Alan Finder of Wakefield, Mass., formerly of Winchester, Mass., an economist who focused on analyzing utility systems, died Saturday, October 19, 2019, after a protracted bout with pancreatic cancer. His ability to increase the efficiency of utility systems allowed power to be made possible for millions, often in underdeveloped countries. Alan was 67.
Alan was a graduate of Trinity High School (1970), the College of William and Mary (BA, 1974) and Indiana University (PhD, 1985). He received several awards and honors for scholarship, leadership and character during his academic career, including William and Mary's Carr Memorial Cup.
He worked for the Commonwealths of Virginia and Kentucky, where he was awarded the title of Kentucky Colonel. In Kentucky, he met and married Patricia Hale. After earning his PhD, he worked for the state of Missouri, and then served as a consultant for NERA Economic Consulting, Arthur D. Little, Arthur Andersen, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, and KPMG Consulting, before starting his own firm, Global Regulatory Advisors.
Faith and friendship were the hallmarks of his life. He volunteered for the Boy Scouts of America at local and state levels and was an active member of several professional groups. He was a beloved member of Temple Beth Israel (Washington) and Temple Shir Tikvah (Winchester), where he sang in the choir and participated in Torah study group. His spirit was contagious and energizing, filling the room with warmth and humor.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia, of Wakefield; and two sons, Benjamin (Lara) of Takoma Park, Md., and Matthew (Nadia) of Wakefield; two granddaughters, Allie and Kate; a sister, Dr. Andrea (David) Draisen of Anderson, S.C.; and a brother, Chuck (Cindi) of St. Louis, Mo.; and several nieces and nephews, who adored him.
A visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 22, at Lane Funeral Home, 760 Main Street, Winchester, Mass. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 23, at Temple Shir Tikvah, 34 Vine Street, Winchester, Mass., with burial to follow at Wildwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Shir Tivah of Winchester or William and Mary Hillel, two places that brought Alan much joy.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
November 15, 2019
This is indeed very sad news, which I was slow to learn. Alan was a consummate professional, a true gentleman, and an amazing human being. He was one of the most intelligent, insightful, and funny colleagues I have ever worked with over the decades. He will be sorely missed by many.
-Glenn George
(Former colleague and friend)
Malcolm Ainspan
October 28, 2019
Very sad news. Baruch Dayan Emet. I so looked forward to seeing Alan whenever I got back to the States for the Rutgers workshop in May, and to our extended e-mail exchanges on matters personal and professional. Condolences to Alan's family. He was a real mentsch.
Trae Evrigenis and Family
October 23, 2019
This news is devastating... I have only joined Torah Study in the past 6 months, and yet I haves looked forward to seeing Alan on Saturdays. I can't imagine what the loss of Alan means to his family. I'm so saddened by this tragedy.
Ruth Kalish
October 22, 2019
ALAN WAS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON IN OUR LIVES AND IN MANY OTHERS. ALWAYS KIND AND CARING, A GREAT ROLE MODEL FOR OUR SONS , ALAN AND DAVID, AND A STRONG SUPPORT FOR MY PARENTS (HIS GREAT AUNT MAMIE AND UNCLE ALEX). HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED. MY PRAYERS AND LOVE TO PAT AND FAMILY.
Diane Huffman
October 22, 2019
Alan was a classmate at Trinity High School and a friend to everyone. I had the privilege of attending a small class gathering this summer and the highlight was spending time with Alan. My deepest condolences to the family.
Tyler Alpern
October 22, 2019
Alan was an amazing man, very thoughtful, giving, and curious. The tributes that poured in on Facebook are a testament to this. He will be missed by so many, and his legacy is huge.
October 21, 2019
Very sad news, Alan was a close friend and comrade at The College of William and Mary. We had many great times.
Dr Ronald Gup of Hollywood Florida
Jack
October 21, 2019
Alan was one of the warmest, kindest, smartest, and funniest people I knew. He leaves a proud legacy and will be missed.
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