6410 N Broad St.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Joan McAfee
August 27, 2020
Avriel gave me a special gift when he was only 5 or so. I was slowly recovering from an illness, two steps forward, one step back, when John, Janet, Noah, and Avi came to visit us in Atlanta (Hannah wasn't born yet). I was glad to see them, but couldn’t shake off my mantel of gloom.
My own children were off at camp, and somehow the conversation turned to McDonald’s. Lo and behold! The boys had never been - they spoke of the restaurant as others speak of Disneyland! I hesitated, then offered to take them, but was sure their parents would not let their sick, sad aunt, care for them. But they said yes. YES!!! So, with their parents’ blessings, off we went.
Noah delightedly dove into the hamburger with gusto! Av cautiously examined the bun. He removed the hamburger and studied it. Hesitating, apologetic, he politely explained that this item of food did not look “kosher." I assured him that his parents had said he could eat whatever he pleased (they had). Av was satisfied (I think he ate the bunmight have removed the pickle. Or maybe he liked the pickle and Noah and I gave him ours. I forget. But he was happy.)
Afterwards, as planned, Noah and Avi enjoyed the plethora of choices before them at Baskin-Robbins. So hard to choose just one!
They missed their cousins, so I drove them past their different schools. Content in the back seat, they asked me to sing. I sang...they even asked for more. As we neared home, there was a moment of silence. Avriel, now serious, said gently: “Midnight Glory. Your name is Midnight Glory.”
Noah explained, matter-of-factly, that Avi routinely gave people names. I wish I could remember why, or the exact reason he chose Midnight Glory - something about my singing in the dark of night, with "a slice of moon." I was deeply touched -and hid my tears.
O wonder! Their parents had entrusted me with their beautiful boys, who I loved and still love to this day. And Avi had named me a lovely, magical and mysterious name, “Midnight Glory.” I surely didn’t earn it. I don’t even have to justify it. It is just mine. Avriel gave it to me.
I miss you, Avi. But I know God and all of Heaven adore you. And I know you help Grandmother paint those glorious sunsets.
Thank you, dear heart.
Midnight Glory
Adrienne Shinozaki
July 25, 2018
where are you kid, was just looking there a few things. you were one of my best6 friends. Get in touch please. so sorry for he late correspondence. thank you.
Ann and David Patterson
September 9, 2005
John, Janet and family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your dear son and brother Avriel. Losing one's child is the most painful experience of this life. May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead.
with love, Ann and David Patterson
September 7, 2005
I knew Av from the dragon boat team, though not very well. I'm very sorry for your loss. He's a really great guy.
Cousin Chuck Currie
September 6, 2005
John & Janet & Family,
Ours prayers are with you. I haven't the words to express my sorrow, but I do know that while we mourn the loss of Avi, others are rejoicing to meet him in heaven. I have no doubt that he's enjoying a nice cold black cherry soda with Gramma and Grampa Hugo.
Sabir Peele
September 6, 2005
Hi,
I am so sorry to hear about Av. We went to Central together, and were on the Cross Country team together. I just heard about what happened so i wasnt able to make it to the funeral service. But i want to send all of my blessings to your family at such a trying time if your lives.
Tali Segal and David Glatter
September 5, 2005
Janet, John, Hannah, Noah, Heather and all of Avi's loved ones,
We were so saddened to receive the call about the death of your beloved Avi. I am sorry we never had the chance to meet or know him. I know from all we have heard about him that he was a very special person and that he will be missed terribly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. (We are the parents of one of Hannah's camp friends.)
Kristin Graham
September 5, 2005
Joanie, I did not know your nephew, but I am so deeply sorry for your loss and your brother, John and his wife's loss. It is heartbreaking to lose a young person. I will say a prayer for you and your family. Avi doesn't need our prayers as he is with God. Kristin Graham
Pat Bigazzi
September 4, 2005
Although I did not know Avi, I have heard much about him from his aunt, my dear friend Joan McAfee. Like the rest of his beloved family he was unique, brilliant, and charming. He will be missed by many; family, friends, and those of us who loved to follow his adventures. My thoughts are with his family.
Aunt Joan
September 4, 2005
"These arms of mine shall be thy winding-sheet;
My heart, sweet boy, shall be thy sepulcher,
For from my heart thy image ne'er shall go."
-William Shakespeare, Henry VI
An Upattinas Student
September 1, 2005
I didn't know Avriel personally, but I just want to say that I'm sorry, and that I wish his family peace during this difficult time.
Sheila Parente
August 31, 2005
John and family,
May you find comfort in the memories of your sweet son. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.
Sheila
Jaron Matlow
August 30, 2005
Janet and John,
We can't imagine how you're feeling right now after this tragedy. It is our prayer that with time, and the help of those around you, you may find meaning and comfort.
Jaron and Susan Matlow
kimm Galbraith
August 30, 2005
John and Family,
Words convey so little when hearts feel so much... I wish there were a deeper way to express my sympathy at this time of sorrow. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Avriel will live in your loving memories and stories of him.
Theresa Scheese
August 30, 2005
John and Janet:
My condolences to you and your entire family, what a tragedy. I know how deep your love was for your son and I'm hoping God will put you both in the palm of his hands and carry you through this terrible time.
Jean Cole
August 30, 2005
Dear John and Family,
My family extends our heartfelt and deepest sympathy for the loss of your son. May the Lord hold him in his arms until you can hold him once again.
The Cole's
(Jean is a colleague of John through Vela Pharmaceuticals)
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Goldsteins' Rosenberg's Funeral Directors, Inc. - Philadelphia6410 N Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19126
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