Bert Kaplan passed away suddenly on September 3, 2016. Born in New York on 3/15/31 the son of Harry and Lillian Kaplan. Survived by wife of 56 years, Elizabeth, son Neil Kaplan (wife Adele); daughter Nancy Kaplan (husband Andy Raubvogel); grandchildren Max, Jeffrey, Julie and Harry Kaplan and Lily and Jacob Weissgold; and sister Diane Rosenthal and voluminous extended friends and family. Bert served in the Army during Korea- stationed in London. A board member of the American Sport Fishing Association, Bert was a leader for 58 years in the sporting goods industry. A Simsbury resident for 38 years, Bert was former President of the Farmington Valley Jewish Congregation. Member of the Board of Directors of the Friends of the Simsbury Library and instrumental in generating funding for the beautiful Library building. Bert was one of a kind and larger than life. A person who brought joy to all who crossed his path. Bert played right field with his son and grandson the year he turned 80. He also met the US Ambassador to Albania in Tirana in 2014 on an adventure trip with his grandson Max. He visited all 50 states and 65 countries. Bert was an honorary member of the Fishing Hall of Fame – even though fishing was his vocation and not his avocation. Funeral services Tuesday, September 6 at 1pm at Farmington Valley Jewish Congregation 55 Bushy Hill Road, Simsbury. Burial will follow at FMCJ Emek Shalom Memorial Park – Avon. The family will be home for visitation on September 6, 7,8 at 7pm. Donations may be made to the Farmington Valley Jewish Congregation.