On Saturday, December 7, Robert R. Cherlin, 98, of West Hartford passed away surrounded by his loving wife and family. Born in Elizabeth, NJ, he was the son of the late Isadore and Sarah (Falkowitz) Cherlin and a US Army veteran of World War II. He had a career in Human Resources, which suited him perfectly. After retirement, he became a devoted hospice volunteer. He was past Commander of American Legion Post 8 and Jewish War Veterans , Post 45. He was honored to be appointed by five governors to serve as Commissioner of the Rocky Hill Veterans Home and Hospital. He was a member of Congregation Beth Israel of West Hartford for 50 years and served on the Board of Directors and as President of the Brotherhood. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 66 years, Phyllis (Rogil) Cherlin; sisters in law Estelle Cherlin of Tampa, FL, and Norma Cherlin of Santa Rosa, CA; sister in law and brother in law, Mickey and Sy Tucker of Old Lyme, CT . He was blessed with many nieces and nephews. Incredibly devoted to him were Ronna and Mark Siegal, Carrie and Jamie Cherlin, Dr. Edward and Susan Cherlin, Amanda Cherlin, Emily Cherlin and Wendy Savin. He was predeceased by his brothers, George (Betty ))of San Diego, Alexander (Beatrice) of West Hartford , Daniel of West Hartford and Martin of Newington. If ever there was a gentleman in our midst it was he. Never a cross or angry word. He would find the good in all he met. As a couple there is no equal. The love and tenderness they shared set an example for all who were fortunate enough to know them . How often would he tell us “If ever two were one, than surely we.” He appreciated all humankind and leaves a legacy of goodness and caring. As Uncle Bob/Rob would always toast “May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 PM on Tuesday, December 10, 2013 in the Silberman Chapel of Congregation Beth Israel, 701 Farmington Ave., West Hartford with Rabbi Michael Pincus and Cantor Pamela Siskin officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Whitman Rd., West Hartford. A memorial period will be observed Tuesday following the interment at the home of Ronna and Mark Siegal in West Hartford. Wednesday and Thursday at 1 Chatfield Drive, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Bob to the charity or organization of your choice . Arrangements are entrusted to Weinstein Mortuary, Hartford. For further information, directions, or to sign the guest book for Bob, please visit online at www.weinsteinmortuary.com/funerals.cfm.
