Bebe Berkoff
Bebe R. Berkoff, of Bayside, died Nov. 2, 2023, age 83.
Preceded in death by beloved husband Marshall Berkoff. Treasured mother of Mark (Anne) Berkoff, Jonathan (Elissa) Berkoff, and Adam (Jennifer) Berkoff. Dear grandmother of Alex, Bella, Marie, and Ben Berkoff; Eliana (Mark) Meyer and Kira Berkoff, Craig and Dylan Kravetz; and Abra Berkoff. Adoring great-grandmother of Sylvia Rose Meyer. Loving sister of Ginny (Lance) Johnson and Linda (the late Gerry) Schafer. Further survived by beloved nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Special thanks to Caring Senior Services and all of their devoted and loving caregivers who enabled Bebe to continue to live in her home. Bebe was born in Chicago to parents Sidney and Violet Brandwein. Bebe was the oldest of three sisters (Ginny Johnson and Linda Schafer). She attended the University of Wisconsin – Madison where she met the love of her life, Marshall Berkoff. They were married on June 19, 1960. After living in Boston for several years, they moved back to the Midwest, settling in Milwaukee, where Bebe and Marshall raised three boys. Bebe had so many wonderful and varied passions in life that it would be impossible to distill them into a simple summary. Bebe was an educator who specialized in speech impediments and was an active volunteer in the community.
She was an avid lover of nature and animals and the most wonderful cat and dog mother possible to so many beloved family pets. She adored watching sunsets with her loved ones and always set out a spread of cheese, crackers and a soothing beverage. She relished watching the wildlife at their cabin in Door County, especially the many and varied bird species that paid her regular visits (with a Peterson Field Guide and a pair of binoculars always within reach). She was an equestrian and was able to achieve one of her great desires in life, being able to care for, love and ride her beloved horses, Surfside and Vanilla. She also learned and performed dressage.
An expert potter and artist, Bebe forged the most beautiful and special works of art in ceramic. She opened a business, Creekside Pottery, in Cedarburg, and operated a pottery studio and gallery there for many, many years. She was an avid reader and a true lover of books and her staple New York Times. She was always eager to strike up an engaging conversation with anyone she met and truly soaked up those experiences.
But above all Bebe loved her family and loved life, with a zest and spirit we should all emulate. Bebe loved to travel with her family, near and far, with Europe, the desert west and Door County among her favorite destinations. She was passionate about art and always eager to embrace different cultures (especially British and Asian), cuisines and languages, and she loved to share those experiences, traditions and learning opportunities with her family at every turn.
She was a tremendous cook and baker and loved passing those skills along to her family. She had so much love and affection for all of her family members, loved ones, dear friends and, later in life, her caregivers. And she left an indelible mark on all in the most wonderful way possible. Bebe Berkoff was our shining light. The twinkle in her eyes, the smile that lit up a room, the bubbly laugh and the indefatigable spirit. She will be dearly loved and missed, an emptiness that only serves to highlight in sharp relief the great breadth and depth of her influence, love and joy which filled our lives. May her memory be a blessing. Funeral services were Nov. 6, 2023, at Congregation Shalom, 7630 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Fox Point. Entombment followed services at Spring Hill Cemetery. Memorials to Morris Animal Foundation, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, or The Nature Conservancy. Rabbi Noah Chertkoff and Blane Goodman Funeral Service assisted the family.
Mayya Epshteyn
Mayya Epshteyn (nee Tufeld) died Nov. 6, 2023, at the age of 95.
Cherished mother of Leonid (Tamara Dolinskaya) Epshteyn and Vyacheslav Epshteyn. Loving grandmother of Eugene (Ella) and Oleg Epshteyn. Further survived by four great-grandchildren, other loving relatives, and dear friends.
A graveside service held on Nov. 9 at Agudas Achim Cemetery, Cudahy. Rabbi Yaakov Elman officiated. Goodman-Bensman Whitefish Bay Funeral Home assisted the family. Memorial contributions made to the charity of your choice appreciated.
Elaine Goldman
Elaine Goldman (nee Plotkin) died on Oct. 21, 2023, at Oakwood Village West in Madison where she had lived for the past eight years.
Elaine is preceded in death by her loving husband, Sheldon, and her brother, Tommy Plotkin.
Elaine is survived by her daughters, Joni (David Luce) Goldman of Middleton; Lynn Winchell of Wausau; brother-in-law, Wilbert Goldman of Mequon; nephew, Graig (Nancy Lakam) Goldman of Whitefish Bay; niece, Leanne Goldman of Milwaukee; great nephews, Jonathan Goldman of Chicago, Zachary Goldman of Chicago; and great-niece, Alex Rose of Fox Point.
Elaine was born to the Hymie and Ann Plotkin on Aug. 8, 1934 in Milwaukee. Elaine married Sheldon Goldman on April 3, 1954, and they lived together in Milwaukee and Whitefish Bay, where they raised their two daughters.
Elaine had a fun-loving spirit. She loved adventures whether they were big or small. The beauty of nature and being in it brought her great joy. She liked to bike and walk, had a great fondness for water, and swam at least two days a week until she was 80.
Elaine had an amazing friend group who supported her throughout her life.
She loved her many grandanimals and thought of her great-grandniece and nephews as her own grandchildren.
The family would also like to thank the amazing staff of Oakwood Village West skilled nursing floor and Agrace Hospice, all of whom do the work of angels and kept Elaine well taken care of the past two years.
A private family celebration was held. Rabbi Shari Shamah officiated. Goodman-Bensman Whitefish Bay Funeral Home assisted the family. Memorial contributions to Oakwood Village West or Agrace Hospice are appreciated.
Rozanne Margaret Koshakow
Rozanne Margaret Koshakow (nee Levandosky) died on Nov. 1, 2023, at the age of 80.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Norman Koshakow; her parents, Selah and Margaret Levandosky; and her brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Kathy Levandosky. Cherished mother of Michelle (Andrew) Schara and David (Suzanne) Koshakow. Loving grandmother of Jenna (fiancée of Etan Maistelman) Koshakow, Alexander and Olivia Schara, and Kristofer and Taylor Hoskins. Further survived by other loving relatives and dear friends.
Rozanne was an employee of the IRS where she met her late husband, Norman, before becoming a mother and homemaker. She later worked as Office Manager at the U.S. Secret Service Milwaukee Field Office, where she retired in 2003. In addition, Rozanne volunteered for Women’s American ORT and was a member of the boards of both Greenwood Cemetery and Friends of Greenwood, as well as the past treasurer of Friends of Greenwood. A member of Congregation Emanu-El B’ne Jeshurun, she went through the Anshe Mitzvah program. She played Mahjong and participated in book clubs. But most of all, Rozanne enjoyed spending time with her family, whom she adored.
Funeral services were held on Nov. 6 at the Goodman-Bensman Whitefish Bay Funeral Home. Interment followed at Greenwood Cemetery, Milwaukee. Rabbi Jessica Barolsky officiated. Memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Emanu-El B’ne Jeshurun.
Eugene Laskey
Eugene Laskey, 95, of Bayside, died Oct. 31.
Loving husband of Marcia Laskey (nee Barland). Dear father of Rachel Frank and the late Jordan Fishman. Further survived by other relatives and friends. Graveside services were Nov. 2, 2023, at Second Home Cemetery. Memorials to Congregation Emanu-El B’ne Jeshurun or Friendship Circle of Wisconsin. Rabbi Jessica Barolsky assisted the family, with Blane Goodman Funeral Service.
Send memorials to Congregation Emanu-El B’ne Jeshurun or Friendship Circle of Wisconsin.
Richard Samuel Lieberman
Richard Samuel Lieberman died on Oct. 27, 2023, in his beloved hometown of Milwaukee, surrounded by his loving family. Rich was a devoted husband to his wife, Laurie, for 45 years and an adoring son, father, grandfather and friend.
Born on Sept. 9, 1952, Rich grew up in Bayside in a loving home, surrounded by close friends and playing high school varsity tennis. Rich graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1974 and headed back to Milwaukee to join his father in the family printing business, Leo Lieberman, Inc. He had previously worked there through high school and college during summer vacations. In 1989, Rich assumed the role of president, leading to the renaming of the business as Lieberman Printing Company, Inc. His dedication to its operation persisted until his retirement in 2014, prompted by health challenges.
While residing and working in Milwaukee, Rich met Laurie during her college summer break. Within a year, they were engaged, and shortly thereafter, married. The couple relocated to Mequon, where they lovingly raised their two daughters, Rachel and Marissa.
Rich’s passion for tennis remained steadfast throughout his entire life. He imparted his knowledge to both of his daughters at a young age, and they, in turn, carried on the family tradition by excelling in high school varsity tennis. Additionally, Rich delighted in attending major tennis tournaments, with Indian Wells holding a special place in his heart as his favorite.
After his retirement, Rich rekindled his passion for journalism, a pursuit that aligned with his love for Israel. He contributed two special articles to the Chronicle, delving into the historical narrative of Israel’s statehood.
Above all else, family held the highest importance to Rich. He cherished his role as husband, father and grandfather, being a treasured Papa to Elle and Paige. Rich will be remembered as loving, kind, passionate, thoughtful, curious and full of life.
Rich is survived by his wife, Laurie; daughters, Rachel (Carmello) and Marissa; and granddaughters, Elle and Paige. Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Elinor.
A graveside funeral service was held on Nov. 1st at Mound Zion Cemetery, Brookfield. Rabbi Noah Chertkoff officiated. Goodman-Bensman Whitefish Bay Funeral Home assisted the family. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, American Cancer Society or the charity of your choice.
Dr. David Yates Rosenzweig
Dr. David Yates Rosenzweig, son of Saul and Ruth (nee Goldstein) died at home in Wauwatosa, on Oct. 30, 2023. He is survived by Peggy, his cherished wife of 65 years; his five adoring sons of whom he was so proud: Thomas (Liz), James (Judy), Douglas (Debra), Matthew (Alison), and Peter (Kiyomi); as well as his grandchildren: Steve, Andy, Brian, Katie, John, Max, Julia, Ian, Mari, Alex, Hallie, and Saya; along with his brother, Jonathan (Merle) of Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was predeceased by his sisters, Jane (Herman) Abelson and Donda (Sol) Rossman.
David was born June 9, 1933, in Detroit. A graduate of Central High School and Wayne State University in Detroit, David earned his medical degree from Wayne State’s School of Medicine in 1957. He was known throughout his career as an outstanding physician and teacher, specializing in Pulmonology and later Critical Care at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Notably, he received an NIH Fellowship at Hammersmith Hospital in London, England from 1968–69 that provided a profoundly transformative experience for his young family living abroad.
David’s contribution to his community was immense. He mentored dozens of future physicians and was an exceptionally caring practitioner. Notable as well, he served multiple times as President of Congregation Anshai Lebowitz, where, for many years, he also participated as a beloved lay leader.
David led a full life pursuing a multitude of passions. He could often be seen biking through Milwaukee County’s parkways and beyond, and he loved to play all manner of ball games, especially golf, tennis, softball, racquetball and squash. The outdoors called to him, and he loved skiing, sailing and hiking as well. He was an avid Brewers fan. He greatly enjoyed the symphony, the opera, and the theatre. His intellect and knowledge were notable, with an astonishing grasp of history and the arts. He was eager to share this knowledge and enthusiasm for all things with others, often couched in his dry sense of humor.
Undoubtedly, David’s most important role and what brought him true joy was as father to his five sons and eventually patriarch of the extended family. His quiet influence on all those he knew was profound. David traveled to all corners of the globe, but was never happier than being at home, with family, sharing a hot dog, a finger of bourbon, and stories of the greats that came before. He was a wonderful man who will be greatly missed.
Funeral services were held on November 2 at the Goodman-Bensman Whitefish Bay Funeral Home. Rabbi Joel Alter officiated. Interment followed at Anshai Lebowitz Cemetery, Milwaukee. Memorial contributions to Milwaukee Art Museum or the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra appreciated.
Ron Schaefer
Ronald Allan Schaefer, 70, Palm Desert, California, died on Oct. 18, 2023.
Ron was born in Racine in 1952 to Arthur Schaefer and Colette (Wolf) Schaefer. Ron graduated from Horlick High School and went on to work at the family business Schaefer Pontiac where he worked for many years before purchasing, expanding and later selling.
Ron was preceded in death by his mother, Colette Schaefer and his father, Arthur Schaefer. He is survived by his children: Jamie (Stephani) Schaefer, Jennifer (Keith) Krienert and Mitchel Schaefer. Ron is also survived by his brother, Rick (Heather) Schaefer and grandchildren: Caden Schaefer, Luke Schaefer, Nicolette Krienert, Taylor Krienert, Nolan Schaefer and Rory Krienert as well and his nephew and niece: Justin Schaefer and Colette Schaefer and many cousins.
The family would like to extend a very special thanks to his friend and caregiver Kathy Wells. Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home assisted the family.
Adrienne Weber
Adrienne Weber (nee Wolfson) , 82, Glendale, died September 22, 2023.
Beloved wife of the late Kenneth Weber for 47 years. Dear mother of Dr. Lisa (Craig) Zetley, Michael (Cindy Schaefer) Weber and Danny (Jodi) Weber. Preceded in death by her brother Robert Wolfson. Loving grandmother of Mikaela (Nadav), Aaron, David, Rachel and Jacob. She is further survived by dear family and friends. Our family is forever grateful to her devoted caregiver, Lalaine Dominguez, for her many years of compassionate care and devotion. Adrienne’s strength, spirit and dedication to her family will remain with us all forever. The family also wishes to thank Irish Mae Elliott and her team of caregivers. Graveside services 11:30 AM Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023, at Mound Zion Cemetery, Brookfield. Memorial gifts to Jewish Community Pantry or Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid are appreciated. Rabbi Joel Alter and Blane Goodman Funeral Service assisted the family. Memorials welcome to Jewish Community Pantry or Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid.
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