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ALICE WOLF Obituary

WOLF, Alice K. (Koerner) Former Democratic member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives (1997-2013), member of the Cambridge City Council (1984-1994), Mayor of Cambridge (1990-1992), member of the Cambridge School Committee (1974-1982) died on Thursday, January 26, 2022 after a short battle with leukemia. Alice Wolf worked to make government accessible to all and make it work hardest for society's most vulnerable. Her focus was early childhood education, children at risk, and equality & equity for all people (especially women, racial and religious minorities, and the LGBTQ community). Her vision and compassion led her to pursue goals and policy solutions years, sometimes decades, ahead of common recognition of a need. For 67 years, she was the beloved wife of Robert A. Wolf. Loving mother of Eric J. and Adam N. Wolf. Adored grandmother of 4 and great-grandmother of 4. A private funeral for family & friends will be held on Tuesday, January 31st. A public celebration of Alice's life and work will be announced at a later date. Shiva will be observed at the family home, Wednesday and Thursday from 4-7pm. (Per Alice's wishes, masks will be required at both the funeral and shiva). In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Massachusetts Advocates for Children (MAC), www.massadvocates.org or the Cambridge Community Center, www.cambridgecc.org Levine Chapels, Brookline 617-277-8300 www.levinechapel.com
Published by Boston Globe from Jan. 28 to Jan. 29, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for ALICE WOLF

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37 Entries

Mary Kelley

February 23, 2023

I knew Alice from her legislative days as a great advocate. I was executive director of the Massachusetts Cultural Council and she was always a great mentor. Later she was a fellow swimmer at Wellbridge and someone always interested in what was happening in the world. I enjoyed every encounter with her over the years and offer my condolences to her family.

Kimberly Ridley

February 15, 2023

I am reaching out to share our condolences for the passing of your dear mother, wife, grandmother, and friend. I was told that Alice had a huge positive impact on Fayerweather Street School. Thinking of your family during this time.

Best regards,
Kim Ridley,
Head of FSS

SUSAN Miller-Havens E.d.D

February 6, 2023

SUSAN Miller-Havens E.d.D

February 6, 2023

SUSAN Miller-Havens E.d.D

February 6, 2023

SUSAN Miller-Havens E.d.D

February 6, 2023

I had the honor of painting Alice's official City Hall portrait. This gave me an opportunity to learn about Alice in a different way. So much about painting portraits is about learning how an individual sees themselves and how they want to be remembered.
Alice was modest about having a portrait of herself. In fact, it wasn't until her close associates pressed her that she gave in.
I spent the first month chatting with her in my studio and pouring over photos, eventually coming upon her essence, her spirit. Repeatedly seeing her arms outstretched I asked her to reflect on what that pose said about her. . She was surprised how often she gestured after a speech or making a point. By then knowing that she was also an avid swimmer I felt more strongly that her image should be active and energized.
We knew that there was only one other portrait of a woman mayor in the Sullivan Chamber and not one who had served as Alice had. The first woman mayor, Barbara Ackerman's, portrait is in another room and not on the same scale. The city requires that all portraits in the Sullivan Chamber be of a certain size. The first decision I made was to layout Alice's portrait in a horizontal shape to distinguish her from the other images and to allow for her out-stretched arms. We also had the issue of the busy wallpaper in the chamber. I had her bring me all of her favorite scarfs, dressed her in a favorite shirt and then chose the black suit as a further statement. (For those of you who are interested the process here is the link. https://www.millerhavens.com/process ) Typical of Alice´s concern for kids she decided to make the link available to art classes in the school system. .
The day she and Bob came to my studio to see the finished portrait was a quiet moment shared by the three of us. In my experience no matter who you are that private time overrides how the public sees or will see you. It´s just yours.
Over the years Alice referred to me as "her artist" and introduced me that way. Via phone, in person, or on social media she reported in on all the couples who had taken marriage vows under her portrait. When I had a gallery opening in Harvard Square, she called the current mayor and informed him that she would be cutting the ribbon. I cannot really believe that she is no longer here. Bob, thank you for sharing her with us, Cambridge, and the State of Massachusetts.

Susan Miller-Havens

Kay Khan

February 5, 2023

Great honor to serve with Alice in the Massachusetts Legislature, always a presence in the fight to protect our most vulnerable. Will always remember one Christmas Eve sitting with Alice, pleading with Governor Patrick that no individual or family should have to live in a place unfit for human habitation before qualifying for housing. Her voice was so important for so many.

Steven James, House Clerk

February 2, 2023

I will always remember Alice Wolf as one of the most delightful people I have ever met. When she was Chair of the committee on Elder Affairs, I jokingly mentioned to her the desire of my parents to feel younger. Given her experience dealing with elders, I told her that they wanted to know if she could give them any advice that would help them feel younger. She asked how old they were; and when I told her they were in their eighties, she replied, "Oh, that's easy, the eighties are the new sixties." Her reply made me laugh, but unfortunately, when I told my parents, it didn't seem to make them feel any younger.
She was one of those folks who placed great value on a personal visit. She would seldom call and instead frequently visited me, which I always enjoyed. She often talked about her grandchildren and shared photos of them with me and it always brought a smile to her face.
I will miss her, may she rest in peace.

Nancy

February 1, 2023

Alice was a fearless force of nature yet always had a twinkle in her eye. She had a vivid view of what should be done to make Cambridge and Massachusetts better places for all of us...and how to to get it done. Thank you, Alice!

Daniel Losen

January 31, 2023

I feel fortunate to have gotten to know Alice as she was a bold and persistent voice for children and staunch protector of their civil rights. She will be greatly missed, but will continue to inspire me and many others!

Peter Larkin, Shrewsbury MA formerly from Pittsfield

January 31, 2023

As a legislative colleague Alice gave me a perspective that I needed working on issues affecting different constituents. We didn´t always agree but she was fun to debate and discuss issues of the day. Her memory will always be a blessing for me, knowing I will have a friend waiting for me on the other side.

Beth Levi

January 30, 2023

Bob, Eric, and Adam, I am so sad to hear about Alice. She was an incredible role model for me, as well as a great friend to my parents, and a brilliant, dedicated public servant. I wish I lived close enough to give you hugs at the shiva, but know that I am thinking about all of you and sending you virtual hugs from Arkansas. Her beautiful life, and her warmth, brilliance, and generosity will long be remembered.

Michael Gervais

January 30, 2023

Alice Wolf graciously opened political doors for anyone who was courageous enough to ask
Why not or even be curious about a new idea.
As a young man from Bristol Ct. I was introduced to cab driving
In Cambridge. Every driver
Seemed to speak a different language and have a unique culture!
It got complicated for both drivers and customers at times...
I met Alice Wolf , explained my dilema , who quickly laughed and had an idea for a taxi school...Drivers rights, etc.
Alice was like a cultural lung for the city of Cambridge...She was not always agreed with but the most important thing that comes to mind whenever I think of Alice Wolf Ironically and everyone that has known and loved her knows a thousand stories...how she had helped
But I thought of Aquinas
3 things...
She knew what she should ought to Desire
She Truly knew what she
Ought to believe
And her whole life
She Did yes She m Did!!
What She thought was Morally right!!!!
God bless
Sincerest condolences to family

Alba, Costa and the Chitouras family

January 29, 2023

Our deepest condolences to Bob and family.
Alice and Bob were our oldest friends at Waterford Springs. I'll miss our talks about our years at Simmons College, our involvement in local politics and about life in general. We will miss her.

Rozann Kraus

January 29, 2023

My heart is breaking for Bob and the whole family. Alice's life was a gift to everyone she knew. Without her guidance and trust, The Dance Complex would not have been created. Her ever-enduring love and devotion to children, her energy and integrity are a loving legacy for us all.

Joanne Coakley

January 29, 2023

My thoughts are with you, Bob, and your family during this difficult loss. Alice's leadership and advocacy of progressive legislation in MA is legendary. I have fond memories of our time together at Waterford Springs, especially swimming in the Connecticut River, sharing magnificent sunsets and enjoying the best area restaurants.

Carol Rainwater

January 29, 2023

It was a privilege to have kept in touch with Alice over many decades, starting when she served on the Cambridge School Board and I was new to the town. Her exceptional energy helped better lives of those in need. She shall be missed by us all. My deepest sympathies for your loss.

Hallie Krechevsky

January 29, 2023

It's hard to wrap my mind around this sad news. Alice can't be gone, can she? I believe I first met her in 1982 when I was working at Le Jardin on Huron Avenue. Over the years we became quite friendly and when I became a florist, and took over my own shop, Alice always delighted in calling me "her florist" with a twinkle in her eye, and a raised eyebrow which seemed to suggest that she couldn't quite believe she was saying those words. As "her florist" I would hear about various family milestones and/or hear stories from her past, like when she and Bob first met and got married.
She was a tough, wonderful woman, and I enjoyed guiding her in her quest to have some nice flowers for various occasions, but never, ever, anything that might be considered as "over the top"! I will miss her. Even though I hadn't seen much of her this last year, always felt a great comfort knowing that Alice Wolf was in the world.

Olivia Golden

January 29, 2023

So sad to hear of Alice´s passing. She was a wonderful friend and mentor to me and to so many - endlessly supportive when I ran for office and a wise and compassionate public official. I still think about all I learned when she gave me the chance to chair her Cambridge children´s committee. Deepest sympathy to Bob and the whole family.

Meri simon

January 29, 2023

Dear Bob
My deepest sympathy. I feel fortunate to have known Alice and will miss her insightful and intelligent words. Always an inspiration. Waterford Springs will be missing a wonderful neighbor.
Meri Simon

Deborah Peck

January 29, 2023

Alice, aside from being an unwavering advocate on behalf of more than the half the world´s population: women, Alice was that rarest of wise compassionate progressives who cared about the feelings of both those she advocated for and those she respectfully but relentlessly urged to change. I will miss licking envelopes, dialing for votes for women and listening to her stories of a life well lived.

Marcia Karp

January 29, 2023

Alice had a remarkable intellect and insight. She was my mentor at CCA and I never forgot her and her kindness and empathy. The world is certainly a better place because of her and her courage to always address the truth. Rest in peace my friend.

Frank Hynes

January 29, 2023

I served with Alice in The House. Truly a warm and caring woman, always with a smile and thoughtful insight. May your warm memories of this sensitive woman bring you comfort...

Maureen Sullivan Santoro

January 29, 2023

Sharing in your sorrow and offering heartfelt sympathy and prayers.

Jarrett Barrios

January 29, 2023

Alice and I served together in the state legislature, but long before that, as a resident of Cambridge she was our voice in local government--representing progressive values for tenants, immigrants, LGBT residents and young people. She will be missed. Jarrett Barrios

Roberta Goldman

January 29, 2023

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Alice Wolf. My sincere condolescences to her family , friends and community people who worked with her. I knew Alice through her work in public and life and in the legislature. She was a terrific and talented woman and may she rest in peace].
Roberta Goldman

Sarah Morris

January 29, 2023

I knew Alice from summer days in Vermont and I will truly miss our times at the beach swimming and talking about everything from current events to cooking! Alice lived in the sunshine with grace and I am so thankful to have known such a person. Rest in Peace dear friend..I hope we meet again. xoxo

Lois Pines

January 28, 2023

I greatly admired and enjoyed working with Alice as a colleague in Government for many years on so many important issues. She was a principled, tenacious, brilliant and effective leader who made a difference every day and never gave up. She always had my admiration and gratitude for all she did and who she was. We will miss her greatly.
Lois G Pines, Former State Senator

Michael, Denise, Michael, and Paul Sullivan

January 28, 2023

Dear Bob, Eric, Adam, and Family,

Please accept our deepest sympathies. Alice was a wonderful neighbor and friend.

Alice touched many lives in both small and large ways; she cared deeply about those in need, those forgotten and unseen. She was a true advocate and community activist right up to the very end.

Maya Angelou said, "People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel." Although Alice´s deeds are recorded in the many ordinances, bills, and programs she shepherded through to fruition, her true hallmark is how she made people feel - seen, valued, and heard,

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Michael, Denise, Michael, and Paul.

Mary Grant

January 28, 2023

What an honor to serve with Alice. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. She will be missed.

Marilyn Wellons

January 28, 2023

Sad news. She helped our neighborhood in zoning matters and was our friend Mimi Berlin's friend; the connection was more than political. Thanks to her then and now.

Ellen Zucker

January 28, 2023

My deepest condolences. We have lost an elegant, principled and dogged advocate for a better world. She was -and will always be - a role model for so many and for me. With great love and respect, Ellen

Marylou Sudders

January 28, 2023

Cambridge and the Commonwealth are better because of Alice.....her commitment to equality and social justice.....her tenacity and kindness. So grateful to her and to her family for sharing her with so many.

Susan Yanow

January 28, 2023

Alice made the world a better place for so many. Her impact on Cambridge and on Massachusetts is an incredible legacy, as is the number of friends who will miss her deeply.

Katherine Craven Kryzanski

January 28, 2023

This is such sad news. Alice was a caring, compassionate and effective leader who made a true difference in the lives of millions through her city and statewide advocacy and support for the underdog. Rest In Peace, Rep.

Mark and Rosemary Mysiewicz (Koerner)

January 28, 2023

Mark and I send our love and sympathy. We were so grateful for the time that Alice spent with Sarah helping her when she was "out East." Her phone calls with dad will be missed. She was a force of nature, with a store of energy that seemed never ending! What a gift to have her for such a long time in our lives. May her memory continue to bring you peace.

Herbert "Herbie" Koerner

January 28, 2023

I send my sincere condolences and much love to all of you. I will miss the times when I picked up the phone and heard Alice's lively voice calling me "Herbie." We were family bound by experiences few could understand and I will always be grateful for her presence in my life. May her memory be a blessing.

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