Alexandra Bakall

Alexandra (Fersterowski) Bakall passed away peacefully on Feb. 7, 2011, at Johnson Memorial Hospital at the age of 89.

She was born in Great Meadows, N.J., to Zygmunt and Alexandra (Sculc) Fersterowski. She grew up in New Jersey and attended Linden High School. Following graduation from the Guggenheim School of Dental Hygiene in New York City she worked for several dental practices. In August 1950, Alexandra married Simon Roberto Bakall, M.D., in New York City and they lived briefly in the Philippines and White Plains, N.Y., before settling in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Alexandra held many official posts with the Vassar Bros. Hospital Medical Auxiliary in Poughkeepsie. In addition, she was an active member of the League of Women Voters and a volunteer for numerous local charities and organizations.

Alexandra is survived by her loving son, S. Robert Bakall, M.D., and his wife, Connie, of Cold Spring, N.Y.; a devoted daughter, Diane Toner, and her husband, Glenn Toner, D.D.S., of Somers, with whom she made her home for the past three years. She also leaves her beloved sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Ben Man of Washington, D.C.; cherished grandchildren, Ryan R. Toner of Bridgewater, N.J., and Tara C. Toner of Montclair, N.J.; and faithful canine companion, Dexter. In addition, she is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and friends. She will be fondly remembered for her kindness, generosity, grace, and ability to speak her mind. Alexandra was predeceased by Dr. Simon R. Bakall, her husband of 33 years, in July 1983. She was also predeceased by her parents and five sisters and brothers-in-law, Helen and Walter Paczkowski of Linden, N.J., Nora and Peter Lester of Red Hook, N.Y., Sally and Frederick Geraldi of Melbourne, Fla., Agnes and Joseph Kupcho of Roselle, N.J., and Susan and C. Allan Stark of San Rafael, Calif.

Sincere thanks to Dr. William Waldman, the staff of the Home and Community Health Services, Sylvia Swiatlowska, Anna Watracz, and Elizabeth Kaflik who cared for her during the past few years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Home and Community Health Services, 101 Phoenix Ave., Enfield, CT 06082.

There are no calling hours.

Funeral services will be at the convenience of the family.

The Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels has been entrusted with the arrangements.