Harold M. Gerstein

DATELINE: WARWICK

Gerstein, Harold M., 84, died Monday, September 25, 2017 at West View Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Karen (Wolfe) Gerstein for 55 years. Born in Boston, a son of the late Samuel and Esther (Wexler) Gerstein.  He was the brother of the late Claire Franklin and the late Ruth Feldman.

He was a radio operator in the US Air Force during the Korean War, serving in Germany and Stateside from ‘52-‘56. Harold taught for one year in Thomaston, CT, before returning to Boston University where he earned his Masters Degree of Education, Ed.M., in 1963. Harold and Karen moved to RI where he taught at Johnson and Wales and was Union President. Harold lived in Warwick for 51 years, and was an educator in the Warwick School System for 30 years. He was a Business Education teacher and DECA advisor at Pilgrim and Toll Gate High Schools. Harold and his students won numerous national DECA competitions and he was very proud of their accomplishments.

After retiring from teaching in 1990, Harold opened the former Creative Unique Things Etc., ‘C.U.T.E.’ at the RI Mall. Harold later worked at the gift shops at T.F. Green Airport.

Harold was the former President of the RI Business Educator Association and the RI Association Distributive Education Coordinator. He received the 1978-79 RIBEA Outstanding Business Educator of the year and the 1979-80 State D.E Teacher of the Year awards.  Harold loved spending time with his family and dressing up for the holidays at the Dialysis Center of Warwick (ARA) to the delight of his fellow patients and the extraordinary staff. He enjoyed the look on people’s faces when this Jewish man explained he had played Santa Claus for the residents in nursing homes for years.

Devoted father of Pamela Powell (Christopher Gentile) of Warwick and Debra Goragely (Patrick) of Tampa, FL. Loving grandfather of Lauren Walker (Doug) and Caroline Powell. Cherished great grandfather of Andrew Walker, who was the light of his life. The Gerstein family will always remember the sincere kindness and much needed humor offered by the Westview staff during Harold’s stay.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. in SHALOM MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 1100 New London Ave., Cranston. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to RI Jewish War Veterans, 458 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906.  Shiva will be observed at 175 Aurora Drive, Warwick, on Wednesday from 3:30-9 p.m.

9 Comments

  1. Steve Reinert
    Sep 25, 2017

    What a great, jolly man Harold was. He was always upbeat, and his kind spirit uplifted those he came in contact with. I always enjoyed his company. He will be missed by many.

  2. Michael Levine
    Sep 26, 2017

    My sincere condolences to the Gerstein family.

  3. Joan Plante
    Sep 26, 2017

    Harold was the best! He always welcomed everyone with a smile and a story! He made me feel like i was a member of his extended family! He will be much missed. Bless you Harold.

  4. Elaine Soares
    Sep 26, 2017

    I didn’t know Harold very well but what I remember most was Harold and Karen dancing at Maria’s wedding. A good and happy memory. Rest in peace Harold. You will be missed by many.

  5. Arline Cusick
    Sep 26, 2017

    Karen, Pam & Debbie,
    Our deepest sympathy on your loss.

    Arline Cusick & Family

  6. Seamus and Bernie Goragely
    Sep 26, 2017

    So sorry for your loss thinking of you Debra and the family RIP Harold

  7. Geraldine Goragely Sidhu
    Sep 26, 2017

    Reading this biography, I truly would have loved if our paths had crossed, it would have been an honour to have met this true gentleman. This world has lost a beautiful soul – you will have fond memories to help carry you on. Mere words are so inefficient at a time like this but believe me when I say I understand the intense pain you are all going through. On behalf of my family I offer you all my deepest condolences.
    The Maori people of New Zealand have a phrase they use at a time such as this – Kia Kaha (stay strong)
    Geraldine Goragely Sidhu and family.

  8. Ric Sylvia
    Sep 27, 2017

    Sorry for your loss. Harold was a great man and it was my pleasure to have taken care of him. He has a lovin and caring family. He will not be forgotten and glad to have form the bond I did with him. Everyone was wonderful through the process. Rest In Peace my friend.

  9. James O'Connor
    Oct 11, 2017

    Very sorry for your loss Debra. From my own experience, the void will always be there but you can still celebrate his life by remembering the good times you shared together. May your Dad rest in peace.

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