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Brenda "Bunny" Koppelman

Brenda Koppelman Obituary

KOPPELMAN--Brenda (Bunny), of Roslyn Harbor, died July 8th, 2008, after a stoic fight against pancreatic cancer. Until the end, her warmth and laughter were only surpassed by her intelligence, kindness, generosity and love for her family. Her husband, Charles; children, Brian, Stacy and Jennifer; daughter-in-law, Amy; sonsin-law, Keith and David; and grandchildren, Sophie, Sam, Harrison, Ruthie, Jacob, Anna and Raquel already miss her immensely. Bunny was at the center of our lives, gave her all to all of us each and every day, and never stopped trying to protect, counsel, love and spoil the lot of us. She was One of The Great Ones and we just cannot believe she's gone. Services Wednesday, July 9, 2008, 1pm at Temple Sinai of Roslyn, 425 Roslyn Road, Roslyn, New York.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Jul. 9, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Brenda Koppelman

Sponsored by A Friend.

36 Entries

Walter D. Levy

September 26, 2024

I had often wondered, over the years, "Whatever happened to Brenda "Bunny" Carlin?" In fact, I only knew "Bunny" Koppelman for one hour, sixty minutes. We first "met" when we were both freshman in Boston University´s School of Education.

The first time I laid eyes on "Bunny" was when our incoming class of ´64 was bussed to a BU facility called Camp Sargent in Hancock, New Hampshire. That´s when I first saw "Bunny." We were in the same "Meet & Greet" get-to-know-you orientation group. Frankly, I couldn´t take my eyes off her: "Bunny´s" beautiful blue eyes. As my dear mother Golda might have said, "Shayneh bloy oygen." In a word, "captivating!" What a "shayna punim" (pretty face). I do recall that "Bunny" told us, at the "Meet & Greet" that she was from the Queens, New York and that she was studying to be an elementary-school teacher.

As our freshman year began, I quickly realized that "Bunny" and I were in the same Fine Arts class. I´ve got to tell you that although our professor was showing slides on a variety of art-related topics, e.g., Michelangelo´s Sistine Chapel, fresco secco paintings, flying buttresses, etc., I just couldn't take my eyes off her. If my eyes were iron filings, "Bunny´s" face was the magnet.

As the weeks went by, I so much wanted to date "Bunny." I thought, "Maybe we could 'do lunch.'" But frankly, I was shy. Make that quite shy. What my mother would have called "shemevdik." In those days, I would probably call myself a wet-behind-the-ears "history nerd." I´ll add that prior to matriculating at Boston University I had attended an all-boys, junior-senior high school, Boston Latin School, where the only women we saw, at least in a school setting, were the two secretaries in the main office, the cafeteria workers, and the school nurse. Many of us felt "feminine pulchritude" deprived.

Yet, in November, 1960, two months after our Fine Arts course began, I summoned up the courage to ask "Bunny" if she´d join me for lunch. She accepted. I was thrilled.

As I think back, I can still remember the cool November day as "Bunny" and I walked up Comm. Ave. We were headed for the HoJo´s that was then located at the corner of Comm. Ave. and the BU Bridge (The road over the Charles River into Cambridge).

As I recall, we were quickly seated. I believe we ordered hamburgers and milk shakes. We then began, as I remember, talking a little about ourselves. However, I was so nervous that I kept calling "Bunny," Brenda. "Bunny" was personable enough in correcting me as to her preference by saying, "My friends call me `Bunny.'" Yet I just couldn´t remember to call "Bunny" by her nickname. I continued calling her Brenda.

As our lunch-date continued, it was "the Brenda, no it´s "Bunny," `shtik.´" As I thought about it later, it reminded me of Abbott & Costello´s "Who´s On First?" Why was I so nervous? So gauche? Here I am with one of the most attractive and personable coeds on campus, and I can´t help but make a fool out of myself. I was a complete "klutz."

And that would be it. Oh, I´d see "Bunny" in our Fine Arts class, and occasionally on campus, yet we never again dated.

As a postscript, after I graduated from BU I became a high school history and social sciences teacher. I taught primarily in Massachusetts; yet, interestingly, I would teach two years (1966-1968) at Manhasset, L.I., NY´s junior-senior high school. I would also teach Sunday School at Temple Judea of Manhasset (across from Christopher Morley Park) on the Searingtown Rd. As I read, "Bunny" and her family lived in nearby Roslyn Heights.

Finally, I've had lingering thoughts, and quite candidly, misgivings, about writing this. After all, Bunny" left her family and friends "too soon," over 16 years ago. I´m sorry she suffered at the end. Yet I felt I needed to share my brief meeting with "Bunny." I wanted to share my impression that Brenda "Bunny" (Carlin) Koppelman left on me. From the many guest book entries, I sense she left that same lasting impression on many others. May "Bunny" rest in peace and may her memory be a blessing.

Walter Levy, Framingham, MA

Bonnie Heyman

July 4, 2019

You were so much fun to talk to , work out with , eat with and commiserate with. Missed , yes everyday . I think of you often .

Steve abd Mary Ann Haar

July 3, 2019

Still missing and remembering with fondness Bunnie Koppelman

Stacey Dillon

April 24, 2009

Stacy and family,
Though it has been a million years since Hebrew school and our childhood friendship. I learned of your mothers passing just yesterday and can not stop thinking of you and your family. I am sending you all warm wishes and my sincere condolences you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Stacey Beth Dillon-MacLeod

Doris Flax

March 15, 2009

Dear Charles, Brian, Jennifer, and Stacy,
I'm so sorry to hear of Bunny's passing. She was a lovely, warm, interesting person --- beautiful inside and outside! With warm memories of our years as "across-the-street neighbors and friends" many decades ago on Joyce Lane in Westbury, Long Island when our young children played together on their "Big Wheels" and other "riding" toys.

David Gilbert

November 30, 2008

Dear Brian,
I was stunned and deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your mom. Nothing that I can say will be as eloquent as those many others who have spoken and written before me, to provide you with comfort and capture her greatness. She was such a beautiful, kind, genuine, funny woman- who was loved wherever she went and by everyone who was fortunate enough to be touched by her presence. She always made me feel special and important even though I was really just a dopey, misdirected kid- and just one of your many friends. I was particularly touched to see her at my father's funeral in 1989, which, unfortunately, was our last meeting. She has taught me much, through her example, how to treat all people- rich or poor, powerful or downtrodden, with love and dignity. A woman like your mother- there can never be anyone quite like her.....Good Luck- My prayers are with you and your family- David Gilbert

Bonnie Goldstein

August 24, 2008

Dear Charles and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about
Bunny's passing.
So many memories of lunches, working out,phone calls and stories.
Always in my heart,
Bonnie Goldstein (Heyman)

eva seplow(agosta)

August 18, 2008

dear charlie i was so sorry to hear of your loss. my thoughts & prayers go out to you and your family.

Michael Haar

August 5, 2008

To Brian, Charles and family-

I am sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Bunny was very friendly and I am sorry I wasn't able to attend services, but wanted to pay my respects.

Barry Mehlman

July 31, 2008

Charles and family,

I am Susan Weinstein's brother, Barry. I am sad to hear of Bunny's passing. I'm sure it has been rough for all of you. Years ago (11) I remember Bunny taking a minute to talk to me after I gave the eulogy at my Dad's funeral service. I could see in her eyes that the words were sincere and from the heart. My eulogy seemed to mean a lot to her. I talked about success being measured not by money or position in life, but by how the kids turn out as adults and their relationships with their parents when the parents get older. She knew that was a real measure of success and overshadows, in my opinion, everything else. Family, family, family is what is most important. From what my sister tells me, you are all that. I wish you all the best.

Geanne Kratter

July 22, 2008

Dear Koppelman Family,
I met Bunny at Stacy's Sweet Sixteen. I could not get over her beauty and her kindness. I was this awkward 16 year old who was so insecure. Bunny made eye contact with me. She knew instantly that I was so out of my league. She stayed with me until I felt brave enough to venture out in front of all the guests. I just thought to myself that she was royalty. Sh e was so loving and now as a mother to teenagers... I always search out that shy one...with low self-esteem and remember how Bunny treated me. Its amazing that I met her for one evening...and yet I never forgot her. You were blessed. I am sure she is in heaven placing flowers in epergnes and making everyone feel as special as I did on that evening.

Erin Misenar

July 20, 2008

I did not know Bunny personally - but through Jen and have been touched by her life. You have lost a true joy - but I will pray for peace for all of you.

Ruth Peltason

July 18, 2008

From the moment I met Bunny, I adored her--that laugh, the sass, the warmth. Together we put together her book on her epergne collection [I was her lucky editor] and during that time she managed to get me to take up needlepoint [I've never stopped] and to cut off all my hair [it's long again].

Bunny's spirit has made a lifelong impression on me...

Joy Borah

July 17, 2008

Dear Stacy and Jen,
You were so lucky to have such a wonderful mother who cared so deeply about her family, and especially her grandchildren. Actually, she cared about everyone. She made us all feel so special, and tried to help everyone. I was honored to know her and will think about her always.Try to find some comfort in your wonderful memories of such a special person.
Love,
Joy Borah

JOELLEN KURTZ

July 17, 2008

Dear Jennifer- I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Patti told me about it. My thoughts, prayers and love is with you during this difficult time. My father also passed away so I know how hard this time is. Love, Jo-Ellen and Andy Kurtz

Anne from NJ

July 15, 2008

Only knowing Bunny via "Whatever with Alexis and Jennifer" on Sirius Satellite Radio, I know how much of a good person she was. Great personality. Funny. Great Mom. I also know, from being a listener how much Bunny shaped Jennifer in to the cool person she is today.

My condolences to your entire family and my thoughts of peace to Bunny looking down and being proud of her family.

Susan Todd

July 15, 2008

Jennifer and Family - my condolences go out to you. What a wonderful tribute to your mom to have so many people who loved her sign your guest book. These words will comfort you when you most need to hear them.

Steve and Mary Ann Haar

July 14, 2008

Charles, Brian,Jennifer,Stacey and family,

There could only be one Bunny. One of the most giving and caring people I have ever known and I knew her for all of her married life. Charlie, we all care very much for you and your family and look forward to seeing more of you in the future. God bless you all. She was wonderful.

Lori

July 14, 2008

Koppelman Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I only "knew" Bunny through her daughter Jennifer on the radio show. Peace to all of the family.

Lori

July 14, 2008

Koppelman Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I only "knew" Bunny through her daughter Jennifer on the radio show. Peace to all of the family.

Sheila Kirshner

July 12, 2008

Charles, You will always be Bunny and Charlie to me, you will always be one of our kids,and Bunny will be in my thoughts forever. the happy times are what keep you going and I know there are many of those.Our love to you and your family--Sheila and Donnie

Dresden Disney-Dior

July 11, 2008

My condolences to the Koppelman family. I never met Bunny, but I've listened to her when she phoned in to "Whatever." My greatest regret is I'll NEVER be able to meet this zany, wonderfil, warm woman who appeared to be bigger than life. Thank you, (((Jennifer))), for including "us" in the last weeks of Bunny's life. I've never prayed harder or longer in my lifetime. Someday, I will meet Bunny in Heaven and I'll be eager to see the room she's decorated to receive her special guests. God Bless you all through this difficult period.
Dresden

Marjorie Polly

July 11, 2008

Dear Charles, Roz, and kids,
I am so gratefull to have known and loved Bunny,and to have had her in my life. She was, and always will be for me, the most special. Her love for all of you, was unconditional, and I hope this offers you comfort in the future.
You are all in my heart.
Love,Marjorie

david schulman

July 10, 2008

As a friend of Brian's, I was lucky enough to feel the generosity of Bunny's sweet and loving heart. She was the closest thing I had to a second mother during my teenage years. Her perfect and energetic smile lit up a room, and her love for her family was her greatest, proudest love of all.

Linda Malenich

July 10, 2008

Dear family of "bunny" ,
We can not change what is or was,only what is ahead.
knowing this remember, the deep love and caring 'Bunny" had is far more everlasting than anything else you will remember about this wonderful lady.
We have all had grief .we have all had loss,
she knew this would come someday and gave as much love and caring as she possibly could to you.Also to the world..
Your family is truely blessed to have had her in your life..
sincere best wishes and forever honor her love as she honored yours.

Michael Asch

July 9, 2008

Nobody made a warmer and more inviting home than Bunny Koppelman. I have many fond memories of being treated like family as a teenager. My wife, Toni, and I are thinking of all of you, as you reflect upon a very special life.

ARLENE ANTZIS

July 9, 2008

DEAR CHARLES AND FAMILY,

WE ARE SO SAD TO HEAR OF BUNNY'S PASSING.

WE HAVE SO MANY FOND MEMORIES OF WHEN WE WERE ALL SO YOUNG AND JUST STARTING OUT.

WE HAVE A WONDERFUL PICTURE OF BUNNY IN OUR WEDDING ALBUM.(TAKEN IN 1965).

OUR THOUGHTS AND LOVE ARE WITH YOU.

ARLENE & STU

Cathy Mogull

July 9, 2008

On behalf of the Mogull Family, especially Artie, we send our love and sympathy.

Hope Beyer

July 9, 2008

I went to high school with Bunny and I am so very sad to hear of her passing. She still stands out in my mind after all these years. Who can forget those beautiful blue eyes and dimples?

Edward Grauer

July 9, 2008

The Koppelman house was like a second home for me growing up and Bunny was like a second mom. I never look at a glass of milk without thinking of her. She was a warm and generous person and my heart aches for all of you.

Jo Ann Sweig

July 9, 2008

Jen, your mom was so funny. She is with you in spirit now. She is a part of you and will live on thru you. May God give you strength now and give you peace. Love you Jen.

Julie Foote

July 9, 2008

Bunny touched many people that only knew her from the radio "Whatever with Alexis and Jennifer" I feel as though she is part of the family, even though I have never met her, she will be missed. My thoughts and Prayers go out to her family.

Norma McVicker

July 9, 2008

Loved to read your blog concerning the love your family had for your sweet mother.

I too, lost my mother in 1989, and it still hurts.

God bless you and your sweet family.

Charlie Feldman

July 9, 2008

To Charles and Family:
I am very sad to learn of your great loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Patrice Panza

July 9, 2008

I've only met Bunny a handful of times but she left a great impression on me. Quick with a smile, interested in everyone, funny without trying to be. Warm. God Bless Bunny and her family. She will be greatly missed.

Deanna S

July 9, 2008

Peace and best wishes to your wonderful family. I know Bunny was a beautiful and amazing friend, wife and mother. I'm a listener of Alexis and Jennifer's radio show and just remember Bunny's sense of humor and great outlook on life. I hope she is in a better place and my heart goes out to your family during this difficult time.

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