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Monte Sugarman Obituary

Rabbi Monte Robert Sugarman passed peacefully at home surrounded by loving family on 10/23/21 at 2:22 a.m. Born in Brooklyn on 2/28/51 and raised in Jericho, NY, he attended Queens College and Tel Aviv University (BA in History), Antioch New England (MA in Counseling Psychology with emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy) and Rabbinical Seminary International. Beloved as a spiritual leader, for over 22 years he led rites of passage services locally and internationally through Synagogue Without Walls - Or Chadash in Saratoga Springs, NY. As an independent modern Rabbi, he served all branches of Jewish orientation, unaffiliated Jews and all people with the intent of bringing Judaism and spirituality to diverse people, places and situations. When he started working as a chaplain for St. Peter's Health Partners, he served at St. Mary's Hospital in Troy, NY and spent the last 15 years at Schuyler Ridge, Clifton Park, NY, supporting families through life transitions, ceremonies and musical performances. He led with a personal touch and genuine heart. His ecumenical outlook immersed him with leaders and people of all religions fostering conversations of connectedness. He was an accomplished guitarist embedding music in everything he did and interested in playing all genres of music. He had a passion for classical guitar and continued this study throughout his life. Known as a gentle, loving soul, he was committed to life as a Jew and to supporting Israel, studying the Torah portion every week and the Zohar. Traveling to Jerusalem was one of his favorite things to do. Devoted to his family, he and his wife, Anna, spent time, in Israel every year with their son, David and his wife, Tal, and children, Harel and Maya; traveled to Maine often to enjoy time with their daughter, Rachel and granddaughter, Izabelle; and spent time in Florida with their son, Benjamin. They loved singing and playing guitar, making art, spending time at the beach, climbing mountains together and following Major League Baseball. The sounds of laughter and joy with his grandchildren filled his heart with love. Monte is survived by his mother, Amalia Simon and sister, Risa Bellach, beloved wife, Anna, three children, (Rachel, David and Benjamin) and three grandchildren (Izabelle, Harel and Maya) who loved him dearly.Funeral services will be held at 10am on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 at Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weibel Ave, Saratoga Springs. Proof of vaccination, a photo ID, and face covering/mask will be required to attend. Burial will be the following day, Wednesday 10/27/21, at 1pm, in Mount Lebanon Cemetery in Glendale, NY.
Contributions can be made to the Jewish National Fund, Community Hospice of Saratoga or Temple Sinai. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

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

Published by The Daily Gazette Co. on Oct. 25, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Monte Sugarman

Sponsored by William J. Burke & Sons / Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes.

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Dan and Deb Feldman

October 23, 2024

So very Blessed to work with Dear Rabbi Monte. That was a gift from God. And I 'll always remember when he led a group and you sang Anna! Tremendous! God Bless you and your family, Deb F.

Group of 10 Trees

Love Stephanie & Michael Jones

Planted Trees

Lisa Evans

January 21, 2022

Monte , was that angel that happens to enter your heart and life at one of the most difficult times of my life. I will love him forever for giving me all the love and direction I needed as I watched both of my parents die . He sang to my dad on the day my father passed.
To his wife, mother, children and grands Monte loved you to end of the universe. Be at peace Xo
Lisa M.Evans

Martha Dexter

December 2, 2021

Rabbi Monte will always hold a special place in our hearts. He was able to teach and lead Gil though his Bar Mitzvah with understanding and patience when others did not. Monte was such a unique person, and we are blessed to have had him in our lives. We are so saddened to hear of his passing, and our prayers and love flow forth to the family. May Rabbi Monte's life be an example and a his memory be a blessing to all.

Ursula Abrams

November 10, 2021

I am shocked to hear of Monte's passing. From the days that I had Twice Told Used Books in Saratoga, through the years that I taught Hebrew at Temple Sinai, Rabbi Monte was a welcoming, warm staple in the Big World. I enjoyed his friendship in learning and teaching, both. Sending love and condolences to Anna and the family.

Daniel & Jennifer

November 5, 2021

So saddened to learn of the passing of Rabbi Monte Sugarman. He co-officiated our interfaith wedding in October of 2013. He brought us great comfort and peace from our first meeting to the days leading up to our wedding day. His guidance and calm demeanor were greatly appreciated by both families and will be remembered.

We extend our our sympathies and heartfelt condolences to his family. Rest In Peace Rabbi. The Jacobs Family.

Lynn Nezin

November 5, 2021

So very sorry to hear of Rabbi Sugarman's passing. He officiated at our son's bar mitzvah and made the ceremony both meaningful and memorable

Susan Paulo

November 5, 2021

Learning of Monte's passing has left my heart laden in sadness. We worked together at Schuyler Ridge where we enjoyed playing guitar and singing for the residents. Our paths crossed again when my Grandmother was at the end of her earthly journey at St. Mary's. My Grandmother sat up delighted to hear her private concert of Monte and I playing guitar and singing. Once again our paths would cross while I ran the activity dept at adult Daycare in Troy. Monte filled the hearts and souls of all with his kind presence, his sweet music, and his gift of words from God. My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Namaste,
Susan Paulo

John Cetner

November 2, 2021

Monte was a great human being. I first knew him (and his whole family) as a patient, then as a friend, then as a tennis partner, then as best man at my wedding, then as chaplain when my mother in law was at Schuyler Ridge for 5 years. Our (my wife Adrienne and I) condolences to Anna, Rachel, David, and Benjamin.

Rabbi Monte at Still Point Retreat Center.

Anne Leger

October 30, 2021

We were sorry to learn of Rabbi Monte’s passing. He was a wonderful friend to Still Point for over 30 years and I experienced his love and compassion at Schuyler Ridge when I worked as a Nursing Assistant for 14 years.
Our deepest sympathy to Rabbi Anna and the whole family.
Sr. Anne and Sr. Nicole

Swift-Martin Wedding November 2005 at Saint Clement's Church, Saratoga Springs

Randy and Karen Swift

October 30, 2021

Rabbi Monte co-officiated our wedding in 2005 at St. Clement's Church. He shared in our joy of joining two faiths in marriage and encouraged us to continue celebrating both faiths beyond our wedding day. We have thought of him often over the years and how kind he was. We often saw him at the YMCA where he always checked in with us and made us feel as though we were the only couple he had ever married. Rabbi Monte also often visited Karen's aunt when she was suffering from dementia at Schuyler Ridge and gave her a blessing before she passed, which was a great comfort to the family. We will miss seeing him and offer our deepest condolences to his family. May God comfort you.

Pat CASTIGLIONE

October 29, 2021

I was employed at St. Mary's Hospital for 45 years. During that time I meet many wonderful people. Rabbi Monte was one of them. Always polite, helpful and kind. He had a calming manner and a wonderful smile. My condolences to his family. They've lost a wonderful member.

Lina and Sid Hellman

October 29, 2021

Our deepest condolences to Anna and family. We have always enjoyed running into Monte and Anna and having wonderful conversations. He is truly a great loss to our community and will be missed. May his memory always be a source of joy, peace and inspiration.

Diane Ward

October 29, 2021

Monte was a true treasure to Schuyler Ridge . My mom was in the facility for almost a year and truly enjoy all his kindness and devotion to the residents. As a family it was endearing to watch his interactions with all the residents and staff. Thank you for sharing this wonderful man with us. My mom was so taken with Monte that she gave him my dad’s NY Yankee Christmas hat!

Ann Karie Mason

October 27, 2021

Rabbi sat with me while my Mom was dying at Schuyler Ridge exactly 11 years ago today. I will never forget how kind and thoughtful he was. May he Rest In Peace.

Rachele Greco

October 27, 2021

Monte was a friend of mine since junior high school in Jericho. His band played at my Sweet 16, and we remained friends after graduating. Kind, spiritual and an evolved soul. You will sorely be missed, Monte.

Anna Rossini

October 27, 2021

To the family of Rabbi Monte Robert Sugarman:

On behalf of the Administration, Faculty and Staff of Queens College, we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the whole family.

May he Rest in Peace,

Greg and Ellen Schaefer

October 27, 2021

Our deepest sympathy to Anna and entire family. What a wonderful man, what a loss to the community.

Deb and Dan Feldman

October 27, 2021

Dear Anna & Family,

Dan & I are so full of affection & respect for Monte & you Anna! He prayed for & sent his sweet "Mazel Tov" for the birth of our 1st grandchild just this month.
Monte's deep compassion, spiritual wisdom & musical talents were gifts we all benefited from on a weekly basis. As an Activities staff member I had such appreciation for his working along side us. As our "Chaplain" at Schuyler Ridge, Monte was completely focused on the spiritual &
quality of life issues for each of the residents. This was
what his heart was ALL ABOUT day in & day out. He truly loved the many Christian leaders & volunteers coming so faithfully to serve our "family" there. Monte would lead regular Jewish services plus run specific groups & then participate in many events. Always with a great purpose, heart & love. He just freely gave his love & friendship to ALL of us no matter what our beliefs happened to be or who we were. We had a trusted friend to share a concern, ask for a prayer or just laugh out loud at something wacky together! Monte could put our residents at ease by his gentle words, his sense of fun or singing & playing the guitar. That was so helpful!
Dan & I have the Hanukkah evening with you, Monte & good friends especially etched in our memory! You & Monte sang beautifully as he played the guitar. He spoke
so eloquently the words of Faith & Love to us all. Monte's talented voice will continue to sing to God & our hearts.
Dan & I are very blessed to have known Him.

Linda Weinberg

October 26, 2021

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.From a high school friend to marrying both of my children RIP

Debby Wiltse

October 26, 2021

I am honored to have met Rabbi Monte. I met him on his trips to Laramie to lead our small community during the high holy days. I so enjoyed Hiking with him in the mountains of Wyoming. He will be missed.

Carol O'Connell

October 26, 2021

I first met Rabbi Monte when he visited my Mom, who was a hospice patient at St. Marys Hospital. Years later, I saw him weekly at Schyler Ridge where I volunteered at the Catholic Mass & Communion service. Monte was a very special presence there. His kindness & compassion for the residence was apparent. He always had a smile & a good word for all. He truly made a difference! With my sincere condolences to the Sugarman, Carol O'Connell

Margarita Woelfersheim

October 26, 2021

Rabbi Monte Sugarman and I were at Schuyler Ridge together!! I was there as a volunteer, and for many years
We did a Spiritual Healing with some of the residents together!! I was very happy to do be able to take part in this Healing service to help in lessen the residents suffer thru prayer and kindness as I am sure Rabbi was as well!! He was very loving and kind to all the sick residents !!!!!

Annetta and Angelo Delano

October 26, 2021

Sending our condolences to Anna and family on the loss of such a kind and gentle spirit. May many memories bring you a measure of comfort as you grief the loss of Monte.

Colleen Kohan-Silverman

October 26, 2021

He officiated at my son and daughter-in-law’s wedding He did a beautiful service and all at attendance commented on how special it was

Debbie Keefe

October 26, 2021

My deepest sympathy to your family. Monte and I worked together @ St Mary's a million years ago! He was always kind and always funny. He will be missed.

Donald Moore

October 26, 2021

My prayers and condolences go out to Monty and his family. He said the most beautiful prayer for my fathers passing. I'll never forget his words and may god Bless his soul

Diane Fiore

October 26, 2021

It was always comforting to see Rabbi Sugarman at Schuyler Ridge while my mother was a resident. The description in his obituary that he "led with a personal touch and genuine heart, and fostered connectedness" describes him perfectly. Our family will never forget his kindness a few hours before our mother died. He came to her room with his guitar and played and sang. We sang along, and are forever indebted to him for his care, concern, and understanding. May his light continue to shine upon his family and friends, and all who were touched by his gentleness and good will.

RDG

October 26, 2021

A friend, a mentor, a beautiful soul. Baruch Dayan ha’emet

mrs. Nancy Acemoglu

October 26, 2021

Dear Rabbi Monte´s Beloved Family,
How very shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Monte´s passing.
He was a very much valued member of this wider Community and beyond. He had a zest of both joy and Compassion for bringing people together to Educate and understand. He had a way of Communicating to everyone his love of life and Passion and Pride of Israel and its people.
We on the Diocesan Commission on Aging appreciated his honesty and knowledge of World Affairs, his willingness to share his Bright Light to our Programs and endeavors. He had a deep Love of Family.
The world as lost a wonderful man , a true man of Integrity, A Leader of the Community and a true Advocate for all. His contributions were vast and appreciated. The world has lost a true advocate for all. May he Rest in Peace and be remembered always.
Mrs. Nancy Acemoglu
Former Chair/ Diocesan Commission on Aging

Carol Kurto

October 25, 2021

I first met Anna and Monte Sugarman when I had the pleasure of teaching thier wonderfully talented daughter, Rachel, in 5th grade . It was then that I came to know these two very special, compassionate, creative, caring individuals as parents, friends and fellow teachers. Lo and behold, a few years later, I again had the privilege of teaching their amazing son, David, athletic, caring and like his parents, always ready to help others with his endearing smile. Although I missed out on teaching Benjamin, due to retiring, I came to know him as an artistically talented, sensitive soul who always had a kind word for others. What a tribute to Anna and Monte that they raised such great kids, but it's no wonder, as they both always exuded such love and compassion. Fast forward to Granddaughter, Izabelle's, Bat Mitzvah which I felt honored to attend. Monte and Anna continued to be wonderful grandparents to their now three beautiful grandchildren.
We are all, indeed, sorrowed by the passing of Monte, who will live on in all of our memories. He was certainly the epitome of a caring, selfless, benevolent person. Monte always had a smile, a song and a good word for all who he encountered. I will always remember how , when a close friend of mine was dying, he just happened to stop in and see her at Schuyler Ridge and sang the most beautiful rendition of the Beatles "Blackbird" just before she passed. How peaceful and calm he made everyone feel as he sang," Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly....."
May the entire Sugarman family be blessed with all those amazing photos and memories shared with all of us in the beautiful tribute video. Rabbi Monte always had a kind word and a smile for all he met, and now its time for us to smile as we remember his amazing family and life. May peace and prayers be with you always as we all remember this very special man.
With deepest sympathy and condolences, Carol Kurto and Family

Kathi Whitmarsh

October 25, 2021

I was blessed to work with Monte for many years at Schuyler Ridge and then a dear friend. He gave me comfort when I lost my husband 14 years ago to cancer, he sang and played his guitar at the Memorial Service.
His kindness, compassion and gentle ways were a comfort to so many.
He always spoke of his beloved family, his devotion to them was always evident.
May your memories sustain you in this difficult time.
Rest in Peace my friend.
I will keep you in my heart always

Susan Rivers

October 25, 2021

Anna and family my heart hurts for you on the loss of such a kind, learned and talented man. Monte was supportive and generous with his time and will be missed dearly. A true mensch.

Rabbi Frank Tamburello

October 25, 2021

Rabbi Monte,
You were such a blessing to the Progressive Jewish Community here in New York, a good friend and a spiritual brother. Your memory will truly be a blessing to all who knew you. May you rest in peace.

Brian Denker

October 25, 2021

A shinning light, teacher, mentor and colleague. May the light of your memory forever be an inspiration to all those that knew you.

steve kovacik

October 25, 2021

Monte and I worked together at Four Winds Hospital over 30 years ago. I have not seen him but once or twice since leaving there in the 90s but always remember him as a kind, thoughtful and gentle person and good friend. My condolences to his family at this difficult time.

Sheila Torncello

October 25, 2021

Rest In Peace Rabbi Monte. My condolences to his friends and family. Rabbi was so kind to my mother while she was at Schuyler Ridge. ❤

Rabbi Barbara Aiello

October 25, 2021

My heart goes out to Anna as well as family and friends who mourn Monte's passing. Monte was a classmate at the RSI, a beloved colleague and dear friend. May Monte's memory be forever for a blessing and may he rest in peace in God's loving embrace. Rabbi Barbara Aiello, ITALY

Marilyn, Erica, Lauren and Marci.

October 25, 2021

Thinking about all of you with deep sympathy and love.

Dana Citron

October 25, 2021

We're heartbroken to hear of Rabbi Monte's passing. He officiated my marriage, my sisters, and my parents' vow renewal. In addition, he was a bright light and he will be missed. Our deepest sympathies to the Sugarman family.

Charles Frank

October 25, 2021

So sorry to hear. I had no idea you were ailing. My heart felt condolences to your family my old friend.

Lars, Kadi & Pip Palmedo

October 24, 2021

That combination of music, friendship and wisdom was beyond precious. Heartbroken. Love to all.

Bob Hertz

October 24, 2021

I loved Monte since I was 17 and Monte 19. We were friends since then. And Monte being a better friend than I made sure to keep our connection over the years. I’m so glad he did. We played music together just jamming. We were in a band with Neil and played at the Echo Lake Hotel back in 1970 ish. We drove to Florida straight thru and hung out with the Swami near Cocoa Beach that same year. We did things related to music, loved guitars and original songs. We wrote a song with Mary Ellen (Tell Me Why). Monte was always working on improving his guitar playing as well as his singing. He was a great Bass player and guitar player. He helped and inspired me to improve my guitar playing. He was always turning me on to new things and ideas. He helped me with the down payment on my first house and he helped me (along with his dad) to get my first real job. We recorded so many music sessions together and with others over the years. We did this for ourselves, for fun, and to remember.

Jeff and Brenda Vredenburg

October 24, 2021

We send our love, prayers, and deepest sympathy to the Sugarman family.

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Funeral service

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Congregation Shaara Tfille

84 Weibel Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY

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Temple Sinai

Saratoga Springs, NY

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Temple Sinai

Saratoga Springs, NY

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Temple Sinai

Saratoga Springs, NY

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Temple Sinai

Saratoga Springs, NY

Funeral services provided by:

William J. Burke & Sons / Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes

628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

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