Joan Loewenstein
October 13, 1929 - November 15.2024
Born in South Bend, Indiana to Harold and Esther Nine, Joan was raised on a dairy farm but knew at a young age there was more out there for her. She attended Stephens College in Columbia, MO and graduated with a degree in Fashion Design. From Columbia she moved to nearby St. Louis, MO to start her career. Joan had a wonderful job as a Fashion Coordinator at Boyd’s having many memorable moments. She once bought ties for the store, from a young designer out of the trunk of his car. When she asked his name, he told her it was Ralph Lauren. She bought ties out of the trunk of Ralph Lauren’s car, before anyone even knew who he was. She was also on the team that dressed Sidney Poitier when they were filming the movie In the Heat of the Night across the river in Belleville, IL. A friend fixed her up with a young man named Julian “Jay” Loewenstein, and Joan figured if nothing else she would get fed. Sure enough, Jay took her to dinner and proceeded to win her over. They married two years later and started their family. First a son named T.O. then a daughter, Elyse. Joan and Jay moved a few times to further his career. Cincinnati, Minneapolis, Kansas City and finally Columbus, OH. It never mattered to her. Joan made friends easily and as long as she was with Jay she was happy. The two of them travelled extensively and ended up spending their winters in Costa Rica. They had a lovely condo on the beach spending time there up until Jay passed in 2018. Most importantly Joan loved her family. She is survived by her son T.O. of San Francisco, CA, daughter Elyse and her husband Chris Remick of Columbus, OH, and their children Nicholas in Obituary Joan Loewenstein OCT 13, 1929 - NOV 15, 2024 JoanLoewenstein OCT 13, 1929 - NOV 15, 2024 PAGE 3 OF 5 Miami Beach, FL, Colin in Austin, TX, and Hannah in Charleston, SC. Joan’s grandchildren loved and adored their “Tootsie” and “Bubba”. Joan is also survived by her brother-in-law, Robert M. Loewenstein of St. Louis, MO as well as many nieces and nephews. Joan was a good friend, wonderful mother and even better grandmother. Her family and friends were lucky to have her in their lives. She will be missed
Make a Donation in memory of Joan Loewenstein
Mark Turken
Died October 17, 2025
Mark A. Turken passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, in California surrounded by his loved ones. Beloved husband of Melissa Turken; cherished father of Kim Miller, Tami Sunshine (Brian), and David Turken (Kristina); dear grandfather to Caroline Miller Popdan (Rob), Ella, Lila, and Greta Sunshine, and Jacks Turken
A successful real estate developer whose career spanned more than six decades across St. Louis, Phoenix, and Los Angeles, Mark was highly respected in his industry and admired for his genuine commitment to the communities he helped shape. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he gave generously of his time and resources to numerous charitable causes, reflecting his deep belief in giving back and helping others thrive.
Mark lived a life centered on family, friendship, and love. He was deeply devoted to those he cared for and was known for his warmth, humor, and generous heart. Whether sharing stories, telling jokes, or enjoying time with loved ones, Mark touched countless lives with kindness and sincerity.
Make a Donation in memory of Mark Turken
Suzanne Lasky
Died October 15, 2025
Suzanne passed away peacefully on her 98th birthday, in Miami, Florida. She was born at the historic Watterson Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Joseph and Mildred Feldman. She raised her family in St. Louis, and in her later years travelled back and forth, from St. Louis to Miami, with the care of her daughters, Shelley, Debby, and Nancy.
In 1982, her husband, Alvin Norton Lasky passed on. They shared many loving years of marriage. Three years after he passed, she met Jack Ansehl of St. Louis, MO., and was fortunate to share a devoted partnership of more than 20 years ,and together they traveled the world.
Suzanne was a true Artist, her creativity was boundless. She wore many hats, and was an accomplished painter and Interior designer. After her husband passed, Suzanne volunteered at the Jewish Hospital gift shop as their buyer for many years. She also volunteered for many other organizations in St. Louis. Together with her daughter Nancy, they created Camille Designs Inc. and sold her ribbon knit sweaters, nationally and internationally. Suzanne’s impeccable style and thoughtful eye reflected her deep appreciation and the joy found in everyday life.
Make a Donation in memory of Suzanne Lasky
Marilyn Weiss
Died October 11, 2025
Marilyn Weiss, October 11, 2025, beloved wife of Carl Weiss; dear mother and mother-in-law of Eric Weiss (Michelle Licudine) and Nikki Reitz (Bob); dear grandmother of Alexander, Isabella, and Liana Weiss and Ben and Becca Reitz; dear daughter of the late Shirley and the late Harold Saphire; dear sister of the late David Saphire (late Sandy) and Richard Saphire (late Patricia); dear aunt, cousin, and friend to many.
Make a Donation in memory of Marilyn Weiss
Paul Cahn
Died October 9, 2025
Paul passed away on October 9, 2025. Beloved husband of Elissa; cherished father of Naomi (Tony) and Debra (Art); dear grandfather to Julie (Tobias), Emily (Benjamin), Lauren, Louisa (Trevor), and Abigail; uncle, cousin, and beloved friend to many.
Paul Cahn was born in Mainz, Germany, where his family had lived for three generations. He was the youngest of the three sons of Carl and Marie Luise (Richart) Cahn. Carl was a businessman, and both of Paul’s parents were active in their community.
On Kristallnacht, the synagogue the family attended was destroyed. Carl was deported to Buchenwald, where he was held for three weeks. Paul celebrated his bar mitzvah soon after, in the basement of the Jewish Community Center.
As the situation in Germany became more dangerous, the family enlisted Canadian jeweler William Birks to help them escape. Over a period of months, Birks was ultimately able to persuade the highest levels of the Canadian government to allow the family to immigrate. Finally, the Cahn family was able to escape to Montreal in February 1939.
Paul left high school and began working in the shoe business. He married Elissa Mae Richstone in 1956. After the births of their daughters, the family moved to St. Louis in 1960. He described himself as a “shoe technician,” but he was also a wholesaler, retailer, and entrepreneur. He built several businesses, including Elan-Polo and FootAction, and travelled widely for work.
In addition to his business career, Paul collected silver and Native American textiles. His collections were exhibited at museums around the world, including the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. He served on the boards of the St. Louis Art Museum, Covenant Place, and several businesses. His biography, Paul Cahn Makes His Mark, was a bronze medal winner in biography from the independent Publisher Book Awards in 2009.
Above all, Paul was devoted to his family. He took great pride in the lives of his wife, children, and grandchildren. He treasured the time he spent with them.
Make a Donation in memory of Paul Cahn
Norman Hertel
Died October 4, 2025
Norman passed away peacefully on October 4th at 93 years old. He was the devoted husband of Paula Hertel, of blessed memory, for nearly 58 years; beloved father of Elana Jean Hertel; son of the late Emma Hertel and the late William Hertel, son-in-law of the late Harry Nebolsky and the late Leah (Koolman) Nebolsky; brother of Edna Accardi, brother-in-law of the late Bernard Accardi and Rita Ann Paradis, dog dad to Birdie Girl the Beagle; and a cherished uncle, cousin, teacher, and dear friend to many.
Norman grew up in Glendale, Queens, New York. After losing his father at a young age, he was raised by his mother Emma, surrounded by a close-knit extended family. Norman was a Boy Scout and a football player, and as a teenager, worked as a page at NBC. He fondly remembered playing stickball, singing on stoops, and taking trips into Manhattan for a show and a meal at the Automat with his mother.
In 1951, at the age of eighteen, Norman enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and, during the Korean War, was stationed in England as a Clerk on the 3rd AF at RAF Base South Ruislip near London. During his time in the service, Norman traveled extensively in Europe, sparking a lifelong love of travel and European history. He was honored with a National Defense Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal.
When Norman returned from overseas, he joined his mother and sister Edna, who had moved to St. Louis when Edna started her family.
He became an officer in the Kirkwood Police Department where he proudly served from 1956-1962. In 1957, Norman became Kirkwood’s first juvenile officer, one of only three in the St. Louis area. Well ahead of his time, he developed a program to prevent juvenile crime by cultivating relationships with teens, speaking in elementary school classrooms, and helping parents navigate their children’s challenges. During this time, Norman became ensconced in the Kirkwood community. He bought a home on Grandview Drive, was named Man of the Year, and served as chairman of an early Greentree Festival. Inspired by his work with youth, Norman earned his B.A. from Washington University in 1960, beginning an accomplished career in education as a teacher, and then a principal in the Kirkwood School District.
In the summer of 1966, as Norman pursued a Masters in Education at Indiana University, he met Paula on a Friday, dated her over the weekend, and proposed the following Monday. It was love at first sight. After marrying in St. Louis at Temple Israel in 1967, Paula joined Norman in Missouri.
Norman continued his career in education, leading the “Teacher Trainer of Teachers” program at Washington University, founding Hertel and Associates with Paula, consulting with families to test for and remediate learning disabilities, and teaching in Webster Groves and later St. Louis Public Schools. Together, Norman and Paula published two books on “special learners” for teachers and parents.
For many years, he was “Uncle Norman” to his nieces, nephews, and close friends’ kids– a larger than life presence with his broad smile and signature “silly” handshake. He was, memorably, always willing to wrestle with the rowdy boys.
When Norman was 50 years old, he and Paula welcomed their daughter, Elana Jean. She was the light of Norman’s life.
Norman was a devoted husband. He loved and respected Paula and championed her in all of her professional endeavors and many hobbies. They created a whole world together, turning friends into family, sharing many interests, and establishing themselves as pillars of the St. Louis community. They were avid supporters and lovers of the arts, frequently attending performances of the St. Louis Symphony, Opera Theatre, and ushering at The Fox Theatre.
Norman was a long time and involved member at Congregation Shaare Emeth, teaching Religious School for many years, and volunteering in a wide variety of capacities, including the caring committee, usher corps, Purim carnival planning, the Religious School board, and leading interfaith Passover seders at churches throughout the city.
Norman was a wise and worldly presence in the lives of his loved ones. Throughout his long life, he sought depth and breadth of knowledge, built and served his community with generosity, and above all, was a source of unending support and love to his family.
Make a Donation in memory of Norman Hertel
Carol Levy Schulman
June 28, 1947 - September 5, 2025
Carol Levy Schulman, MSW, born June 28, 1947, in Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away suddenly on September 5, 2025, at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. She was the cherished wife of Jeffrey, beloved mother of James and Andrew, adored daughter of the late Jerome and Marion (Lee) Levy, and loving sister of JJ Levy. She was 78 years old.
All who know and love her are shocked and saddened by her sudden death, which leaves a hole in their lives that will never be filled. Carol was renowned for her outgoing, relaxed, comfortable, and supremely happy disposition. She connected so magically with others, particularly with the children and adolescents whom she helped as a pediatric social worker.
Carol enjoyed a wonderful childhood with her loving parents and dear sister. Her father instilled in her a love for Washington University, his alma mater. She left Little Rock in 1965 to follow her dream to attend Wash U, where she earned her bachelor’s degree and then continued on to the Brown School for her MSW.
Jeff and Carol married in 1976. They shared a passion for helping young people, she as a pediatric social worker (first at Catholic Family Services and then at Jewish Family Services) and he as a pediatric psychologist. Together they raised Jim and Andrew from boys to outstanding men, of whom they were deservedly proud. Carol and Jeff were dedicated to each other and just missed their 50th anniversary by less than a year.
Her family and friends will miss her dearly and her memory will forever be a blessing.
A service is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Congregation Shaare Emeth 11645 Ladue Rd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141, with a burial immediately following at New Mt. Sinai Cemetery 8430 Gravois Rd., Affton, MO 63123.
Make a Donation in memory of Carol Schulman
Ellen Schneiderman
April 3, 1926 - September 19, 2025
Beloved wife of the late Ben Schneiderman. Loving mother of the late Arthur M. Abrams. Dear daughter of the late Abraham and the late Henrietta Jacobson. Beloved sister-in-law of the late Stanley (Joyce) Schneiderman. Dear aunt, cousin and friend.
Private services were held at New Mt. Sinai Cemetery. The family would like to thank Ellen’s exceptional caregivers for their kindness, compassion and care. Contributions in her memory may be made to the charity of your choice.
Make a Donation in memory of Ellen Schneiderman
Gerald Jackson
February 12, 1943 - October 25, 2025
A hardworking man throughout his life, Gerald owned and operated a wholesale food service business for many years. He devoted himself fully to his work, not for recognition or wealth, but to provide for and support his family. His family will remember him as someone who never knew a 40-hour work week — his dedication and persistence were simply part of who he was.
When he was younger, Gerald found joy in catering weddings for his family, taking pride in helping create memorable celebrations. He also loved sharing stories from his past and childhood, often bringing laughter and nostalgia to those who listened. In his spare time, he loved relaxing with classic movies and listening to old music, finding comfort in the familiar sounds and stories of the past.
Gerald will be remembered for his selflessness, strong work ethic, and the love and care he showed to his family and friends throughout his life.
Make a Donation in memory of Gerald Jackson
Barbara Holtz
December 26,1924 - October 27,2025
In Barbara's own words:
"I was born in Boston on a wild snowy night just as theater curtains went up. This probably meant I was to follow a theatrical life pattern. And so it has been. Our home was one big you-can't-take-it-with-you affair. My mother was a graduate from the New England Conservatory of Music and my father was a radiologist with a private space at home and a regular office above the Colonial Theater in Boston. Music lovers and musicians of every stripe came in and out while my sister and I practiced ballet or the violin and of course the piano. After graduation from high school, when World War II had taken hold, my father decided he had to sign on to the US Air Corps. My family left for a far-off region called the Midwest and to St. Louis, M0, where at Jefferson Barracks men were deployed to outlets for training in the forces of war. My father was sent to France. I was sent to the University of Missouri, where the school of journalism was deemed to be the best. During the war I had the opportunity to work as a journalist. After graduation I went to New York City with my sister and college roommate, where I worked in publicity and public relations at Young and Rubicam (now known as Y&R) on Madison Avenue. It was a wonderful place and one of the main outlets for the great push to New York City from the other coast, filling the halls with fabulous talent and creativity. Sometime later, after the power of the new medium television had taken over the airwaves, a flood of folks arrived, interested in new methods of production. Knowing this, I moved over to CBS TV. It was a thrill, for there were new young actors and directors there, many of whom later were Oscar winners in Hollywood. Just in front of me sat Yul Brynner. Down the hall were Sidney Lumet and John Frankenheimer. All became important and renowned movie men. It really was a divine place to work and had all the theatrics one needed. By then I had married a young doctor who decided after his internship and residency in New York to further his training in St. Louis, where he had been accepted at the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology. Going back to St. Louis was very hard for me. I couldn't imagine what I would do there. It wasn't until I met an interesting teacher of art, Lee Wallas, who offered a class in painting and drawing, that I became absorbed in the learning and making of art. I applied to and attended Washington University as a special student in painting. I realize now that theatrics can come from oneself. Standing alone, attempting to create something of interest is hard work. But the endeavor can afford one a fascinating life. One doesn't need an audience. Still, I was pleased and honored to have shown my work in galleries in St. Louis, New York City, Mexico, and Florence Italy, and to have received exhibition prizes. My last exhibit, in 2014, was at one of the finest places in St. Louis, the Sheldon Galleries, in a one-woman show. This must be the theatrical life if ever there was one."
Barbara leaves behind daughter Holly and sons Marc (Melinda) and Peter (Nancy), grandsons Max (Tiffin), Chester and Leo and granddaughter Claire; great-grandson Luc; nieces and nephew Deborah Sanchez (Jorge), Jane Loitman, Carol Greenspun (Michael) and Robert Loitman, and other beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. Husband Sumner and granddaughter Charlotte predeceased her.
A Private Family Graveside Service Was Held. In lieu of flowers, consider a contribution to Temple Israel in St. Louis or a charity of your choice. Visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information.
Make a Donation in memory of Barbara Holtz
David Lieberman
December 26, 1926 - October 28, 2025
David was the beloved husband of Elayne Schermer Lieberman for 74 years. Dear father of Nancy (Philip) Katz and Andrew “Drew” (Randi) Lieberman. Loving grandfather of Alexander (Erin) Katz, Lily (Nick) Roos, Jeremy (Sarah) Katz, Ellie, Zoey and Jake Lieberman. Cherished great grandfather of nine. Beloved brother of Sara Maryn (late Alvin) Golding, the late Ira (late Janet) Lieberman and Zelig “Zeck” (Marilyn) Lieberman. Dear uncle, cousin and friend.
Born in a home without indoor plumbing, David grew up a third child in a closely-knit family with an older sister Sara Maryn, older brother Ira, and younger brother Zeck. Though the family business was centered on building up a series of successful general stores throughout Texas, David set his sights on something else. After watching the local doctor save his siblings from scarlet fever in a time where there were no antibiotics, he chose medicine.
The family eventually moved to San Antonio where David was a proud member of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and enjoyed polishing buttons, winning accolades along the way. He went on to the University of Texas, graduating early to attend Vanderbilt Medical School. Working hard earned him the Founder’s Medal and ranking of first in class upon graduation.
Looking northward, David received a spot in Internal Medicine at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis for his internship and residency. That fortuitous choice offered him the opportunity to meet his future wife Elayne Schermer, the daughter of a general physician in Granite City, Illinois. Having enrolled in the military and having support from the GI bill, David was deployed to Paris Island, South Carolina to serve as a naval doctor at the Marine base. It was there that Elayne captured David’s heart while visiting him. They married in St. Louis and returned to Paris Island to begin their life together.
Returning to Barnes Hospital and St. Louis after their stint in South Carolina, David and Elayne built a family and life in their chosen town. They went on to have two children: Nancy Rae and Andrew (Drew) David. David returned to his beloved Barnes, where he dedicated himself to service for 50 years.
Focused on his passions of family and medicine, David found purpose in caring for others. He opened an office as an internist at Barnes Hospital Queeny Tower and became an assistant professor at Washington University Medical School, where he mentored young physicians. He gained a reputation for being the consummate internist—taking every patient’s phone call, savoring knowing his patients and conscientiously reading each X-ray with the radiologists at Mallinckrodt Radiology Department. Be kind, respectful and thorough was his mantra, and often patients waited long periods of time in his waiting room to see him. They deemed it well worth it.
David retired in 1999, decommissioned his beeper and closed his practice. He celebrated this by having the sense of “a job well done to the last,” with his unwavering attention to detail and thoroughness, even when the practice of medicine was changing around him. He brought the same focus and energy to enjoying his retirement with his beloved Elayne as his co-pilot. They relished time with friends, opportunities to play tennis (where David played until 90) and golf, attending the St. Louis symphony and, above all, getting to know their expanding family.
David was a true force. He masterfully combined medicine and family. Every day was a win if he was able to “get up on his hind legs” according to David. He leaves a family that will forever cherish him, are grateful for him and his humility and will channel his legacy of Tikkun Olam, repairing the world around them. If you were lucky enough to cross paths with David, you could quickly see the twinkle in his eye and appreciate his warmth.
Make a Donation in memory of David Lieberman
Morris Arthur Shenker, Jr.
June 24, 1947 - October 23, 2025
Beloved companion and best friend of Elaine Zemelman. Dear father of Jennifer Shenker-Niles, Laura Shenker and the late Morris Aaron Shenker, III. Loving grandfather of Olivia Capri Lozano, Morris Asher Shenker, IV and Ezra Aaron Shenker. Dear brother of Patty Shenker (Douglas) Stoll. Beloved uncle of Julia Stoll. Dear cousin and friend of many.
Make a Donation in memory of Morris Arthur Shenker, Jr.
Ruth Gallup
1931 - October 26, 2025
Proceeded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Allan M Gallup: devoted mother of daughters Dana (Kurt Roehlke), Kyle (Philip Turner), and sons Ted (Kristi Meyers Gallup), and David (Lisa Koch): dear grandmother of Samuel Gallup (Annie), Ewan Turner, Nicolas Koch-Gallup and Jacob Koch-Gallup, dear sister of the late Arthur Simon (the late Noma Balk Simon) and dear sister in law of the late Lee Gallup Feldman (the late Arthur).
Ruth was born in St. Louis in 1931 of the late Minnie and David Simon. From high school sweethearts to college students at Washington University, Ruth was a renaissance woman who devoted her life to her family.
Make a Donation in memory of Ruth Gallup
Ralph Sonnenschein
11/2/1935 - 11/20/2025
Beloved husband of Sarah “Mandy” Sonnenschein; loving father of Leonard (Valentina), the late Marvin, Edie (Jon) Michelson, and Ken (Sheila). Cherished grandfather of Canaan (Johanna), Alexis (Drew) Lueke, Randy (Maria) Michelson, Dann (Hannah) Michelson, Karen (Andy) Botts, Morgan (Molly), Avi (Carly), Pearl (Stefan), and Gabriella (Kesem) Fine. Proud great-grandfather of Eli, Clarabel, Ariana, Lydia, Juliet, Amelia, Zoe, Austin, Mackenzie, Emma, and Oscar. Preceded in death by his first beloved wife Annette, son Marvin, daughter-in-law Cindy, and parents, Rachel and Alexander.
Ralph was born in St. Louis and worked early in his parents’ business, Sunshine Press. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to start Top Services and later join Duro-Test, where he built a long career selling full-spectrum lighting products.
He had a lifelong passion for cooking, which he learned during his Air National Guard service, and later delighted family with specialties like Ralph’s Reasonable Roast and peach jelly. Every New Year’s Eve, he made homemade pizzas with his grandchildren. He and Annette enjoyed square dancing, tennis, and travel with St. Thomas being a favorite destination.
A devoted community advocate, Ralph supported the Civil Rights movement and local political candidates who shared his values. Deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, he taught at United Hebrew and Shaare Emeth religious schools. He championed Scouting, was honored with the Shofar Award, and helped his sons become Eagle Scouts.
Family was Ralph’s greatest priority. He and Annette ensured their children had the tools to succeed in science, art, accounting, and medicine. They regularly hosted all their grandchildren for tennis lessons followed by a Shabbos meal together. After Annette’s passing in 2011, Ralph found renewed joy marrying Mandy in 2012 and later moved to Elmwood, Illinois, continuing his lighting career and aiding businesses in transitioning to LED systems.
At age 83, Ralph celebrated his Bar Mitzvah, a milestone he had missed at 13. He attended nearly all his grandchildren’s weddings and spent his final months in Overland Park, Kansas, passing peacefully on November 20, 2025, with compassionate care from Catholic Community Hospice and Delmar Gardens. His final wish was to celebrate his 90th birthday, which he did.
Make a Donation in memory of Ralph Sonnenschein
Margery Steiner
June 3, 1923 - October30, 2025
She died at the age of 102, at her residence in Penn Valley, PA.
Make a Donation in memory of Margery Steiner
Constance Levy
May 08, 1931 - December 11, 2025
We send out heartfelt condolences to the family of Constance Levy, mother of Ken Levy (Cyndee) and Ed Levy (Joelyn), grandmother of Adina Levy, Mirowitz graduate and current 4th grade teacher, Jonathan (Monique), legacy school graduate and current parents, Aaoron, Adam and Benjamin Levy, legacy school graduates, Evyn Levy and Daphne Levy, legacy school graduates. Constance was an acclaimed children's poet. Her books include The Story of Red Rubber Ball (2004), Splash! Poems of Our Watery World (2002), A Crack in the Clouds and Other Poems (1998), A Tree Place and Other Poems (1994) and I'm Going to Pet a Worm, Today and Other Poems(1991). School Library Journal's Kathleen Whalin summed up the appeal of Levy's ve3rse best in her review of When Whales Exhale and Other Poems : "To read Levy is to see the wonder of the everyday world." We were so lucky that she shared many of these poems with our students at the legacy school Saul Mirowitz Day School-Reform Jewish Academy
Make a Donation in memory of Constance Levy
Norma Jean Katz Malerich
1930 - December 11, 2025
Norma Jean Malerich, 95 of Glen Carbon, IL, formerly of Florissant, MO and DelRay Beach, FL, peacefully passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at Meridian Village Care Center in Glen Carbon.
Of course, if Norma Malerich could choose one word for you to remember her by, it would be Artist. If forced to describe her more deeply, perhaps painter or doll-maker. In truth, Norma's legacy is best described with terms like optimist, adventurer, and innovator.
Born in 1930 to John and Edna Krenzer, Norma Jean was a bright child and lovingly welcomed her brother Robert (Bob) at the age of 10. Ever ready for independence at the earliest opportunity, Norma attended Ward-Belmont College in Nashville, TN at the age of 16. Before graduation, however, Norma transfer to Millikin University in Decatur, IL and was off to her next adventure and married John W. Malerich. Best described with a paintbrush in one hand, and a child in the other, Norma welcomed her two eldest daughters Lee and Gail. By 1951 and 1954. John, Norma, and their two girls were on a lifetime adventure to Japan where they lived for two years. On a military base in 1957, Norma and John welcomed their youngest daughter, Nancy.
Throughout these years with young children, Norma could be found teaching painting classes with the Red Cross, leading Girl Scout Troops, and exhibiting in local art shows and Famous-Barr department store. It is without a doubt that by the time John passed in 1974, Norma's spirit had filled their days with enough excitement to last a lifetime, but Norma pushed ever forward. Norma had not put down her paintbrush but had found a new partner for her whimsies, Sidney H Katz, she gained two stepchildren Harry Katz and Barbara Katz. Between visits to China, Rome, Greece, France, Russia and to wherever their hearts took them, Norma continued painting and doll making, splitting her time between homes in St Louis, MO and Del Ray Beach, FL.
In the 1990s, Norma began experimenting with her new Gateway computer, signing herself up for computer classes and challenging her home printer to print her computer-generated artistic impressions on fabric. She took the internet by storm, creating profiles on Fine Art America, Facebook, and Linked In, and beyond. Never one to be shy to a challenge or depressed at an opportunity, she'd remind her grandchildren to "just smile" and "have fun" through all of life's challenges.
Norma spent the 2000s with her companion, Russ Machan, exploring life on a houseboat (yes, you can fit an easel and still paint just fine) and appreciating a slower way of life in Amish country, Ohio.
Throughout every phase of life and every exploration of artistic expression (from dolls, to purses, to jewelry boxes), her happiness in paintbrushes and canvases dominated. Norma's legacy may be best defined by her prolific creation of art, and her mark made on the world through thousands of paintings of women, flowers, and landscapes hung on walls throughout the world.
Norma was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands, John W. Malerich and Sidney H. Katz; a son-in-law, Kenneth “Kenny” Horton; and a brother, Robert Krenzer.
She is survived by her three children: Lee Ann (Glen Saborosch) Malerich of Neeses, SC, Gail Lynn Horton of Indian Trails, NC and Nancy (Wayne) Hubbard of Maryville, IL; three grandchildren: Braxton Evans, Brady (Daniel) Venables, and Mattie (Kyle) Kovacs; three great-grandchildren: Benjamin and Henry Venables and Luka Kovacs.
Make a Donation in memory of Norma Jean Katz Malerich
Clara Pultman
May 14, 1946 - December 18, 2025
Born May 14, 1946, Weezie was the beloved wife of Mark Pultman. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Susan (Katie), a proud grandmother to Frederick, and a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.
She is survived by her brother, Charles “Shotty” Livingstone. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Willard “Wood” Livingstone and John Livingstone, and by her parents, Willard and Clara Nixon Livingstone.
Weezie was deeply committed to her family and took great pride in her roles as wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt.
Make a Donation in memory of Clara Pultman
Betty Jane Koppel
April 24, 1938 - November 18, 2025
Betty Jane (Marmor) Koppel — known to many as BJ — passed away peacefully on November 18th at the age of 87. Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, she went on to attend Smith College before graduating from Washington University in 1959 with a degree in elementary education. In 1970, she continued her academic path, earning a Master of Science in Teaching Mathematics, a field that would become both her career and her lifelong passion.
More than 60 years ago, she moved to Tucson with her husband, Gene, where they built a home, raised their family, and established deep roots in the community. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of over 50 years, Gene Stuart Koppel. She is survived by her children Ralph Koppel (Linda Sher) and Pam Koppel, her sister Aralyn Rosenberg, her grandchildren Jim Koppel, Julie Goldman (Josh), and Alyssa.Jirrels, and her great grandchildren Jason and Rebecca Goldman.
Betty Jane devoted her professional life to teaching mathematics with a genuine commitment to her students. She taught at Salpointe Catholic High School and later spent 17 years at Canyon del Oro High School, where she also served as Head of the Math Department for five years. Her leadership extended beyond the classroom as she represented Arizona as a delegate to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
One of her great professional achievements—and a point of enduring pride—was her early adoption of technology in math education. She was credited with introducing the first TI-81 graphing calculator into Arizona classrooms in 1988, helping usher in a new era of learning for students across the state. She later brought her expertise to Pima Community College, continuing to teach until her retirement in 2000.
In her later years, she made her home at Hacienda at the Canyon, a place she truly loved. She found comfort and connection there, and she especially enjoyed the daily games that kept her sharp and engaged. She remained strong-willed and fully herself until the end.
She was quietly generous, often stepping in to help others when she knew it could make a real difference. And wherever she went, she brought her own unmistakable style — you could always find her in something red.
Her family is deeply grateful for the thoughtful, compassionate care she received from the staff of Hacienda at the Canyon and the nurses and caregivers at Catalina Home Care, who supported her with respect and warmth throughout her final years.
Betty Jane “BJ” Koppel will be remembered for her resilience, her independence, and a life lived on her own terms.
Make a Donation in memory of Betty Jane Koppel
Ben Hesselberg
March 1, 1931 - December 23, 2025
Beloved husband of Billie Hesselberg (née Miller); cherished father of the late Scott Hesselberg; loving step father of Philip (Shirley) McKemie, the late Michael (Jan) McKemie, and Pamela (Mark) Schaefer; loving grandfather of Christopher Warren, Kimberly Schilling, Dion Wilson, and Emma Schaefer; loving great-grandfather of Taylor, Peyton, Lexi, Kyle, Jackson, Elliette, Jude, and Liberty; dear brother of the late Leo (Marion) Hesselberg; and a beloved brother-in-law and friend to many.
Ben was a dedicated pharmacist and the owner and operator of Hesselberg Drug Company for more than 60 years. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps during the Korean War.
Ben attended St. Louis College of Pharmacy, where he was a member of the Kappa Psi Fraternity. He also greatly enjoyed his time as a member of the Masonic Blue Lodge, Scottish Rite, and the Shriners.
Make a Donation in memory of Ben Hesselberg
Kenneth Wilde
November 6, 1923 - January 08, 2026
Beloved husband of the late Eve R. (Landsberger) Wilde; dear father of Thomas Wilde (Alyssa), Larry Wilde, and Carol York (Kevin); dear grandfather of Ky, Laura, Deborah, David, Nathan, Alaina, Amanda, and Samantha; dear great-grandfather of two.
Make a Donation in memory of Kenneth Wilde






