Reuben Epstein

Reuben Epstein obituary

Reuben Epstein

Upcoming Events

Mar

6

Service

12:00 p.m.

Temple Sinai

363 Penfield Road

Send Flowers

Mar

6

Interment

White Haven Memorial Park

210 Marsh Road

Send Flowers

Mar

8

Shiva

2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Temple Sinai

363 Penfield Road

Send Flowers

Services provided by

Brighton Memorial Chapel, Inc.

Reuben Epstein Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Brighton Memorial Chapel, Inc. on Mar. 4, 2026.
Reuben Epstein, 78, passed away peacefully on March 2nd, 2026, surrounded by his family.

He was born in 1948 in Chicago to the late Samuel and Diane Epstein.

Reuben's focus on science began in childhood, and led him to a career as a Theoretical Physicist and Senior Scientist at the University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics for 47 years.

His love of music also started young. Reuben took up playing the violin as a child and continued with the University of Rochester Symphony Orchestra, as well as with chamber music groups, throughout his career

Reuben was endlessly curious and passionate about science, music, poetry, and puns, but he loved his family most of all.

Reuben is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Jody Siegle; children, Aaron (Rebecca) Epstein, Eric Epstein, and Chloe Epstein; grandchildren, Samuel Epstein and Andrew Epstein; and brother, Albert Epstein.

Services will take place at Temple Sinai (363 Penfield Road) on Friday March 6, 2026 at 12pm followed by interment at White Haven Memorial Park (210 Marsh Road)

In Lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Reuben's memory to either The Hochstein School or The Brighton Education Fund.

The family will sit Shiva on SUNDAY March 8, 2026 from 2 – 4 PM at Temple Sinai.

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

Sign Reuben Epstein's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

Yesterday

Sue Gold posted to the memorial.

Yesterday

Jimmy Warlick posted to the memorial.

Yesterday

Radha Bahukutumbi posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

Sue Gold

Yesterday

We are so sad to learn of dear Reuben´s passing. His gentle kindness will always be remembered. Steven and I enjoyed our times that we shared with you and Reuben. Please know our love and prayers are with you and your entire family.

Jimmy Warlick

Yesterday

Reuben was a wonderful musician and member of the University of Rochester Symphony Orchestra. He was a sage example to his fellow musicians, and a mentor to the student players. We will miss him. Zichrono livracha

Radha Bahukutumbi

Yesterday

Reuben was such a wonderful person. When I first moved to LLE, he was the one person who would stop by and ensure that I was settling in well. We grew to be good friends over the years. He was so interested in science and music. I've spent many hours discussing new developments in science or different forms of music with him. He loved playing in the symphony and would frequently comment on how young and amazing the musicians were. I also loved his sense of humor. Please do accept my condolences but know that he made a big difference to many of our lives at work.

Rich Engel

Yesterday

Very sorry to learn of Reuben's passing. As a neighbor, friend and softball teammate Reuben was a MAN for all Seasons. He was learned,musical,witty, and an exceptional person. He will be missed by all. My condolences to Jody and the family

Rosemary Shojaie

Yesterday

Jody, you and your family are in my thoughts. Reuben always so friendly and kind. When I started at LLE a few years ago, he came over to my desk and said he knew my artwork from our egg tempera class some years ago. I was so surprised and touched by that! I hope you are able to find some peace and comfort in the days to come.

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Brighton Memorial Chapel, Inc.

3325 Winton Road South, Rochester, NY 14623

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Upcoming Events

Mar

6

Service

12:00 p.m.

Temple Sinai

363 Penfield Road

Send Flowers

Mar

6

Interment

White Haven Memorial Park

210 Marsh Road

Send Flowers

Mar

8

Shiva

2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Temple Sinai

363 Penfield Road

Send Flowers

Services provided by

Brighton Memorial Chapel, Inc.