Melvin Garfinkel

Mel Garfinkel of Farmington passed away March 10, 2013 following a long illness at the age of 84. Born on September 30, 1928 in the Bronx, NY, the youngest son of Louis and Sadie Garfinkel. He graduated from CCNY with a degree in civil engineering. He spent the Korean War with the Army Corp of Engineers rebuilding Germany. A long business career followed until his retirement. His greatest joy in life was his family. He is survived by his wife Charlotte and their four children and spouses: Hilary and Juan Platen of Windsor, Dan Garfinkel of Fort Collins, CO, Ken and Donna Garfinkel of Southington, and Mike and Marcia Garfinkel of West Hartford. After raising his family in East Lyme, he retired to Farmington to be close to family. He was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren: Heather, Jessica, Andrea, Erica, Emily, Sadie, Jennifer, Jeremy, and Sam, and one great-granddaughter, Agnes. Mel was preceded in death by his parents and brother Larry. He is survived by his oldest brother Harold. The funeral will be held at Weinstein Mortuary in West Hartford at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, March 11. Shiva will be observed at the home of Mike and Marcia Garfinkel, 15 Longlane Rd., West Hartford, Monday at 7-9 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday, 2 to 4 p.m. as well as 7-9 p.m. Donations can be made to Temple Beth El in West Hartford or the charity of the donor’s choice .