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Paul Epstein Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Paul Epstein
theresa schrafft
November 8, 2023
thinking of you all. Prayers all around. Theresa McDonagh Schrafft R.N.
theresa McDonagh
November 8, 2021
your in my thoughts & prayers. offer for mediumship still on the table...Much love
Theresa Schrafft
November 8, 2020
thinking of you all today - would love to do a mediumship reading for you all - much love Theresa McDonagh RN Schrafft
Janot Mendler
November 8, 2012
Paul has been much on our minds this month - I had hoped there would be an opportunity to remember him in person but we are in Tanzania then Uganda and then the climate talks in Qatar this month - doing what we can which is perhaps the best tribute to Paul, who will always be dear to our hearts and deeply missed. Kind regards, Janot Mendler de Saurez
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Virginia (Ginny) Kovner
April 14, 2012
Someone you do not even know is thinking of you and wishing you courage and strength at this challenging time. I knew Paul in college, and, though we did not stay in touch after school, I remember him as one of the kindest and most caring guys I ever knew.I was so very sorry to read of his passing. He did such good work in the world, as I always thought he would. I am happy to know he had a family, children, a grandchild, and ever so many friends. I am sure you know how much his being and his work were needed and appreciated. May you, his family, rejoice in the blessing of having lived so much of your life with him. I wish you peace and contentment in the days to come. Fondly, Virginia Kovner
Janot Mendler de Suarez
March 7, 2012
Dears Andy, Jesse and Ben - although we have not met knowing Paul it feels as though we know you, and in the last few years noticed Paul spoke constantly of his family, especially with his special gentle loving pride in Jesse & Ben's various endeavors! My husband Pablo and I loved Paul and treasure the light he shined in our lives as a mentor, colleague and friend. With our warmest love and best wishes, we deeply regretted being out of town in November, and continue to miss him deeply.
Emery Stephens
January 21, 2012
Dear Andy and Family,
Steven Procopio just emailed me to let me know about your loss of a great friend, husband, and father. I will always remember you both during my years of public service in Massachusetts. Paul did such incredible work in the local, regional, and global communities. He will forever be with us because of his incredible passion for social and environmental justice.
Thinking of you,
Emery
David Goodman
December 12, 2011
To Andy and the whole Epstein Family -- Paul was a bright light. We first met him through South Africa solidarity work when we lived in Boston, but also knew him as a doctor and friend. He was a visionary activist, but also funny, human and passionate. He made a difference. We are sure that his light will continue to show the way for all of us for generations to come. -- David Goodman & Sue Minter (Vermont)
Elaine Facada
December 6, 2011
Andy, Jessie and Ben, I am so sorry to learn about Paul. My prayer will always be with all of you. I love you guys since the day I met you back in Princeton Street, Elaine the baby sitter at times.
Elaine Facada
Theresa McDoangh Schrafft
December 4, 2011
Andy
Just learned of Paul's passing via NPR. I felt something not ok some time ago & had written Paul after reading Globe ed back awhile but no response. My prayers are w/ you, Jessie & Ben.
December 4, 2011
To the family of Dr. Epstein,
While listening to the public radio program, "Living on Earth," this morning, I only now know of your dearly loved partner, dad and friend, Paul. The tribute to him on this particular show illustrates how his legacy of concern for world health will live on and how so many people, including me, were affected by him and his world view. You all were part of his inspiration and dedication and because of this, I send love, gratitude and much sympathy. Liza Green
November 29, 2011
Dear Andy,
This was such sad news and we are so sorry we were out of town for the open house in Paul's honor. We are touched by all the lovely words and thoughts from all that loved and respected Paul. We share in your grief and hope you are comforted by warm memories.
Love, Bev Rothfeld and Bob Hoch
Ilene Carver
November 26, 2011
Dear Andy,
I am so saddened to learn of Paul's passing. The work I know Paul from, the Southern Africa solidarity movement, is clearly just one of a tremendous number of struggles, that Paul and you together took part in.
What an extraordinary human being! And what a great loss his passing must be to your family, and to the people and communities, near and far, that he so deeply impacted with his life and his work.
With respect, admiration, love and support, Ilene Carver
Bette Steinmuller
November 23, 2011
Dear Andy,
I've been very shocked and sad about Paul. Omar wrote to me from Cuba about his passing, and then I was in touch with Susan F. In fact, it was when Susan F. took the stethoscope Paul sent to Nelson 21 years ago, that I met him and Miriam and later Omar in Havana.
I was glad to see you briefly in Brookline in September. We didn't talk for long, but I sensed something uncomfortable.
I'm so sorry for your great loss and the loss for everyone who Paul touched in many ways.
Lúmino joins my thoughts also,
Be well,
Bette Steinmuller
November 21, 2011
Dear Andy, I never read the obits, but Mary Ellen Welch told me about Paul's passing and then I read everything in the papers. I cannot believe he's gone. When I saw him at the Community News reunion he looked well and, of course, never said anthing about being ill.
I am so sorry for your great loss. We all knew that you and Paul were very special people, but I didn't realize how much he(and you) had done since you guys moved out of Eastie all those years ago.
I vividly recall your letters from Mozambique to Mary at the O'Donnell School describing the situation there. please know that we are sending our positive thoughts and energy your way to wish you strength throughout this ordeal. Can't tell you how sad I am that Paul is no longer physically here to enjoy being with you and the family Please take care of yourself.
You have many friends who care for you and are here to help, if we can, in your old "paese".
Sincerely,
Roberta Marchi
Margy Cambria
November 21, 2011
Andy.
I just heard of your husband's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Cathy Etheridge
November 19, 2011
I remember Dr. Epstein from the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center Days. We called him Dr. Paul. Some people affectionately called him Ho Chi Mihn. I believe his profile is on the Quincy gas tank.
I heard of his passing on "Democracy Now," a national TV and radio program. That is a measure of his stature. He will never really be gone. He was an inspiration to people the world over. He left a permanent mark on the world, maybe especially on EB.
Cathy Etheridge, Sunderland, MA
Loretta Williams
November 17, 2011
Dear Andy and family: Paul walked the talk of social justice, solidarity, struggles against the odds, compassionate care and concern. I will remember many times laughing and learning together. May your happy memories offer you sustenance at this time of enormous loss.
Linda Chin and Tom Workman
November 17, 2011
Dear Andy, We are so shocked by the news of Paul's passing. You two brought much joy to
many around the globe and
deserved many many more
years together. Our deepest
condolences to you and your family. Love, Linda and Tom
Linda Coultas
November 17, 2011
Paul was a shining star out there for so many of us. I am so grateful to have known him, and for the gifts he gave me as a mentor long ago at Cambridge Hospital.
November 17, 2011
I have wonderful memories of you and Paul. You had dinner at my mother's house in Winthrop so many years ago. She was so impressed when Paul helped clear off the table. I am so sorry for your loss. diane gantman
November 17, 2011
Dear Andy, I am so sorry for your loss. Paul was a wonderful and extraordinary human being. He will be in my heart forever. Nina Olff
November 16, 2011
My deepest sympathies to Paul's family and friends. I hope there can be some comfort in knowing the power of his legacy of wisdom and love for the earth. His knowledge and inspiration will carry on through all who continue to learn from his work and grace.
- a sustainability student
November 16, 2011
Andy-we are so sorry for your loss, and our thoughts are with you.
Jenny Bardwell and Avie Bardwell MD
(Mali, 2002)
Emily Schatzow
November 16, 2011
Andy, I am so very sad for your loss, Even though we saw each other so rarely in recent years,I was thrilled each time we bumped into each other. He was a rare man indeed, and I am grateful to have known him.
Laura Zanini
November 16, 2011
Dear Andy, thinking about you, about Paul and when our paths crossed in the last 20 years. Just a few occasions, but each time was a blessing and a treasure, then and for the years to come. Lots of love to you and your family.
November 16, 2011
Andy,
I am so very sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.
Brianne
Sheli & Henry Wortis
November 15, 2011
Andy, Jesse, Ben and extended family:
The world has lost a man of conscience and humanity. We reach out to you, his wonderful family, remembering when we lived next door, and later, meeting you at the theater, marches, or teach-ins. While so many concerns of the world were on his mind, Paul never failed to inquire about our daughters and their families. Paul's warmth extended through his actions locally and globally.
Nancy Marks
November 15, 2011
Andy: Sending you and your family lots of love. Paul made this world a much better place.
Stefanos (Steve) Kales
November 15, 2011
Dear Andy: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Paul will be missed very much. He was a great teacher, caring physician and person. I remember fondly learning to see patients with him in the old East Cambridge Clinic and in home visits around the Portuguese neighborhood. He left much too early, but certainly Paul made his mark on many people and communities and will be remembered. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Nora Eisenberg
November 15, 2011
Andy,
We have such fond memories of Paul and you. What a good life he lived, and what a loss to you, his family, and the larger human family he cared for as a doctor, scientist, and mentsch.
Sending you and yours our love,
Nora, Ricky, and Sarah
Polly Gaster
November 15, 2011
Dear Andy and family
What a terrible blow for you and for all of us. We have lost Paul much too soon. I was hoping that he wd make it back to Mozambique, which would have been so great. In life Paul was an exemplary professional and activist, managing to link the two sides in his work, and I´m sure what he started will be carried on by others. I´m so glad I had that nice time with you both in Boston so relatively recently. Andy, come and visit us soon. Um forte abraco de Mocambique. Polly
November 15, 2011
I will always remember Paul for his faith in humanity to ultimately do the right thing. Paul was a gentle and kind man who could persuade with knowledge. He was a friend of our planet and a personal friend of mine. I miss him already.
Timothy Holtz
November 15, 2011
Dear Andy, Ben, and Jesse,
Paul became an instant mentor of mine the minute we met during my internship at Cambridge Hospital in 1991. His was the life I wanted to live, the career I wanted to emulate. He was the total package, primary care physician, scientist, author, social justice activist, and a great husband and father. Paul linked me up with his progressive medical contacts in South Africa in 1993, and I've never looked back. I would not be working in the field were it not for him, so I owe him a great debt. I'm only sorry that we lost touch with each other after I left Boston in 1999, but I continued to follow his contributions to the field of global health. My condolences to your family, he will be sorely missed by all. One of a kind.
Larry Kessler
November 15, 2011
What a great model citizen for all of us to emulate. Paul Epstein showed us what it means to see and care about those outside our own zipcode. May his life, like his compassion, inpire us all to think and act globally with a fervor and open heart
Larry Kessler, Boston
Cathleen McElligott
November 15, 2011
Dear Andy and Family, We are very saddened to learn of the passing of your dear husband and father. God's blessings and comfort to you all at this very difficult time of tremendous loss. Cathleen McElligott and Jack Stewart
Joyce Singer
November 15, 2011
Dear Andy and family, my deepest condolences to you and your family on this very sad loss. I just learned about Paul's passing and my heart goes out to you all. He was such a ray of sunshine. Peace and love, Joyce Singer
Michael Laurano
November 15, 2011
Dr. Epstein ("Paul" as he asked us to address him) was a founding member of the staff of the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center four decades ago. He has always been and will always be held in fond memory among those who remember him there and no doubt in other once uncharted horizons in need far beyond that beckoned to his talents not only as a physician but as a good and special human being.
Donald Green MD
November 15, 2011
Paul's career and mine crossed paths together. We were classmates at Albert Einstein and colleagues at the East Boston Relief Station. He showed me the ropes and opened my eyes to events I knew little about. It was also during this time my wife and I met Andy and 2 very young children. We both fondly remember him and send our condolences from our family to yours.
Happily he has a wonderful life to celebrate and a legacy that will endure. It was with vicarious pride I followed his adventures in the newspaper.
I also hope this husband, father, and grandfather's memory will eventually become a source of comfort as time moves along.
My thoughts are with you on this day.
Dr. Don Green
Pam Zinkin
November 15, 2011
Dear Andy and Jesse and Ben
I always thought of Paul as the one with the energy and vision, not accepting without careful thought. Even tho I have seen little of you all since leaving Mozambique that experience was lasting. I will always feel that warmth and solidarity so if you are ever this way please come and see me. Pam Zinkin
Jim Sullivan
November 15, 2011
I always enjoyed Dr. Epstein coming into Doyle's Cafe in Jamaica Plain for his meals years ago. He was a gentleman, and a pleasure to be around.
May God bless Dr. Epstein and his family.
Jim Sullivan
Julie Cliff
November 15, 2011
Dear Andy, Shocked to get this news. I admired Paul so much, as a lifelong activist and friend. Both your work in Mozambique in hard times and then in solidarity in the US was inspirational. More recently, Paul gave me an understanding of climate change and health through his writing. Thinking of you lots. Love Julie
Sam Barnes
November 15, 2011
Andy, Jesse and Ben.
We are shocked and saddened by Paul's passing. Your collective support and contributions to Mozambique were critical. I am retired and based in Maputo now, so cannot be with you at this time. Love to all of you and the younger and added family members that I have not had the opportunity to know. Sam Barnes
November 14, 2011
Family of Dr. Epstein,
Reading the memorials of this man tells us all how sad his early death is. Remember your good times and it will carry you through. Know he is in your spirit. Peace, live safe. A reader
Vicki Gabriner
November 14, 2011
Dear Andy, Jesse and Ben: We are shocked and so deeply saddened to hear about Paul's passing. He made so many important contributions to the world and was such a kind and caring person. We can't be with you on Tuesday, but we are holding you in our hearts and will be in touch soon. All our love . . . Vicki and Rochelle
Stewart Landers
November 14, 2011
There are so many memories I have of Paul! His relentless intelligence and his delight in nature and its changes stand out the most. We walked together with Andy and Jack and our friends Evelyn and Janet in conservation land behind our home in Boxford. He discovered gorgeous fungi on beaver-felled trees that held both mystery and data. What might be happening in this micro-climate to produce this beautiful life form? We all marveled together, and I will never forget his sense of wonder and curiosity that day and many others.
marty schulman
November 14, 2011
It has been so many years since I have seen Paul and so tragic that he died so young. His spirit and that of the 60's will continue.I am so sorry for Andy's and the rest of the family's loss.
Marty Schulman
Beth and Steve Cagan
November 14, 2011
Dear Andy, Jesse and Ben,
What a terrible and shocking thing! We send you all our love and solidarity.
We have all lost a wonderful and loving person. We can hardly begin to measure his contributions as a person, as an activist, simply as a fellow traveler on this path. We can't be with you physically, but you are filling our hearts and minds right now.
November 14, 2011
Dear Andy, Jesse and Ben: I am SO sorry to hear of Paul's passing. He was a wonderful and caring person. He was a terrifc neighbor. I use to enjoy our conversations about his travels and yours as well Andy. A very bright light in the medical community has been extinguished. God grant you Peace. Regina Donovan, 23 Toxteth St..
November 14, 2011
My deepest sympathies. Paul was a hero. Jesse, Ben, and Andy: I'm so sorry for your loss.
Bob Lobis
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