Harold Epstein, 88, of West hartford, CT and Sunny Isle, Florida.,died thursday, October 24, 2013. He was the beloved husband of the late Mildred (Milly) Epstein, his childhood sweetheart. Born in Hartford, he was the son of Samuel and Shirley (Derefsky) Epstein. He graduated Weaver High School. He served in the United States Merchant Marines as a Merchant Seaman 1st Class during WW II aboard the S.S. Web Miller and the S. S. Cape Texas. He was a proud member of the CT Free Masons and was the youngest Entered Apprentice in his Lodge. In 1949 he co- founded Epstein Bros. Floor Covering, which became a leading CT floor covering company.

He is survived by his children, Elaine E. Rosen, Susan and Marty Ungar, and Mark Epstein. He also leaves behind his sister Linda and her husband Albert Reichin. He was predeceased by his brothers Jerold and Arthur Epstein and his sisters Marjorie Strano and Barbara Masters. He leaves his grandchildren Stacey Rosen. Scott Rosen, Amy Churchill and husband Jon, Jenny Kabakoff and husband Randy, and Max Epstein. He leaves five cherished great grandchildren, Michael Savo, Eli and Lucy Kabakoff, and Charlotte and Reed Churchill.He also leaves behind many loved nieces and nephews. He was very lucky to have shared 10 years with his wonderful friend, Ronnie Greenfield. Harold was the patriarch of his family. He adored them and taking care of and protecting them was his life’s work

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Sunday, October 27, 2013 in the Chapel of the Weinstein Mortuary, 640 Farmington Ave., Hartford with Rabbi James Rosen officiating. Internment will follow in Beth Alom Cemetery, Allen St., New Britain.The family will receive relatives and friends afterward at Beth El Temple 2626 Albany Ave. in West Hartford.

Shiva will be observed at the home of Susan Ungar, 2 Wyeth Drive, Bloomfield, Sunday and Monday from 6:00- 8:30. Many thanks to Hartford Hospital’s Palliative Care for their kindness. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Lung Association or Beth El Temple in West Hartford.