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Alan Silverstein Obituary

Alan Silverstein

1950-2014 Alan Silverstein, 63, of Stockbridge, died Monday at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, after a long illness. Alan was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. on May 21st, 1950 to Jack and Vivian Silverstein. He had one brother, Kenneth, who predeceased him. He moved to the Berkshires in 1973, after graduating from American University in Washington, D.C. Alan Silverstein's career as a lifelong environmentalist began at the first organized demonstration against auto emissions, a full year before the very first Earth Day Celebration in 1970. He was a pioneer in the environmental movement in the Berkshires, joining the Center for Ecological Technology (CET) in 1978 where he met co-founder Laura Dubester. Laura and Alan married in 1992. For over 30 years Alan designed and managed many innovative energy efficiency, renewable energy and recycling programs. He played a key role in creating EcoBuilding Bargains. He has produced workshops, trade shows, regional forums and events and spearheaded community initiatives. As a member of the Massachusetts Recycling Task Force, he also helped to develop a statewide recycling strategy. He supervised CET's "Recycling to Build Community" in partnership with the Corporation for National Service a collaboration for which CET has served as host to more than 16 AmeriCorps VISTA members. His public service included board membership for MassRecycle and WasteCap of Massachusetts, the Energy Federation, Inc. and CET and he co-chaired the 11th Annual National Recycling Congress in Boston and the Non-Profit Recyclers Council of the National Recycling Coalition. He was also a founding member of the Stockbridge Green Team. He hosted a radio show on WBCR, "Earth Radio" for several years, discussing environmental issues and spinning some of his favorite (Dylan) tunes. After their joint retirement in public service in 2011 Alan and Laura were awarded honorary doctorates by Westfield State University, Alan's diploma reading in part, "[you are] an inspired advocate for a cleaner, more sustainable society, confronting inconvenient truths and environmental challenges with practical and affordable solutions, committed to enlightened action, energy efficiency, renewable energy, engaging communities and educating citizens." Alan was a passionate woodsman, outdoorsman and skilled athlete, bringing his unique presence to a wide range of activities: skiing, horseback riding, gardening, travel, golf and softball. He was one of the founders of the weekly Sunday softball game at Greene Park in Monterey, where his left-handed power hitting broke open many a game. Not to mention his stalwart fielding, which helped shut down many a rally by the opposing team. There was nothing to match the joy on his face when he made one of his patented sliding catches in the outfield. He was always a great sport, in sickness and in health. Everyone wanted to be on Alan's team. Prior to his work at CET Alan spent a year working outdoors in the government sponsored Challenge for Youth program, overseeing the building of shelters and cutting new trails on the Appalachian Trail. He was a self-taught artist who exhibited his work in a variety of galleries, including Razor Gallery in Soho, Spazi Fine Art in Housatonic, Gallery Jurka in Amsterdam and the Shade Gallery at The Bookstore in Lenox, which he co-founded with lifelong pals Jim Youngerman and Mike Ansell,. Not only did his close friends and family know and bask in the joy, gentleness, unfailing kindness of his manner in the world, but he had the unique ability to share these qualities with everyone whose path he crossed, finding the fun in everything he did, from work to play. His generosity ensured that that spirit was shared by all those around him. Alan was a veteran of the sixties and a lifelong advocate for peace and justice. There never was a sweeter man. Or more perfect gentleman. He is survived by his wife Laura, his mother Vivian, his nephew Larry Silverstein and wife Stefanie, his grand-nieces Sydney and Sloane, his goddaughters Shawnee and Sophie Tannenbaum, and godson Jake Weisman. FUNERAL NOTICE: The funeral services will be conducted Thursday January 23rd at Temple Anshe Amunim at 12 noon. Burial will follow at Stockbridge Town Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Leukemia Lymphoma Society in care of Roche Funeral Home, 120 Main Street, Lenox MA 01240 Shiva will be observed at 19A Cherry Hill Road in Stockbridge Thursday night from 6 to 9 pm and on Friday from 3 to 6 pm.



Published by The Berkshire Eagle on Jan. 22, 2014.
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Memories and Condolences
for Alan Silverstein

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Not sure what to say?





Very hard to believe that it has been 10 years since Alan's passing. As the song says,
"Where does the time go".
As Alan's cousin, we shared many fond memories growing up. Trying to think of one In particular is nearly impossible.
I think that the one thing more than anything else that sticks in my mind and will always solidify my memory of Alan is without a doubt his big bright smile. I challenge anyone to find me a picture of him without that beautiful smile he always had. It lit up a room and made everyone around him feel happy.
It may be a whole decade, but I will never forget him and I will always miss him.
Love,
Steve Adler

Steven Adler

Family

January 16, 2024

What a big heart, great smile, welcoming arms this man had...and will always have. ‘Bean’ would hang in my apartment in Queens and always brought his special brand of friendship and warmth. He will always be remembered.

Victor Blum

Friend

January 16, 2021

I was sadly made aware of Alan's passing while talking to Laura only two years ago and then I spoke of him just today to Nora Goldstein of BioCycle - so mentioning his name then landed me here after that conversation. Jesse White has also recently written of him below -- obviously it's not ever too late to speak well of our comrade and friend! I met Alan and Laura in 1980 at a grassroots solar conference in Amhurst MA - we were working in parallel on a national grassroots solar demonstration program funded by U.S. Dept. of Energy, Labor and Community Services Administration (imagine that). We subsequently reconnected years later through National Recycling Coalition. Solar guys recycled into garbage men. Echoing all the preceding sentiments - Alan was a true mensch - a real human being - who was a blessing to this world.
Blair Pollock

February 3, 2020

So sad to learn of Alan's passing. I have not been living in Massachusetts for over 20 years, and haven't seen him in over 15, but he made a lasting impression on me when I worked in waste reduction in the region. Salute! His memory is a blessing and inspiration.

jesse white

Acquaintance

January 18, 2020

I did not know Allan well but met him several times while playing in the annual National Recycling Conference Softball games all over the country. I sensed his love of life and realize from what I have read from his close friends, family and colleagues, we have lost a true leader for the environment and peace. My condolences to Laura and family.

John Deuel

September 4, 2014

Alan, Please give a really big hug and welcome to the journalist Jim Foley who was killed by terrorists. He is the dear, courageous son of my high school and college friends, John and Diane Foley. You two can carry on together, I'm sure. Miss you!

Peg MacLeod

August 22, 2014

Words cannot even begin to describe how saddened I am for your loss, and all of our loss.

I worked with Alan for many years on more committees than I can count. No matter how far I advanced in my career or thought process, it seems like Alan had already been there for decades, waiting patiently with his warm smile for the rest of us to catch up to him.

It is a shame to me that more of the people whose lives have been influenced by his thoughts, his actions and his leadership have never gotten to know him personally. To the extent that I did I am forever blessed.

Thank you Alan for everything that you did. I hope that someday we can all live up to, and catch up to the vision that you had for us.

Roger Guzowski

April 24, 2014

Dear Laura,
Since receiving that devastating phone call from Viv and then speaking to you, there hasn't been a day that has gone by that some beautiful memory of Alan hasn't brought a welling of emotion and a tear to my eye. I keep thinking of our childhood together and all those wonderful days with Alan and Kenny in Brooklyn living the carefree life of children growing up in the 50's and then straight into adulthood. The countless weekends of our youth with the family and friends and all the laughs we all shared together. They are forever etched in my mind as a frozen point in time that will never be diminished for as long as I live.

Alan and Kenny (I can never separate the two, for they were as one) were more than my cousins, they were truly my brothers.

As mentioned in all the tributes, Alan's smile and good nature and all his other attributes of character, kindness and goodwill to all will never be forgotten. I will greatly miss our all too infrequent long conversations on the state of the world.

There is now and forever will be a hole in my that can never be filled.

Love,
Steve & Tina

Steve Adler

February 15, 2014

Dear Laura,
You and Alan demonstrated what a true life partnership could be both personally and professionally. Alan had such a positive outlook towards fixing what was broken in the environment or was unfair to any person or group - and he inspired others to join in the task at hand. We know that this is a staggering loss for you, and also a loss for the rest of us as well.

Bill and Margot Moomaw

Bill and Margot Moomaw

February 8, 2014

Dear Laura,

Although I do not even know you I'm so sorry for your loss. The partnership of you and Alan is truly inspiring.

I'm on the West Coast and I just read about Alan because my brother-in-law forwards EcoBytes to me. I'm from Pittsfield and I like keeping track of what's happening there (I do environmental work out here). I forward pertinent info from EcoBytes to those I know living in the Berkshires (always hoping they'll take advantage of CET's wise programs).

Alan's legacy will be a long lasting one - it is clear from what I read that his wonderful spirit will live on within many people.

Peace & Love to you.

February 5, 2014

Alan and Laura are forever in my mind as a unit, both committed to making the world better. To me, they are highly successful business people who were steeped in environmental consciousness and basic good will. They have the right stuff, the right balance, to make a positive contribution in a very big way. I have not spoken to either Alan or Laura in quite awhile, yet I feel so strongly about each of them now. They are bright lights for me and so many others. Alan was a blessing to all of us. May Laura be granted abundant strength in the difficult days ahead.

Scott Cassel

February 5, 2014

dear Laura~

You two have always been so inspirational over the decades! My heartfelt condolences to you.

Know that we always will remember Al's kind assistance in taking aside David G. for a primer in "how to bump" the volleyball! His single, gentle & compassionate act has brought my family multiple generations who relish that sport!

We will all miss his sweet smile, generosity, brilliance & spark~

All are very lucky who have had the blessing of crossing your paths!

Barb Coperine

February 5, 2014

Our prayers go out to Alan's family.

Arley Owens

February 3, 2014

I was truly saddened to hear of Alan's passing and want to express my sincerest condolences to his mother Vivian, wife Laura and the rest of the Silverstein family. As we see he was cherished by those who knew him. May his warm and gracious spirit continue to inspire us.

J Terry Lesher, MD

January 31, 2014

Alan was a colleague, a friend, a beautiful human being, and a great inspiration! His spirit will live on in me and the many many other people whose lives he touched in such an incredibly positive way. We love you Alan!!!

January 31, 2014

Oh, I wanted more time with him...his smile and commitment was like human honey that made the world better and sweeter for him having touched us. RIP amigo.

Eric Lombardi

January 28, 2014

I will remember his smile, kindness, and generosity. He was an amazing advocate for recycling and energy conservation. My condolences to all who knew him.

jesse white

January 27, 2014

January 26, 2014

January 26, 2014

January 26, 2014

I think of Alan's smile; his quiet yet influential way of interacting and leading; his love of music and all things beautiful -especially Laura. Sending peace and hugs, Joy (Kirschenbaum) Gaine

Joy (Kirschenbaum) Gaine

January 24, 2014

Alan truly fulfilled Tikkun Olam. He repaired the world and touched many people in it. Gone too soon, but his deeds and memory will live on. Very sad. Heartfelt sympathy to Laura and all who knew and loved this special guy.

Nan Bookless

January 24, 2014

My condolences, Alan will be greatly missed. What a great life he led. May his soul soar high into the heavens.

Richard T. Delmasto

January 24, 2014

Al was a shepherd of the human spirit and the earth. He opened his arms, offered his heart,and nurtured the good in everything and everyone.

I am so deeply sorry for those who have lost this magnificent soul in their lives, and so grateful to have known him.

Blessings to all.

January 23, 2014

Cody Penotte

January 23, 2014

A beautiful soul in a life wonderfully lived. Fond memories will keep his warm spirit and accomplishments appreciated by all who knew him.

Marcus Weiss

January 23, 2014

Laura, I was saddened to here of Alan's passing. I have such fond memories of CET and the softball games. You and Alan will be in my prays. Gibby

January 23, 2014

Al made everyone laugh and feel lighter about life while at the same time doing really important work. He had an antic intelligence and a huge heart.

Susie Kaufman

January 23, 2014

What beautiful work you did in the world. Thank you, Alan, for your art and your life.
David

David Keplinger

January 23, 2014

Dear Laura:
My heart goes out to you as you grieve the passing of your dear life-partner, Alan. You two have been a huge inspiration to many including me. In founding NEEP many years ago I was inspired by efforts such as your joint founding of CET as a pathway to make sustainability a reality through community-based efforts. You and Alan lead the way on this – forming a non-profit for such positive and impactful change. The NEEP staff enjoyed the opportunity last spring to partner with CET to present the 2013 Northeast Energy Efficiency Summit which included a CET-organized tour to highlight the Springfield area tornado recovery effort with rebuilding with energy efficiency as a top priority – a CET and WMECo partnership. Very inspiring! All of us at NEEP send our condolences to you and thank you for your loving partnership with Alan to make the world truly a better place.
With deepest sympathy for your loss.
Sue Coakley

Susan Coakley

January 23, 2014

I will never forget Alan's many kind words and deeds. Laura, my deepest sympathy.

Don Riggins

January 23, 2014

Gayle and I send our loving support in this time of loss. Alan certainly left an amazing legacy!

Jess Kielman

January 22, 2014

Alan was just one of the best people I have ever known. Funny, wise and so committed to CET and all the great work they do. I will miss him. Laura, my thoughts are with you.

Sarah Shepard

January 22, 2014

Laura: Alan was a really GREAT person who lite up every time we would meet.
His need to make sure this earth was a better place when he left it then it was before he entered it was his mantra
I am so sorry for your loss. Alan... rest in peace knowing that you made a difference.

Dan O'Connell Pittsfield, Ma.

January 22, 2014

To all Als friends and family:
It has been a long time since I last saw "Bean" as I called him back in the day. Al was a frequent visitor to 7P in the 60s and 70s and I love to think of his extraordinary smile and warm heart. The world will miss this most gentle of spirits and his amazing energy.
With Love
Victor

Victor Blum

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Susan Slattery

January 22, 2014

Dear Vivian, My sincerest sympathy at this time. Those of your friends in Florida are saddened shocked and send our condolences. We love you and think of you in your grief. Love, Ruth and Al

January 22, 2014

Doing is in the being of Alan's believing. With my Condolences.

Anthony Sarkis

January 22, 2014

January 22, 2014

I haven't seen Al in maybe 30 years, but I remember a very sweet guy and an active and engaged citizen of the planet. This wonderful man will be missed. My condolences to Laura, his family and community. May his memory serve as a blessing!

Judith Brighton (formerly Freeman)

January 22, 2014

Filled with emotion as I recall with fondness a caring, wonderful person and fellow energy advocate in the 70's and 80's. My best to Laura.

Larry Casassa

January 22, 2014

Alan you will be sooooo missed; there's not enough tissue for me right now. MA is a leader in sustainable initiatives much because or your tireless efforts and those with Laura. Much love and support to you, Laura. Peggy M

Peggy MacLeod

January 22, 2014

Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. I have such fond memories of Alan from the time I worked at CET. My deepest sympathy Alison

January 22, 2014

My sincere condolences to Laura and the CET family on Alan's passing. His passion and commitment to energy efficiency and the environment were truly inspirational. He will be deeply missed.

John Walsh

January 22, 2014

Worked with him on the Challenge for Youth program - he was a gentle soul. Rest in Peace Alan.

Bill A.

January 22, 2014

Thank you Alan for all you did for this community.
Brian

January 22, 2014

"He was a friend of mine
Every time I think about him now
Lord, I just can't keep from cryin'
'Cause he was a friend of mine"

Cynthia (or as Alan called me, CAGny)

January 22, 2014

alan
"every grain of sand"
ira

January 22, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you Laura....Alan was great to work with. Karen Larocque

January 22, 2014

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