Susan Orenstein

1948 - 2025

Susan Orenstein, 77, of Lenox, MA, passed away peacefully at home on November 21st. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, to Emil and Ruth Wahler (Gonick), Susan grew up in the Dorchester area where she graduated from Jeremiah E. Burke High School.

Following her education, Susan began her career as a bookkeeper in New York City, where fate would introduce her to the love of her life, David Orenstein. Their meeting in the bustling city led to a beautiful marriage that spanned 56 years, filled with love, partnership, and devotion.

After years of part-time residence in the Berkshires, David and Susan fell in love with the area and made Lenox their full-time home in 1995. Susan especially treasured the cultural richness of her adopted hometown, and was a devoted patron of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, attending countless performances at Tanglewood over the years.

Susan is survived by her loving husband David; her children Joseph Orenstein and his wife Meggan, and Sonia Barile and her husband David; her sister-in-law, Babette Orenstein; her four cherished grandchildren, Matthew and Frank Orenstein, and Emma and Grace Barile; and the many dogs who brought immeasurable joy to her life.

A voracious reader with an insatiable curiosity, Susan enjoyed immersing herself in a wide range of stories. She was also a talented fiber artist whose creativity and care were woven into every piece she made. Family and friends treasured the beautiful hats and sweaters she lovingly knitted for them - gifts that wrapped them in both warmth and her affection.

Perhaps most importantly, Susan was deeply invested in ensuring that her children and grandchildren had the best opportunities in life for education, travel, and growth. She believed strongly in social justice and raised her family to serve and to respect the lives of others - values that will continue through the generations she nurtured with such love and intention.

Susan was laid to rest at Ahavath Sholom Cemetery on Blue Hill Road in Great Barrington, MA. In lieu of gifts, the family asks that donations be made to HospiceCare in the Berkshires or to Chabad of the Berkshires. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com