Helen (Karotkin) Blum

Helen Blum, of West Hartford, died at the age of 88 on Monday, November 17th at Brookdale Place. Many people cherished her life because she gave so much of herself to help others. Whatever needed to be done, one could depend on Helen to give her unselfish time, energy and devotion. She was a cornerstone to her loving family, friends and Jewish faith. She enjoyed being “first lady” at Beth El Temple when her husband, Bernie, served as president. They supported numerous charitable organizations in the local community. Helen stood by Bernie’s side as his accounting firm grew to become known today as Blum Shapiro & Company PC. She graduated Larson College and worked as a medical secretary for a Hartford surgeon. Helen had many interests throughout her life including painting, tap and ballroom dancing. She loved to travel and also spend summertime with her family at her mother’s cottage in Westbrook. The one word that people used to describe Helen was “sweet”. She had a heart of gold and will always be remembered for her good and gracious deeds. In her remaining days, her family and friends returned the love by seeing to her every need. Special thanks and appreciation to Opal and all the wonderful caregivers who comforted Helen with love and compassion. Born in Hartford, she was the daughter of the late Albert and Charlotte Karotkin. Helen was predeceased by her husband, Bernard. She will be missed forever by her seven grandchildren, Alexis Zinkerman, daughter of Alan Maislen and Mara Blum Maislen of West Hartford; Noah, Joshua and Ariel Blum, children of Dr. Jerrold E. and Arlene Blum of Bloomfield; and Keith, David and Matthew Blum, sons of Steven Z. Blum and Beth K. Blum of West Hartford. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 19, 2014 in the Chapel of the Weinstein Mortuary, 640 Farmington Avenue, Hartford with Rabbi James Rosen officiating. Burial will follow at Beth El Temple Cemetery, 51 Jackson Street, Avon. Following the burial, the family will receive visitors at 28 High Wood Road, Bloomfield until 8 PM on Wednesday and Thursday from 1PM until 8 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Beth El Temple in West Hartford or the charity of the donor’s choice. For further information, directions, or to share memories of Helen with her family, please visit online at www.weinsteinmortuary.com/funerals.cfm.