed away so suddenly.  You were taken in the prime of your life.  The pain has eased, but a day does not go by that I do not think about you.  I learned a  hard lesson from your death, and that is how precious this life is and never take it for granted. I love you and miss you so much. Your cousin, Sandy  It seems like yesterday since you have been gone. My life was never the same. No words could express the emptiness in my heart. I miss you, love you,and I know in my heart one day we will  be together again. Lee Spanier Oneill

 

In Remembrance of Jean Cunningham-Caliendo, Class of 1968

I met Jeanie Cunningham in 5th grade at St. Camillus Elementary School on Beach 100th Street.  Jeanie and I became close friends ever since.  We went to FRHS together and both graduated in 1968.  She was always so good natured, generous, innocent, and kind.  We spent every summer together at Beach 69th Street in Arverne.  We had such fun at the beach with all the kids from Arverne. I remember spending winter and fall weekends shopping, eating, and going to the movies at Central Ave. in Far Rock.  Jeanie married a very kind fellow from Arverne (also FRHS graduate), Anthony Caliendo, and eventually moved out to Long Island and had two lovely children, Lori and Andrew.  Sadly, Jean and Anthony succumbed to cancer within 14 months of each other during the mid-1990s.  Not a day goes by where I don't think about both of them.  I miss their friendship, their kindness, and their love. Patrica Ippolito

 

In Remembrance of Evelyn Feldman, Class of 1933

I lost my mom 7/17/01 and I'm sure I'll miss her to the end of my days.  She was not only my mother, but my best friend.  Although well into her 80s, she still kept her mind youthful and full of life.  She graduated P.S. 39, as did I, and was in the first graduating class of the "new" FRHS (imagine!). She was a lifelong resident of Far Rockaway, never leaving Neilson Street and was born in St. Joseph's, now St. John's, passing away there 85 years later, always hoping Rockaway would return to its glory days. Kenneth Feldman

 

In Remembrance of Carole Senior Sarnoff, Class of 1956

Carole Senior Sarnoff passed away several years ago.  We renewed our friendship in Great Neck, NY, as  our sons grew up together.  I felt she should be listed on our page. Perhaps others are not aware of this website. Gail Cracovaner Widom

 

In Remembrance of Henry Miller, Jr., Class of 1967

Firefighter Henry Miller, Jr. was lost in the attack on the World Trade Center, September 11, 2001.  He is survived by wife Diane, daughter Melissa Lansbury of Falls Church, VA, his parents, Henry Sr. and Beatie of Rockaway Park, a granddaughter, Rachel, 18 months old; a brother, Wayne, of Far Rockaway, sisters Corrine Warnock of Rockaway Park and Janice Testa of Valley Stream, and stepson Scott Freedman.  Please click the link to read an article about him from Newsday. http://www.farrockaway.com/remember.html

 

In Remembrance of Michele Singer Raines, Class of 1974

Michele was a great person.  I never met anyone who had a bad word about her.  She fought to squeeze every moment out her life.  That's the advice she would want me to pass on to you,  because life IS...too short. Barry Raines, Class of 1974

 

In Remembrance of Sandy Stoller, Class of 1965

I've known Sandy since elementary school. He was a great friend to have.  He was a good husband to his wife and father to his kids.  We worked not to far from each other in downtown Manhattan and we met for lunch every week until the tragedy that happened on Sept 11, 2001. We all will surely miss him. Alan Levy,  Class of 1965

 

In Remembrance of Arthur Lefkowitz, Class of 1946

Arthur Lefkowitz died on Nov. 1, 2001 of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease.  His wife is Cindy (Levine) Lefkowitz, class of 1959.  Arthur was a retired USIA Information Officer and served at Embassies in South America, Africa, Asia and Australia. He and Cindy had 3 children, 2 daughters, a son and two grandchildren.

 

In Remembrance of Cynthia Yablans, Class of 1960

You will be missed.  I'll try to only remember the good times.  I love you. Ira

 

In Remembrance of Ronnie Feldman, Class of 1966

What can be said about a sister that loved her family, especially her son Jason. Ronnie loved to play sports. In high school we purposely dressed alike so it would confuse our teachers and other students that did not know that she had a twin sister. Her classmates would come up to me and start asking about a Spanish assignment and I would pretend to understand what they were talking about, unfortunately I took French.  Ronnie died at the age of 34, way too young for someone with so much love to give. Her son was only 7. Peggy Feldman Levitin, twin sister

 

In Remembrance of Gil Kaufman, Class of 1957

Gil was married to my (still) best friend Gale Parness Kaufman Grossman who lives in Florida. Gil met Gale at FRHS and married a year after graduating from high school.  Gil died from cancer five years ago.  My memories of Gil are he always enjoyed life.  Terri Greenbaum Lowell

 

In Remembrance of Allan Aaron Shapiro, Class of 1961

Allan was a graduate of FRHS's class of 1961. A three-time Fulbright scholar, in 1987 he was awarded a Ph.D. in Indic Studies by Columbia University. Thereafter, as Dr. Asimakrishna Dasa, he lived, studied, translated, worked and published in Vrindaban, India; becoming in his lifetime one of India's most esteemed and honored Sanskrit scholars. Until his untimely dealth in August 1997, he had published many scholarly articles and papers under the auspices of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Dehli, as well as a beautifully illustrated book entitled "Evening Blossoms: The temple tradition of Sanjhi in Vrindavan" in which he described the transformation of a folk tradition into a temple art. Allan wrote this in the opening of "Evening Blossoms": "Dedicated to my first Guru, my mother, Roselyn Shapiro, without whose faith in me I would never have had faith in myself." Allan's sisters Cynthia and Deborah and his father Gerald miss him deeply and welcome words from FRHS alumni who remember him and would like to share his memory with us.  Sincerely, Cynthia (Shapiro) Yaakovi yaakovi@netvision.net.il Asim Krishnadas Dearest Brother & Dr. Uncle Allan, You were a wonderful big brother and uncle.  I remember when you were a teenager you loved to hang out at Rockaway beach with your friends.  We were all fortunate to have had you in our lives.  We miss you and your fabulous smile and laugh.  You will remain forever in our hearts as a shining example of love & a good life lived.  Rest in peace.  Deborah, Lee, Danielle & Gregory Kapp debkpp@aol.com

 

In Remembrance of Myron Donath, Class of 1963

Myron was one of the highlights of my youth.  He was the court jester of Arverne.  He carried through in this vein as a teacher by injecting humor into each lesson.  He believed that laughter helped kids learn.  We miss Myron and thank him for enriching so many lives. Richard Berger

 

In Remembrance of Richard Zeitlin, Class of 1965

I am so sorry to see that Richard has passed away.  While I lost touch with him after high school, I remember working with him at his father's fast food hamburger stand - The Big Z - which was located across the street from the old Brooklyn Day Camp.  I remember that Richard was a kind, hard-working friend who had a great sense of humor and a wonderful family.  Bob Natt Richard and I grew up together in Far Rockaway. We lived in houses down by Jamaica Bay. I remember his big collie, Prince, his brother David and his parents. The last time I saw. Richard was when I returned from college in Minnesota for a visit and Richard and I decided to go to Green Acres Shopping Center, we were walking in the parking lot, on our way to the movies when suddenly I stopped and looked at Richard and said "Richard, what are you doing in Minnesota?" Richard looked at me like he was talking to a dangerous maniac and said, "This is no longer Minnesota. Now they call this New York. Travel disorientation?"  I quickly came to my senses and we enjoyed the movie. Soon after this trip we lost touch. At our 100th Year Reunion. I was shocked to find out that Richard had died. But no one had any idea of his life or details of his passing. Any one who has such details  can reach me at edrucker@me.com.  Thank you and G-d bless Richard and all who mourned him. Eric Drucker

 

In Remembrance of Larry Shimberg, Class of 1951

Larry Shimberg, a 1951 alumni of FRHS, passed away April 5, 2002.  He had returned to FRHS as a teacher of the Industrial Arts, teaching Advanced Woodworking, Mechanical Drafting, Architectural Drafting, Jewelry, and Auto Shop from 1964 until he retired in 1991.  He and his wife, Myrna-Sue (Kaplan) Shimberg, a P.S. 104 graduate who attended high school at Woodmere Academy, but also ended up teaching at FRHS, had retired to Tucson, Arizona and were extremely happy there. Myrna-Sue would be delighted to hear from Larry's former students and fellow teachers.  She can be reached at ms2son@aol.com, or by snail mail at: 11068 N. Mountain Breeze Drive Tucson, AZ 85737 Carol Marston

 

In Remembrance of Janis Finkelstein, Class of 1973

Janis was a great friend!  We grew up together in Wavecrest and she was always there for you....with a smile or a shoulder.....whatever you needed!  We lost touch with each other after high school, but I always kept up on her whereabouts through her cousin Jill.  I love being able to look at Janis' picture (she's in Michelle Grosso's sweet sixteen picture which is on Skip's website) and remember the fun we had. Janis - you'll always be in our hearts! Love, Mindy Wetzler (Bell) I remember many great days running through the halls with Janis, hanging out together at parties and sneaking out of school together.  Always running around the projects, having lunch in her apartmemt with her mom and constantly taking that Green Line Bus to meet up with her. Miss you Janis, but know that we'll meet again. Mitch Fredricks

 

In Remembrance of Karen Cutter Maggio, Class of 1966

I met Karen back in eighth grade. She lived on Beach 71st. We became best friends. We spent a lot of time together in Fatty's candy store. Karen lived around the corner. We took the bus to school each day. We spent summers on the beach and spent a lot of time in Ginos. Karen was a wonderful friend. She married her high school sweetheart. Vinnie Maggio. He was on the football team at FarRockaway H.S. Karen and Vinnie moved to Florida. I did not keep contact with them after they moved. Now I realized I should have never put off that phone call. I know everyone that knew her will miss her dearly. I know I do. Karen thanks for all the great time we had together. Love you, Pat Murphy Catropa  (Irish)

 

In Remembrance of Harriet Appel, Class of 1969

Her beautiful smile, happy face, great personality and her love will live inside me forever. I miss her greatly and wish our lives together could have been different. Jerry Siegel

 

In Remembrance of Stephen Massar, Class of 1955

Far Rockaway High School lost another alumni on Friday, June 21, 2002. My cousin, Steve Massar, peacefully died at home after an almost 3 year battle with cancer. My husband Josh and I visited with him only 2 weeks prior and were able to spend some final moments together. Steve will be lovingly missed by his children, grandchildren, family members and friends. I have loving memories of Steve - memories that I wil remember and cherish forever. Melanie (Simon) Wilner, FRHS 1975 San Diego

 

In Remembrance of Jemeal McDonald, Class of 2002

You will be missed. Natasha He was the most sweestest boy I ever was friends with. He never gave me attitude or even got mad. He always had a smile on his face. I miss him a lot and if I could, I would bring him back. I will always remeber him and his beautiful smile. My heart goes out to his family, and I hope they can see that his warm smile touched everyone and he will be missed and loved forever on in time. I wish I could tell him how I felt about him back then, now its too late. I liked this boy and I never got the chance to tell him, and now he's gone. I hope that some day I can see him in heaven and tell him then.  His good friend Jauwana

 

In Remembrance of Frank White, Class of 2001

You will be missed, especially by Donovan Weight. Tasha Frank White was a very intelligent boy and still is. The one thing that I loved about Frank White was that he was smart. He had the cutest smile. I feel that what ever happened to him was very wrong. Tell me why? It wasn't meant for him nor Delano. But now I understand someone called for him and told him he had to come in a hurry. Now he's gone up above us, where he belongs, where it's safe. Frank White will always be here with me no matter what happens. I love you, Frank White, and always will. R.I.P  Tasheema Parker

 

In Remembrance of Lorraine Singer Carsons, Class of 1970

Lorraine was my dear friend throughout high school and college.  I will always remember her beauty, great intellect, strong will and deep concern for others.  She had a great tenacity for life, although her life was often a difficult one.  She graduated from Columbia School of Social Work. We celebrated many special occasions together and I was at her wedding.  I think of her often, although more than thirty years have passed. I know Lorraine is in a better place and at peace.  I will always miss her! Analee Bernstein Sternberg

 

In Remembrance of Diana Serra Lim, Class of 1977

It's been 20 years since my sister was taken away, yet the pain is as real today as it was then. I hope those of you who knew her have fond memories of her.  Catherine Maj

 

In Remembrance of Ira Sobel, Class of 1967

Ira and I were friends forever or so it felt that way. When I saw him at the one high school reunion we both went to the years between melted away.  Ira was still Ira, quiet and "philosophical".  I remember Ira with the "Apaches" band.  Ira, Elliott Kessler, Bobby Wane, Steven Lepow...and their groupies...me, Linda and Cara.  Ira, I am sure you are finally at peace, so rest, my friend. Love you,  Arny (Arnelle [Wetzler] Brown-Booker) Ira was a friend of mine since I met him when I was in Kindergarten in 1955. He made me laugh then and continued to make laugh till his passing in 1996. Ira was a true and caring person who kept in touch with everyone.  Ira, everybody that knew you misses you.  Rest in peace my friend. Jeffrey Hirschbaum

 

In Remembrance of Pamela Briliant Denker, Class of 1966

She passed away in 1990, at the age of 39, leaving two children. To an angel of a sister who I miss every day. Rhonda Briliant Sabbah

 

In Remembrance of Roslyn Simon Amelkin, Class of 1932

She was not only my Mom but my best friend. Mom left me with many wonderful memories. The last year of her life I lived with her to make sure she got the best care. Mom left me with all her report cards, diploma, and most of the class pictures from about 3rd grade on. I also have two copies of the graduation picture. Mom graduated from Shaaray so I even have that picture. It is with Rabbi Miller.  Mom lived on Rose Street. There have been so many times that I thought everyone in the world had some family from Rose Street because I have been asked if I knew where it was. I have many pictures of there too. I will be scanning them so if anyone doesn't have them I will be glad to share them with you or your families. Please let me know.  Take care and call your kids every day.  I miss those calls dearly.  I too am a FRHS graduate and had many of the same teachers. Fondly in memory,  Her loving daughter Susan Amelkin Lipton itsmenc@netscape.net

 

In Remembrance of May Chakin Lubell, Class of 1934

My mother's maiden name was Mazy (May or Mae) Chakin and was a graduate of Far Rockaway HS, class of 1934 along with her brothers and sister.  You might remember her brothers and sister, Rose, Samuel (Bob class 1941) and the youngest Lou, all went to Far Rockaway H. S.  Rose's children also went there. Their names are Barry, Philip (Bruce or Buck, and Marsha (Mimi) Fell.  Their mother was a favorite of the school.  Her name was Tillie Chakin.  A lot of the teachers and students remember her as Mama.  She owned the candy store by the train station at 25th Street.  If you were sitting at a table not ordering any food, or were supposed to be in school, she would grab you by the ear and throw you out of the store.  I asked my Uncle Bob about Mr. Tietze, because when I went to school his name was like God.  I knew my mother had him, and so did my Uncle.  He was a strict and fair teacher, and when you weren't paying attention a piece of chalk was thrown to get your attention.  So you might say whole family went to Far Rockaway High School. Written by May Chakin's son Sanford (Sandy) Lubell sandylubell@earthlink.net

 

In Remembrance of Muriel Saltzman, Class of 1948

My mom passed away 5/11/99.  She loved her education and would have loved this website.  I have a great PROM photo of the entire class... from a hotel...and would gladly make a photocopy for anyone interested.  Her son, Jan Fuchs janfuchs@juno.com or californiajan@msn.com

 

In Remembrance of Phyllis Linderman, Class of 1965

When I first discovered the Rockaway website and classmates.com, I started looking for long ago friends and classmates, one being Phyllis. Over the years, I have often thought of her, wondering  where she was and what she was doing.  Periodically, I would search these sites seeing if she had signed up. Right before Christmas, a friend called and asked a question about a couple of boys we were dating, which led me on a wonderful trip back home to Far Rockaway via my photo albums and diaries (yes I still have them) As I reading, Phyllis' name kept popping off the pages, making  me, once again, wonder what happened to her. In the album was an invitation and thank you to her Sweet 16, 39 years ago, this Feb. 22.   Again I started searching, but found nothing.  For some reason, I decided to skim the memorial pages, and to my shock, the name Phyllis Linderman, once again, popped off the page. Through teary eyes, I stared at the letters forming her name. Nothing was said. Was she married?  I don't know. Did she have any  kids?  I don't know.  Was her life happy and fulfilled?  I don't know. What I do know, is that after years of thinking about her and searching, I finally found her and I will miss her, that I also know.  Debbie Wiener

 

In Remembrance of Stephen Wolpov, Class of 1954

Stephen will always be in our hearts and minds.  He was a wonderful brother and father.  Madeleine, Michael, Jessica

 

In Remembrance of Jimmy Barna, Class of 1972

Found out that Jimmy Barna passed. He was a quiet, strange sort, but a great friend of David Weinstock... funny so many years go by and things just happen for a reason only our God knows... we shall all meet again. May he rest in peace. He had a certain beauty to him and he did not even know it.  Take care.  Joann I had heard rumors of Jimmy's passing but was unable to substantiate them until now.  Last week his name came up when Ilene Gold and I were reminiscing about all of our  "bad" activities in junior high school.  I laid blame on Ilene for introducing me to such dangerous people and things and she laid blame on Jimmy. Jimmy and I were friends from the time I was 11 or 12 through the time we both moved to South Florida in the early 1970s.  Despite his penchant for the "unsavory," (LOL, who didn't have one?) some of my warmest memories of those years contain Jimmy Barna.  My family loved him, too.  I hope he found joy in Spirit. Lisa Berman Shaw

 

In Remembrance of Delano Samuels, Class of 2004

Delano was a very special friend of mine. I didn't know him all my life but when we met in the 9th grade that was enough. We grew to be very close and  we were suppose to date but never got there. I love Delano so much and I have so much that I wanna say to him that I can't even say to him. I love you Delano. I will always love you, and you will surely be missed by everyone. Faith Audrena Roberson We miss you so much. It's hard to live these days without seeing your lovely smile.   You were an angel on earth as well as is heaven.You had work to do down here and you still have work to do in heaven Love you always,  Natasha, Everton, and Yonita Delano! I have known you for the past 8 years, and within those 8 years we have become real good friends. Now that you are gone I believe things are going to be so different. I really can't believe that you are gone. I am really glad to say that I had a good, nice, caring friend like you. Now that you are gone I have so much to say to you, but now I can't say them! I want to be mad because you are gone but I can't because God say that he was coming back one day to get us and March 1 of 2003 was your day to go home and be with the Father. You will truly be missed! Most of all I want to thank God for allowing you to be able to be a great friend to me for the past 8 years!  Everton Clarke Robinson When Delano was about 10 years old, I lived at 3230 Mott ave between Dunbar street and Point Breeze. Delano and my brother Tony used to always play along with his brothers Daniel, Corey, Steven,and Jonathan. My little sister Brittany and I use to hang out with them as well and go to the bay to pick up little crabs. Delano used to call my sister, "Brittany Houson" and laughed because of the way he said it. One day all of us ran around the area putting crabs inside of our neighbors mail boxes and we laughed like crazy; it was so hilarious.  I had a dream that someone I knew passed away but did not have a clue who it was. I was scrambling through phone numbers and I had thought of Delano. Then my brother, whom he grew up with, came into the room and told me that Delano was shot. I was hurt because Delano was like a little brother to me and I loved him dearly. I thought that I was bugging when I heard God say that he is in "Glory."  I am so glad that he went up to heaven and was received with love into the arms of Jesus Christ himself. Delano was annointed and appointed by God while he was on this earth and he had "THE GLOW" on his foredhead and no dark circles around his eyes. The annointing of God was very heavy upon him that he hit the whole 10 for the Lord Jesus Christ and he went home. "YOU GO DELANO"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Twuana Benjamin Delano, I will truly miss u.  R.I.P  Teana Johnson Delano was a very good friend of mine. I knew him for about a year and a half. He had a cute smile and always was proud and kept his head up. I really started to fall in love with him. I was going to ask him out soon but I took too long. I bet if I dated him this would have never happened. I am very sorry he had to leave. Now I feel very good cause I know Delano is in a very safe and loving place. The Lord was calling him and telling him it was time to come home. Delano is home now, safe and sound. I just want you to know, Delano, you will never be forgotten. You will always be in my heart. I will always think of you night and day,  dreaming of the fun we had. You will always be in our hearts : me, Erica, June, Ebony, Fats, Killer, Jullian, and Dyshawn. All of us truly love and miss you. Remember as these days go by, you will always be here with us always.  *smile*...... I will always love you ! Tasheema Parker Love always, Stephanie Parker I would like to wish Delano Samuel rest in peace. He was a good friend. I first met him when I was in PS 104. He was always fresh and cool. Jquan Bailey Delano, it's me again, Twuana. I am writing because I can not believe you are gone, it has been two years and the hurt is still in my heart and will never leave because I love you as a brother. You are truly missed by a lot of people whom you brought joy to. I'm sorry I  have not visited your place of rest because I live so far. I am waiting for Tony to come with me so that I can have someone there with me in case I cry. I really miss you, and if I was there, I would have pushed you away from the bullet that pierced your heart. You had a sweet heart that will last for an eternity, now you have a new body and I hope and pray that I will see you in Eternal glory along with Selena, Left-Eye,Martin Luther King, and hopefully, Aaliyah. May God  bless your soul forever, In Jesus Name. Your everlasting smile will always stay in the photo album of my heart.  Twuana Benjamin You'll always be in our hearts and we miss you dearly.  You'll always be remembered as a wonderful person and a great friend, sweet and kind. We love you. Sultana A. & Deric P.

 

In Remembrance of Arthur La Monica, Class of 1958

He was my high school sweetheart, my best friend and my husband. Marlene (Rappaport) La Monica, Class of 1959

 

In Remembrance of Phyllis Cohen, Class of 1955

Phyllis and I were best friends all through high school. We hung out at The Pot in Arverne and had a lot of laughs together. She was only 19 when she was killed in a car accident. There is not a year that goes by that I do not think of her. Judy Morse Wortman

 

In Remembrance of Donna Mezzanotte, Class of 1964

Donna was a great person. She was loved by many from Far Rockaway High. She passed away 2 years ago. She is missed by all of us that knew her well.  Mary Giunta Asprea

 

In Remembrance of Barbara Helen Savides, Class of 1947

My mom was one of the few people I knew who had a a truly genuine heart. Genuine and full of generosity and love.  She always had a kind word for everyone and everyone was always welcome in our home. She touched a lot of people and was taken too soon. She always talked of her days at FRHS with sweet remembrance and love. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her and miss her.  She was the best.  Rhea Courtney

 

In Remembrance of Doris Zachary Denmark, Class of 1958

Denmark, Doris Zachary - Plantation, FL. Formerly of Neponsit, NY July 17, 1940-March 12, 2003. Survived by children Michael & Michelle Zachary and Barbara & Kent Grelling. Adored grandchildren Jordan, Danielle & Alexandra. Loving ex-husband LLoyd, brothers Robert & Larry Denmark, loving nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and colleagues.  Doris' life was about love and devotion. She gave her love generously, and was adored by all who knew her. Doris was a dedicated psychotherapist for 27 years, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders. Along with lobbying in the US Congress and contributing to national news publications, she had a successful private practice. Through her commitment to helping others, she helped to make Plantation and the world a better place in which to live. At a memorial service in Florida, friends and family expressed their love and shared fond memories. A scholarship fund in her memory has been established at Nova University. Donations can be sent to the Doris Denmark Zachary Trust Fund, c/o Michael Zachary, 1555 Seagrape Way, Hollywood, FL 33019.

 

In Remembrance of Jane Heller Katz, Class of 1966

Jane's motto was "be happy" and she managed to be positive. Being near her or talking to her, even on the phone, was a refreshing experience. Her strong identity did not change over the years. She met her responsibilities, which were many, but managed to have fun; remain true to herself and still be young. Jane was my FRHS sweetheart. She died of brain cancer in 2002, brave and full of life to the end. She leaves behind family & friends. She is missed!!!!!! Ron Gelman I always wanted to be my sister, she had the blonde hair and hazel eyes and i had the brown hair and brown eyes, she had all the cool friends who at the time probably couldn't stand me because i was the BABY sister whom she had to take with her when she wents to her friends house.  Janie passed away from brain cancer, she was not only my sister but my BEST friend.  Her ashes were spead on Beach 9th St. because she alwats  wanted to go HOME (Rockaway) and she got her wish. Karen Heller Madison suntannedaz@aol.com

 

In Remembrance of Christine Hess, Class of 1975

My dear friend Chris passed away recently after a courageous battle against cancer. Chris always maintained a wonderful spirit for life, especially throughout her illness. I have known Chris since age eleven when her family moved to Wavecrest. We lived on the same "terrace" and instantly became friends. It's a friendship that has lasted over thirty-five years. It's been quite a number of years since we saw each other. Though time and distance didn't matter. We continued to share our lives through letters and phone calls. In recent months we talked often. There were days when the phone calls were brief. But no matter how ill Chris felt, she always spoke to me. I will always cherish this memory and forever be grateful for the opportunity to say goodbye.  As days flow on through our lives, the memories and faces will change. I'll remain your friend under sunlight and stars, thinking of you close to my heart.         Chris was a friend in life and in spirit. She will be greatly missed.  Gail Kaufman I was deeply saddend to read about the untimely passing of Ellen Fox and Christine Hess. I grew up in Wavecrest on the same terrace as Christine. I went to school with Ellen's brother Neil Fox. My hearfelt sympathy goes out to the Fox and Hess families. If anyone knows how I can get in touch with the family please e-mail me at YRW1957@aol.com Thank You, Yvette (Weiss) Kleinman  It had been at least 35 years since I had last talked to Chris. She was my first girlfriend and she was a ton of fun to be around.  I can remember playing spin the bottle in Gail Kaufmans house with Chris, Gail and Lloyd Schwartz. Lloyd and Gail were a "couple" at that time. We were probably 14 and we had fun.  When her family moved to Wavecrest I starting hanging out with her brother Danny. Turns out that Danny and my brother Gregory became good friends, but in the process I got to be friends with Christine and Gail.  I can still see her skipping across the terrace with that cute smile on her face. Even though it was over 35 years ago that I last spoke to her I was terribly heartbroken when I attended her wake. I was one of the lucky few that was touched by such a kind soul. Her smile and friendly personality will always live on in my heart. Doug Vairo - class of '74

 

In Remembrance of Eddie Love Newson, Jr., Class of 1998

We're assured of your love even though we're apart because so much we've shared is written on our hearts. Even though you left us, we know you are with God and every day you watch us, you are our  guardian angel and we love and miss you so much.  Happy 23rd birthday and my special mother's day present, Bossman, we all miss and love you forever in our hearts. Your loved ones you lose every day and there are no words to say.  We all love you with ours hearts, and we will never be apart. Days go by, even though it gets harder to let go, but we know you're in a better place, and right now you are our 'Guardian Angel" in heaven watching over us forever.  We love you Boss, and you will always be in our hearts like we are in yours, R.I.P. Baby, 5/12/1980 - 8/20/1999 - Happy 28th Birthday, son. WE WILL CELEBRATE IN YOUR MEMORY  Octavia Newson

 

In Remembrance of Josephine Gerson Falk, Class of 1941

My mother, Josephine Gerson Falk, was almost a life-long resident of Belle Harbor, living at B. 140th St. and Newport Ave. for the last 75 of her 80 years.  She passed away 5/27/03 at home. My brother, Dr. Henry Falk and I also are grads of FRHS, 1968 and 1964 respectively. Our mother was a beautiful woman, inside and out. She was voted the most beautiful girl in her graduating class and remained beautiful until the end.  She will be missed greatly by her family and her many friends. Alyce Falk Gould

 

In Remembrance of Marilyn (Tatz) Simon, Class of 1945

My cherished, respected, admired, courageous mother, Marilyn (Tatz) Simon, died peacefully and painlessly on May 28, 2003. She suffered from cancer for only 13 months but fought this dreadful disease with the utmost courage and tolerance. My mother was the cherished wife of Milton (Class of 1942), loving mother-in-law of my husband Josh and loving grandmother of Rebecca and Cari. She is also survived by her sister Phyllis (Simmons), her husband Harvey and children. Her many friends and family members will always remember her vibrant smile and caring heart.  She will be greatly missed by all. Melanie Simon Wilner

 

In Remembrance of Todd Masef, Class of 1969

Todd was on the FRHS football team in the late 1960s.  Gordon Freed Hey Todd, did you do that girl?....I remember asking Todd that question hundreds of times. Todd and I were like brothers, and I can't sit here and write about Todd's legacy without feeling a great sense of loss. I haven't been close in the last ten years with Todd, but that doesn't mean I didn't think of him. Todd will be missed......but the "LEGEND" lives on.  See Ya Soon buddy.....Andy Krosnick Hey bud, I know there is a little more fun in heaven now. Rest in peace. Richard Weir Todd, you were the single most funniest person that ever lived people could not speak your name with out laughing. Thanks for all the laughter and the jokes. Your memory still makes people laugh.  Rest in peace, my friend.  Jeffrey Hirschbaum Todd was my cousin and more like a big brother. He was a total crackup whom I always has a blast with. I truly miss not talking to him. Russ Linden   Todd, or Toddy as he was called by me and my whole family, was my friend; my best friend, along with Michael Schwartz. Toddy and I lived on the same terrace in Wavecrest. He used to call for me by playing his trumpet out the window. My mom, may she rest in peace, would always say, "Why doesn't he come up and ring the bell?" Well, he was afraid of my father. That's why. I remember running into Toddy at a Long Beach street festival. I introduced him to Ed, my husband. And, as usual, Toddy's first remark to Ed, "Oh, lucky you. You got her after she got boobs." That was my Toddy. I'll always love him. R.I.P. my friend, Arny

 

In Remembrance of Gary Coffel, Class of 1969

Gary, You were somewhat of a loner.  Other than a great friendship with Sam Rosen and me, you pretty much kept to yourself.  Thanks for all the high times and great memories.  Sam and I will never forget you. Steve Sacks I was shocked to hear of Gary's passing. He was a classmate of mine back to JHS 180. We were friends in school, and we always had lots of good laughs. I don't think I have any recollection of Gary beyond  high school, but certainly remember some instances vividly... Gary had a great sense of humor and certainly made an impression here... Eddie Isaacs Gary was tall and quiet, that is for sure, but beneath that shy veneer lived a personality brimming with verve and sophisticated wit. We had known each other from home room. We shared friendly chats with each other, yet nothing more. The other girls and I nicknamed him "Joe Cool" for his mature style and dignified comportment. (In other words he wasn't a jerk like the rest of the boys). Yet one day, moments before the H.R. teacher arrived to take attendance and put the little marks on our Delany cards, Gary did something completely out of character. He suddenly sat so close to me, sharing my desk chair. He then  further shocked and surprised me by asking me to marry him, referencing something (that was a strange secret to only him and me). His proposal was crafted almost as a riddle. I was taken by his wit and taken by the compliment, but didn't take the question seriously. We laughed about it for a moment and then the bell rang. Thinking back to to FRHS in 1967, he probably would have been the only boy I would have been willing to ever date  from our school. For some reason I only dated boys from outside of Rockaway. Gary, Godspeed and please accept my broken heart as testimony to your very real coolness in H.S. Cristine Erickson

 

In Remembrance of Gail Leshansky, Class of 1969

Gail, You will be missed by all of us.  You and friends like Sheila and Fern were a part of our group and we will always remember your bubbly personality and warm heart.  Again, you will be missed by us all. Steve Sacks Gail- You were one in a million. We shared so many memories over the years, all of which I will always treasure. I will always remember your great smile and the amazing ability you had to light up a room just by walking into it. My heart goes out to your two wonderful children Adam and Jamie, always know that you live on through them, I love you and miss you.  Sheila Siegel Temchin Gail... The many nights that you, Sheila, Mike S, Ira S and I went to Grant Park for ice skating are still a memory that I treasure. We haven't kept in touch, I know, but that doesn't mean you haven't touched me. I have many great memories of you and I talking about life, the opposite sex, and Nehru Suits and Chunky Mama's. I'm sorry to learn of your passing, but know that you're in a much better place now. Paul Rubenstein '69

 

In Remembrance of Michelle Maroff, Class of 1965

In Memory of a Far Rockaway Friend, Michelle Maroff, 1965.  Michelle left us on Oct. 6, 1997.  I did not know her during my High School years, but met her when I was in my early 20's. She was 5 years older than I, and I thought that was the coolest thing!  She wore "expensive" makeup and wore stylish clothes!  I wanted to be like her, or so I thought.  Later I would be her Maid of Honor at her wedding to Jeff, and later on we lost touch, by accident or design...I can't remember. Maybe a bit of both, when one decides to take the road to life.   She was certainily a beautiful woman and left a daughter of 23 behind.  She never lived to see her 50th birthday, so I lived to see it for her.  We gather threads and pieces from all of the people we meet and somehow grow our own personal piece of cloth.  Michelle did not have a happy life, but we did share lots of laughs together.  I know she is at peace now and laughing and telling jokes in that BIG BEACH in the sky....I know now that when you called me in the Fall of 1997, you were ill, but did not tell me. I spoke to your brother today, and he agreed that you were probably getting nostalgic and going through your old telephone books to contact old friends.  I know now, that you were really calling to say goodbye.  Goodbye Michelle....Rest in peace. Eileen F. Schulman

 

In Remembrance of Gary Morris, Class of 1965

Gary,  You, Peter, Shelley and me . . . "look up at the light" . . . whenever I look up at the light I will think of you. Carol Schleifer, Class of '68

 

In Remembrance of Arletta Darnelle, Class of 1961

Arletta passed away October 11, 1984.  I am her younger sister.  Many people have tried to contact her and have not been made aware of her passing. Arletta will always be remembered by family and friends for the beautiful woman she was.  In our hearts forever.  I love you. Suzanne Darnelle-Shutter While  I was not close to Arletta Darnelle, we were friendly enough to go to Ellie's and to cut an occasional class.  She was a beautiful person both inside and out.  It's a lifetime ago.  She deserves to be remembered fondly. Susan Baron, Class of 1963

 

In Remembrance of Gail Schlecter Willinger, Class of 1969

An asbolutely sweetie pie who is sorely missed! Elaine S. Menashe From butterfly kisses to train rides home from the city I always thought of you as a special  friend, for 38 years. Rest in peace. I will miss you. Stuart Schor Gail was my first love. I remember in third grade winning a prize on the boardwalk and choosing a wedding ring that I gave to her. I also remember being separated in the sixth grade and walking into the principal's office demanding we be in the same class. It was great to see her at the reunion at Tavern on the Green. I will always remember you. Gary Goldstein

 

In Remembrance of Stanley Howard Rosenberg, Class of 1937

Stanley passed away June, 1990, and I am his only child, Howard. I found this site on Aug. 22, 2003 and felt the need to send this in tribute to my late father. I would love to correspond with anyone who remembered him. I know what a fine individual he was in my lifetime. I am proud that he was my dad, and have fond memories of his life with my Mother and I, as well as visits to The Lawrence Apts. on Central Ave. to visit his mom, Rose.  In loving memory, Howard Matthew Rosenberg hrosenberg@allcomm1.com

 

In Remembrance of Tommy Hayward, Class of 1970

I had heard a few years back that Tommy had come to an untimely demise. I was unable to substantiate this. However, I have been able to reconnect with Chuck Herd at Penn State and he verified that Tommy indeed is gone. Tommy and I shared the same birthdate. We played football together through the "Glory days" of Seahorse football. Tommy was a great teammate who would have done anything for his fellow teammates.  We had a connection that transcended teammates, color or religous background. I will always remember him on "our" birthday.  RIP Tommy. Alan Cohen I read that Tommy passed away in Alan Cohen's memorial. I too remember Tommy as a fun loving, handsome, special guy. We were on the JV Football team together. I was his starting center (Alan was better than me but he played Varsity) and we became close friends. I always admired his easy going nature. We were in Geography together too...what a great athlete he was. I will always remember you Tommy and think of you from time to time. He was a champion person. Rest in Peace Buddy!  Steven Kurland As I was looking through our High School Memorial Page, I came across your name.  Tears came to my eyes. I was a cheerleader when you played.  All the cheerleaders loved you and so did I. I just wanted you to know that. Cynthia Roberts Mitchell

 

In Remembrance of Lon Bernstein, Class of 1971

Lonnie was my buddy, my friend, my brother!  I can't remember a day that we didn't laugh when we spoke to each other.  Lonnie passed on September 9th, 2003.  I spoke to him 2 days before he died. We laughed!! I will miss him everyday.. I love you brother, Larry Eiven Unfortunately, another of our Far Rockaway brothers has passed on way too soon. Lonnie was always so full of good spirits and thoughts for his extended Rockaway family. We always enjoyed just hanging out and remembering the privilege of growing up in the "Rock ". Lonnie:  We will never forget you or your booming slap shot. Rest in peace, brother. Alan Zisser, Class of 1971 I love and miss my Dad; he is so special to me. I know he's somewhere with me. And I know that when I get married I won't walk down the aisle alone. I know that my Daddy will be walking with me. I want to thank everyone that I've seen recently, you are so special as well, and I will keep in touch. Love, Lynn You and Mitchell  were so close you were practically living in our house and he in yours. We lived on the same floor on 17th St. You would always come talk to me sincerely, while visiting with my brother. I have great respect for you.  Lon, you were one of the good guys. I respected you. I wish you peace and know that we will never forget you. You will always be in our hearts.  We love you Lonnie.  Sharon, Mitchell, Arleen and Eleanor (Ellie as you called her) Kaplan To the family of Lonnie Bernstein.... My sincerest condolences on the loss of Lonnie. Although we were not related we share the same last name. Lonnie and I grew up in Arverne together. His mom, Beatrice, was friends with my Mom.  In fact I have a photo, albeit/an overexposed photo, of Lonnie and my brother, David and other "kids" from Arverne..when we were very young. Maybe 8 or 9 years old. We were all a close-knit group..That was an integral part of growing up in the Rockaways. If there is anything you need please e-mail me and let me know. God Bless! Barry Bernstein and Family bbernstein01@hvc.rr.com Lon Bernstein had a heart of gold. He wasn't well for a long time, however, even in his worst days of health his concern was everyone else's feelings. He used to call my mom and brother and just want to hear about their day. That is the type of guy Lonnie was, he was a selfless person always willing to give whether it be advice or lunch or even just being there to help. He truly was an original soul.  My brother, Nick DiDio, became very close to Lon, especially in his last years and was with him the day of his passing and all throughout the hospital process. He was like family to us and his loss still effects us today. We KNOW he's in a good place and not in pain anymore. We are sure he's making Plastics sales  deals and coaching a Hockey league (or playing hockey) in heaven. :-) Rest in Peace, Lonnie and best to his family.  Maria DiDio mariadidio@gmail.com

 

In Remembrance of Donna Iacona Boley, Class of 1963

Donna died in 1972 from kidney failure after a long battle. We were married in 1966 and had one daughter, Kimberly. George Boley

 

In Remembrance of Leonard Elias, Class of 1955

First love... first husband...father of Jill Jones and Michael Elias. It was a long road. Diana Bressler Goldberg, Class of 1956

 

In Remembrance of Betty (Jean) Simon, Class of 1964

My sister Betty made so many friends and had such wonderful times in Far Rockaway and at the school. Sister Arlene, (1969) and me (1974) and my parents are devasted. If there is ANYONE who has a memory of Betty, please e-mail me at: simonjanis@hotmail.com.  Betty died in a horrifically freak accident at the age of 56. She was so full of life and joy. Everyone who met her was instantly drawn to her sweet,open and warm nature. She deserves a tribute to her loving and giving spirit. She will live on in our hearts forever.  Her best friend was Karen Schatz - they were cheerleaders. Betty loved "Towne,"Bernie's diner after El-Patio, summers at Capri Beach Club and the  25th and 35th street beaches, boardwalk, surfers,'tiki cups', Playland fireworks - Murray the "K" and his Swingin' Soiree" in Brooklyn, (riding the subway at 4AM to get tickets - my parents would flip out!) Thank God she had so many happy years enjoying the amazing pleasures of our hometown, (last stop on the "A" train).  Thank God for all the incredible memories we shared as sisters and as TRUE best friends. Being 11 yrs. older than me only enriched and enhanced our love. Our relationship took on a myriad of changes as the decades wore on. She always reminded me how she would change my diapers. Fortunately, we have lots of photos and old home movies to watch. We went to the Bronx Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Freedomland, (now Co-op City in the Bronx), she visited me at camp, we loved Manhattan, museums, restaurants, we went to tons of concerts in the 70's, 80's, 90's. My memories go on and on and new ones surface all the time. I hope I will hear from a few 'distant' friends who will comfort me and my family by sharing thoughts and memories. After Rockaway, Betty lived in many cities due to her husband's relocating every 5years: Cincinatti, Buffalo, Charleston, New Jersey. She loved Dallas and LA the best. Her last lovely home is in Charlotte, NC. She was an AVID animal lover and activist. She received awards and recognition from the local ASPCA and The Raptor's Center for her devotion and dedication to rescuing injured, abandoned, suffering birds and dogs. Her beautiful backyard became a haven to squirrels, racoons, opposums, an astounding amount of cardinals, bluejays, herons, and birds whose names I don't recall. Then, there was the returning duck family, which every spring for 13 years, gave birth to adorable ducklings in her swimming pool.  Tragically, it was in this very same pool that her life would come to a end. Her life was an important one. A life that leaves a LEGACY of joy, great compassion, and love that will NEVER be forgotten.  We shared 100's of concerts together - Jethro Tull was our favorite.  I really could fill volumes about the fun and pain we helped each other with and through. She was one of the ONLY people in my life that loved me absolutely and unconditionally. She sacrificed to save me from demons that threatened to destroy me at one time. She (and husband, Eddie) opened their home to me, countless times. Some of the most UNFORGETTABLE times, were when our whole family would get together and enjoy the love and strength we gave each other. Her two sons and her husband of 37 years, our sister, Arlene and her two daughters, and my parents, (along with aunts, uncles, cousins,and countless friends she made along the way), will keep her soul and spirit alive...forever. I am SO grateful for this opportunity to share some of the grief I am feeling. The Far Rockaway Website is growing everyday and it's existence brings us together in a powerful way. I love you, Bette, (aka Bo, Boris, Betty Boop, etc.) You're in my thoughts daily and you live inside of me. Your baby sister, ("shvester", Lynnie, etc.) Janis

 

In Remembrance of Barbara Umlas, Class of 1964

Barbara was an extraordinary girl who became a very successful mother and career woman. I will always remember our friendship and fun growing up and although I was not in touch with her for many years, her memory will be with me always. Rest well, my funny friend!  Love,  Sydne

 

In Remembrance of Mark Koller, Class of 1968

We loved you.  May God bless your soul.  Rest in peace, Mark Sharon, Mitchell and Arleen Kaplan

 

In Remembrance of Dolores "Dolly" Wagner, Class of 1957

She was the greatest sister of all time. Joyce Wagner

 

In Remembrance of Jerome Gottlieb, Class of 1960

Suddenly, at home in Hollywood, CA, much too soon.  Mourned by his cherished wife Janice Gottlieb, beloved sons, Benjamin and Jonathan, loving siblings, Roberta and Melvyn Klein, Susan and Mark Beckerman, Jerry Gemeinhardt, treasured nieces and nephews, David and Stephanie, Bill and Deborah, Ruth,  dear mother-in-law, Janette Gemeinhardt, and countless other family members and friends.  Services  Friday, 11/7, in California. For further information, write Sb1118@aol.com.

 

In Remembrance of Robert Friedman, Class of 1970

A good friend. Alan Siperstein I just heard about Robert's passing.  How tragic.  He was a good friend and a close boyfriend for a short while in 1971.  We met in Mr. Canillo's office doing clerical work in lieu of phys. ed. because we both were recovering rhinoplasty patients.  He lived in Wavecrest until his mom's passing then moved to the Bronx to live with relatives.  He attended Lehman College and we hung out at his fraternity house and his aunt's beachclub.  He was outgoing, sweet, and will be missed. Margo Unger

 

In Remembrance of Ernie Rosenberg, Class of 1957

Ernie & I just reconnected on Oct. 28, 2003. We had not seen each other for 36 years! We had a wonderful afternoon and we were both so pleased to have found each other again.  It was wonderful to look into his eyes and see my old friend. Just 5 days later, on Nov. 2, 2003 he died of an aneurysm.  I am thankful we had a chance to tell one another how important we were to each other. I am sorry that we had so little time together. Judi Sokatch-Wandres

 

In Remembrance of Richard Hochberger, Class of 1967 

Rich Hochberger was my brother and my hero.  He was a dedicated pediatrician and family man.  He lived life to the fullest every day.  Rockaway meant a great deal to him.  He lived in Texas, but returned for reunions and loved re-establishing ties with old friends.  Most of his Rockaway friends do not know that he was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in February of 2003.  He died in October after a valiant fight. He only wanted to be able to survive and lecture children about the dangers of smoking (even though he did NOT die of smoking-related lung cancer).  He never refused to treat a child and always went to the ends of the earth for his patients.  He truly left his mark on this world.  I will miss him always. Martha Hochberger

 

In Remembrance of Ernest Owusu, Class of 1987

ERNEST OWUSU 1970 - 2003 His high school nickname was "Scoop."  He was extremely well liked, played football, and was in the law club.  In the yearbook, Ernest stated as his goal, "To play college football."  Ernest was one of those guys who actually did what he said he'd do.  He went on to SUNY Stony Brook, where he played football.  He distinguished himself well enough as a wide receiver for Stony Brook that he landed a job as an assistant coach for St. John's Red Storms. Afterwards, Ernest coached a football team called The Panthers and they were 7-2 up until he left because of his illness.  He also taught social studies at Francis Lewis High School, thus also advancing his academic as well as varsity objectives.  But, an even greater legacy will be the family he leaves behind.  He married Candice in the mid-1990s, and they had two beautiful children: a boy, Kwame, 6, and a girl, Isis, 4. In 1997, he was diagnosed with an advanced neuroblastoma, and was given 6 months to live.  He valiantly battled his cancer for six years, earning the unending respect of his peers. Ernest passed quietly in his sleep on November 26, 2003.

 

In Remembrance of Ronald F. Morris, Class of 1982 

Ronald F. Morris passed away December 26,1989.  He battled leukemia for several years.  He was a great sportsman,  and one of the best human beings on the planet. He is missed greatly. Lisa

 

In Remembrance of Elaine Kessler Ornstein, Class of 1956

Elaine was a true unwavering friend. Her keen mind (school teacher) combined with a realistic and staunch nature that revered the truth and placed her family, particularly her husband Maurice (Meacy) and children Debra, Michelle and Michael above everything speaks volumes for this noble soul. Bind up the thoughts of her life with the Robert Frost poem about another road taken. She lives in a part of my mind and I am particularly touched by her as I write this. Myron Domsky

 

In Remembrance of Barbara Shevins, Class of 1965

It is so sad to see one's contemporaries on a memorial page. I was sadly surprised to see Barbara's name here. I knew Barbara in J.H.S.  We were in the same classes at Cardozo Jr. H.S. in Arverne. I wasn't really friends with Barbara although I admired her. I remember how really attractive she was. So slim, with her long dark hair parted on the side and hanging partly over her face (a brunette Veronica Lake). She was in a clique that was like really the coolest at that time. It consisted of Barbara Kantor, Michael Barnes, Howie Stubin,  Ross Eisenberg and a short, pretty, girl named Amy (who sat next to me in French, but I can't remember her last name). Theresa McClellen, Mark Spitz, and Steven Aronowitz were also in the class. Unfortunately, I see faces before me but cannot recall anymore names.  Au Revoir, Barbara Ron Gelman

 

In Remembrance of Barry Auerbach, Class of 1965

Barry and I were friends in the Edgemere houses, before Barry and his mom moved to Florida. Barry was a good friend and helped me out in a crunch.  Barry and I worked together once unloading a truckload of bathing suits for one of the schlock shops on Edgemere Ave. During our lunch break we both got ham and cheese on rolls but Barry ordered a beer and made me put back my soda for a cold beer. What a refreshing treat it was!  I learned to appreciate a cold one!!!  Barry came with me to the house of my girlfriend's friend in Bayswater. My girlfriend, Jane Heller, was there too. Barry had brought a record with him. It was "Like a Rolling Stone" by Dylan. He asked how we liked it, but at first we didn't know what to make of it, with that Dylan goat voice. We made him play it a dozen times to his consternation!!! But I became a confirmed Dylan freak after that. I remember his mom as a really nice lady. I was so sad to hear that Barry is not with us any more. What a shame!!! Miss ya, Barry. Ron Gelman I was just scrolling through these pages and noticed that Barry had passed on. I remember him as one of the first guys I met in the Edgemere Houses in 1963 or 1964. I remember softball games at 198 and 105 parks as well as climbing over the fence by Jamaica Bay (where we were not supposed to be) to play "home run derby". Barry was one of the first wild and crazy guys that I met and until today I remember some of the things we got into. I had always wanted to connect with him again to check him out and just found out that he passed. All I can say is that he is up there somewhere grabbing a brew and having a good time.  I'll miss you buddy. James Fludd

 

In Remembrance of Gus Kyriacou, Class of 1958

Fun loving, cordial, a GOLDEN HEART; I will always miss him...the LATE nights on the BOARDWALK. Your younger BROTHER,  George

 

In Remembrance of James Carriddi, Class of 1974

James Carriddi, Class of 1974 passed away on December 25, 2003. I attended his wake last night at the Perry Funeral Home in Lynbrook ,NY.  It was also his 47th birthday.  The funeral will be held tomorrow Monday, December 29, 2003 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Lynbrook, NY.  You can confirm with the funeral home at 516 593-1111.  He was a fellow classmate and his passing has saddened many!! Sincerely, Rhonda (Kasin) Romanelli Class of 1974 Jimmy Carriddi was a football player at FRHS when I was a cheerleader, and I remember hanging with him and the Rauchbach twins after many games. I hadn't seen him since graduation and I was saddened to read about his passing. I will always remember him as part of the fun we had in FRHS.  Blessings to you, Jimmy Rhonda Uretzky  I was quite upset to learn the circumstances surrounding Jim's death. When we were seniors, Jim joined us on the track team to throw the shot put. Both of us joined the NYPD around the same time. We crossed paths quite a few times over his 20 years in the job. He was a good man with a great sense of humor. He is truly missed.  Edward J. Conroy

 

In Remembrance of Walter Stark, Class of 1961

My dad and Walter's owned Ken-Wals Texaco Station on Sheridan Blvd. from 1945 until the late 70s.  Most everyone in the Rockaways used them at one time or another. Walter moved to Missouri many years ago and we had lost touch, but I was touched by his passing at only 59. I'll always remember our days of pumping gas together and as cabana boys at Silverpoint Beach Club  in the late 50s and early 60s. Those were sweet years and Walter was a sweet guy. Ken Feldman Class of 1961

 

In Remembrance of Michael Iannico, Class of 1965

Michael, it all goes way too fast. You were my best friend. The 61 Yankees...we were 13 and on top of the world. I'm sorry we lost touch the last  couple of years. I'll never forget you. Rest in peace, you gentle soul.  Larry Weiss

 

In Remembrance of Arthur Zampino, Class of 1981

As my very dear friend Debbie Zampino and I reminisce about her brother Arthur, I envision him standing on his 14th floor terrace on 19th Street.  So many people who lived in the buildings loved to sit on their terraces looking out into the Rockaway waves.  Like many of us, Arthur looked out to see who was hanging out in the middle of the buildings.  I remember him always whistling so I would look up and wave hello, no matter what time of the day or night it was. I vividly remember the day me, Debbie, Digna (Arthur's girlfriend at the time), Billy Walsh and Arthur hanging out at the beach all day on 17th Street. I still remember that big boom box that played all the great 70s music and of course "Elvis," who Arthur loved to imitate. Who would ever think that a fun, innocent day would turn into a night of horror and confusion.  Who would ever think or believe Arthur's life would be taken away so fast, so young.  I never thought that day would be the last day I would see Arthur. He was really such a sweet, handsome, all-around nice guy.  Arthur has always been in our thoughts and memories- He is very much missed by many of us.  We Love You. Diane Lavenda  The death of Artie Zampino has left a permament mark on all that knew him. Our childhoods were lost on the day his life was taken, he will be remembered always. Just another kid who hung out on the beach at 17th. A friend "Wow" First I'd like to say Arthur, after 25 years I still miss you, as do all of your other friends from 17th St. Today I am 37 yrs. old. My friends from the old neighborhood know me as Puerto Rican Dave or D.M.L. from Apt. #2j. My window faced the swimming pool in between the two buildings. I remember when Arthur, John, Vinny, Evan and the rest of the gang would hang outside by the pool during summertime waiting for it to open playing chinese handball. I would set up my speakers on the window sill and mix my music while the guys played. Arthur was truly a loyal friend to all that knew him, and a big brother to me. Arthur had a small gym room down in the basement of this huge parking lot garage where he trained. He'd always invite all of us to train with him, And actually showed me how to use the speed bag. Arthur was built like a brick wall and someone i wanted to be like who was loved by all. Arthur was a leader and a captain of the Far Rockaway H.S. wrestling team. He had so much going for him, and i felt like he was meant to do something huge with his life. I remember the loss of Arthur not only changed me, but our community. We were hurt and very, very, angry. I remember Arthur now by telling stories of Arthur and the old neighborhood. I now live in Cape Coral FL. And about a year ago I ran into someone who also knew Arthur Zampino, and we shared, laughed, and were saddened of the lost of a great human being who I still call my big brother. I'll see you someday, bro. David Little oldschool_dl@yahoo.com I first met Artie when I was a kid growing up in Far Rock. We hit it off pretty good. We became close friends as teenagers and even shared a gym  together given to us by the management of Ocean Park Apts., where we grew up. Artie's dad was ultimately in charge and we would have to answer to him in we got in any trouble. Artie and I hung out with each just about every day, including the day of his death. It still is a terrible memory. Not a year goes by especially June - that I don't think of, and miss him.  Your loving friend,  John Goomishian I grew up with Debbie and last I heard from her was back in the late 80s after Arthur passed. I had known the family for years. I met Debbie in kindergarten, Arthur was just a tyke. Many years have passed since then and I am wondering what ever happened to Deb and her parents Chris Granados

 

In Remembrance of Charlie Levy, Class of 1947

Charlie Levy died March 2003.  He is survived by three children...Shari, Wendi and Jeff.  He gambled until the end! Ellen Cohn Levy

 

In Remembrance of Patty Dolman Marcus, Class of 1968

Patty passed away Saturday morning, March 27, 2004.  Services will be held at: Mount Sinai Memorial Chapel 454 Cranberry Rd. East Brunswick, NJ 12:00 PM Phone:  732-238-9844 Please get in touch with Steve Eisenberg, Patty's brother-in-law, for further information.  sberg52@msn.com I will aways have fond memories of our inseparable friendship and all the fun we had.  Though the years drifted us apart, meeting once again with our daughters thanks to this web site was a blessing.  I will miss you dearly, my friend. Until we meet again, I will always hold you in my heart.  My sincere sympathies to Patty's family. Ronnie Tarnofsky (Mauro) My dear sister Patty, You will always be in my heart, you brought so much happiness to everybody you encounted through the journey of life. You will be missed by everybody and though you are no longer with us your spirit will be with us through eternity.  Love you forever  Paula My Dear'st Aunt Patty Whenever we were together you always made me laugh, you will always be in my heart I will miss you very much. Love You Always,  Raina Patty was a rare and special friend.  Things happened to Patty that always made one laugh.  They were almost unbelievable, but weird things did happen to Patty.  She was a true friend and one who is missed.  Her daughters are great and making it in life because of her early influence.  Patty, YOU ARE MISSED!  Robyn (Posner) Small Class of 1968

 

In Remembrance of Greg Georges, Class of 1964

Greg passed away March 23 '04, of esophageal cancer, in The Woodlands, Texas. He died peacefully, surrounded by his family and friends. Greg played baseball and football at FRHS, and later at Lehigh University. At Lehigh he earned degrees in Enginering (BS), and Business (MBA). Greg was President and CEO of Fairway Medical Technologies in Houston, Texas. Dean Georges

 

In Remembrance of John Cholakis, Class of 1948

John Cholakis: vibrant, athletic and above all, a good friend. Ken Livingston

 

In Remembrance of Neil Golowesky, Class of 1963 

Please see the link located here: http://www.farrockaway.com/neilgoloweskyspassing.html Irwin H. Siner (Sinofsky, Class of 1963)

 
 

In Remembrance of Michael David Topel, Class of 1973

My brother, Michael Topel, passed away in November of 2002, after a long and valiant battle.  He loved Far Rockaway, his friends from that time andI hope his memory and love live on through his great friends and family.  I miss my brother and those who knew him do too. To contact the family, our updated email address is topelgroup@comcast.net Richard Topel

 

In Remembrance of Marsha Debra Rosenblum, Class of 1974

When I met Marsha Rosenblum at 16 years old I remember her as a a vibrant, beautiful, and very bright person. She excelled in her studies at Hi-Li Yeshiva, then at Far Rockaway High School. She worked in many of the nursing homes throughout the Rockaways as a social worker. Anyone that knew Marsha knew that she endured many hardships throughout her life both emotional and physical, however she had a good and caring heart and there was nothing she wouldn't do for a person. Marsha was a very good sister to her brother, (Allen) when we were growing up. I recall the many times we took long walks on the beach by the water together. We had good times together. Unfortunately having breast cancer was a challenge that she had to face and live with for the past eight years. The past few months were tough for her but she kept on telling me how lucky she was to have the love and support from her family. We all shared memories, stories and feelings about life. I know Marsha is in a better place now- in peace and not suffering.  We will all miss her but we have to be thankful for the time we spent together. Diane Lavenda Rosenblum

 

In Remembrance of Murray Lee Brody, Class of 1928

Murray Lee Brody 1909-2004 There are Fathers and Fathers, but the Father we had, was all in one, a Brother, a Mother, a Pal and a Dad His ways were so gentle, so loving and kind. He truly possessed a beautiful mind. Despite his ups, his downs and his pains, he was able to create his immortal refrains. His presence on earth was a blessing in disguise, much more then any could truly realize. We mourn the loss of one so selfless and sweet, his departure has left us with lives incomplete. Gone but not forgotten, his wonderful memories will stay, locked in our hearts forever, forever and a day. Written by Murray Lee Brody on the passing of HIS father in 1938.

 

In Remembrance of Gary Wong Sing, Class of 1977

Gary was a wonderful friend.  He was a talented person who went to FIT for design.  He was taken tragically from us at the young age of 30.  I just discovered this site and think it's wonderful that I can pay tribute to him here.  He is greatly missed and will always be in my thoughts. James W. Petherbridge, Class of 1977

 

In Remembrance of Marc Rosenberg, M.D., Class of 1948

Marc was a graduate of Cornell University, 1952, and graduated from NYU School of Medicine in 1956. He practiced medicine as an anesthesiologist, affiliated with Yale University School of Medicine. Lawrence Ross

 

In Remembrance of Patricia Dunleavy Flay, Class of 1956

My wife, Pat Dunleavy Flay, passed away in 1986.  She had just turned 47.  She had three boys, Harold, Jr., Kevin and Steven, who have grown into three terrific men. I now have two grandsons, (and another child expected in April) that she never had the pleasure of seeing.  She loved life, and anyone that had the good fortune to know her recognized what an unselfish and giving person she was. She was one in a million. I encourage anyone who knew Pat and reads this to include any memories they may have of Pat. Harold Flay, Sr. Class of 1951 Mrs. Flay was truly a wonderful women. As a friend of her son Harold, I had the pleasure of knowing her, her husband Harold Sr., and the rest of the Flay family.  Mrs. Flay always welcomed Harold's friends and always treated us as members of the Flay family. She was a special lady and her personality and outlook were as bright as the sun. I am a better person for knowing her and saddened by her passing. Frank Murray

 

In Remembrance of Fred C. Nelson Jr., Class of 1982

"Freddie," as you were affectionately called Have been missed by one and all Your smile and laughter still remains with us But, most of all your personality was a plus. I know, baby brother, that you are at peace Although it is hard for me to accept this, but  One day we shall meet. I will forever cherish the memories of you As you will always be in my heart. Missing You Lorna

 

In Remembrance of Sybil Liblit Koester, Class of 1949

To all friends of Sybil Liblit (Koester), I am her son, Joshua Cedar. She began to make contact with old schoolmates only 3 years ago on this website. I am sorry to say she passed away on March 29, 2004. You all should know she was an incredible mom and grandmother and a wonderful person. I miss her terribly. Joshua Cedar

 

In Remembrance of Myrna Dillon, Class of 1953

Myrna was an adorable girl..Zach Solomon was her boyfriend; we were neighbors and friends in Belle Harbor for many years. Lydia Port Kaufman Axelrod

 

In Remembrance of Lisa Goldstein, Class of 1973

"I can see clearly now the rain is gone.  I can see all obstacles in my way.  Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind. It's gonna be a bright, bright, bright sunshiny day." This was Lisa's mantra.  She was always motivated and positive.  We were majorettes together but friends first, since fourth grade.  My memories of Lisa always bring a smile; her Barbra Streisand imitations, "I got 36 expressions.  Sweet as pie to tough as leather..."  She was a natural.  Being first in the crowd to have her own car, a Cougar, Lisa shared her car and time with "The Girls."  She drove us everywhere.  I last saw Lisa at our 15th Reunion and she told me she had a son.  I hope Seth gets to see this so that he can know how very popular, very generous and very cool his mother was.  One of a kind! You touched my life Lisa, and I was priviledged to have known you.  With the fondest of memories, Your childhood friend, Susan Abramowitz

 

In Remembrance of Natalie Bozarth, Class of 1974

Natalie was the first friend I made after having moved from Brooklyn to Far Rock in 1971, and she introduced me to my very dear friend Alice Barbera (nee Boudreau). In 1974 I went off to SUNY Buffalo, and a couple of years later she moved north to the same university to continue a degree she had started at Queens College. My oldest son, now nearly 25, was 3 years old the last time I spoke to her. I regret that we lost contact after that time. She deserves a mention and a remembrance for her original and generous heart. Rest in peace, my friend. Joan (Yurgel) Zimmermann  I was very saddened to learn of the passing of my very dear friend Natalie.  She was the first smile I saw when I came to the schools in the Rockaways. I met her at JHS 180 in the 8th grade; we had home room together.  I was a very shy, quiet girl then. She introduced herself to me and we became fast and close friends throughout the years.  She introduced me to my very close and dear friend, Joan (Yurgel) Zimmermann, whose friendship I have cherished all these years.  Nat, Joan and I used to spend many, many days together going to the beach, hanging out at each others houses, going to FRHS football games, going into the city (Manhattan) and just growing up together...we were young girls becoming young ladies together. Nat was very outgoing..always had a smile on her face and never an unkind word to say about anyone. She had a beautiful soul, a warm heart and a vibrant personality. Nat, Joan and I worked on the FRHS yearbook together. We also did SING together.  We had so much fun, so many laughs..such wonderful memories of two very special friendships that will stay with me forever. When I got married, Nat wanted to give me a gift that would really mean something to me from her...so she gave me Christmas ornaments...and now my husband and I, along with our three children, decorate our Christmas tree every year with those ornaments she had given me so many years ago..and I think about her with a smile. It's very hard to say good-bye to someone who was a very special part of my childhood.  Nat, I pray that your life was fulfilled...that you were surrounded by love and happiness, because you deserved that. You will be very missed. Rest in peace, Natalie.... Your Friend,  Alice (Boudreau) Barbera

 

In Remembrance of Cynthia Libsohn Friedman, Class of 1956

My sweet sister, Cynthia Libsohn Friedman, beloved by her husband, children, parents, died too early of Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma on July 22, 2003. We had been estranged for years due to misunderstandings and interference, but I had hoped that soon, we would once again sit on rocking chairs, as we did when we were young on our mother's porch in Rockaway Park, and as we rocked together, would air out all differences. That was not to be and I sorely regret it. With remembrances of only good times, laughs and much love, Her sister,  Marcia Libsohn Rosten Minus the matriarchic bond of my mother, the family glass shattered; the splinters sadly estranged themselves to unchartered journeys, empty...unending for that universal quest for belonging to a familiar nucleus.  And so I say to you, Dear Mother of whom I miss  so terribly, you're welcome - for your soul and spirit lives on. I see you every day in her eyes, and I rejoice! May the fragments of the family and the unknown treks they travel on lead one day rejoin to smile on your countenance.  Seth Friedman

 

In Remembrance of Shelley Zwilling, Class of 1969

Shelley was one of my two best friends from 1961 to 1965 or so. We parted ways naturally when I made the 2-year SP in JHS 198 and she did not. She lived in the "double building" behind 56-16 Beach Channel Drive (where I lived), in the Edgemere Houses.  She was a sweet girl. The thing  I remember most is that she was the one who first told me about the Beatles -- up until about a week before they came to the US on February 7, 1964, I had never even heard of them.  I was truly shocked to learn she had passed, and hope someone out there can tell me what became of her after 1965. Sue Feder Monkshould@comcast.net Shelly Zwilling was my cousin by marriage.  Shelly was a very sweet person.  Unfortunately we did not keep in touch too much.  The last time I had seen Shelly was at my husband's unveiling in 1995.  Shelly and her husband lived in Brooklyn and were re-constructing an old house.  One night (I not to sure of how long ago), the house caught fire and when the fire was out, the firemen found Shelly's body.  She had been murdered and the house set on fire to cover the crime.  The police have never been able to prove who did it, but they believe it was one of the construction men working on the house.  Shelly was really sweet and she did not deserve to die this way.  I only knew Shelly from 1965 on when I met my husband.  She was at my wedding in 1969.  Shelly left behind her husband, mother and brother. Debra P.  Zwilling

 

In Remembrance of Russell Rosenthal, Class of 1965

I looked for you for years, and I finally found you. What do you say about your first love. I don't know where to begin. There are so many memories of you, your family and our friends. Far Rockaway in the 60's, what a time and place.  We were supposed to get married. Your mother had the wedding planned from Junior High School on. From your time in Viet Nam, and visiting you in Fort Dix, (I got lost driving there). The time we were having a blizzard, and we were walking from the bus stop, it was so bad out that I finally just sat down on a snow bank and cried, and you picked me up and carried me the rest of the way.  You taught me to drive! The list goes on.  What happened to us? I don't remember.  All I know is that I never forgot you and still miss you. When did you leave us?  What was your life like? Did you marry? Did you have children? Where have you lived? So many questions, and now I will never have the answers. Did you ever think of me? Maybe it was just me who never forgot.  You will forever be a special part of me, and I will never forget you. You were and always will be my first love. Love, Marilyn (Seltzer) Montgomery If anyone knows anything about Russell's life, when or how we lost him, please contact me at: mmontgomery1947@yahoo.com

 

In Remembrance of Barry Cahn, Class of 1960

I'm sorry to have to report that my dear friend, of 45 years, Barry Cahn, Class of 1960, died on November 9, 2004.  Please add his name to the memorial list.  Anyone who would like details can write to me, Bonnie Fishman Bruckheimer Class of 1962, at BonnieBglad@aol.com Thanks so much, Bonnie

 

In Remembrance of Wolf Feldman, Class of 1935

My heart belongs to daddy... Marla Feldman-Jones, Class of 1972

 

In Remembrance of Andrew Marasco, Class of 1934

Andrew passed away peacefully on December 26, 2004 at the age of 88. A WWII combat veteran, he was buried by a military honor guard in a very moving ceremony. He will be missed by all who knew him.

 

In Remembrance of Herbert Frankel, Class of 1942

Herb passed away today (1/29/05) after a brief illness.  He had been in touch with many of his former classmates from P.S. 114 and FRHS. He and I became friends for the last three or four years and enjoyed concerts, operas, dinners and museum visiting.  He was always interested in the local news from the Rockaways and had an indefatigable memory of names of teachers, classmates and activities from those days. He will be sorely missed. Diane Kingsley Stern, Class of 1942

 

In Remembrance of Harold Center, Class of 1956

Harold was a unique quirky guy who never quite got his right foot and left foot to work in tandem. He sort-of crab-walked. I knew him before we went to FRHS. I think somehow he got into Troop 116 at P.S. 39 and then Troop 100 at Shaaray Tefilla. He took the time to teach the younger scouts how to take great pictures and even showed us how to develop them. I was saddened he passed so young, I can still see him in chinos a white shirt and his hair always awry and with a warm smile. Bob Schiffer

 

In Remembrance of Steven D. Schuster, Class of 1972 

My brother Steven died on June 30, 1971, and would have graduated in 1972. I never saw a bigger turn out for a funeral in my life. Glenn Schuster, Class of 1968

 

In Remembrance of Robert David Skolnik (Scully), Class of 1957

I just want to say a last farewell to my brother, whom you may remember as "Scully." He passed away on April 14, 2004 after a 2-1/2 year battle with colon cancer. I would like to encourage everyone to have a colonoscopy and an endoscopy on a regular basis.  You must have both. My brother loved life, and I remember him mostly with a big smile and a wonderful sense of humor. His joyful presence is missed, but his spirit is with me always. Harriet Beck

 

In Remembrance of Marty Rubin, Class of 1968

Marty, you left us so unexpectedly on Thursday, March 24, 2005. You and I were friends since the 7th grade at JHS 198. I'll never forget all the great times we had in Las Vegas over years. You were a good, kind and caring soul who gave gave to everyone. Barry and I often share the memory of our time spent in New York at our 20th reunion in Far Rockaway in 1988.  What a great laugh we had at Nathans in Oceanside. We will always love you. Your pals, Steve Sacks Barry Kalfin I hope everyone understands that I need to post more of my feelings about Marty. As I sit here in tears over the loss of my friend I want people to know that Marty was "Uncle Marty" to my daughters Jaclynn and Dana. Marty had no children of his own and was Uncle Marty to the children of some of our friends. Those of you know who I mean.  He treated his " Nieces and Nephews" as if they were his own. Both my girls had several pool birthday parties at Uncle Marty's home in Thousand Oaks, Cailifornia. Marty was a great success financially but it never went to his head.  He was just a Good Ole Rockaway Boy.  I hope I'm done expressing myself, but I loved him enough not to make any promises about that. We were more like brothers than friends. To all who knew and loved him (Joel, Howie, Les, etc.) always know that he loved you very much. Marty, I hope you're at peace and spending time with Mickey (Mom). Steve Sacks Marty was my oldest friend from Far Rockaway. We grew up on Beach 36th Street, on the bay side. I remember him when we were both too young to remember much of anything (sharing a playpen).  I remember visiting him after he had his hernia operation and all he wanted to do was play baseball. We played stickball, punchball, stoop ball, baseball, all on 36th St. We had a crew, Michael and Ricky Eisman, Georgie from 37th street (lived above Ben's grocery store, Dennis McKeon, Michael who lived in the boathouse. I am glad I got to rekindle my friendship with Marty during the 100 year celebration and again at my 30th reunion (he came with me so he could visit with old friends). Marty, I hope you are at peace. God bless you. Joel Stern

 

In Remembrance of Victor Gold, Class of 1965

Victor and I shared a name, but traveled in different circles. Our paths seperated after FRHS, then I ran into him by surprise when he was a student at New York Medical Collge, and I was just a research tech still trying to get into med school. He told me to stick with it, and I did. I'm saddened to see that he is gone. Hank Gold, M.D.

 

In Remembrance of Robert Soldo, Class of 1975

Robert was a great and dear friend whom I lost touch with around 1990 or so.  I last knew he lived in East Strousberg, PA and was married.  I'd love to hear from the family and he will be deeply missed as he was a funny and kind human being and a generous friend. Mark Schechter I was in absolute disbelief when I heard about the passing of my friend Robert Soldo.  I just found out earlier this year from a mutual friend. I can remember the numerous hours/days that we played, gigged, rehearsed with our band.  Rob was an EXCELLENT GUITARIST..and a GREAT HUMAN being.  The last time I saw Rob was around 1976, the year I graduated from Far Rock. Rob was always encouraging as well as optimistic.  I still have some pictures of us jamming in Emery's basement... MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. Your friend., Vince

 

In Remembrance of Herbert Langsam, Class of 1936

Herbert Langsam, Class of 1936, died on December 16, 2003. He had many happy memories of FRHS which he shared with his family. From FRHS he went to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Class of 1940). During WWII he served as a Captain in the U.S. Army.  In 1948 he married Rosalyn Seevak of Boston, MA.  They moved to Tacoma, WA and then to San Francisco in 1952. He had three daughters, one son and 6 grandchildren.  Herb had a long successful career in retailing, retiring in 1999 at the age of 80. Herb was the nicest person in the world; kind, sweet, devoted to family and friends. He left a family who adored him and many loving friends. Rosalyn Langsam

 

In Remembrance of Richard Stern, Class of 1976

Richie was working for the Hewlett Post Office.  In 1987 he became very ill.  He died of cancer in Jjune 1987.  Richie never had a bad word for anybody.  He could always be counted on by his friends.  He left this world much too soon.  Lori Lent Greiner

 

In Remembrance of Susan (Stuminski) Peterman, Class of 1969

Dear Sue, You lived in the apartment just downsatairs from me in Wavecrest. We had some great times together.  While I was in Florida this year from January to April we spoke many times and planned to get together. Your illness and treatment prevented that reunion. I'm now back in California and wish with all my heart that I could have seen you one more time. It's said that in Heaven everyone is 30 years of age and in glowing, perfect health. I hope that's true and you are as radiant and as vibrant as I remember you. With much love and fond memories. Steve S. I am so sorry to learn of your passing. I am also so sorry we fell out of touch after you moved to Florida. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your sincere friendship.  Yours was amongst one of the truest friendships I have ever been blessed with. Thank you, Sue. Could we ever explain to anyone now, how good it was to be alive in the Rockaway (Far Rockaway of the 1960s)? With love, Cristine Erickson

 

In Remembrance of Hugh Frost, Class of 1958

My brother Hugh and I shared a room all through our growing up years in Rockaway. He passed away much too young at the age of 50 in 1991.  Alan Frost, FRHS 1963  I was going through the Memories page and saw Hugh's name.  I was so sorry to read about his passing.  I met Hugh when we were in the 6th grade at P.S. 44 and we became friends.  I think of him often. Arlene Lichtblau Parker I want to share a memory  Hugh Frost beat me out for the starting shortstop position on the FRHS baseball team.  Truth be told, he was better than me.  I found him to be a lovely guy and I was saddened to hear of his passing at such a young age. Larry Moshan

 

In Remembrance of Betti Birenbaum, Class of 1973

I always liked Betti because she was about the only person who could look me in the eye.  (We little people couldn't do that too often).  An overdue Rest in Peace to you. Lisa Berman Shaw

 

In Remembrance of Sue-Carol Ludacer Nussbaum, Class of 1950

Sue-Carol Ludacer Nussbaum passed away this morning, 6/21/05 around 8:30 AM, EST.  She had been fighting cancer for several years, and was recently diagnosed with terminal leukemia.  She passed away in Naples, FL, where she and her husband Ken have resided for many years.  During the stay at Hospice she was accompanied by many close friends and family.  She was not alone, very much loved, and completely comfortable when she passed.  Funeral services will be held at Robert Schoem Menorah Chapel, on Friday, June 24, at 10:00 AM.  The Chapel is located at 150 Route 4 East, Paramus, NJ.  To contact the Chapel please feel free to call 201-843-9090 or 800-426-5869. Sue's family has used her actual working web site as a tribute to Sue for friends which not only includes loads of photos, but the eulogy she wrote for herself, "Who Will Speak For Me." Please sign their guestbook as well.  http://www.themightierpen.com/

 

In Remembrance of Phyllis Officina, Class of 1956

Phyllis was a quiet gal who preferred to observe rather than be observed, but she was indeed seen, and those lucky enough to know her knew she was warm, caring and wise beyond her years.

 

In Remembrance of Sean Rooney, Class of 1970

Sean was my first true love and I still think about him and wonder what life might have brought to us. He was full of life, dreams, and laughter. He changed my life forever.  If any of his sisters or parents ever check this sight, I would love to hear from them.  Janet Brodsky Janetedpsych@cox.net

 

In Remembrance of Elaine (Feinberg) Bender, Class of 1957

It is with great sadness that I report the death of my beloved sister, Elaine (Feinberg) Bender ('57) on May 1, 2005. At FRHS, Elaine was News Editor of the "Chat," on the staff of the Dolphin and on the Senior Play Writing Committee. She received her BA in English from Alfred University, and her MA from Columbia University. Elaine lived in Torrance, CA for the past 32 years where she taught English at El Camino College and Pasadena City College.  One of our neighbors from Far Rockaway wrote: "She was challenging, searching to elevate our level on all accounts, a reminder of our childhood...most often evoking smiles via a sharp wit..." I will miss her with all my heart. Rhoda (Feinberg) Nevins '62

 

In Remembrance of Sheila Shear, Class of 1960

I just learned of an old friend, 1960 grad Sheila Shear, passing away and am truly shocked.  I was living in Bayswater Garden Apartments when I was first married.  We lived there for nine years until we moved to Long Island. Sheila Shear, her mom, dad and brother lived in the apartment just above us. Although Sheila and I knew of each other at FRHS, I was in the class of 1959, so we never really became friends until Bayswater.  We even came to her wedding.  However, that marriage only lasted about year.  Through the years our friendship grew.  When we moved to Long Island, it was more difficult to keep in contact with one another. Sheila never married again and lived a pretty lonely life.  Years would go by and I would think,  "I have not heard from Sheila in a long time and should give her a call."  So I would call her and she would be so happy to hear from me. We would say "We have to get together," but unfortunately that day never came.  The last time I spoke to Sheila was six years ago.  Again, she was so happy to hear from me and of course we both planned to get together and stay in touch more often.  That day never came! Today, I started thinking about her and called her house.  Her mom, Betty, now 85, started crying and told me Sheila passed away, "alone" in her apartment this past May.  I cannot stop crying!!  My only thought is "when you say to a friend or relative that we must get together," mean it!  Get together often and let that person know how much you care for them.  I feel very bad because I never got the chance to tell Sheila how much my husband, children and I cared for her.  Karen Klein Lutzker, Class of 1959

 

In Remembrance of Richard Davis, Class of 1942

My dear brother Richard Davis was in the 8th Air Force fighting in World War II.  He was a Navigator, killed in action, while returning from a bombing mission over Berlin in 1944, on his 11th mission.  He was a graduate of FRHS class of 1942. Dead at the age of 20.  Mourned by his sister, Sue, class of 1947, and a grateful nation. Sue Davis Wulf

 

In Remembrance of Ellen Fox, Class of 1978

Ellen Fox passed away this afternoon, September 3, 2005, shortly after 1 p.m.  Arrangements will be handled by Sparkman/Hillcrest in Dallas.  There will be visitation this Thursday from 6 - 9 p.m. and services will be on Friday at 4 p.m.  Ellen was much loved by all who knew her.   Her gentle, caring spirit shone  through to the end.  She will be greatly missed.  May God be with her and her family. Donations can be made to the Leukemia Society of America in memory of Ellen Robin Fox.  By regular mail, send to: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society  Donor Services  P.O. Box 4072 Pittsfield, MA 01202 Online, please go to this page and scroll down to "Designate Your Donation" after filling out the form. I was deeply saddend to read about the untimely passing of Ellen Fox and Christine Hess. I grew up in Wavecrest on the same terrace as Christine. I went to school with Ellen's brother Neil Fox. My hearfelt sympathy goes out to the Fox and Hess families. If anyone knows how I can get in touch with the family please e-mail me at YRW1957@aol.com Thank You, Yvette (Weiss) Kleinman  My sister Ellen passed away a year ago this Sept.3rd. There are so many wonderful things I could say about her, but two things from the end of her life say it all.  I walked into her hospital room about two weeks before she died.  She had vacation magazines spread out on her bed, planning a trip for when she recovered. About a week before she died, she found out that there was nothing the doctors could do for her, when she told me, she used the words "little setback"  Always the optimist!  I loved her, and I miss her. Stewart Fox

 

In Remembrance of Arthur Zankel, Class of 1948

Zankel Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall is named for him and his wife. I read of his death while away.  I knew him casually but would like to  hear how some of his classmates remember him. Stanley I. Kirwin

 

In Remembrance of Ricky Feldman, Class of 1975

I am writing this letter with great sorrow to inform you and the alumni of Far Rockaway High School that my brother Ricky Feldman passed away unexpectedly on August 18th 2005. His year of graduation was 1975. I would like to have his name appear on the Memorial Page of the School website. He was well known and will be dearly missed by many. My name is Steve Feldman and I graduated in 1979. If you need to reach me my email is Sfel@optonline.net Thank You, Steve F. I'm sure all of you who know me know that I went out with Ricky Feldman (class of 75) back in HS.  We were each others first loves and about 10 yrs. ago, he got back in touch with me. We'd been inseparable ever since. He married the greatest woman in the world who made him happier then anyone else ever could. Anyone that knew him, knew he was the kindest, sweetest person you could ever meet. I wanted everyone to know that he passed away on Aug 18th, 2 days after his wedding anniversary and 2 wks before his 48th birthday. My heart is empty without my best friend. He will be 4ever missed by all who remained close to him. He will always be in my heart, he will always be my first true love, and I will love him 4ever. Liz Pearsall IMAKEUNUTS@aol.com

 

In Remembrance of Jessica Holland, Class of 1964

Jessica died in 1989 when she was hit by a truck while biking in France.  Jessica managed to accomplish a great deal in her life: she worked with Dr. Martin Luther King and SCLC in Georgia; did some union organizing in northern Ca.; lived on a mountain top in Argentina; returned to NYC, writing for various trade magazines and then went on to write oral histories for individuals and corporations. Jessica was a loving friend to all who knew her.  We had been friends for 27 extraordinary years- we joked that we couldn't possibly be old enough to have sustained a friendship for that long. Karen (Colodne) Danaher-Dorr

 

In Remembrance of Rick Gruber, Class of 1953

Richard Paul Gruber, (Rick or Rikki), passed away Monday, September 26, 2005 in Sun City, AZ after a long illness.  He is survived by his wife, 1953 alum Carol (Padgett) Gruber, father Irving Gruber, brother Jon Gruber and sister Susan (Gruber) Buse.  Rikki was my first cousin.  I remember how handsome he was. They lived next door to us in Bayswater and during his teen years he looked and dressed like Happy Days' "Fonzie."  He quit school in his senior year to join the Navy, then worked with his father in Woodmere at their auto garage and Hertz Rental business. Rikki and Carol moved to Phoenix almost 20 years ago and loved it out here.  Even after he became ill in 1995, he stayed in touch with the world via his HAM radio hobby.  He also was an inveterate reader and gun collector. I will miss him very much. Carol (Solomon) Marston, FRHS 1956 lebaroness2@cox.net

 

In Remembrance of Roslyn Brier Gutkin, Class of 1941

Roslyn Brier Gutkin passed away November 2001 from complications of Alzheimer’s.  If anyone wants they can contact her son Harvey at this e-mail address:  hgutkin@mindspring.com

 

In Remembrance of Kelley Sealey, Class of 1979

Kelley was my best friend until the end of her life. We met at the age of nine. We stayed friends until her sudden death in September 1990. When a close friend dies they take half of your memories with them.  Lori Lent Greiner

 

In Remembrance of Arnold Schrager, Class of 1953

Arnold, for 65 years you have been a true friend. You will be missed  Al Biener, Class of 1953 albiener@sbcglobal.net

 

In Remembrance of Edie Bresloff, Class of 1964

Edie was my best friend in high school. When I had home problems I knew that her door was always open to me. She and her family always tried to ease the pain. We remained close friends until she moved to California. We still wrote and spoke to each other on a regular basis. She married and tried to live the American dream. Life was not kind to her and she passed away in 1988 at the age of 41. I miss her friendship. Gail Niemetz, Class of 1964 mamatuti@aol.com

 

In Remembrance of James Murphy, Class of 1962

Jimmy was not only our big brother, but also had to take on a father's role at an early age. He was proudest of his family and friends, especially his sons Jim and Jeremy.  Jim left us far too soon, and the void created will is vast.  He left me with great memories, and for that I'm grateful.  Breathe easy Jim, and keep em cold. Tom Murphy, Class of 1966

 

In Remembrance of Sue Feder, Class of 1968

I didn't really know Sue. I never met her in person. Last year I just happened to read a message she had posted on the Far Rockaway board at MSN.com. I asked her if she had a younger brother name Mitch. She replied and we wrote back and forth a few times. She got me back in touch with Mitch after more than 30 years and we are in touch now. I thank Sue for that. My heart goes out to her family. I hope they can find peace and comfort. I'm glad I got to meet Sue in this limited time and place.  Mitch Warstadt

 

In Remembrance of Paul "Toby" Tobias, Class of 1965

Toby,  You were a very dear friend to me, always.  I love you and will always love you.  You were a kind and generous soul, who everyone loved. You will be missed by all, but never forgotten.  You will be in our hearts forever. May God watch over you. Love,  Sherry Nozick (Carrion) Paul was more like a brother to me then a friend. I will miss him forever. Barbara Frazer Powell

 

In Remembrance of Susan Ridell, Class of 1971

Susan Ridell, Class of 1971 passed away today, Jan 15, 2006 at age 52 in Novato California. She will be missed by all.  Funeral services will be held at the Keaton's Funeral Home, 1801 Novato Blvd., Novato CA 94947 at 2 PM PST on Saturday Jan. 21, 2006.  She is survived by her brother Bobby, sister Joanne and mother Arlene.  David Millner casademillner@aol.com

 

In Remembrance of Debra Koskowitz Nussbaum, Class of 1957

Barnard and Vassar graduate, lawyer.  Deeply loved and greatly missed. Mother of two daughters, Carolyn and Diana.

 

In Remembrance of Aileen Schenk Nadelson, Class of 1937

My sister Aileen died Feb.7, 2006. It is still hard to think of her gone but I thought others would like to remember her too. She was an accomplished quilter, seamstress and knitter and additionally was interested in geneology. It was only after she died that we realized she had been pursuing this interest for 25 years!!!  She was far ahead of me in school but it was fun to realize that she had many of the same teachers at P.S. 39 as well as FRHS. We laughed alot about that.  She attended the 100th year reunion and had a wonderful time recalling it for me. Edie Schenk Ross, Class of 1948 photolady1@mac.com

 

In Remembrance of George Chamberlain, Class of 1973

I didn't know George Chamberlain in high school.  I'm sure we walked past each other in the hallways.  I worked with him on our job with New York City Sanitation.  I just wanted to let people who remembered George that he passed away a few years ago.  He was a real nice man and it was an honor to know and work with him. James J. Cleary sanman416@optonline.net

 

In Remembrance of Barbara Levine, Class of 1969

When I saw Barbara Levine's name on the FRHS Memorial Page without an asterisk I felt it was very important for something to be written about such a wonderful person.  Barbara Levine, along with Harriet Appel were best friends with my sister, Tina Kinigson.  I always loved when they would all hang out at our house because Tina's friends let me stay in the room with them.  Barbara had a magnetic personality and lit up a room when she came in.  My sister loved to be with her! They did everything and went everywhere together until Barbara was killed in a car accident when she was fifteen.  Tina and Harriet continued their friendship until Harriet died four years later at nineteen.  I see another good friend of my sister's, Shelly Zwilling is also on this memorial site.  They remained good friends until Shelly died.  When I saw their names on here an incredible wave of nostalgia and sadness came over me all at once.  I was nine when Barbara died and I looked up to all of them.  At the time they seemed so grown up to me and so much older.  I guess that's how I'll always remember them.  No matter how old I become, they will always be people that I look up to, just like my sister. Lisa Kinigson Klein

 

In Remembrance of Zoe Papathomas, Class of 1977

On February 19, 2005, my beloved brother-in-law Zoe Papathomas passed on unexpectedly.  For all those who knew and loved him, this world is greatly diminished without the happiness, joy and fun he brought to everything.  Julia Herbert Zoe was a great guy, we all loved and cared for him. He was always kind, even to strangers, quick with a joke, and he LOVED to fish. He is survived by his loving wife, Gerri Herbert-Papathomas, his son Thomas, and his daughter Christina. I guess I was Zoe's first official business partner, we always worked hard to make extra money and it was truly a blesssing when he became a member of my family. Zoe was more than a brother-in-law to us, he was a really considered a blood brother. Zoe's kind heart and genorosity to all people and charities as an important part of these past few years. I will mourn for him always and pray that God continues to grant peace and help of his holy Spirit to comfort my sister, niece, nephew, and all those who had known him. God bless you and keep you with him always, Maura Herbert maura_herbert@msn.com  516-672-2993, call any time you need to. Condolences to: Gerri PapaThomas c/o Herbert 2635 Rockaway Ave.  Oceanside, NY 11572 Anyone interested in raising money (by having a fishing competition) to support some of his charities please call Maura Herbert516-672-2993 or 516-764-7527, I would love to help honor his good works. Any ideas are welcome. Thank you and Blessed be. It would be wonderful to have a yeary event in his memory and support charities as well. He was active in Alzheimers organization, orphanages, and foster kids,as well as many others. Any ideas or help will be very much appreciated. To see a special tribute to Zoe, go here:  http://www.farrockaway.com/carol/zoepapathomastribute.html

 

In Remembrance of Gene Price, Class of 1953

A special man, with us for too short a time.  His courage was our strength. Irene Barr Price, Class of 1956

 

In Remembrance of Nancy Postal, Class of 1968

Nancy fought a long and hard battle with cancer and finally lost the fight on May 11, 2006. Nancy and I were neighbors back in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Our backyards faced each other. We were good friends and then lost touch. We renewed friendship for a short time in H.S. and then that too drifted. But with the upcoming reunion in 1997 and the Rockaway Pages appearing on line Nancy & I reconnected in 1995. It was just great. I saw her periodically but spoke very often. Now as she got sick I spoke to her nearly every day and it was great. I even got down to see her before she was gone. As sick as she was she still had her great sense of humor.  I will miss her terribly. Nancy Fox, Class of 68

 

In Remembrance of Michael Nowak, Class of 1959

You will be missed. . . Paula Berliner, Lana Cohen, Steve Daniels, Laura Richman Dragan, Sid Dworet, Harvey Freundlich, Artie Mandel, Howie Schultz

 

In Remembrance of Antoine Stone, Class of 1985

Dear Antoine, We, The Class of 1985 love you and we miss you! You were a very special man taken from us to early in the prime of your life. I remember you when we were younger, always singing.  Your beautiful voice was silenced too soon. If you were not singing, you were using your beautiful voice to spread the good news of the Gospel and giving people the pathway to heaven. That's why you were killed - because people didn't want to hear the message you were delivering so they took your life too soon, but your soul will live on forever. You will forever be in our hearts. WE LOVE YOU FOREVER The Class of 1985  This is my older brother who was known as "Rev". Indeed he lived up to his name, he lived and preached the word of God without fear or regret. He was murdered on the streets of Rockaway 9/10/94 while witnessing to others who did not know Jesus as their personal savior. He was a God-sent angel who touched and changed the loves of all who entered his presence. Rest on, my brother, take your rest, your life and words still linger on. I love you, Evangelist Antoine. Vincent Stone

 

In Remembrance of Dennis Gartner, Class of 1964

I just heard about Dennis' passing from a mutual friend. He died in Florida but I have no other details. Dennis was my first date (New Years Eve 1964) and my first real boyfriend. He was on the swim team, a diver, and had a varsity letter which he gave me for my sweater. We were in the same homeroom, Mr. Jablonsky's. We did not keep up after graduation and so I don't know what he did with his life but I hope he was happy.  I'll always remember the tall blond athlete that was my first crush! Alyce Falk Gould, 1964

 

In Remembrance of Alex "Allie" Kessler, Class of 1948

Alex died in Chicago on January 16, 1987 of pancreatic cancer. He never had pain and was as handsome as he always was. Even though I am happily remarried I will always miss him. Marcia Kessler Richter

 

In Remembrance of Stuart Drell, Class of 1958

I think of you often.  You and Renee were always so kind and gracious to me.  I cherish your friendship still.  Millie Tirado

 

In Remembrance of Richard Alan Smolin, Class of 1974

Richard Smolin was taken from us without warning.  He was truly a great person, always a smile on his face. I knew him my entire life, we grew up next door to each other and than many years later stayed connected in South Florida where we both lived. Our families still keep in touch. He will be missed and loved forever. Lynda Schreuder

 

In Remembrance of Sheila Bork, Class of 1971

I was very saddened to hear that Sheila Bork passed away.  It brought back so many memories of how she was not liked as a child.  I often thought about her and wondererd what happened to her in her life.  It was sad to see that nobody wrote anything about her in the memorial page.  May she rest in peace. Andrea (Yessner) Rebackoff  I was saddened to see the message re: Sheila Bork that said she was "not liked." I knew Sheila because our moms went to High School together and they remained friends for over 50 years. Perhaps at school Sheila was "not liked" but please know that Sheila was loved and cherished by her loving parents and younger sister.  Sheila was married briefly after high school. She had a long career with the VA. She loved to travel, and did so often with her friends. She was close to her sister. She had a great sence of humor and was fun to be around. Sheila had a beautiful  heart and soul. I never heard a mean word or unkind thought pass through her lips.  Sheila passed away after a long battle with a terminal illness. Please don't be saddened by your memories of Sheila's high school days. Know that Sheila spent her life not only being "well liked" but being truly loved. I offer my sincere condolances to her sister Phyllis.  Felice Labrys 1970 My dear sister Sheila passed away on Sept 14, 2004, after a long bout with melonoma. She left an empty hole in our hearts. She was loved by all who knew her. She had a heart of gold. She was my only sister, and my heart is broken. I have three daughters that miss their aunt terribly. I love you, Sheila. Phyllis (Bork) Shabazian

 

In Remembrance of Thomas DeVivio, Class of 1965

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of my brother Tommy DeVivio on May 10, 2004. Tommy was not just my brother, he was a great friend. I will miss him dearly.  Anthony  DeVivio

 

In Remembrance of Roy Lampel, Class of 1965

I wanted to share with everybody that knew Roy and hadn't spoke to him in a long time.  He and I were married in October of 1975 for 5 years.  We have a son who is now 27 years old.  Roy died July 27th 1999 in a fatal motorcyle accident up in Red Hook, NY.  It was a sad day.  He was a good man and a hard worker and always cared about people.  Even though we were divorced he was such a great dad and a good friend.  He is missed in our family and I know that for others who knew him, he is also missed.  I knew Roy from the age of 17 through my adult life.  When he passed away a huge chapter in my life had ended.  I am so happy to have his son and when I look at Adam I see Roy.  Roy lives on in him and it is a blessing.  If anybody reads this and wants to add their feelings and thoughts about Roy, I know that Adam would love to hear about them. Andrea (Yessner) Rebackoff

 

In Remembrance of Seymour Beck, Class of 1948 

Seymour Beck, 76, of Atlantic Beach and Swan Lake, NY passed away at home on August 10, 2006. Son of Adele and Samuel Beck, brother of Marvin, he was raised in Rockaway, educated at Far Rockaway High School and Hofstra University and served in the US Coast Guard. In 1956 he wed Millie Schusterman Beck, a teacher and fellow Rockawayite. He was the proud father of Steven, Brian and Evan, and grandfather of Jeremy, Spencer, Brooke and Daniel. His passions were his family, Real Estate business, health, nutrition and exercise, antiques; and Hofstra sports. A dear and devoted mate, he and his wife recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Sy will be sorely missed.  Herb Kandel

 

In Remembrance of Stanley Doben, Class of 1956

While going through my FRHS year book (Dolphin) I came across Stanley's picture. It brought back fond memories of a good friend, who left this earth, family and friends way to soon. Stanley, you are very fondly remembered. Bob Beloff, Class of 1956

 

In Remembrance of Diana Karr Schrager, Class of 1960

You are gone since 1987, but our friendship since we were 11 will live in my heart forever. You were my best friend then and will be for eternity. The friends you made and the hearts you touched was the center that kept everyone together.  I will love you always.  Amy Moses Spielman, Class of 1959

 

In Remembrance of Stephen Wilsker, Class of 1963

I am sad to report the passing of my cousin, Steve (class of 63) on November 14, 2006, after a long illness. Steve is survived by his son David, his parents Thelma and Dr. Jerome (former Arverne dentist) as well as his brothers Ron (class of 68) and Stu (class of 71). He will be missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.  Rest in peace, Steve... Susan Wilsker Brownstein, Class of 1970

 

In Remembrance of Margaret "Peggy" Gordon Miers, Class of 1956

I first met Peggy when we were nine years old.  We met in Lawrence's Temple Israel where our parents had sent us to learn Hebrew and about our heritage. My first impression of Peggy was her amazingly bright red hair.  We talked about how much we disliked "Sunday School."  I quit first, and she followed shortly afterwards. Since we lived at opposite ends of Far Rockaway, we went to different elementary schools.  Peggy attended P.S. 39 and I went to P.S. 104.  When we were freshmen at FRHS I spotted her and asked if she remembered me. I was very surprised when she said "YES! I quit going to Sunday School right after you did!"  She was brilliant! Peggy went on to set the academic bar very high for those to follow.  She was valedictorian at our 1956 graduation and our yearbook's "Senior Will" included the line, "To the Math Team we leave...The memories of Peggy Gordon's victories." The last time I saw Peggy was at our 1955-1956 reunion held in Lawrence in 2005.  She had a wonderful time with her classmates from both P.S. 39 and FRHS. Rest in peace, my friend.  I'll miss you. Carol (Solomon) Marston, FRHS 1956

 

In Remembrance of Ellen (Brown) Freed, Class of 1971

My sister in law, Ellen Brown Freed, passed away over the 2006 Thanksgiving Day weekend. She leaves a large void in our family, the Jewish community of Toledo, Ohio where she and my brother resided, and everyone else that knew her.  The word no was never in her vocabulary. She was always available to help others in the community.  She worked for many years at a local synagogue, baby-sat the neighbor's children at a moment's notice, yet still had time to meet the needs of her 3 children and husband, Marc (also 1971). We are still in shock and probably will never get over our loss. The wishes of donating her organs enabled 12 people to receive transplants, ranging from bone marrow to one of the largest hearts on the planet. Ellen, I miss you very much.  Gordon Freed, Class of 1969

 

In Remembrance of Jeff Santlofer, Class of 1971

I have been passing through the site and noticed no one had written anything about Jeff, so I thought I would. He was one of the friendly people I got to know from the class of '71.  I remember playing touch football, often in the afternoons, down at one of the Wavecrest playgrounds, (19th St?) right off the boardwalk. Jeff was there some of the time amongst a rotating group of "Senior" players. He was a good person who has unfortunately passed on too early. My condolences to his family.  Bruce Farbowitz, Class of 1971

 

In Remembrance of Rhonda Bergrin, Class of 1970

Rhonda and I were great friends.  I think of her often.  She was the best. Paula Kantor Arnao, 1970

 

In Remembrance of Michael Saltser, Class of 1954

Michael was a true gentleman, scholar and athlete. He never faltered in any endeavor he engaged in. He left a mark of excellence and completion coupled with an unflinching spirit in all of his pursuits. Always thinking of others, he masked his superior talents with a subtle humor coupled with a dash of noblesse oblige. The courage and determination he showed during his illness was, like the man, extraordinary.  Myron Domsky, Class of 1954

 

In Remembrance of Colleen Watson Webster, Class of 1956

I met Colleen in my junior year.  We became very close friends.  She was a warm and witty person and kept her spirits up despite some very grave family problems.  Because of these problems Colleen wasn't able to graduate with our class, but she was extremely bright and would have graduated with honors. I will always have a special place in my heart for her.  We experienced a lot in the two years we were friends; some very good times and some very bad.  She had a LOT of courage. Rest well, my friend. Love, Carol (Solomon) Marston, Class of 1956

 

In Remembrance of Renee D. Lang, Class of 1964

Renee Lang died at Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC on November 1, 2006. She was 59 years old. She went to the hospital where she had her original heart surgeries when we were teens. The surgery was on Oct. 30th and she died 2 days later. She was a wonderful friend for the past 45 years. We met in JHS and have stayed friends all of the years since. She had one daughter, Sharon Kantor. Her closest NY friend was Karen Spector, who did not go to FRHS. She will be missed by a lot of people, especially me.  Suzan Posner Weisser, Class of 1964

 

In Remembrance of Rhoda Edelman Gorman, Class of 1951

Rhoda was a lovely person, whose life was cut short on January 17, 2007 after a three year bout with Lou Gehrig's disease. She faced the inevitability of her decline with dignity and courage, always considering the feelings of her many loved ones and her numerous friends. Everyone who came in contact with Rhoda appreciated her honesty and directness, as well as her subtle sense of humor. She will be badly missed.  Larry Kaplan, Class of 1951

 

In Remembrance of Myron Domsky, Class of 1954

I was quite saddened to learn of Myron's passing.  Myron was "one-of-a kind".  He was a large person, and had to be in order that his heart could fit his body.  He always had a smile on his face, and was always ready with a "story" or a quip.  It seemed as if his task in life was to make everyone else feel good, and he could light up any room in which he was situated, without even "trying" to do so. He was, indeed, a unique individual. Fred Sherman, Class of 1954 A good friend and counselor who, if he didn’t have the answer in the vast mental file cabinet of his incredible mind, would spend countless hours researching the solution to any question or problem – be it simple or complex. Nothing was too mundane or too difficult for Myron if the answer would make a friend’s day easier or happier. My wife, Jane, and I will always remember and forever miss the volumes of emails (many with “smiley faces”) often sent and read in the early hours of the morning and the endless phone calls we shared. Relaxing conversations over Beefeater Gibsons will never be the same. There must be some solace, however,  in knowing that Myron is together again with the love of his life, his Beautiful Barbara, relishing in the accomplishments of their sons, William (daughter-in-law Jolie) and Douglas, and the joy of their granddaughter, Brette. Rest in Peace, Ol’ Buddy, we miss you already -  Your friend,  Allan Rosenberg The untimely passing of a long time dear friend leaves a permanent scar in my heart. Through the years, Myron and I crossed paths and always managed to stay in touch. I spoke to him only two days before he passed on via the Instant Messenger. Ironic!!! May his memory be in our hearts forever. I will miss you Myron. Your dear friend, Phyllis (Hellman) Jacobs, Class of '55 Myron, you old S.O.B., it's been a year and we miss you terribly. The martini tonight was empty without your company.  Rest Easy, Old Buddy.  Allan

 

In Remembrance of Eli Hellman, Class of 1958

Eli passed away in 1980.  In loving memory,  Your sister,  Phyllis (Hellman) Jacobs

 

In Remembrance of Stephen Michael Garnett, Class of 1961

My beloved brother, Stephen Garnett, passed away in 1991 from a brain tumor. He protected me and was my "big brother" when our mother died.  He had two beautiful daughters, and was an architect living in California.We cherish and miss him every day. Beth Garnett Stites

 

In Remembrance of Randy L. Yessner, Class of 1969

My sister Randy Yessner passed away on Feb 2, 2007.  She was 56 years old and will be truly missed.  She was such a caring, kind and sensitive human being that would do anything for everybody she knew.  She was the soul and heart of our family and always kept all of her sisters and friends close to her heart.  We will miss her so much.  Just want all her old friends that she hadn't spoken to know of her passing. Andrea (Yessner) Rebackoff I am another sister of Randy Yessner. Losing Randy is like losing your best and dearest friend.  I truly miss talking to her everyday and sharing the ups and downs of our lives.  She had a huge heart of gold and was there for everybody, anytime and at any given moment.   She loved her friends and family more than life.  If only she had taken the time the past several years to nurture and take care of herself, maybe she would still be here with all of us now.  Randy, I love you and will miss you with all my heart.  Until we meet again!  Rest in peace.  Your loving sister & confidante, Debra When I look at my Beatle pictures I will always think of you and me and George Harrison always saying may the best one win. And I will think of our bus ride to Shea Stadium. And you will be the first one to meet George Harrison. And I am going to miss you and thank you for being my friend at summmer school and then in high school.  Linda Palin Rod

 

In Remembrance of Judy (Weinstein) Yaeger, Class of 1954

Judy passed away after a long illness.  She graduated P.S. 114 & P.S. 44.  Late in her career she became a lawyer. Dean Georges

 

In Remembrance of PFC John P. McGonigal, Class of 1966

For the Fallen They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:  Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.  At the going down of the sun and in the morning  We will remember them.  English Poet Poet Laurence Binyon From your brother Tommy

 

In Remembrance of Lorraine "Lolly" Pulvers Commanday, Class of 1955

Lolly lost her battle with breast cancer on March 4, 2007 in a hospice facility in Charlottesville, VA after a long and valiant struggle of more than four years.   She is survived by her younger brother Martin.  Lolly was a Registered Nurse who later went on to become one of the most knowledgeable dealers of Mexican (Taxco) silver jewelry, specializing in late 19th and early 20th century pieces.  Her collection of this jewelry is noted in many books, and she also had one of the premier collections of Denmark's George Jensen silver jewelry. Lolly's laugh was like no other. She was a very spiritual person  who was loved and admired by so many including the whole FRHS Class of 1955 where she was a shining star. The world is now missing a strong, cheerful optimist, loyal to her friends and family. Her close friends Joan Robbins Waggener, Daryle Dranow, Beverly Wexler, Phoebe Dorin and first cousin Nina Gold Silverman, will miss her terribly.

 

In Remembrance of Beverly Friedman Schoenbrun, Class of 1955

So sweet, fun and loyal - a friend whom I shall miss forever. Daryle Dranow Prager, Class of 1955

 

In Remembrance of Fred Mass, Class of 1956

Today I received an e-mail from my 1956 classmate, Arthur Cooper, telling me that my friend Fred Mass passed away March 21, 2007. I'd known Fred since we were in kindergaten at P.S. 104.  He was tall even then, but by the 8th grade, he'd reached 6'6" and in our 8th grade graduation photo, he towered over all of us.  Since I moved to Chicago the day we graduated FRHS, I did not see Fred again until our reunion, June 10, 2005 (shared with the class of 1955).  We had a great time talking about old friends, old places, and I got to meet his lovely wife Ann.  He showed me a photo of his son who looks just like Fred and is about as tall. A year after the reunion Fred wrote that he had been diagnosed with lung cancer.  I am saddened knowing he's gone.  I'll miss his silly jokes in the mail and the fact that I could tell Fred anything, and he would not pass judgment and kept confidences to the end. Fred, I hope you're at peace...I will miss you. Carol (Solomon) Marston, FRHS Class of 1956 Hi Carol, I was going to write and tell you about Fred Mass' death, when I checked the FRHS website, and saw you already knew.  I too was saddened by his passing.  I was notified by e-mails from his wife Annie, and his brother Herb. We had been corresponding by e-mail, and I knew he was very ill.  Since I hadn't heard from him for a while, I had just sent him a "Thinking of You" card, which probably came after he had passed away. It's interesting how our lives had been intertwined through the years.  I lived in the upstairs apt. at 1312 Eggert Pl. from 1941-1948.  Fred, Herb, & their parents were our downstairs neighbors.  I remember we all made a Victory garden in the backyard, & grew corn, romaine lettuce, carrots, green beans, radishes, & tomatoes.  Our dads were air-raid wardens together.  Fred used to bully and pick on me.  One day I got so mad I managed to get him down and banged his head on the ground.  He never teased me after that. Although our mothers would occasionally see one another at Hadassah meetings, Fred, Herb and I lost touch after we all moved from Eggert Place.  I met Paul and we dated for 4 years at Albany State.  At Albany we became good friends with a close friend of Herb's future wife Phyllis.  Paul and I got married in 1957 and lived for a year in a furnished apartment in Long Beach.  In 1958 we moved to Rockland County, and later found out that Phyllis and Herb had moved into the Long Beach apartment. After that, we again lost touch.  Then about 7 years ago, we all reconnected thanks to you, Skip and the FRHS website.  It was right before Fred and Annie moved from Rockland to Long Island, and Phyllis and Herb moved from Long Island to Florida.  We'd been in Rockland the whole time, but didn't know Fred and Annie also lived here.  We managed to go out to dinner with them before they moved back to Long Island.  Since then, we stayed in touch by e-mail. Since our tastes in humor were very different, Fred would only send us hints, warnings, puzzles, and the unusual.  He had a knack for seeing beauty in the unusual, and we really enjoyed those attachments.  In fact, someone sent me a puzzle the other day, and my first thought was, "Fred would have enjoyed this one."  He was very special, and we will all miss him, but he will continue to live on in the memories of those of us who knew and loved him.  He suffered so much, and now he is at peace.  Regards, Myrna Lande Lewis, FRHS Class of 1953

 

In Remembrance of Beth Yudell Fields, Class of 1955

Beth Yudell, class of 1955, passed away in August 1992.  In 1957 she married Kenny Fields, class of 1953.   Beth and Kenny moved to Southern California where she lived until her passing.  She was survived by 3 children and 3 grandchildren. Kenneth Fields

 

In Remembrance of Dolores Jackson, Class of 1957

DJ, as she was called, was a joy to be around.  I was in the class of 1956 and did not know her very well, but just enough to appreciate her smile, laugh and cheerleading abilities.  She'll be missed. Carol (Solomon) Marston I read about DJ.  I was with Omega Pi Lambda when she was our president.  I didn't graduate from FRHS; left in 1956 and went to school in California.  Other members of our sorority were Marcy Sorkin, Judy Soroka, Robin Rolnick, and Gail Shapiro, who was my big sister.  I have a lot of fond memories of those years.  Sorry that DJ has left us.  She has always had my deepest respect. I also attended P.S. 39.  Mrs. French was my teacher. Sincerely, Barbara Randal Clay

 

In Remembrance of Jesse Anthony, Class of 1974

Jesse was a friend of mine from elementary school through high school. He would always use my street as a short cut to his house and that's how we met, and eventually became good friends.  Of course as the years went on and I moved away we lost touch, but fortunately, because of this website we were able to get back in touch with each other and have had some great conversations in the not so distant past.  Unfortunately, he did not let on as to how sick he really was or I would have made it my business to visit him the last time I was up in NY. But he was a wonderful guy even till the end. I will always love you Jesse...Go with God.  Lois Mark Saiani, Class of 1973 I learned about the passing of Jesse Anthony by chance last night while browsing the Memorial page of this incredible website.  I am deeply heartbroken.  I've known Jesse since first grade at P.S. 197.  He was the hall monitor, on the AV team, a flag bearer, President of the GO I think, and well, he was just EVERYWHERE, and that was just in elementary school!  We became closer friends in JHS 180, and remained close throughout high school, only losing touch when Jesse went on to attend college.  My most vivid memory of Jesse was watching him shoot hoops at the basketball court on 17th Street.  He was all of about 14 years old, already past 6 feet tall, and lean muscle from the tips of his toes to the top of his head, and everywhere in between.  Jesse's jumpshot was a thing of beauty to behold.  He seemed to rise up off the ground and into the air completely effortlessly, with his back arched and his shooting arm extended high above his head. Not even Micahel Jordan's best could come close to rivaling the image left so long ago on my 14-year old brain by the incredible athlete Jesse was. I looked for Jesse for years after high school. Not too hard, but I did keep an eye on the NBA, certain I'd find him connected there somehow.  It wasn't until a little over five years ago, and because of this website, that Jesse and I were finally reunited and shared lunch together in the city.  It was then that I learned that I should have been watching for him at NBC, not the NBA, where he had risen to a prominent position in management.  We talked about our families, and swapped photos of our daughters. Needless to say, I never thought that would be the last time we'd see each other.  Jesse had more potential than anyone else I've ever known.  He was a 100% class act and great friend who was happy to lend an ear and offer help.  I will miss him always, and look forward to the day when I'll get to see that unforgettable Jesse jumpshot again in a higher place.  My condolences to his friends and family. Bari Randal, Class of 1974  I stumbled onto this site looking for Jesse. We were good friends from Kindergarten through 8thgrade. On trips back home after I left for college, I would always run into him shooting hoops at 17th. We'd chat and exchange news.  I finally had high speed internet installed, started my search and ended up here, writing a memorial, instead of chatting. Jesse was a great guy in many ways. He will be greatly missed. Condolences to his lovely family and those of you who were closer to him in recent years. Jayne Port

 

In Remembrance of Richard Bender, Class of 1957

I met Richard at the FRHS Centennial in 1997.  Had he not told me he was a stroke victim, I'd never have known.  He was a delight to talk to; very upbeat and I loved his e-mail address, since I'm an avid cat lover...it was named after his cat, Brenda! I was so saddened when I read his obituary in THE WAVE.  I normally don't publish entire obits, but I'd like to post his: Richard S. Bender, Teacher, Actor/Entertainer Richard S. Bender of Long Beach, CA and formerly of Rockaway Beach, died in Bellflower, CA on April 6.  He was 67. Bender was born in Brooklyn, but lived the first 25 years of his life in Rockaway Beach.  He was a teacher and an actor/entertainer with memberships in the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). Bender is survived by his sister-in-law, Maureen, nephews Martin, John and Joseph, and a niece, Kathy, all of New York.  He is also survived by many friends in Long Beach, CA. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to McKenzie Mortuary in Long Beach, CA.  A Celebration of Life will take place in Long Beach, followed by the scattering of Bender's ashes. Rest well, Richard...I'll miss your always cheerful e-mails. Carol (Solomon) Marston, FRHS 1956

 

In Remembrance of Anne Herbst, Class of 1940

Anne Herbst was a Rockaway resident from 1927 to 1963. She was a working artist all her life and won awards for her painting, sculpture and fine-art furniture.  She passed away Memorial Day, May 27, 2007. She is survived by her husband Fred, her sons Richard and Philip as well as grandchildren.  To read more about Anne, please go here: http://www.farrockaway.com/carol/anneherbst.html

 

In Remembrance of Rosalind Yudlowitz, Class of 1963

I am sad to give you this news.  As of May 10, 2007, my sister and brother, Rosalind Yudlowitz, class of 1963 and Mark Yudlowitz, class of 1973. have passed on.  I will miss them dearly and forever in my heart. Carol (Yudlowitz) Seigel

 

In Remembrance of Mark Yudlowitz, Class of 1973

Mark was on the football tem "FRHS Seahorses" as well as the baseball team.  He was coached by the famous Jack Kershman.  He attended Brooklyn College, and went on to be a radiology tech,  He is survived by his wife Maria and daughters, Sarah and Pamela.  He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. Carol (Yudlowitz) Seigel

 

In Remembrance of Jeffrey Hoffman, Class of 1981

Jeff "Bubba" Hoffman was a great man.  Being a teammate of Jeff's on our wrestling team was an honor.  His recent passing saddens me.  I'll miss seeing Jeff in and around our neighboring communities and at Silverpoint Beach Club.  My  heart goes out to his wife Randi and their two daughters. Scott Young

 

In Remembrance of Sondra "Sandy" Chick, Class of 1958

You were a sweet, generous friend.  Millie Tirado  Remembering Sandy Chick Our part of Rockaway, from Beach 116th Street to the Marine Parkway Bridge, was still partly untamed in the ‘50s.  Jamaica Bay was open, unbound by today’s protective wall. The bright red Texaco star on Beach Channel Drive marked the boundary of our still small community. Sandy’s dad owned the gas station, and there we two 14 year old giggling girls plotted my escape from Hebrew School for the day, so I could join her smoking cigarettes instead. Although I hated going to Hebrew School after class, I had never before defied my mom, and Sandy merrily coached me into what I would tell her. So we called her from Sandy’s Dad’s office and I fed her the lines Sandy gave me, totally thrilled. “It doesn’t sound like you, Ilsa. Someone is putting you up to this.” I crumbled, and was too ashamed to ask Sandy if we could still be friends even though I was a coward and went to Hebrew instead of hanging out to smoke by the bay. But it didn't happen.   Sandy was so pretty, so alive, so full of fun and defiance! I adored her, admired her, and was thrilled that at 17 she felt grown up enough to be engaged. She died shortly thereafter, if memory serves, near that marvelous Texaco station, long gone without a trace. So this is for you, Sandy Chick. You were really something. Rest in peace. Ilsa Glazer

 

In Remembrance of Kathleen Perry, Class of 1974

I want to share a memory  It is with much love that I remember my sister-in-law and best friend, Kathleen, who passed away in 1988.  We were best friends since 1967.  She was the maid of honor at my wedding when I married her brother in 1975 and was there when both of my children were born. She was pretty and funny and smart and everyone who met her, loved her. It was my honor to have met her and to have been her best friend. There is a small tribute to her on my "myspace" page if anyone who knew her would care to read.  http://www.myspace.com/barbaraperrymarciniak Kathy, we love you and you will always be in our hearts.  Rest in peace, baby girl, because you certainly deserve it. Forever your friend and sister Barbara

 

In Remembrance of Larry Brotz, Class of 1964

My brother-in-law, Larry Brotz, passed away suddenly on April 15, 2007 in Boynton Beach, Florida. He will be greatly missed. Lois Brackman Brotz, FRHS 1969 I was saddened to learn of Larry's passing. I have such fond memories of hanging out on the terrace at Wavecrest with Larry and playing football on the beach with him and the rest of our pals. I will miss him. Hank M. Gold, FRHS 1965

 
 

In Remembrance of Dennis Spinelli, Class of 1964

Dennis died on Feb. 23, 2007 from colon cancer. We were best of friends from our earliest years till his death. I was fortunate enough to be able to spend his last week alive with him. It was heartbreaking to have him leave the way he did. He was a great guy who would give you whatever he could to help you out. He was a gentle and soft spoken man who would put others first. We had great times together growing up on the "block" with Tommy Caparelli, (who also passed away this year), and Larry Sarica, and Frank Haas. That was our core group. He is missed. Bob Schulken, Class of 1964

 

In Remembrance of Phyllis Jacobson Mezansky, Class of 1952

My Mom was a wonderful person who got a long with everyone.  She still kept in touch with her friends from elementary through high school until the end. She wasn't computer literate so she kept in touch via snail mail or phone calls. She passed away June 15, 2007 (five years and 2 day's after my father) from renal kidney failure and problems from a lifetime of smoking.  To all her friends at FRHS, PS 114, etc. your friendship meant the world to her and she talked about you all often with a smile on her face. My sister and I thank you for your continued friendship and support during this painful time. Lisa Jacobson

 

In Remembrance of Leslie Cohen, Class of 1973

Les, I hope you are listening and see how much you were truly loved and how much you will be missed. Your genuine, caring nature touched so many. Your influence on us during the most important times of our lives will never be forgotten. We will all miss you. You really knew how to celebrate life. Say hi to Thurman Munson and Billy Martin, Mickey Mantle and of course, the Babe himself. Your sprit and soul will dance in our hearts forever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  “Felipe Alou” Robert Bram My Dear Fellow Rockawanians, And, especially, Dr. Robert "Litlle Rob" Goldman, Dr. Michael "Mike" Crohn, Robert H. "Bobby" Bram, Martin "Marty" Silverberg and Perris Calderone, who were the closest and best friends to Leslie "The Les" Cohen... "The LES" was more than the average guy. He was a complex human that danced to the beat of a different drummer and a free spirit in free flight.  “The Les” was always so happy and comfortable to attend the FRHS Class of 72 reunions and always appreciative of being invited. His best friends would be there and he wouldn’t miss out on an opportunity to hang out with and party with them along with the rest of us. I know a little how he must have felt about being among you, as I wasn’t a 72 grad either, but always feel comforted by being with our Rockaway friends because of our unique conditions of where we grew up…The Rockaway Peninsula, no better place to have grown up in our era. We may not have gotten to know him well enough to understand his mindset and methods of survival, but when it comes to individualism, "The LES" had his own style and nobody could duplicate him.  As the Yankees most outstanding fan, us Rockawanians, and all the millions of fans enjoyed his freedom of movement dancing in the stands at Yankee Stadium, and admittedly the first time I saw his performance on T.V., I cracked up.  He brought a lot of joy and laughter during many episodes with his close buddies. He was a dear friend to those buddies and he was their older friend who was first to drive and so he drove them around when it was time to go out somewhere. He did it gladly too. Always spoke highly of his friends and wanted the best for them. I must admit I only saw the cameras focus in on him a few times during the Yankee games I caught in passing as I started to watch less and less baseball after Thurman Munson died back around the 78/79/80 seasons and then the baseball strike turned me off and the clincher was the rapid rise in tickets for a game, and now I only watch the a few games of the playoffs and then the World Series; forgive me LES for I have fallen behind on knowing of your Yankee dancing career and don’t know if you have been dancing there lately. But there were a quite number of nights I went to Sarge’s Deli on 3rd Ave. between 36th St and 37th St. in Manhattan at 1AM to 2AM, and there was "The LES" after a Yankee game with enough food on the table to feed several people, and he sit for a couple of hours working on some law suit insurance claims and bills, for the damaged health of his X wife or X girlfriend (not sure), he always invited me to eat with him, offer to pay for my meal, of course I sat down with him for awhile, but couldn't let him pay my way; However the celebrity of sorts that he was, attracted the Deli workers and theYankee fans that went through the Deli and he always received recognition.  He attended just about every reunion I attended and I always took the time to catch up with him, dance a bit with him as seemed like he was open to all of us dancing with him even though he was a solo act, and I always had a laugh with him as we complimented each other on our dance steps, well of course his were way more than steps, they were moves that nobody will soon forget. I think even our friends didn't quite know how or what to do to dance with him, but he thoroughly enjoyed exhibiting his style of dance.  He was a fun loving fellow and always would be there for his very close friends, “Little Rob”, Michael, Bobby, Marty and Perris and if I am missing someone, please forgive me, but they had there own groove going on and their immediate group will never quite be the same without "The LES", though they will be able to tell some wild and funny stories. I only hope he did not suffer in his sudden downward spiral, and that if he was troubled at all, that he is at total peace on his new energetic plateau in our universe.  I am putting out the energy that something must be tried to have the Yankees memorialize him, possibly a short video clip that could be put up on the jumbo screen and say a few special words about his dedication as a fan and his dancing entertainment seen by millions of fans of baseball, or a plaque, or a fund for under-privileged kids to attend games every summer in honor of the fun memories he provided the fans without an once of expectation of anything in return.  Maybe David Letterman would have a short tribute on The Late Show with clips of his dancing and his appearance on Letterman's show.  We do have the resources to make this happen in honor of our beloved "The LES", let's try to make something like this happen folks, put on your thinking caps and call your connections, as we will only be able to visualize his dancing at the future reunions, but his flair should not just fade away, as there are enough archives in the Yankee's possession, that they could put together a nice video of his best moves and title the short "The Les" Is More...and not to be forgotten ! Leslie Cohen has left the building… Holy Cow he's outta here. A Rockaway Star in his own right. Farewell Leslie Cohen and dance lightly in the spiritual realm, as we'll always remember you "THE LES"... Keep Dancing LES and keep the music playing, so we'll all know where to find you when we get there... Fond memories… Mitchell E. Levine In honor of Leslie Cohen, our lifelong pal who just passed on this past Friday, one week after our high school reunion.  Les is the one in the lower right corner of the picture.  (Click for photo) Leslie Cohen was a remarkable and unique person. We all knew him as THE LES and he was one of the few people i can say never said a bad word about anyone. He just followed his own unique path dancing his way across the east coast as the SCATMAN and even had a movie made about him by that name, as the most devout Yankee baseball fan. He was the most dedicated yankee fan and renowned for lighting up the stands at games, he even appeared on David Letterman as a wild fan dancing on TV and he had the fastest takedown, where he would grab someone at the knees, known as the famous 'doing a Leslie' and  was the world record holder in long showers, and ability to take NOs from hundred of girls in a row at Community Gardens nightclub when we were kids, knowing he was one step closer to a YES.  I had the honor of being with les when he lost his virginity to an older woman (she was 21) when we were walking at Capri Beach Club in Atlantic Beach, and to our surpise she actually said hello back and he spent the next hour in a tiny cabana and came back with the biggest smile ever...and he bragged how he made her show him her 'bottle' of birth control pills, no doubt vitamins as I have never seen them in a bottle in 30 years of medical care.. How can we ever forget Les at the Castaways Hotel in Florida (which they closed down for 2 months for repairs after the Rockaway gang almost destroyed it -- we had eight guys in a room for two, and changed the hotel rules to never again "no one under 21 years of age allowed in," where he slept in the bathtub speaking in tongues all nite, his ability to play multiple acting parts simulatneously while wearing his famous 1/2 boots, his personal cures of acne, and of course his famous dive over the food counter and behind the milkshake machines at Hagers hamburger joint when the guys from Tenessee wanted to kill us all. It is magical that he stayed alive and attended our 35th high school reunion, danced the nite away with his unique lower torso moves. He hopefully is at peace with his dad Cohney, walking the dog around the block and putting on his Superman costume so he can take yet another dive off the balcony in his red cape.  GO Les and you will be mssed greatly.   He was one of our closest friends who was always there for the 'guys' and Rockaway. Rob  Robert M. Goldman MD, PhD, DO, FAASP Dear Les,  I just learned of your death and am shocked. In the 40-plus years since we first met at the PS 42 schoolyard, you've held a special place in my heart,as a true friend. I'm so sorry I've been remiss in keeping in touch, but we did pull over on the Belt Parkway to catch up years back. You were, by far, the best athlete in our hundreds of games of softball, football and handball, and you had the speed of a star. You were a shining star then, and that will never fade. Your dad embraced all of us Arverne kids by umpiring our softball games and driving us to Yankee Stadium. As we grew into teens, your escapades as a stud always made me laugh. I wished I had your chutzpah. Your spirit is soaring and in the hearts of those you have touched. I vow to think of you daily. It's much belated, but I want to tell you: "Les, I love ya and I'll miss ya." Gary "Goog" Libow

 

In Remembrance of Jill Sachs, Class of 1972

I was going through this memorial page and realized that Jill was not mentioned.  She died many years ago and although I was not a close friend to her, I knew her for many years.  She always greeted me with a big smile and I still can see it now. Marilyn Goodstein

 

In Remembrance of Larry Sarica, Class of 1964

Larry and I were married over 30 years ago.  He was one of the best people I ever knew.  He also had the greatest sense of humor.  His memories and stories of Far Rockaway were rich, funny and full of information. He was a wonderful husband and an even better father. He was loved by anyone who met him.  When he retired from the phone company in 1971 he took on carpentry projects that became his hobby.  He will be sorely missed by many.  RIP, my love, 'til we meet again. Arlene Sarica Arlene, Lisa and Greg, our hearts go out to you as you mourn the loss of your husband and father. Etched in my mind is the curly dark haired handsome boy singing acapella on the boardwalk - who could forget those Rockaway moments. Then to rediscover you as Gary's co-worker and years later on-line. Who'll send me all those great jokes now? Who will I send all my great jokes too? I'm gonna miss ya! Love,  Toby and Gary

 

In Remembrance of Allan Hinderstein, Class of 1956

For a tribute to Allan's life, please go here: http://www.farrockaway.com/carol/allanhinderstein.html

 

In Remembrance of Lewis H. Beers, Class of 1954

It is with deep sorrow that I share the news of Lewis (Lew) H. Beers'('54) passing. Lew made his way from a walk-up flat in Arverne, and after college, to the suburbs of New Jersey where he raised his family. Then, in time,  he started his "second life" with his "child bride", (as he liked to call Lisa), on Sutton Place, NY and eventually moved on to the golf clubs of Jupiter, FL with a few stops in between. How well he traveled that long road! Lew's business career spanned decades of achievment in the Insurance and Financial industry. He was "Uncle Lew" to my kids and the good natured long-lasting friendship he and Lisa shared with my wife (Jane) and me will be always remembered and cherished. Rest in Peace, Old Pal. Allan D. Rosenberg, '54

 

In Remembrance of Tami Jum, Class of 1979

This past weekend we had a great reunion for the classes of 1978/79 (77 & 80 too).  Everyone partied and had a great time seeing old friends.  I had only found out a couple of weeks before the reunion that Tami Jum (class of 1979) had passed away this year. Tami had been very ill for many years and finally lost her battle with MS.  I talked to her once or twice a year up until the last couple of years when it became too difficult for me to deal with, knowing how ill she was.  I have known Tami since kindergarten at PS 197 and had my first crush on her.  But then again, who did not have a crush on her at one point or another? Even though I think often about the last phone conversations we had, and it breaks by heart to think about it, I will always remember her as the smiling "ball of fire" that she was! Joel Itskowitz Tami Jum passed away at the age of 46 after almost 19 years battling MS. Tami had an energy and zest for life from early on growing up on Davies Road all through her short life. She battled the disease courageously even though it took so much of life's pleasures and things we take for granted away from her. Through it all she kept her usual upbeat spirit and sense of humor. When we last met, only her mind was functioning and I recall she said to me "Can you believe this"? My answer was that I couldn't believe what had happened to such a wonderful person and now I can't believe that she is gone.  I will cherish all the great memories forever. Maurice Amiel It is with great remorse that I learned this week of the passing of Tami Jum. I had not known that she was ill. Since kindergarten at PS 197 Tami radiated charm, charisma and personality the way few could.  I lost touch with Tami after high school, then became reaquinted with her during the mid 80s when we both worked near each other on Long Island. We regularly went to the Met games together and enjoyed each others' friendship. I recall fondly how she would leave to go the bathroom only to return with trays of refreshments and souvenirs.  Tami grew into a beautiful woman who was vibrant and full of life.  Tami was never without her beautiful smile.  She was a successful business woman and was extremely generous. I am truly sorry that I neglected to remiain in contact with her after I left New York. Tami's smile will always remain a vivid image etched in my mind.  My condolences to her family and friends. Respectfully,  Roy London I am very sad to learn of the passing of Tami.  She was a wonderful person. I remember back in Far Rock after Mr. Colletto's class going to the beach and grabbing lunch together at Gino's. This is so sad. She was one of the most vibrant  people I have ever known. Tami, you will be missed.  Al Rabin I knew Tami well in high school and was never aware of her medical problems.  She always had a smile on her face and if you were feeling down, she was always there to make you laugh. MS is a terrible thing; a good friend of mine has it now. I will always remember the fun times we had; they will live in my memory forever.  To her family, I'm very sorry for your loss, words cannot  express the way you feel when you lose someone so young. Rest in Peace, Tami. Rocco Nasso

 

In Remembrance of Edward Kent, Class of 1979

Rest in Peace, old friend. Respectfully, Roy London I knew Eddie well, we used to hang out together quite a bit. I am deeply saddened by his passing. He was someone who was always there for you when you needed him. I'll remember him well.  Goodbye my friend. Rest in Peace. Rocco Nasso

 

In Remembrance of Julian Pike, Class of 1946

My dad passed away suddenly on Sept. 6, 2007. He was living in Savannah, GA at the time of his death, and is buried at the VA National Cemetery in Beaufort, SC. He was/is a wonderful father, husband, grandfather and great-grandfather and we all miss him more than words can say. He was very proud of his service in the Navy (part of the "Greatest Generation") and had very happy memories of Far Rockaway - as his children do from our years spent living there. One of his joys was staying in touch with family and friends, no matter how scattered around the country/world we might be. Even if it was just sending jokes by e-mail, he always try to stay connected. That connection can live on through the memories everyone who knew him has of him.  Thanks to all and each of you who touched his life in any way. Karen L. Paxton (nee Pike)

 

In Remembrance of Ronny Kletter, Class of 1962

If you're lucky in life, you get to meet one person who seems bigger than life itself. A true giant.  A genuine visionary.  An eternal optimist.  I'm extremely lucky.  Because I knew Ron Kletter for nearly 40 years.  He was my big sister's husband.  And more like an older brother to me than a brother-in-law. Even in the midst of his terminal illness -- which, by the way, he fought with extraordinary courage -- his optimism and passion for life didn't wane.  He even went and bought a vineyard in Napa Valley!  So all Kletter family occasions are now celebrated with wine made from Kletter grapes. One of the last things Ron said to me was this:  "Everything's going great.  I just wish I could figure out a way to keep myself alive."  He couldn't, of course.  But, now that I think about it, in a way he did.  Roy Klein (Class of 1970)

 

In Remembrance of Anthony "Popsie" Winston, Class of 1979

"Popsie" one of the first friends I made in kindergarten in 1966 at PS 197Q-we remained friends through the end of high school and beyond. Rest in Peace Roy London

 

In Remembrance of John R. Murphy, Class of 1968

Left us too soon, but left us a lifetime of memories.  A better friend or brother would be hard to find.  "Jack" was a pure soul, fiercly independent, and lived life the way it should be lived...free and with no regrets. Tom Murphy

 

In Remembrance of Freya Leberfeld, Class of 1958

I want to share a memory  Freya was my first girlfriend in public school.  We became good friends and then after losing touch reacquainted at our 25th reunion.  We danced, shared many memories.  I have a great deal of affection for her.  I was very saddened by her passing which was all too soon.  She was a sweet, kind woman. Larry Moshan

 

In Remembrance of Mark Rosenthal, Class of 1959

Mark passed away after a long battle with leukemia.  Carole Waxman Cohen, Class of 1959

 

In Remembrance of Dave Shnayer, Class of 1976

Dave lost his long battle with cancer on November 17, 2007.  Among his other achievements, Dave will be remembered as J.D. Howard on WALK FM  97.5, a Long Island, NY radio station, where he worked for more than 15 years. He will truly be missed forever by his wife LuAnn, his son Josh, his long time friends since high school, Steve Goldstein & George Kaftan (also grads of '76), and everyone whose life he touched. Liz Schwartz Pearsall, Class of 1976

 

In Remembrance of Beverly Posner, Class of 1956

Beverly loved Far Rockaway and the beach, A kind, loving woman who will always be missed.  Mom passed away August 2001. She leaves one son (me) and husband Hal.  Michael Eisenstein

 

In Remembrance of Irwin "Willie" Willner, Class of 1957

He was my cousin/friend.  We grew up living across the street from each other in Laurelton.  What a wonderful sense of humor he had.  He will be in my heart forever. Lenore (Willner) Greene '59

 

In Remembrance of Leslie Perlman, Class of 1968

Les lived in Westchester County. He owned a successful liquor store on Central Ave. in Westchester for many years. He is survived by his wife Yolanda, father Abby, brother Bobby, a step-son, a niece and nephew. He died from complications due to a respiratory infection.

 

In Remembrance of Elaine Wendroff, Class of 1945

In memory of my beautiful mother, who graduated FRHS at the ripe old age of 15! Gale Litt

 

In Remembrance of Felice Linet Herbert, Class of 1975 

Felice was a deeply kind and compassionate friend, daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, niece and cousin. She had been a Pharmacy Tech devoted to her profession. Felice will be remembered by all who knew her as a supportive, non-judgmental, accepting human being.  She was in poor health too long and died too young but the love she had for others will last eternally. Marina Zuchowski Callaghan

 

In Remembrance of Bruce Berlin, Class of 1958

Remembering Bruce Berlin, Co-editor of The Chat  Walking along Rockaway’s surf in a light summer dress, Bruce sprang out of the ocean, all smiley, arms open, preparing for a hug … we hadn’t seen each other since June ’58, thirty years before. Happy to see him but not wanting to have a dress full of salt water and sand, I stepped back…and saw a flicker of disappointment and quick recovery. Typical Bruce. We talked happily for a while and parted. I had every intention of talking about that incident when we would see each other at the reunion. This time my hug would be with a full heart – our clothes, if not our eyes, would be dry. I don't know when Bruce died, or the circumstances. This is a poor substitute for actually meeting him, but it will have to do. Bruce deserves to be honored. Having decided we were of equal merit, Chat Adviser Earl Jagust established a precedent by naming us co-editors-in-chief. Each of us instantly suppressed our disappointment at not being THE one… and worked in harmony and with pleasure.  Bruce had all of the qualities I treasure:  a sweet, gentle nature, a great sense of humor, a cooperative spirit. That’s why we worked so well together. It helped that we were each going steady with other FRHSers, so we could enjoy each other’s company without that as an issue… Ah, the Chat office was a world unto itself. Jagust was outrageously raucous, even more than he had been in journalism class. Since I was bored insensate by all my classes save that one, it was great being Co-editor because I could get passes to skip classes and retreat as often as I liked to the Chat office – my sanctuary from the tedium. Bruce and I did great work as editors, loving every aspect of our work – getting articles from the reporters,  cutting and pasting the layouts –  and laughing uproariously at They Who Told Jokes. Bruce’s were always happy funny, not funny peculiar, not funny cruel or squirmy. You could laugh unreservedly at Bruce’s life-affirming jokes.  Best of all, we got to smoke cigarettes – forbidden at home. [Remember when smoking tobacco was naughty?] Jagust gave me a nick-name that I thought disgusting, and Bruce never, ever used it. For him, I was “Ilthagee” when he waxed enthusiastic.  For that, and the experience of a good, kind man-child, he will ever remain a sweet light in my heart. Ilsa Glazer

 
 

In Remembrance of Michael Sobel, Class of 1958

Remembering Michael Sobel We just left my beloved Brooklyn for the horrible apartment in the old house on Beach 134th Street when my parents met the Sobels from down-the-block and became friends. Michael and I were seven, fat, and shy. In the trauma leaving our beautiful playroom, our darling Aunt TT, and our privacy – Myrna and Audrey Aarons went through the room I shared with my two sisters en route to their attic bedroom – I have no memory of playing with Michael, or even talking to him. Into our early teens, the Sobels and Michael became a constant presence in the kitchen of the big old house our parents bought on the beach. Michael, grown tall and good looking, was still quiet, and I wondered if he felt he couldn’t compete with his older, outgoing brother Arthur. Ruth and Jack loved to eat my mother’s cooking and gossip, while we kids listened in silence. The adults loved and trusted each other. I think we kids were indifferent. I was happy that Michael clearly grew out of his shyness, and had a pretty girlfriend, Fern Spier, from my sister Alyne’s class, FRHS’59. My mother was delighted: she approved of the girl’s parents. They were charitable, which was her sole criterion of moral rectitude. They married around the same time I did, at twenty.  The gossip around the kitchen table began again. Michael had an intestinal disorder. Over the next couple of years, he underwent many operations. But there seemed to be no way to help him: he wasted away and died, just as I had two beautiful babies. My heart broke for his pretty wife, and for quiet Michael. Ilsa Glazer

 

In Remembrance of Ira Pollack, Class of 1958

Remembering Ira Pollack Sweet, sweet gentle Ira, as soon as the reunion work got started, I e mailed Judy to see if she had your e mail address. Of all the boys I wanted to see after fifty years, you were top of the list. We had such a lovely friendship as children. We had a close connection and an easy one. I loved your parents. My parents loved your parents. We liked to talk to each other in a happy, easy kind of way in the den while our parents sat around the kitchen table. Two shy peas in a pod. I grieve deeply at your suffering and will hug you in my heart until we meet again, as we promised each other in our Dolphins. Ilsa Glazer Ira Pollack was my first friend, from 1st grade at the Yeshiva of Flatbush, through FRHS and on through our years at Columbia College.  Ira started clarinet lessons in the 4th grade and soon after did I, especially after I saw his metal school instrument with all the multiple keys and pads.  Ira was very sweet and gentle and a great favorite of the girls. He was very popular and was an officer of our class. His older sister always had a kind and encouraging word for his friends.  We stayed in touch regularly as he became a very successful optometrist in the Sacramento area. He passed very prematurely and is remembered fondly by all who came into contact with him. Arthur Lebowitz

 

In Remembrance of Christine Neff Wolf, Class of 1980

6/19/1962---2/13/2007 Survived by 3 children: Lisa, Dawn and Kevin Wolf and 1 grandchild, Hailey Christine. She is also survived by her mom, Mary Neff.  Also, her sisters, Maureen, Kim, Jean, Mary, Clare,and one brother, Richard Neff She was a person with a huge heart and everyone who knew her, loved her. Jean (Neff) Borriello I still miss your warm, beautiful smile. I don't think its going to ever get any easier. Keep a watch over your family and friends, until we meet again. I love and miss you, little sister. Kim I went through high school with Chris's brother Richey.  He was a good friend and I was friends with the whole family. I even remember when Claire was born and how happy Chris and the whole family was. I found out this week from her sister Kim of this tragedy, to be taken so young.  Chris was always full of life. I used to work with her when I first moved to Florida; she even helped me get the job.  I was shocked by the news and deeply saddened for her family.  She will be missed by everyone who knew her. To her family, my deepest regrets. I just wish I knew earlier so I could have been there. Rocco Nasso, Class of 1979

 

In Remembrance of Jimmy Scaccia, Class of 1968

Jimmy passed Febuary 16, 2008 of a massive heart attack. Those of us, and there are many, are stunned by this loss. Jimmy's integrity, honesty and determination to suuceed made him a person to admire and look up to. He was committed to provide his children with more than he had growing up on 67th street. He truly accomplished that and he was a dear friend to me. I'll never ever forget the "summer of love" Jimmy and I experienced in Haight Ashbury in 1968. Honest guy, great football player, one of the special people from Rockaway. Jimmy was the starting fulback on the FRHS '68 City Championship Football Team. He leaves three wonderful children, Tierza, Jami and Jesse. Like others from Far Rock...he died too soon and will be dearly missed. David Abelson, Class of 1967

 

In Remembrance of Murray Kaplan, Class of 1960

My brother, Murray Kaplan, passed away April 17th, 2008.  He was a member of the class of 1960 and was a champion swimmer at FRHS and was the winner of the Stanley Rose Award.  His coach, Richie Sierer encouraged him to apply to the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD from which he was graduated in 1964. He served aboard the USS Severn and the USS Zellars and then in Vietnam as an advisor to the South Vietnamese Navy.  While in Nam he was awarded the Navy Marine Corps Medal and the Bronze Star. Murray returned home in 1970 and resigned his commission as a Lieutenant.  After working briefly for the NY Telephone Company he was hired by Hewlett-Packard, initially selling cable test equipment and finally moving into the Human Resources division of the company.  Several years before his retirement in 2007 he worked in Human Resources with Agilent Technologies, an HP spin-off. Murray and his wife of 30 years Ann Dallinga Kaplan had been living on the Outer Banks of NC for 10 years.  His passion was kayaking, cooking, music and travel.  In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by his daughter, Becky and her daughter Breanne Carawan, his sisters Myrna-Sue Shimberg (a former FRHS music teacher) and Ellie Diamond (FRHS ’67), his brothers-in-law Harvey Diamond, Tom and Howard Dallinga, his sisters-in-law Pat and Carol Dallinga, his mother-in-law Anna Dallinga, a nephew and nieces. In loving memory, your sister, Myrna-Sue (Kaplan) Shimberg Murray Kaplan was an admired friend and classmate whose service to the nation is deeply appreciated. Richard Sloane, FRHS Class of 1960

 

In Remembrance of David Brian Swedlow, Class of 1963

David Brian Swedlow, age 61, died Sunday May 4th, 2008 at the Cleveland Indians vs. Kansas City Royals baseball game. He was with some of his  children and grandchildren and collapsed suddenly. He was my uncle and will be dearly missed by all of his relatives as well as all who knew him. He attended Lucretia Mott (P.S. 215) from 1953 to 1958 and Benjamin Cardozo Junior High (J.H. 180) in Far Rockaway from 1958 to 1960. He attended Far Rockaway High School from 1960 to 1963. Scott Swedlow David was my brilliant, loving, friend to all cousin.  I know he kept in touch with many of his wonderful friends from Far Rockaway High School and I know there will be many sad friends of his when they find out this devastating news. He leaves five beautiful children and four precious grandkids as well as hundreds of friends and relatives who will miss him forever and a day. Cheryl Silk

 

In Remembrance of Charles S. Bloom, Class of 1950

My uncle, Charles S. Bloom, 77, a graduate of Far Rockaway High School, passed away on June 22, 2008 in Boca Raton, FL. He was born in Hartford, CT, and happily grew up in Far Rockaway. We often heard stories of a more idyllic time when he and his friends (Kenny, Carl, Ralph and others) spent carefree days at the Pix, Strand and other favorite locales in town.  He most definitely had 'sand in his shoes' and always loved the beach, in particular the summers he later spent with family and friends at SeaCliff in Atlantic Beach. The memories of those days, in the 60s and early 70s are among the most treasured.  Most recently he was looking forward to returning to NY and visitng his former Mott Avenue home but it was, sadly, not to be.  Mr. Bloom leaves behind his devoted and much loved daughter, Melinda Bloom Leon and his adored grandchildren, Samantha and Jonathan Leon. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marcia Irwin Bloom, his parents Lena and Benjamin Bloom and his sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Morty Friedman. My aunt and uncle would have celebrated their 50th anniversary on July 2. He will be loved and missed forever by his family and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.  Submitted by Susan Friedman

 

In Remembrance of Martin Roth, Class of 1964

In June, 2008 my friend Martin Roth, FRHS class of 1964, died from a massive heart attack. He was 61 years old.  Andrew Konikoff, Class of 1964 Our brother, Martin F. Roth, Ph.D., a Far Rockaway High School graduate from 1964, died of a sudden heart attack on June 9, 2008, which shocked us all.  Marty held a senior position as a Group Manager at the IRS, where he worked for many years, and won a number of awards for excellence, including the prestigious Albert Gallatin Award.  Marty was an Adjunct Professor in Business and Accounting at Touro College, Empire State College of SUNY and The College of New Rochelle.  He also contributed articles to academic/professional journals, and served as a volunteer lecturer on business ethics at the Henry George School of Social Science.  Marty was a role model to his staff, and a mentor to a large number of students, and helped many establish their career paths.  Marty earned a B.S., Cum Laude in Accounting from New York University, an MBA in Finance from Columbia University, and a Ph.D. in Business Education from the City University of Los Angeles.  He was also a Certified Financial Planner.  Marty was a scholar in Jewish practices, was on the Executive Board of his local synagogue, and earned a certificate in Jewish studies from Yeshiva University.  Marty was very generous, always giving to charitable causes.  He was an extremely intelligent, caring person with a keen sense of humor, who loved to learn and teach.  Our brother, Marty, will be in our hearts forever, and we will miss him always. Sheila Roth and Irv Roth

 

In Remembrance of Ethel "Ethey" Davis, Class of 1965 

Ethey lived in Belle Harbor growing up, moving later to NJ and finally to CA. She was my best friend all through HS and college. Many memories remain, but two stand out: 1. For her 16th birthday her (brave) parents took several of her closest friends upstate NY for the weekend. We scandalized the quiet hotel by sitting on the lawn til the wee hours, howling at the moon. 2. We went to Woodstock together, walking miles to the concert site. What can I say in 25 words about that experience? Afterwards we drove up through Vermont and Maine and NH, still immersed in that feeling of love and peace, and everyone we met seemed so kind... I will miss her. Susan J. Friedman

 

In Remembrance of Merrie Shaeffer, Class of 1965 

Merrie grew up in Bayswater, lived the rest of her life on Seagirt Blvd. Had a very infectious laugh. Could not park a car to save her life.  Susan J. Friedman

 

In Remembrance of Ronald Lipshie, Class of 1950

My dad, Ronald Lipshie, died in June 2004.  He graduated from Far Rockaway H.S. in 1950 and was incredibly proud of his high school. Thanks Jon Lipshie

 

In Remembrance of Luba (Rybb) LaJoie, Class of 1962

It's almost two years since you've been gone and I still want to pick up the phone and talk to you.  I speak to Ray from time to time, but it's just too hard.  I will miss you forever and love you for longer than that. Barbi My beautiful mother, I can still feel your smiile. I miss you more than I ever could. You are always in my thoughts and heart.  Missy

 

In Remembrance of Esther Bergstein, Class of 1969

I can't believe Esther is gone. I miss her. She was so sweet and we had such great memories all through the years, but especially how bad we were in Hebrew School! Elaine Menashe

 

In Remembrance of Roger Rothenberg, Class of 1969

Roger was one of my first friends when we moved to Far Rockaway from our one year hiatus to Lindenwood via Rockaway Park (since '56). Roger was a wonderful individual. A sweet guy with a positive attitude. A smart guy in advanced classes. Always an encouraging word. I had heard of Roger's passing some time ago, but wasn't sure it was true. The story I heard is that Roger was playing guitar in a band and he was posting flyers when he was struck by a car. I do not know Roger beyond high school, but wish we could sit down and pick a few tunes on the guitars.... "would you know my name..." he surely is in heaven... Eddie Isaacs

 

In Remembrance of Jack Weinstein, Class of 1969

Around 1994 I was at a guitar show on Long Island. I hadn't seen Jack since High School, nor was I ever particularly friendly with him. But I knew he was in bands in high school. I recognized him after all those years; the same frizzy, blond hair. We spoke and exchanged phone numbers. He was a school psychologist. I was playing guitar at a restaurant near him in Bellmore and invited him to come down. We lost touch and in 1997 I was transferred to a school in Brooklyn. I was working as an Education Evaluator, a member of a team that  evaluates special needs students. When I arrived at the new school district, people were talking about the sudden passing of Jack Weinstein. I inquired, described him; yes, he was a school psychologist with the big white hairdo. I believe it was a sudden heart attack. He left behind a wife and young child. Eddie Isaacs

 

In Remembrance of Fred Herbst, Class of 1937

Fred Herbst 1921 – 2008 On Monday, October 6, 2008, my father, Fred Herbst passed away. He followed my mother Anne who left us a year ago last May. Freddy’s family began its migration in 1914 when his parents moved from Europe to Akron, Ohio where Fred was born in 1921. They came to the Rockaways in the mid 1920s and settled in on Beach 60th street. He had twin younger brothers, one of whom died in 1949. Fred attended PS 42, graduated from Far Rockaway HS in 1937 and went to Carnegie Tech to study engineering. He joined the Naval Reserve in 1940, went through the Civilian Pilot Training Program’s local chapter at Rockaway Airport. He was activated as an ensign in 1942. He married my mother, Anne, that same year and flew for the Navy until he was discharged in 1945 as a Lt Commander. They settled in Rockaway that year then moved to Far Rockaway, eventually to Bayswater where the three children, myself, Philip and Andy grew up. Fred and Anne left the Rockaways in 1958, spent a few years in Woodmere then moved to Florida. Anne passed away in 2007 and Fred the following year. They are survived by their sons, Richard and Philip and by his surviving younger brother, Dan Herbst who lives in Pompano.  Richard Herbst Lauderdale Lakes, FL

 

In Remembrance of Andrea Goldman (Thornton), Class of 1980

Andrea was a mother to Nicole, age 21, Tyler 17, and wife of Rob.  Her death was extremely sudden and she passed from a cerebral  hemorrhage. She was the kindest, warmest , most fun-loving person anyone could ever known and I was lucky enough (along with countless others) who spent 6th-12th grade with her.  She will be missed terribly. Brenda Heller (King)  Class of 1980 Our dear friend Andy has passed suddenly. She was the person that made everyone feel so special and happy. Kind to all. The lights of  her life were her beautiful princess Nicole and handsome prince Tyler. She put her all into her family and will be missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to have known her.  We miss you Andy!!!!!!!!!!! Maddy Siroka (Cohen) It is with great sadness that I write about Andrea Goldman's passing.  Andrea and I were very close during our teens and then lost touch after high school.  But then Andrea and I wound up living in the same community and would often see each other.  I will miss bumping into her and talking with her.  Her smile and glowing eyes will be what I remember most about Andrea.  My heart goes out to her children and husband Rob. Scott Young My dear friend Andie, I will miss you more than you could ever know. Although we didn't speak much of late, I always considered you a close friend and will always keep you in my heart.  I wish you were still here so we could connect again. I can't believe that you are gone. You were always happy and energetic and kind and warm.  The group of us that remained friends since 7th grade are so devasted by your sudden death.  You will be with us always,  Love,  Barbara Martino Reinken

 

In Remembrance of Stuart Perlmutter, Class of 1961

I happened across Stuart's name on the memorial page, and was very saddened of his passing. I often thought of Stu as a classmate and as a friend in the many years we knew each other. He will be missed.  Rest In Peace, Stu. Rick Gallaway

 

In Remembrance of Howard Swedlow, Class of 1956

Howard Jordan Swedlow, age 69, died Wednesday, November 5th, 2008 of a heart attack. He was my father and will be dearly missed by all of his relatives as well as all who knew him. He attended Far Rockaway High School from 1952 to 1956. He was survived by his wife, five children and eight grandchildren.  Scott Swedlow Howie ws my wonderful cousin.  He always made me laugh and look at life in a lighthearted way.  I will miss him very much. Cheryl Silk

 

In Remembrance of Lon Sorkin, Class of 1956

My condolences to Marcy and Gail Sorkin.  Lon and I were bunkmates at Camp Brydon Lake in the late 40s and early 50s during the polio epidemic. Their parents had a butcher shop around the corner from where I lived in Arverne. Even though I knew many of the others on the memorial page, Lon hit me the most.  We were childhood friends.  I don't know whether we're in the youth of old age, or the old age of youth, but time marches on.  Rest In Peace, Lon.  Artie Schechter

 

In Remembrance of Barbara Wachter, Class of 1953

I knew Barbara and her twin sister Cynthia for many years. They were truly the sweetest and kindest friends. They both passed away very soon after each other. They had MS but handled this illness very well through all the years they had to cope with it. Judith (Estelle Zambler) Just

 

In Remembrance of Harvey Raizer, Class of 1965

My fondest remembrances of Harvey were of his skewed sense of humor.  On many occasions, while working together in the dietary department of Peninsula General Hospital, Harvey would blurt out some ridiculous joke, causing me to drop a patient's food tray.  Then, as I'd begin to scrape the string bean casserole off the floor, he'd say some other funny thing as the dietician screamed at both of us for not working.  He was a good friend and his sense of humor will be treasured in the hearts of those who knew him. Rick "Richie" Berger, Class of 1963 My memories of Harvey Raizer are too numerous to mention. Suffice it to say that my memories go back to 1969 when Harvey and I began teaching in P.S. 157 in Brooklyn, a place where we played "catch" between the ends of the corridor on the 4th floor while the students had their lunch period in the cafeteria, or when he sent a student to my room asking me if I could send a bucket of steam to his room, or when I sent a student to his room asking for change of a $5 bill and having it returned to me ripped into 4 pieces! Since then Harvey and I had been like brothers. His wonderful sense of humor always brought a smile to my face. He was always there for me, especially during the sad times in my life. I miss our weekly lunches at the local diner every week. I miss him very much.  Les Groman

 

In Remembrance of Hannah Libsohn Prisand, Class of 1968

Hannah Libsohn Prisand, my amazing, funny and creative wife of 38 years passed away on October 30, 2008.  She led a life filled with sunny days at the beach and happy times with her friends and family. Our 33 year old daughter, Arin, founded The Hannah Banana Foundation, to give therapeutic and interactive gifts to chronically ill adults.  Please visit HannahBananaFoundation.org to learn more about Hannah, the foundation's cause, and ways to get involved. Gary Prisand

 

In Remembrance of Harold Alexander, Class of 1944

We were married over 58 years. Harold always talked about how much his years at FRHS and the lasting friendships he made meant to him. Muriel Alexander

 

In Remembrance of Dr. Jerome Wilsker, Class of 1941

It is with profound sadness that I report of the passing of my Dad, Dr. Jerome "Jerry" Wilsker, on 1/18/09. He was a kind, caring, generous man, who was loved by his family, friends, and multiple generations of his patients. Stuart Wilsker

 

In Remembrance of Lisa Lawrence Seidman, Class of 1963

My wife, Lisa Lawrence Seidman, of The Villages, FL, passed away December 23, 2008 after a long battle with breast cancer.  She is survived by husband Richie Seidman and two sons, Jonathon and David.  Lisa had both Bachelors and Masters Degrees as an Anthropology major from LIU, Certificate in Museum Studies from Hofstra University.  She was the curator for The Lake Ronkonkoma Historical Society for many years.  It was just a part time job (3-4 hours per week) but she took great pleasure in redoing existing exhibits and creating new ones. Richie Seidman Lisa, Thank you for all the old shared memories and the new memories we made in the last few years. You are the dearest of friends - my "sister." I miss you so very much. Jackie (Fass) Gross

 

In Remembrance of Eddie Rochelle, Class of 1956

Here is a link that says it all: http://jrsays.com/2007/05/important-stuff.html Linda Copen Rochelle

 

In Remembrance of Martha Weinstein Mark, Class of 1955

Taken from The Journal News, March 3rd, 2009 issue: Martha (Weinstein) Mark, Class of 1955. Residence was Croton on Hudson, NY Died Feb. 27th, 2009 at Northern Westchester Hospital, Mt. Kisco, NY  Husband Larry, 2 daughters Katherine Mark, and Elizabeth Meyerson.  Martha was voted "wittiest" of the class of 1955. She will be missed Joyce (Eisenberg) Douglas

 

In Remembrance of Michael DeFreitas, Class of 1986

A real friend to the end, Michael was a very handsome snazzy dresser. He was always either making me laugh or annoying me in all the classes we shared. We had French class together and I used to crack up at him speaking French because he would use his Spanish accent and it never sounded like French! :) Michael had the worst crush on me; he used to beg me to break up with my boyfriend and go out with him...but he never stopped being my best friend, who made me laugh, tried to help me with math (sorry, I was too dense), and was an all-around sweet guy. Sadly, cancer of the bones took him too soon at the age of 19. I know he'd still be my friend if he were around today. Hope to meet him up there so he can help me get around. I know he had a younger sister, I hope she and her family are all doing well, as I have had them in thoughts and prayers all these years later. Adrienne Rodriguez

 

In Remembrance of Rochelle Robinson, Class of 1953

Rochelle was a loving wife and mother of three, sister, sister-in-law and cousin of 1953 alum Marcia Robinson.  She is very much missed. Marcia Robinson

 

In Remembrance of Robert Churchill, Class of 1981

He'll always be missed. Robert Steiger

 

In Remembrance of Robert Brodey, Class of 1961

With great sadness I announce the death in March 2009 of my very close and old friend and our classmate, Robert Brodey. Bob died in California of colon cancer after a long period of illness. Ralph Michael Stein

 

In Remembrance of Edith (Spierman) Gordon, Class of 1948

Michael and Edith were married 57 years.  Edith was lovable, commited and devoted to her family.  She and her sister Hazel were joined at the hip.  We will all miss her contagious laughter and wisdom.  Rest in peace dear Edith.  You are gone but will  never be forgotton.  With love,  Vivian Maskin

 

In Remembrance of Adrienne (Fremed) Brier, Class of 1951

Adrienne and I started dating during her freshman year at FRHS. We married June of 1953.  She was the best of the best right up to her death at age 66 on Sept 13, 1999. Gilbert Brier

 

In Remembrance of Anita Gold Stein, Class of 1955

Anita has been a special friend for over 60 years despite the geographic distances. It is with sadness that I report her death. Helen Sugarman Presberg

 

In Remembrance of Michael DeStafano, Class of 1971

Still miss ole Mike, with found memories of him playing goalie in our schoolyard pickup hockey games, sprawling to make the great save. He was small in stature but big at heart. He would make a point of going after the biggest player on the football field, and went flying at him for a key block.  He would love to laugh and joke, and had a really strong appreciation for friendship. He had a good soul.  Richard Greenberg

 

In Remembrance of Carl Salland, Class of 1953

Carl Salland, 73, passed away Jan. 29, 2008, in a Virginia Beach hospital. Carl was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and was the son of the late Thomas and Shirley Salland. Survivors include his wife, Connie H. Salland; two sons, Scott Salland of Hawaii and Steven.

 

In Remembrance of Robert Savino, Class of 1964

It is with sadness that I report that my dear life long friend Bobby Savino passed away during January of 2008. Bobby, or Beanie to his friends/his sister Barbara and I, became friends in 7th grade while attending Benjamin Cardoza Jr. High School, and so began years of adventures that in some cases bordered on illicit. Then again, what would childhood experiences be without such adventures.  Bobby was generous of spirit and loved to make people laugh. He worked hard from an early age at John's Bargain Store and would often helpout his friends and family when they were in need.  Bobbie loved fishing and we built a row boat which immediately sank when we test piloted it in a sewage canal near Beach 9th Street. My friend, Rest and Live in Peace. Marc Briller

 

In Remembrance of John Skelly, Class of 1943

My brother, John Skelly, FRHS class of 1943, passed away in 2008.  He leaves his wife, Martha Jo, three children and three grandchildren.  John was living in Merced, CA and was retired from the Airforce. Bill Skelly

 

In Remembrance of Eddie Hellenbrand & George Bell, Class of 1955

Two very dear friends of mine have passed from the 1955 class. George Bell and Eddie Hellenbrand.  Let their souls rest in peace. Gerard (Jerry) Newman

 

In Remembrance of Daniel Scott Fuchs, Class of 1978

My sincere condolences go out to the family of Danny Fuchs. Rest in Peace.  Arleen Kaplan Matier

 

In Remembrance of William "Billy" Boockvar, Class of 1960

Dr. William "Billy" Boockvar passed Sept 23, 2009 from leukemia.  He was an eye doctor in Hewlett. Informatiaon from the family is forthcoming.

 

In Remembrance of Howard Lieberman, Class of 1956

FRHS 1956 alumnus Howard Lieberman passed away on September 25, 2009.

 

In Remembrance of Sheldon (Shelly) Goldstein, Class of 1963

Sheldon (Shelly) Goldstein, class of 1963, passed away on September 13, 2009 after a fierce fight with lung cancer.  He was loved by many.  He will be missed. We attended Far Rockaway High School together where he taught me the value of making friends with the monitors in the attendance office.  We purchased sign language cards so that when they separated us in study hall (which was often) we were still able to communicate.  We would make faces at each other to see who would crack the other one up first…thereby getting that person into more trouble.  Ahhh…the fun years.  Cousin...I will miss you so much.  I love you. Your cousin,  Kyna Miller

 

In Remembrance of Francine Groman Freeman, Class of 1977

Francine Groman was one of the kindest people I knew. I am proud to say I knew her. So friendly and beautiful inside and outside. To her children, I hope you will meet people in your lives who can tell you more wonderful things about what a generous and sweet person she was. Good will come to you because your mom only wanted the best for you always and God knows that. She was unselfishly loyal to her children. If you don't know it yet, soon will you realize just how much she gave and did for you. Let NOBODY tell you anything but good about this darling and angelic person, Francine Groman.  Arleen Kaplan Matier My sister Fran passed away on October 22, 2009.  I could not have asked for a more loving, caring and considerate sister.  She was not only my sister, but my good friend.  We originally lived in Arverne and then moved to Beach 17th St.  There are so many good memories. Fran then moved to Atlantic Beach where she raised three beautiful children.  Fran was an amazing person who was loved by all who knew her. Fran had the gift of gab and was exceptionally friendly with a beautiful smile. But that is only half her story.  She was a kind and generous person. There was never a time a friend could not confide in her.  She had the capacity to really listen to the problems and concerns of others and always showed compassion.  She would go out of her way to reach out to those in need.  Her three children were so blessed to have Francine as their mother.  She spent her life loving and caring for her children, never putting herself before them.  Fran will always be with me in my memories and in my heart. Love, Your Brother Ron I only Knew Francine during her time at Buffalo State College.  She was one of the warmest, kindest no-nonsense people I ever knew.  She was loved by everyone who knew her and she had a unique gift for making people feel special.  Because of these skills, Fran was one of the people in charge of the concert committee. Hospitality was her forte and she was always the one who made the performing artists and everyone working on the show feel appreciated, welcome and comfortable.  Truly, the party didn't start until Francine arrived, and you never wanted it to end. David S. Kapp

 

In Remembrance of Carole Waxman Cohen, Class of 1959

Carole Waxman Cohen, class of 1959, passed away October 27, 2009.  She had been ill for several years, but her illness, had worked diligently with Karen Klein Lutzker to make the 50th year reunion of their class wonderfully successful.  She was a kind, giving human being who was loved by all who knew her.

 

In Remembrance of Robert Hyman, Class of 1970

Sadly, Bob died last year leaving behind his wife, his 3 beautiful children, his parents, sister and many friends and family members who will love him forever. Cindy McQuade

 

In Remembrance of Dorothy Barin Pinnola, Class of 1943

Dorothy passed away in 1996. Richard Pinnola

 

In Remembrance of Suzan "Suz" Posner Weisser 

Suz was a member of the (now defunct) Rockaway Chat for many years.  When we first met she was living in Wisconsin.  She met Jerry Weisser online and he proposed to her right in our chat room.  She said "yes," they moved to Duluth, MN and they were very happily married.  Suz passed away the second week of November.  She had the H1N1 virus, which developed into pneumonia.  She had a history of recurrent leukemia, so she wasn't in the best of health...plus, she had undergone bypass heart surgery several years ago.   I corresponded with her fairly often and she and Jerry were planning a cruise in late December, leaving from Florida, where they'd planned to visit several classmates. We'll miss you, Suz. Carol Marston My sister, Suzan Posner Weisser, was a special person.  She loved the FRHS website and enjoyed reading and writing posts.  She was a rare individual who made friends easily and kept them dear to her heart.  She was a fabulous nurse who tended to her patients with extra care. She was a great sister who cared about my husband and me and showered us with special gifts that we treasure.  She was proud of her children and loved her grandchildren.  She loved the life she built with her husband, Jerry.  Currently, I am suffering with her loss as it was sudden.  I lost my sister, my friend and my last Posner relative. Robyn Posner Small, Class of 1968 This is Suzan's obituary from the DULUTH NEWS TRIBUNE: Suzan Lee (Posner) Weisser, 63, passed on to be with her Lord, Friday, Nov. 13, surrounded by her family at Miller-Dwan Medical Center in Duluth, Minnesota. Mrs. Weisser was born June 18, 1946 in New York City, N.Y., the daughter of the late Harry and Dotty Posner.  Sue was a 1964 graduate of Far Rockaway High School, and graduated from Mt. Sinai School of Nursing in NYC, NY in 1967.  Sue went on to have a lengthy, fulfilling career as a registered nurse. Recently retired, Sue enjoyed traveling with her husband, Jerry, as well as spending time with her grandchildren. She also enjoyed collecting lighthouses as well as sewing, crafts, and homemaking.  She is preceded in death by her parents.  Sue is survived by her husband, Jerome; sister, Robyn (Craig) Small of Manalapan, N.J.; son, David (Paula) Tracy of Eau Claire, Wis.; daughter, Rebekah Rud of Muldrow, Okla.; son, Scott Tracy of Superior, Wis.; five grandchildren: T.J., Hope, Adam, Lauren, and Sabine.  CELEBRATION OF LIFE was held, donations preferred to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

 

In Remembrance of Laura (Weiss) Cohen, Class of 1968

Laura passed away on Nov 14, 2009.  She was my sister and my friend.  She will truly be missed. Hillary (Weiss) Zeleznik I miss Laura so much.  I need to call her and tell her so many things.  Just gone too soon. "Friends are kisses blown to us by Angels." Rest in peace, my dearest friend. Toby (Indig) Kronick

 

In Remembrance of Robert J. "Bobby" Frankel, Class of 1959

I'm not an alumni of Far Rockaway, but have known Bobby for many years. He died last Monday (11/16/09) after a long battle with leukemia. He became a legend as a Hall of Fame Thoroughbred race horse trainer and is well- respected. Maybe some of you remember him.  Judy Fehrlage

 

In Remembrance of Paul Rozansky, Class of 1950

Paul fought a courageous battle with cancer for over two years but lost out and passed away on July 16, 2009.  He had many fond memories of growing up in the Rockaways and attending FRHS. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. Norman Zipkin, Class of 1951

 

In Remembrance of Roy William Brown, Class of 1966

I lost my husband of 33 years suddenly from a massive heart attack on Sept. 27, 2005. Roy is profoundly missed by myself and his two children. Roy never forgot his years at Far Rockaway HS. He and many of his high school friends went on to Brooklyn College. Words cannot express the loss our family has had to cope with. He was our hero, our best friend, and the love of our lives. Rochelle Brown

 

In Remembrance of Lynn Streamer Sussman, Class of 1965

Haven't heard from Lynn for awhile. Guess we get busy with our own lives and sometimes lose contact. Today I called and wanted to let her know about the upcoming reunion. She was on the committee from a previous reunion and did a great job making centerpieces. I wanted her to come aboard on this one too. Her middle daughter returned my call and told me that Lynn passed away July 10, 2008. I was so shocked and taken aback. She was such a warm & giving person. She will be dearly missed. Our deepest sympathy to the family. Sandy Resnitzky Helmsorig

 

In Remembrance of Martin Silverberg, Class of 1973

There is a page with photos and a tribute to Marty from Rob Goldman, '72.  Just click this link: http://www.farrockaway.com/carol/martin_silverberg.html Friends and loved ones, Some of you have asked where you can make donations to. The information is as follows: Broward Partnership for the Homeless 920 NW 7th Ave Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 Also: HOME SAFE 680 Ipswich Street Boca Raton, FL 33487 Att:  Darlene Torres I guess since my name is first on this list I should say something. First, I want to tell you, dear Perris, that the tribute you wrote was beautiful and Bob, yours was awesome and very touching as well.  What a loss for all of us, especially for his family and his "guys." It was so obvious how much you loved each other. I was not friends with Marty all these years although we knew each other. We reconnected back at the Florida reunion in 2000 and continued getting to know each other at the '03 reunion. It really wasn't until a couple of years ago that our friendship actually became a friendship. When we talked it was so easy because he was a person who had a heart of gold. I won't get into any particulars, but he showed that heart to me several times over these past years.  His love for Tracy was right there for everyone to see...it was so obvious how they loved and respected each other. I got to spend some time with him before we knew he was sick and that evening we got to talk and hang out a bit. I'm so glad I got that opportunity. When I found out he was sick I called and we spoke. I want all of you to know what he said to me. He told me how he was so touched by all the love his friends were pouring out to him. He couldn't believe that so many people cared about him. That is what we are to each other. We have a bond that is not easily broken. Let's do Marty justice and take a lesson from him. Let's remember to reach out and love each other. Let's help each other whenever we can as Marty has done for so many. Let's not take each other for granted, because nobody is promised tomorrow. Let's not let his life be in vain, but better, let's take lessons from a man who knew how to love his family and friends. And Perris, remember, as long as we still have each other it's not over. We will continue to put one foot in front of the other and keep walking...that's what he would have wanted.  Rest in Peace my dear friend....you were very loved...and will always be remembered for the joy you brought into each of our lives. I will miss you... Love,  Lois Mark Saiani, Class of 1973 I posted a tribute to our friend: http://seminal.firedoglake.com/?p=28138 Perris Calderon Elvis has left the building. CONDOLENCES TO US ALL. Marty of blessed memory - your love and caring for those lucky enough to have been touched by you will reverberate in the universe forever.  Your goodness and who you truly were and STILL ARE will be carried in our memories forever.  You will unquestionably live on through all of us who loved you and we all will be better for it even as we grieve our loss. Marty of blessed memory - thank you for all you have given to me personally and thank you for the goodness you have contributed to the world.  Your family and friends will carry the torch forward and YOU WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN. I feel at such a loss...Robert (Goldman) texted me the sad news in the middle of the night so he wouldn't wake me up. but I needed to talk --when he called we talked and both spent moments in stunned silence. I am in Israel for the past month for my art and had gone just last week to pray for Marty's health and some miracle at the Wailing Wall/The Kotel in Jerusalem. Wth much sadness, five days later I went back...to pray for Marty's eternal peace - and really, he received a miracle- his passing was quick and I hope, painless. I haven't stopped grieving for our loss.  I take comfort in knowing Marty followed his heart and pursued his dreams - 'til the end.  He was so determined to be a bodybuilder - once he called me to talk about his concerns - he usually was upbeat when we talked... but he was worried that he had reached his pinnacle and that it would be all downhill from there... I argued with him that all life is a gift and we can't waste time searching for better and more - that he should choose what gave him happiness and go for it! And he talked about impersonating Elvis made him feel great - that he felt he was a bigger and better version of himself when he got up and performed. And I was happy when he did practice and plan to perform...and he did!  He felt great about it. And he was so happy his wife and kids made him feel good about following his dreams. He loved his family and they loved him. I am grateful more than words can say that Robert (it's always Robert!) arranged the cruise and forced the guys time and time again in front of the camera so we have a view of a happy guy surrounded by people who loved him - because that will always be my memory of Marty - always was, and now, will always be. Thank you thank you, thank you, Robert, for helping Marty and his family in the last months - giving and being there - canceling your incredibly packed schedule for a MONTH and moving down to Florida to be there with him, for him. Thank you for doing that for him, and for all of us who loved Marty. It's very difficult for me- I feel we said goodby to Leslie Cohen - it was a couple of years ago but time flies so much faster now - and just recently, some of us experienced another loss when Michael Crohn's wonderful younger brother Scott died suddenly.  There were hundreds of young people at the funeral and it struck me that there is some measure of comfort and strength in rituals and action so we can help to guarantee that the memory of someone we have lost is kept alive... I regret I won't be able to come back in time from Israel to go to the funeral. I purchased a tree here and feel honored to be able to plant it with my own two hands in Marty's memory.  Please join me in this ritual which I feel will help to keep his name alive…I will be paying for - and planting additional trees in Israel in his memory - if anyone is interested to join me, please send a check made out to Alli Berman, 15 Woodmere Blvd., Woodmere, NY 11598 and indicate it is for a memorial for Marty - it's $10 per tree - I'll be back in the next week and will take care of it then. I would like to plant as many trees as possible in his memory... a forest would be fitting! My condolences to his mother, wife, siblings and children. If someone could forward this on to Tracey I would appreciate it - and put it on the Far Rock site too - I wont have definite computer access for two days and have to shut down now... DO MORE IN LESS TIME is the motto I plan to live by for the rest of my days…hugs to you all. Allí Berman, FRHS '72 P.S. I am starting a list of words to describe marty that begin with the letter "M" - one word is ideal, up to three max. Please cut and paste and pass this on if u have an "M" word to add to the list. This will be sent to Marty's family with the tree certificates - thanks. MARTY = 1) magnificent! 2) multi-faceted 3) muscleman 4) mimic Elvis 5) ???????? So so sorry to hear this terrible news...my heart goes out to his family and friends...please let me know if there is a charity Marty's family might want me to donate to in his memory. Lori & David Thank you for that, Robert.....what you guys all have is very special.  Marty will remain in all our hearts....he was a very special person. May you and his family get comfort from knowing how much he was loved. Gail Schwarz Froster, 1973 It is with my deepest sorrow that I am letting everyone know that Marty Silverberg passed away yesterday while undergoing treatment for cancer. The details are still not clear as to the actual cause as he had just started this treatment which took place outside the U.S.  Arrangements will be announced once his body is back in the states. I ask everyone to say some special prayers for Marty’s wife Tracey and their three beautiful children, Marty’s mother Dorothy, and Marty’s sisters Lisa and Abby.  May God watch over then, and keep Marty in a very special place in Heaven. My love to all my Rockaway friends. Bobby Bram Let's not say goodbye, but untill we all meet again.  What can be said that already has not been said. You are and always will be one of a kind.  Knowing that you are watching over all of us gives us some comfort.  My deepest condolences to your family and loved ones.  You will always be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless. Always,  Miki :o) "Who Dat?"  Marty Silverberg, Dat Who! As throngs of family and friends gather round the afternoon shiva buffet at the Silverbergs' beautiful Hollywood, Florida home on Superbowl Sunday, we celebrate the rich life and grieve the untimely loss of a most wonderfully divine human being.  The setting sun casts its warm, reflective rays over the expansive Intercoastal waterway, providing a calming blanket backdrop that comforts us during this most painful of times. Truly a blessing to Marty and all who loved him are his resiliant, surviving family: beloved and adored wife, Tracey; three children -- Laura, Max and Sam -- all of whom are wise and strong beyond their youthful years; fit and feisty mother, Dorothy; and two beautiful and talented sisters, Lisa and Abby. As one of the close-knit brotherhood Rockaway Guyz for 44 years, when I had first learned of Marty's illness in January, a numbness almost too surreal to understand enveloped me.  I felt cheated.  I had missed many of the major celebratory milestones in his life, and now it was as if I wanted to scramble to play catch-up.  As usual, L'il Rob (known in larger circles as Dr. Robert Goldman) came to the rescue and arranged our annual Guyz Cruise.  Mike was mourning the recent loss of his younger brother, Scott, and needed "cruise medicine, stat!"  A few days prior to the cruise, Holly and I flew down to Deerfield Beach from New York for a brief 3-day respite of our own, before joining at Marty's house with the other guyz on the eve of the cruise.  Along with Tracey and a little help from Holly, I prepared a sendoff dinner and dessert for a table of 12. Marty was my roommate on this cruise, and we all knew he had a cold and was feeling weak.  But this time it was Marty's trip, first and foremost, and we promised no foreboding or coddling.  "Your job," Marty told me intently at dinner the night before we left, "is to make me laugh."  This was a "job" I'd gladly relish for the rest of my life...  Well, the guyz being the guyz, our customary childhood goofiness ensued and, sporting our matching orange Ed Hardy designer t-shirts from Rob, we watched the New Orleans Saints win the trip to the Superbowl.  (Incidentally, because of our love for Tracey, we ([ike Marty] all shared the fever and became instant Saints fans.  Her wonderful family name is Broussard -- how much more Cajun can you get than that?!!).  We shared precious time on this cruise, retold old childhood Rockaway stories, laughed, danced, dined, took lots of pictures, and bonded anew. On our return, back at the house with Holly and the kids, we enjoyed Tracey's delicious roast turkey lunch and a surprise birthday cake for Perris ... and we said our goodbyes and planned to gather again to celebrate Marty & Tracey's upcoming 25th anniversary in September. Once back in NYC, just 1-1/2 weeks after the cruise, Mike relayed the devastating news that tore my heart and drowned my soul.  I now had to prepare to meet my brother again, but not as I had planned or wished.  So, back to Florida we went -- and because of our great love for Marty, we arrived in droves.  And as if Tracey didn't already have enough to contend with, she graciously put Holly and me up for 2 nights (thanks, Max!).  Tracey's clan from New Orleans were especially warm and comforting during all the preparations. The memorial/funeral service was standing room only.  Following words of comfort by the presiding rabbi, Lisa delivered a very profound and insightful eulogy of admiration, reminiscences and yearning.  Max eloquently recited Marty's favorite poem, revealing his dad's brave and inspired/inspiring spirit and legacy.  Finally, our row of The Rockaway Guyz, brothers for life and beyond -- holding hands throughout the service -- rose as one unit and made our way up to the podium.  Each one of us, beginning with Perris, mustered the strength to find words that could possibly come close to our heartfelt feelings for Marty and befit the true spirit that he inspired.  A set of music performed by a group of Marty's nieces and nephew elicited warm smiles.  Uncle Rob (he wears many hats!) established a $50K college scholarship fund for Max and Sam, and we all silently vowed to live more, love more, be more and do more for ourselves, our families and our community.  The service concluded with a resonating recording of Marty's impeccable Elvis. Now back at the shiva buffet, we celebrate Marty.  We remember all the joys and giving soul of this man.  Superbowl fever abounds (Marty did plan this party, before all...) and the Saints come marching in ...ushered by Marty as grand marshall in his finest Elvis duds!  Victory chants of "Who Dat?" quickly change to thunderous swells of "Marty! ... Marty! ... Marty! ..." and shake the very earth to its core.  We know and feel his profound presence, his warmth and smile.   "See, I told you you'd watch the Superbowl at my house!" ************************************************************* A most beautiful song recorded by Lee Ann Womack comes to mind: "I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance, I hope you dance...." I know Marty is watching over us and we owe it to him to dance.  To my brother:  I'm dancing! -- with two left feet, I'm dancing! Love, Joseph (Joey) Schultz

 

In Remembrance of Ellen Rothman, Class of 1970

My sister Ellen passed away on September 11, 2003 from complications with Crohns disease. She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Stephen Niloff and her daughter Stacey, who was 17 at the time. Ellen did her best to remain as active as she could given what she was up against. She died way too soon and she is missed by all who knew her. Paul Rothman

 

In Remembrance of Norman Forer, Class of 1943

Norman Forer, '43, Jewish Warrior for Social Justice, passed away shortly after 1:00 o'clock a.m. on February 12, 2010, nearly five years to the day after the passing of his wife of fifty years, Una Hehir Forer.  He died peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his children.  A small graveside service will be conducted on Sunday, February 14, at 3:00 p.m. at B'Nai Israel Cemetary 10 miles east of Lawrence, Kansas, with Rabbi Scott White officiatig and with military honors provided by Jewish War Veterans, Mo/Kan Post 605. The family intends to schedule a public memorial service in the comming months and would be pleased to receive cards, notes, photos, letters, etc., regarding Norm to be posted on a wall of remembrance.  Submissions should be sent to Norm's eldest son, Bob, who provided daily care during the last four years of Norms battle with vascular dementia and Alzheimers disease. You can read the eulogy Bob wrote for his father here: http://www.farrockaway.com/carol/normanforer.html Click Bob Forer to send mail.

 

In Remembrance of David Cohen, Class of 1961

With great sadness and personal loss I report that my very close friend from our Class of 1961, David Cohen, died suddenly on 13 February 2010 at home in Cincinnati.  David combined a truly eclectic life of varied pursuits with a deep love of culture, exceeded only by his devotion to his wife, Rosemary, and his two daughters. Ralph Stein

 

In Remembrance of Donald Pinkler, Class of 1952

My brother passed away October 14, 2009. He had just celebrated his 75th birthday in August. He died of ALL disease, which is short for Acute Lymphatic Leukemia, which took his life in about six weeks.  He told me a few years ago that he had come across the Far Rockaway website and had signed on. He didn't give much of a background, as he was somewhat of a private person. There is much that I remember about Donald as a brother and about his life. I know that he is in a much better place now alongside his wife of 43 years, who died of lymphoma, two years prior. He was my older brother and he will be missed. Alan Pinkler

 

In Remembrance of Clarese Daly (Hawthorne), Class of 1938

Clare Daly was a champion swimmer at Far Rockaway High School. As a member of a private swim club she won several National Titles. She was one of seven  children. (The sister of Joe, Polly, Helen, John, Bob, & George Daly.) After marrying, she and her husband moved to Catskill, NY where she lived in a rural home with a view of the Catskill Mountains for more than 60 years. She was a strong Christian.  She passed away gently at her home August 20, 2006 at the age of 85. Survivors include four children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Louise Hawthorne-Foss

 

In Remembrance of Alan Goldman, Class of 1972

I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Alan Goldman's family.  I just read about his passing in The Wave and was heartbroken. I have been close friends with Alan since Junior High School.  He was such a sweetheart with a big wonderful heart. He always remembered my birthday and holidays.  Even if I didn't speak to him for a year, he would call me up and leave a message that he loved me and wished me a happy birthday.  He attended my mom's funeral and my 50th birthday bash.  He put together my stereo equipment and would travel miles to do anything for a friend. When I didn't hear from him on my birthday this past September I left messages for him and just thought he was busy. Not knowing his sister's number, I couldn't reach him. Now I know why. I hope he is at peace and he knows that I am thinking of hime and will miss him. Janet Smith Alan remained friends with my family through the years, always stopping in and celebrating life events, the Jewish holidays, etc. We miss him terribly. He was a wonderful friend and is greatly missed. Madeleine (Feldman) Raphael

 

In Remembrance of Michael Kunkes, Class of 1972

I learned today that friend and classmate Mike Kunkes unexpectedly passed away March 3. Mike moved to California many years ago and loved his friends, his work as a writer, and playing guitar. Mike was an intelligent, upbeat, and sweet man. Rest in peace, my friend. Gary Libow, Class of 1972

 

In Remembrance of Gail Rairden, Class of 1972

I was married to her late brother Neal (Cornelius) Rairden, class of 1970.He passed in 2006. Gail passed March 25,2010. Karen Margolis

 

In Remembrance of Robert DeVivio, Class of 1963

Click HERE to go to the eulogy on Facebook. Please send your personal memories of Robert to me at LeBaroness2@cox.net

 

In Remembrance of Mark Peppin, Class of 1974

I am sad to report the death of my brother, Mark Peppin. Mark was an artist, and was creative with a capital C.  He used his talent for years in Visual Merchandising at stores such as Korvettes, Macy's and Bloomingdales, dressing mannequins, building displays, and creating signs.  Growing up, Mark loved hanging out with friends, 17th Street, clubs, Jones Beach, the City.  He enjoyed the night life... often till dawn.  During those fun-loving, carefree days he became the character a few of us knew as Sallie.  My brother helped me learn to drive, handed me down cars, and took me many places.  We went to concerts, clubs, and museums.  We shared the loss of our Father and the difficulty of helping our Mother after her stroke.  He endured the responsibility of being there with her through difficult days and sleepless nights. As Mark began to suffer from depression, he began to lose everything-- his car, his apartment, his job, his health.  It seemed he had lost all the joy in his life. When Mark got very depressed he told me he would do anything to relieve his pain.  And he did, too much, too often.  I wanted to help but nothing I tried helped much, or for long.  This is my pain now, lessened only by the support of our family and friends, and the fact that his suffering is done.  Sallie, my dear brother, I hope you have found peace.  Terry Peppin

 

In Remembrance of Keith Rose, Class of 1970

Keith passed away on February 15th, 2010 as a result of complications of cancer. He will sorely be missed! Andy & Sharon Kaufman

 

 
In Remembrance of Marsha Rosati, Class of 1975

Marsha and I were inseparable in high school.  She was a great friend and a gentle soul    and I will miss her deeply.  She leaves behind 3 children. Olga Gracey Marsha and I were best friends for years.  Although time separated us, she was always in my heart.  I was very saddened to learn that she passed away.  I will always have the great memories.  She is always in my thoughts. Barbara Konecky Hladky