- Deceased's name: Herman Gelbwasser
- Age: 71
- Date: Aug. 11
- Hometown: Mashpee and Rutland
Herman Gelbwasser, 71, of Mashpee, formerly of Rutland, died unexpectedly at home on Aug. 11. He was the loving husband of Bonnie (Romalis) Gelbwasser. They would have celebrated their 46th anniversary on Aug. 21.
Born in Manhattan, N.Y. on March 2, 1940, Mr. Gelbwasser was the son of the late Nathan and Frieda Gelbwasser. He graduated from Stuyvesant High School and held degrees in chemical engineering from New York University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Mr. Gelbwasser was a professor of chemistry and mathematics at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner for 45 years, retiring as professor emeritus in 2010. He enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and new dog, Mo. He also was a diehard Boston Red Sox and Boston Celtics fan.
In addition to Bonnie, the love of his life, he is survived by his children, Michael of Massachusetts, Amy Payne and her husband Mark of New York and Sherry, also of Massachusetts; and his grandchildren, Shaylee and Riley Payne. He also leaves his brothers and their wives, Edward (Bernice) and Frank (Rhonda); a sister-in-law, Alice (Michael) Jacobs; a brother-in-law, Carl Romalis; and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.
The family asks that contributions in Professor Gelbwasser’s memory be made to the Mount Wachusett Community College Foundation Inc., 440 Green St., Gardner, MA 01440.
Sheila Tarlin
3:20 pm on Friday, August 12, 2011
Dear Michael, Amy and Sheri,
I am so very sad at your dad's passing. As you know, Harris and I went "way back" with your parents. We shared many joyous as well as difficult times together and I will be here for your mother every step of the way, however, whenever she needs me.
To Bonnie,
What is there to say about the special marriage you had.....longevity (I think you met when you were 15!) and a shared depth of feeling, love and common purpose. It doesn't get any better than that............you just should have had him longer. I will keep him in my thoughts and you in my heart.
Love,
Sheila and family
Susan Johnson
6:50 am on Sunday, August 21, 2011
Dear Bonnie,
I was so saddened to hear yesterday about the news of your Herman. My prayers are with you and my heartfelt sympathy goes out to you.
At one time I felt a very close connection to both of you and even though the years have quickly slipped by, I have thought of you both often. He was an incredible special man who had a true passion for helping others and always being kind to them. I will always remember those wonderful attributes about him.
Sheri, Michael and Amy my thought are with you as well. I pray that you will all have the strength to get through this very difficult time.
Love,
Carl and Susan Johnson and family