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Joe Cytrynbaum Obituary
Joe "Josh" Cytrynbaum PhD, 37, beloved husband of Erin Flynn; loving father of Rocky Seeger Cytrynbaum; cherished son of Bryna Cytrynbaum and Solomon "Sonny" (Susan Lee) Cytrynbaum; devoted brother of Pamela (Jeff Sklansky)
Cytrynbaum and Glenna Cytrynbaum; the fun uncle of Leah Sklansky, Lincoln Peters, Maggie Peters; fond son-in-law of Peter and Joan Flynn; dear brother-in-law of
Kristin Flynn Peters and Clark Peters; admired assistant professor of social work at Northeastern Illinois University. Dedicated advocate for youth development, creative expression and social justice. Service Thursday at 4 p.m. Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation, 303 Dodge Ave., Evanston. Interment Private. Memorials in his memory may be sent to Umoja - Joe Cytrynbaum Memorial Scholarship 2935 W. Polk St.,Chicago, IL 60612 and to: Young Chicago Authors 1180 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60622. For shiva information, please call Chicago Jewish Funerals. 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joe Cytrynbaum
Sponsored by Pamela Cytrynbaum.
Andy Slavitt
April 22, 2020
I don't know if I ever knew Joe. Probably when he was a little kid. But I do know Pam. And I just heard her describe him and so just decided to read about him. A really special life. A really special life lost. A really amazing legacy he left. 10 years on I never got to comfort Pam or experience her loss. Exposing what absence costs.
Pam, Joe and Rocky at Erin's concert in June '09
Kristin Flynn Peters
July 12, 2010
The last several days have been like re-living a horrible dream... wishing, wishing to wake up. Wishing for you to wake up. It still is shocking to me that you are not here. But, you remain awake in me, and your spirit alive. I think of you everyday and carry your ways in my heart the best I can. We all miss you and the way you could make us laugh til our stomach hurt. I miss our conversations. Certain images are forever fixed in my mind, your wedding day, the moment Rocky was born... and many others. I'm so grateful I got to be there and got to know you a little bit. We all miss you so much.
Mark Buban
July 12, 2010
It is hard to believe that a year has passed since you left us. I had the pleasure of spending a little time with some of your good friends yesterday as we watched the final World Cup match at Vince's place. The celebration of your life continues on in memories of time spent with you. I never grow tired of hearing friends tell Joe Cy tales. Good times with good friends, laughter, love...even passionate "discussions!" All part of the life you led as an amazing human being! It inspires me to be better. Know that each time I hear "Just Like Heaven" thoughts of you instantly fill my mind. (Thanks Vince!) That moment is always special! Just like you.
Joe, Erin and Rocky on his 1st birthday
July 11, 2010
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July 11, 2010
July 11, 2010
July 11, 2010
Derek Lipscombe
July 11, 2010
This is tough day for all of those who were touched by you in their life.
Donna Kirschner
July 11, 2010
I went to grad school with Joe and he was a dear colleague. We shared many an intense conversation about our work. I am forever grateful for our interactions. I only just now learned of his passing on it's anniversary. My heart goes out to Erin and all of Joe's beloved family. May you find comfort in each other and in wonderful memories of this dear man.
July 11, 2010
July 11 2010
So much love to Pam and Erin and Rocky and the whole family today. We are thinking about all of you. I can hear Joe's voice in my ear like he was talking to me 5 minutes ago. He is so strong in all of our hearts. And yet the memories of him I am having even as I write this still make me laugh. He is still the Best.
Gwen Pentland
July 11, 2010
Thinking of you today dear friend. Miss you tremendously. Love to your beautiful family, especially darling Erin & glorious Rocky!
Pamela Cytrynbaum
July 11, 2010
A year ago. A millisecond ago. I don't know what to say. The presence of his absence is unspeakable.
-Peace and Blessings
On stage with James
July 11, 2010
On stage
July 11, 2010
coaching, coaching, coaching, coaching
July 11, 2010
Joe and James
July 11, 2010
My favorite laughing picture...nobody laughs like that
July 11, 2010
Building in New Orleans...always rebuilding something
July 11, 2010
July 11, 2010
July 11, 2010
July 11, 2010
July 11, 2010
July 10, 2010
Joe and Erin in New York
July 10, 2010
JoeCy '86
July 10, 2010
Singing with Erin...always
July 10, 2010
July 10, 2010
July 10, 2010
At graduation
July 10, 2010
Umoja Joe and his students
July 10, 2010
At Joe and Erin's wedding
July 10, 2010
Joe and his boys
July 10, 2010
Joe and Lila
July 10, 2010
Joe, Sonny and Rocky
July 10, 2010
Besides Erin and Rocky, teaching was the great love of Joe's life
July 10, 2010
Joe and the boys
July 10, 2010
Joe and Kate
July 10, 2010
Joe and Glenna at her graduation
July 10, 2010
Joe and Vince
July 10, 2010
That laugh
July 10, 2010
July 10, 2010
July 10, 2010
Umoja Joe
July 10, 2010
Always smiling
Joe Cytrynbaum
July 9, 2010
Joe and his beloved son, Rocky
Joe Cytrynbaum
July 9, 2010
Pamela Cytrynbaum
July 8, 2010
Not a moment goes by....
Malika Viltz
January 25, 2010
Cytrynbaum Family,
I'm so sorry, this is the first I've learned of Joe's passing. I lost my mother two days after Joe's passing. Although I have not seen Joe in about 10 years, he made a lasting impression on our friendship. You have My deepest sympathy. Joe truly was a great person.
Warm Regards
Dr. Malika Viltz
Adam Rangel
September 9, 2009
All of my Love and Deepest sympathies to all Family and Friends of Joe. A great Ally to Youth and Community, he will be dearly missed. I worked with Joe on Chicago's West Side for several years and was always warmed by his enthusiasm for his Work and his Life. His memory is enriching and has impressed itself upon a Community larger than we can know.
I'll be reading in honor of this human treasure we've lost tonight, though we'll never really lose him.
Lisa Parker-Short
August 11, 2009
I just now learned of Joe's death, strangely, while searching for a book by one of his colleagues that he once suggested for my thesis back when I interned with Umoja. I can't express how shocked and saddened I am at this news. Though I only briefly knew Joe, I could clearly see how much of a positive force he was in the lives of his students and everyone he came in contact with. His memory will be with me when I return to my own students in a few weeks. He is a model I will try to live up to in my classroom.
Lavonne Burgard
August 7, 2009
Dear Erin,
I was your mother's college roommate at Drake University. Although I never knew you, I've known about you and the great experiences you've enjoyed in your life. It saddens me to know of your loss. I will keep you and your family in my pocket.
Lavonne Hansen Burgard
Joanie Mazelis
August 4, 2009
I just learned of Joe's passing today. With six-week-old twins I have been out of the loop for some time. As I catch up on email, warmed by the good wishes of friends and family on the birth of my children, my happiness and pride is tempered by the tragic news of Joe's death. Today I deeply feel so many emotions, and a death too soon of a man so wonderful gives me perspective and gratitude, even through my tears. I want to share my personal memories of Joe, in the hopes that these few examples of how incredible Joe was bring some comfort to the countless who loved him.
I met Joe when we both first began at UPenn. Spending our first year at Penn together in the Urban Studies seminar gave us a year to bond through difficult studies. Joe was always available to commiserate with me over a sense of inadequacy and incompetence when we couldn't help but compare ourselves to other students who seemed so much more confident and capable. But Joe never let me wallow, and never let me entertain my self-pitying notions for too long. He used his great sense of humor to make me laugh and pull me out of the rut. He was always there with an encouraging word, a friendly smile, and when I needed it, a big bear hug.
Shortly after a long-term relationship I was in ended two years later, I ran into Joe on campus. He asked how I was and I broke down. Joe dropped his plans and sat and talked and had lunch with me as I cried. He told me of his love for Erin, who I'd never met, and assured me I, too, would find that love. He made me see that my recently ended relationship wasn't the one I needed in my life. And a few years later, I found the same kind of love with Steve that Joe had found with Erin.
Around that same time I joined GET-UP, Graduate Employees Together - University of Pennsylvania, and soon I helped convince Joe to join too (though with his strong sense of social justice, it didn't take much convincing). Before we knew it, he was co-chair of GET-UP. I can still hear him, loud and proud on the picket line: "This is what democracy looks like!"
I remember Joe's dissertation defense, how proud I felt of him and the excitement and hope I felt for his future, and for my own - I thought, "if he can do it, maybe I can too!" Witnessing Joe's achievements helped me feel more confident I could succeed too, because I saw someone I could relate to achieving a goal we shared. When he went to the library for the last time, he told me he shook his fist at Van Pelt and said a righteously proud "I'm done with you!" I repeated his words upon finishing my PhD three years ago and going to the library for the last time. I thought then, and remember now, how Joe was with me as we both started graduate school, and even though he was in Chicago, in a way he was there with me as I finished, too.
I said goodbye to Joe (and Erin, who I finally met then) at the going-away get-together they had at their place in West Philly, shortly before they moved away. I always meant to keep in touch, and I am sad now I didn't. I would've loved to talk about our subsequent rites of passage over the years - marriage, jobs, children. But I will not live with regret - I know Joe wouldn't want me to. Instead, I'll remember him fondly - his warmth, generosity, optimism, good humor, compassion, intelligence, commitment, and sense of justice. I hope my family can someday meet his. In the meantime, you are in our thoughts, and we send you our love.
deb segal
July 24, 2009
To my great sorrow, I never got to meet Joe in person although we corresponded and talked to each other by phone.
Bill Zwecker and I arranged for Joe's students to see a private showing of "Freedom Writers". You could sense Joe's infectious enthusiasm for his kids and for life even in the most mundane emails.
When his fellow teacher and friend Mike Dimitroff told me of his death, I cried. We never met yet the connection was made. My sincere condolences to his wife and family. What a terrible loss to our community this is.
ellen flynn
July 22, 2009
Dear Erin, Bryna, Pam, Sonny, Susan & Glenna,
I thought that I would enclose my poem for Joe/Josh, so that when you read this guest book, you might have your own copy.
Tender Turtle Doves
for Josh and Erin
Erin the tender turtle dove
Joined Josh for a chamber of love
Their time precious and always shared
Today's sadness cannot be compared
Encircling your spirit Joe/Josh
Our family captures your love
A wholeness that sweetens
A brightness that awakens your turtle dove
Your sense of humour on our minds
Gently we are blessed by you
And tragically overcome by loosing you
Not only did you give us Rocky
But gave your life to all
How do we thank you?
In what way can our thanks be expressed?
For Cobey and Me---we promise to watch over
Erin and Rocky until we rest!
by Ellen P. Flynn
July 14, 2009
From the service on Lighthouse Beach which was one of my most all encompassing and enlightend experiences of sharing our emotions and feelings about your wonderful Josh. We all love him so--
Hattie Dunbar
July 21, 2009
To the Cytrynbaum Family, my heart goes out to you during this time. Sorry to hear of your loss. May God strengthen you each and every day. Hattie Dunbar (JRF)
Faith Avner
July 21, 2009
Dear Bryna,
I am so sad to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you-
Leslie Dunlap
July 19, 2009
Dear Erin and the rest of Joe's family,
We lived above Joe and Erin (and Shannon) in West Philly for two great years. Joe's exuberant laugh was infectious, and he was the master of loving nicknames for characters in the neighborhood, human and pet alike. He knew what it meant to truly be a neighbor, community member, and citizen, along with all of the other roles he inhabited so fully, fiercely, and naturally.
We are distressed to hear of this sad, sad news, but feel lucky to have shared space, ideas, and laughs with such a deeply egalitarian, thoughtful and loving person. Our thoughts are with you, Erin, and with Joe's friends, students, and family.
Love,
Seth Cotlar and Leslie Dunlap
Joyce Caine
July 18, 2009
To the Family and Friends of Joe Cytrynbaum: On behalf of our school family, we want to let you know how much 'Umoja Joe' was liked and respected by students and staff/faculty alike at Collins Academy. Joe worked with some of our 9th and 10th graders in our Writers' Group and the Louder Than A Bomb Poetry Festival. He really embraced our kids and encouraged them to freely express their thoughts, emotions, and opinions in writing and in spoken word. Joe will be missed and fondly remembered in the halls of Collins Academy! Much peace and love!
marilee cole
July 18, 2009
Dear Bryna, Pam, and Cytrynbaum family, I will never ever forget the portrait that was painted today of your beloved Joe. I ((so sadly) didn't know him, but I feel, as we all did, so moved and inspired by every poem, memoir, and song about his life. Everyone left feeling the motivation to be more, to care more, to do more, to make Joe's life a living memorial through our own actions. Bryna, now I understand why he and Erin named their son Rocky.....he is really a "Rocky Junior", the son of a true man of courage who fought for all the truly important things. I hope that in time you will find some measure of peace in knowing how much he meant to so, so many people. My thoughts and my heart are with you.
Hannah Robbins Dumo
July 18, 2009
Dear Bryna, Pam & Family---
Today's memorial service was UNBELIEVABLY powerful. It was more than anyone could ever imagine. Josh and your family go WAY back with my family. The early days of JRC back with Arnie. Dreaded days @ Hebrew School. Fun summers at Camp Echo. Josh's energy was always high--His smile bright, laughs sweet and spirit fun to be around. Bryna- you hold a special in my heart. From what I learned this week, Josh grew up to be an INCREDIBLE man full of life, honor, sense of unconditional acceptance of others, courage and an unwavering social justice. May his spirit and vision live on in all those you knew him and loved him. Rocky is lucky to have such a special father. I only wish I had the chance to know Josh as an adult. With deepest sympathy.
Karen Feinstein-Burstein
July 17, 2009
To the Cytrynbaum Family: My condolences to you all on the loss of Joe. He was a wonderful man with a big heart! I remember our days at King Lab and ETHS fondly. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Michael Watkins
July 17, 2009
Erin, Rocky, Sonny, Susan, Bryna, Pam and Glenna - Ava and I were overwhelmed with emotion from Joe's/Josh's memorial service. What an incredibly gifted, passionate, bright beacon he was for everyone whose life he touched. Through this time of incredible grief, we hope that you can also acknowledge the pride that you each have in knowing and loving him in your own personal ways. The level of connection that he was able to have with all of the people in his life - wife, son, parents, siblings, friends, colleagues, students - was so powerful to experience, and so unique for someone his age. We feel compelled to be better people, to be more caring, to create bonds and leave legacies more than ever since his early passing has left such a void in so many lives. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all, and may his memory be a blessing.
Michael and Ava
Julie Aldort
July 17, 2009
Dear Erin,
I still cannot believe the news about Joe. It is such a tragic, heartbreaking loss. Josh, Isabel, Amanda and I hold you, Rocky and your family in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.
Regina Smardon
July 17, 2009
Dear Rocky,
I attended graduate school with your daddy in Philadelphia. There are too few people in the world like your dad Joe. He believed in social justice, a very worthy cause. I admire the work that he did with youth very much. Maybe someday you will meet my little girl, Clara Jude who is about the same age as you.
I am so sorry for your loss. God bless you and your momma!
Ann de Forest
July 17, 2009
Dear Erin,
The heartbreaking news reached us in your old neighborhood last night. Joe had such a gift for engaging anyone he encountered, for deepening any conversation, for turning passing acquaintances into friends. You both were such vital presences here in West Philly, and we've missed you a lot since you left. I'm sad that I learned of your happiest news (Rocky's birth!) at the same time I heard that Joe died. Our hearts go out to you. Our prayers are with you and all of Joe's family.
Love, Ann, Joe, Flannery, Kai -- and of course your loyalest friend, Christy
Kirk Moser
July 17, 2009
To Sonny,
I was very sorry to hear about the untimely loss of your son. May God season your grief with fond memories of Joe.
Jason Klugman
July 17, 2009
To Joe's family -
I knew Joe and worked with him at the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education. He was a good friend and an outstanding colleague. Wise, energetic and thoughtful, I could always count on Joe for good counsel, good laughs and an amazing level of understanding and compassion about urban education, schools, teaching, and the lives of the students we encountered. I am saddened to learn of his sudden passing. He will be missed. Erin - please know you and your family are in my thoughts.
July 17, 2009
Dear Bryna and Family,
Judy and I returned today from a trip and are about to leave on another. We were deeply saddened to learn of Joe's untimely death. We read all of the touching articles about him and the notes already posted on legacy.com. As someone else already said, "What a legacy he leaves."
We send our sympathies, our prayers, and our hugs to you and the entire family at this time of profound pain and loss. Our thoughts are with you.
Carl Wolkin
Michele Friedman
July 17, 2009
Dear Cytrynbaum Family et al -
All week I've been trying to justify the pit in my stomach upon learning of Joe's passing - we were never particularly close and I can't recall seeing him in over 20 years. It then occurred to me just how much of our formative years were spent together - hebrew school at JRC, Camp Echo, King Lab, ETHS, not to mention the meritorious praise one is guaranteed to hear in passing from time to time via certain moms (did you know Joe C is getting his doctorate? and what a beautiful woman he married...)
Joe is one of those people I always thought I would see again someday, that same twinkle in his eye and mischievous smile on his face. It is obvious he left an indelible imprint upon the world and the many lives he touched. On behalf of my mom & Mark, Vanessa & Adam and myself, all our love and deepest sympathy.
Marisa Silverstein
July 16, 2009
I wasn't lucky enough to know Joe; I'm just lucky enough to know his wife Erin. My 3 kids are huge fans of hers and her music. When she wasn't at her concert this weekend at the Folk and Roots Festival, I knew something was wrong; I just never dreamed that such a tragedy had struck her and her family. Erin is a precious woman and teacher, and, clearly, she met her match with Joe.
My heart goes out to you, Erin. How lucky you were to have had Joe in your life, even if for too short a time, and how lucky Rocky is to have him as his father.
Adam Chiss
July 16, 2009
To the Cytrynbaum family: I was deeply saddened to learn of Joe's passing. I knew Joe from high school and our unforgettable times together at Camp Echo, and remember fondly his zest for life, his deep caring and curiosity about others, and his enduring sense of optimism. Those traits were Joe to the core. While I hadn't seen Joe in several years, the recent pictures showing Joe beaming while holding Rocky really resonated as capturing Joe's spirit. I am so sorry for your loss, as well as the loss to Joe's many close friends and the communities he fostered wherever he went. What a legacy he leaves.
Matt Weston
July 16, 2009
I knew Joe at Camp Echo and ETHS as a warm, generous, hilarious, supportive, and unfailingly selfless person. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Joe's family; my thoughts are with you.
Sarah Korins
July 16, 2009
TO Erin, Sonny, Susan, Bryna, Pam and Glenna- I have been reflecting on that wonderful wedding that I came to with my daughters and the love that was so beautiful to witness, the fun and excitement as family celebrated such an occasion. Though I am not there with you physically I have you all on my mind over these past few days since I heard of Joes passing.Words can not describe how sad and tragic this is. Be comforted by all this outpouring of support
Melinda Stolley
July 16, 2009
Erin, Bryna, Pam, Sonny, Susan, Kristin and Glenna,
Craig, Brock and I are so sad...what a tremendous loss. Yet we know Joe's energy...how it will always be with all he touched. His smile, his vitality, and his warmth was transforming. We will miss him so. I am thinking so much of him and everytime I start crying I always end up smiling at some great memory of him. Erin...we are here for you in whatever way you need us. we love you. Melinda, Craig and Brock.
Lisa Richardson-Bilal
July 16, 2009
Dear Joe Cytrynbaum's Family,
I am an old student of Joe's from Manley. He was a great person. He fought for his students dreams even when they didn't. Here is a poem I wrote for Joe and his family.
Teacher, Mentor, Legend {Lisa's Verse}
Who am I to question God's will and set plan?
Why is it that I can't fathom the reason for him taking such a great man.
Joe was so much more than some people would have ever thought.
He inspired so many people, for his students dreams he fought.
Never giving up but pushing us to succeed.
Being the teacher and the mentor that we all need
Showing us that life has so much more
"Lisa you have the potential. Go to college and from there your life will soar."
Deep into thought and not wanting to believe
But knowing Joe's advice was something to take heed.
Sometimes I sit and think that if it wasn't for Umoja, I wouldn't have come so far
From Women of Destiny, to college apps and even being dropped off downtown in Jacare's car.
God knew just the right people to bless Manley with.
Joe was an Angel w/out a disguise, who Halo was and will always be lit.
His passion for life will always live on in my heart.
I will never forget him, but I know it was his time to part.
I cry because of the great memories we've shared.
Knowing I had someone who was there and showed he care.
I will continue to live life to my fullest potential and that I am pledging.
Rest In Heaven Joe.
YOU WERE A TEACHER, MENTOR AND NOW A LEGEND!!!
Sandy Rogers
July 16, 2009
"Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.” - Eskimo Proverb
Joe - I think the stars have been shining brighter b/c of you. You will be missed old choir and yamo buddy...you will be missed
Erin, Rocky and Joe
Pamela Cytrynbaum
July 16, 2009
Hey --
Every little while I get six minutes of clarity and can conduct some business. I want you all to know that Joe's family is reading you, is hearing you, is loving all of you. Your words, your memories, your love, is healing for us. I hope it is for you, too. It is exactly what he wants us to do....to connect, to heal, and to tell some wicked tales. Love and blessings to you all from Joe's family (of which you all are a beloved part) -- Pam (Joe's big sister)
Gail & Henry Karp
July 16, 2009
Dear Erin, Peter, Joan, Erin, Solomon, Susan & Glenna;
As old friends of the Flynns from their Davenport days, we were shocked and saddened to learn of the untimely, sudden death of Joe Cytrynbaum this past week through a mutual connection. Please know that we will say kaddish for him here in Davenport and that our hearts will be with you during this period of shiva.
May his memory be remembered for blessing,
Cantor Gail & Rabbi Henry Karp
Temple Emanuel of Davenport, IA
Matthew Cohen
July 15, 2009
Dear Bryna and Joe's Family,
I was a classmate of Joe's at ETHS. We had classes together and hung out a few times. He also was in YAMO with me. He was a wonderful person, he had a great sense of humor and he cared about everybody. My deepest sympathies to your family. He will truly be missed.
Hope Lane-Morrison
July 15, 2009
I knew Joe at Ohio University and he left such an impact on my heart. The one word I can think of to describe Joe Cy, was passion. His passion for life and everything he did was infectious. He had eyes that could see through your soul and a smile that was beyond words. I am so deeply sorry for his wife, Erin and son Rocky, his sisters, mother, father and all of his friends and family. The world is a darker place because of his passing.
Marc Feldstein
July 15, 2009
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Joe's untimely death. I attended ETHS with Joe and it turns out we both pursued Social Work degrees and had more in common that I had given thought to. As others have said on the Facebook page, I rarely if ever saw Joe in a bad mood or to have said an untoward thing about anyone. There is nothing that any of us can say that can express our reaction to what we wish wasn't so.
We can just be present to Joe's family and friends and our other family and friends and remain mindful of the goals and precepts Joe set for himself and anyone who crossed his path.
Sarah Levine
July 15, 2009
Dear Bryna and Family:
I heard about Joe's death through Evanston friends. I have been thinking of Bryna and our long ago time together at JRC, when Bryna was such a kind, thoughtful boss to my incompetent self.
I'm so, so sorry to hear this sad news, and am sending all my love and warmth your way. Please know that people from all over are thinking of you all and wishing you peace.
Maurice Johnson
July 15, 2009
My prayers go out to the Cytrynbaum Family. God Bless.
Lisa Kezios
July 15, 2009
Pam and family, I am so truly sorry.
Jennifer Roba
July 15, 2009
My deepest sympathy goes to all of Joe's family. I remember him back in the mid 90's as always being ready for a deep discussion about youth, poverty and ways to change the world. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this time.
Sara Welty Strunk
July 15, 2009
My prayers are with Erin, Rocky and the entire family.
Josh Copland
July 15, 2009
To Joe's entire family,
It seems like yesterday that Joe and I were on that bus or running around the neighborhood everyday laughing until it hurt with the silly things we said and did back then. Every time I read about Joe's passing I just feel kicked in the stomach all over again. My broken heart goes out to Pam, his mother and father and his wife and son Rocky.
Joe, You'll never be forgotten…
Amy North
July 14, 2009
My deepest sympathy in your loss of Joe.While I did not know him,I too have lost not only 1 brother ,but 2.My younger brother ,Tim,passed away,suddenly,last August,at the age of 38 years.We grew up together,best friends....Your entire family is in my thoughts and prayers.
brenda engelman
July 14, 2009
I was so sad to hear about Joe's passing. What a terrible loss. Please know you are all in our thoughts & hearts. Stay strong!
Brenda Engelman
Michelle Goldberg
July 14, 2009
My family sends it's deepest sympathies to Erin, Rocky, and the entire Cytrynbaum family. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Eric Skalinder
July 14, 2009
"When through one man a little more love and goodness, a little more light and truth come into the world, then that man's life has had meaning." (Alfred Delp)
Joe embodied the essence and depth of a truly meaningful life. He was a dynamic spirit and lived with tremendous and compelling purpose. May we all be as generous as he was in the service of others.
July 14, 2009
My family's deepest sympathy to the entire Cytrynbaum family on your loss and Heaven's gain. You already know how much you'll miss him but sometimes it's soothing to hear how much others will miss your loved one too, and we are among those others. - Jared Davis
Carrie Gillis
July 14, 2009
I am so very sorry to hear of Joe's passing. I went to high school with Joe and we also both went to NU at the same time but unfortunately didn't get a chance to connect there. We reconnected on Facebook and I was so happy to hear he was having a little boy. I also remember attending Camp Echo with Joe and we were both CITs. He was a good friend, always had a smile, and a warm heart. He touched many people's lives in so many ways. My condolences go out to his wife, son, family and friends. You are sorely missed Joe.
Kate Kinser
July 14, 2009
Dear Bryna and family,
I was stunned to learn of Josh's death from Marcie and Ruth. I first met Josh when he was 12, and over the years he truly grew and blossomed into a creative, compassionate, intelligent mentsch of the highest level. He was nurtured and spurred on by all of you who were his family. You gave him the strength and support that he needed to live the wondrous life he had. Zichrono l'vrachah, for all of us.
Toby Friedman
July 14, 2009
Thinking of Josh and his family often.
Toby and Mark
Catherine Squires
July 14, 2009
Dear Friends: The loss of Joe was terrible to hear. I feel so lucky to have known him, and plan to attend the service to celebrate and reflect on his extraordinary abilities to connect with people, his compassion, and his spot-on sense of social justice. Catherine (Katie) Squires, ETHS Class of 1990
Marilyn Belcher
July 14, 2009
To the Cytrynbaum family: I attended King Lab with Joe and reconnected with him via facebook several months ago. His loss is greatly felt. As a child, Joe was so very kind, loving and accepting of everyone. He was always there to lend a hand or to make me laugh. The memories I have of him are very strong and I was so glad when he found me on facebook. There Joe shared with me his love and pride for Erin and Rocky and his passion for his work. He was the same Joe and I was so happy to find that. Joe made a difference in so many lives. Thank you for sharing him with the rest of the world. My thoughts and prayers are with you now.
Bud and Scottie Brownsberger
July 14, 2009
Dear Pam and Family,
Beth let us know yesterday of your loss of Josh. We are so very sorry to hear of it. Although we did not know him well, we did know how very much he meant to you, and we hope your memories of good times spent with him will bring you comfort. Love,
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Resources to help you cope with loss
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Joe Cytrynbaum's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
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