Stephen R. “Steve” Bernstein, age 73 of Gordon, Ohio (Darke County) passed away June 23. Mr. Bernstein started Bernstein’s Fine Catering and Uptown Deli in 1988. He is survived by his wife, Marti; son, Michael Bernstein (Julie Elliott-Herrera); two grandchildren, Kristen Bame and Matthew Bernstein; brother, Larry (Patti) Bernstein; sister, Barbara Bernstein; two nephews. Mr. Bernstein was interred in Albuquerque, N.M. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

Jerry I. Matusoff, 88, passed away peacefully on April 6 in Port Orange, Fla. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carol Lou (Gradsky) Matusoff; two daughters, Barrie Denmark and Jody Zitsman; son-in-law, Howard Zitsman; grandchildren, Bailey Denmark and Ben Zitsman; and sister Gloria Williams. Mr. Matusoff was a native Daytonian. He graduated from Fairview High School before attending The Ohio State University and Carnegie Technical Institute (Carnegie Mellon University). Mr. Matusoff started his insurance career with Northwestern Mutual Life and subsequently represented several companies. He became a member of the prestigious Million Dollar Roundtable in 1960 and achieved life membership in 1988. He was a leader in the Jewish community, serving as president of B’nai Brith, was a board of directors member at Temple Israel, and chairman, Men’s Division of the United Jewish Campaign. He was also president and founder of the Standard Club. Mr. Matusoff was the first recipient of the Jewish Community Council President’s Leadership Award. In addition, he served as president of the Prisoners Correctional Association and as a board member and treasurer of the PAR Council of the United Way. Mr. Matusoff was an active member at Meadowbrook Country Club. More than his business success, impeccable dress, and civic duties, Mr. Matusoff will be remembered for his warm smile, outgoing personality, and his devotion to Carol Lou and his family. His was a life well lived and well loved. Contributions in his name may be sent to: Halifax Health Hospice, Port Orange, Fla., the Jewish Federation of Daytona Beach, Fla., or the charity of your choice.

Marilyn E. “Cookie” Shleier, age 81 formerly of Dayton, passed away July 4 at Cedar Village in Mason. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray, and brother Alan Hornstein. Mrs. Shleier is survived by her son, Dr. Alan Shleier, and daughter, Jill (Todd) Engle; nieces and nephews and many special friends. Interment was at Beth Jacob Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Cedar Village or Beth Jacob Congregation.

To read the complete August 2016 Dayton Jewish Observer, click here.