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Iola Goldberg Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Iola Goldberg
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Russell
December 11, 2025
Hi Mom...
It's been 15 years since you passed. It feels like yesterday that we were going to some cultural event somewhere or talking and laughing with the family or traveling to some beautiful location to make memories. So many memories exist in my head that remind me what an exceptional, loving, warm, beautiful mom and friend you were. Your smile always stood out as did your beautiful blue eyes that showed the love within you every time they looked at anyone. All of your friends loved you dearly and would talk about how wonderful and caring you were. They were right. I miss the heart to heart talks as well as the silliness we shared. I miss holding you in the best and worst times and feeling your strength, allowing me to go on when I felt lost and confused. You were a rock, always there, so losing you was incredibly difficult. I still talk to you frequently and always will. It still gives me comfort, even without your response. Thank you for being the best Mom and friend anyone could hope for. You were a shining star whose light will never go out. Until we meet again, as always, you remain my hero. I love you Mom!
Eugene
December 7, 2025
Hi Mom.......15 years have come and gone since we last heard your voice and seen your smile. But our memories of both are vivid and they keep your spirit alive in our heart and mind's eye. Amy and I keep moving forward although our sweet boy Peyton crossed the rainbow bridge in Sept. He was a loyal companion/soul mate and we were lucky to have him for 12 years. Hopefully you, Poppy Jerry and Jake can enjoy him as much as we did during his time with us. Pet grief is very powerful and we miss him dearly. Ben and Alyssa continue trying to have a baby but it's been a rough go with IVF the current path. We are hopeful that God will bless them soon. Otherwise they are well but we don't get to see them as often as we'd like. Ben is a wonderful son and calls us almost every day to check in. Trump is still President and he and his band of idiots continue to make a mess of the country. Hopefully the midterm elections in 2026 will provide some much needed balance and relief. Fingers crossed. Miss and love you Mom.
Russell
December 9, 2024
Hi Mom...It's hard to believe you've been gone 14 years. Life is good but definitely not the same since your passing. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and miss you. I am eternally grateful for everything you did for our family and how you surrounded us with love and kindness, as well as your ever present smile and joy. Thank you for everything Mom. I love you endlessly and hope one day we are reunited. Until then, you remain my hero.
Eugene
December 6, 2024
Mom, another year has passed since your time on with us on earth ended. Hard to believe that 14 years has gone by so fast. We celebrated Thanksgiving at Nancy Kalkin's house in NJ this year and your presence was missed.......along with Eugene & Joan, Barry & Joan, Poppy Jerry, Linda, and of course Jake. I used to love Thanksgiving but don't feel the same any more. Life moves on but you are never far from our mind. The world continues to be teetering on the brink with Trump getting elected President again. We pray that nothing bad happens during the next 4 years. Ben and Alyssa are doing well and Amy and I continue to enjoy splitting our time between FL and NY. Miss and love you Mom.
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Eugene
December 5, 2023
Hi Mom. How can it be 13 years? You continue forever in our minds eye as we think about you today and every day. You wouldn't be happy with what is going in the U.S. and the world. It's a sad time for the human race and we can only pray that it improves for Ben and the younger people who still have many years to live out. And speaking of Ben, he got married last month to Alyssa, a wonderful woman. They hope to start a family soon and I know you'll be smiling down upon your great grandchild. On a sad note, Uncle Eugene passed away right before Thanksgiving. He was 94 and it was time for him to be reunited with Joan, et.al. Amy and I continue to do the best we can but life certainly offers some challenges to overcome. But, overall, we are doing well and enjoying splitting our time between FL and the north. Of course, Jake is never far from our minds and next month makes six years since he left us. We miss him dearly but his legacy has been established at University of Michigan and many will benefit from the generous donations to two scholarships established in his name. I hope you are comfortable and able to enjoy the company of family and friends who surround you. Ben will be in Saratoga today and he will come see you and Poppy in Troy tomorrow. And Peytie and Rosie remain a special part of our lives and keep us sane and smiling. They are truly special and we are lucky to have them. Love you always Mom.
Eugene
Eugene
December 5, 2022
Mom.........12 years goes by in the blink of an eye but the one constant is that you are missed by your family and many others. The world misses your smile, your laugh, your spirit, your singing and the twinkle in your eye. Amy and I continue to do the best we can; we miss our sweet Jake more than any words can communicate, and while our grief ebbs and flows, the pain of losing him is always with us. He was a good kid with a bad disease. Ben is now 33 and doing well. We don't get to see him as much as we would like but we talk almost every day. He is a wonderful son and you would be proud of him. And we still have Peyton and Rosie to keep us smiling.......they are truly a gift and I sometimes think Jake has come back to us in the form of Rosie. Please say hi to Poppy, Barry, Joan and Aunt Joan Kalkin......Thanksgiving dinner was not the same.....for many reasons. Love you Mom. See you again one day. Eugene
Russell Todd
December 1, 2022
HI Mom...It's now been 12 years since you passed and you never leave my mind. I think about you daily and smile at and kiss the photos of you in my home. I cry still too because I miss you so much and wish I could talk to you again and see your smile lighting up the room. I'm always grateful for everything you did for the family; keeping us happy and fed as well as curious about the world. All of those trips to Tanglewood, Williamstown, Saratoga and NYC to see shows and hear concerts, making sure we were exposed to the arts. That played a vital role in my life and I thank you for that. Life goes on here in CA. Happily retired and traveling, learning French and donating time to animal causes..things I wish I could share with you. I truly hope there is a way to reunite someday, somewhere. I'm not sure any of that is valid, but I will hope it's true and perhaps see you again one day. If it IS possible, be prepared to be hugged, and for me to never let go. I can't again. I love you Mom. I miss you dearly and you will always be in my heart and mind. As always, you remain my hero. Love, Russ
Eugene
December 6, 2021
Hi Mom. Hard to believe that 11 years have flown by since you were called to the comfort of eternal rest. We all think of you often and miss your smile, your laugh your singing and your sweet disposition. The world is less complete without you. I hope you, Poppy Jerry and Jake are enjoying the company of Barry and Joan. And sadly, Joan Kalkin is no doubt with you now as well. We are doing our best to move forward but some days are more challenging than others. Amy and I bought a home in Florida and know you are looking down on us with your blessing as I know how much you loved Florida. Our latest four legged addition, Rosie is a a doll and she makes us smile while bringing us much happiness and comfort. She and Peyton became fast friends and they are great companions. Ben is living in NJ with his girlfriend Alyssa. He's talking about going to medical school. Will let you know how that transpires. Good news is Trump is no longer President although the country is divided with much anger and bitterness. The Covid disease continues to be a political football and many people have died needlessly. But we are all healthy and doing well. Love you Mom
Russell
December 1, 2021
The years are flying by since you left us Mom but you remain alive every moment to me. I kiss your picture every day as I enter my office and talk to you throughout the day. I'll never forget your sweet, gentle, kind and loving soul, your laughter and that beautiful face and smile that lit up every room you entered. You were loved and adored not only by us, your family, but by everyone that knew you. We all admired you for the amazing woman you were, the examples you set and the love you exuded. THIS is your legacy. Who could ask for more? I love you and miss you Mom. I pray one day we are reunited and can hug and hold each other as we use to do, making me feel everything was going to be alright. Thank you for everything. As always, you remain my hero.
Eugene
February 24, 2021
Happy Birthday Mom. I hope you have a special day with Poppy and Jake. You are missed and you are loved.
Russell Todd
December 7, 2020
Dear Mom..
On this 10 year anniversary of your passing I still talk to you, ask your advice and miss you terribly. You were a shining, loving beacon to our family and all of your friends. Your limitless love of life and energy to enjoy it were always present and thoroughly enjoyed. I can still hear you sweetly singing by the piano or strumming your guitar and then laughing and smiling together afterwards. You were always there, always ready to help, always a dear friend and mom. I love you mom. I miss you every single day and am grateful for your love, friendship and guidance. I hope you're with Dad and Jake, Rosie, Louie, Bessie and Harry. I hope one day we are reunited. I often think you and Dad wouldn't enjoy the world as it is right now and you're in a better place. Things will change here eventually, but I know if you were here we'd be discussing the state of affairs non stop and reassuring each other we'd get through it. We'd even find humor in it, as we did in everything. Until that day we hopefully meet again, I love you! I am eternally thankful we shared our lives together. As always, you remain my hero. - Russ
Eugene
December 5, 2020
Mom.........can it really be 10 years? I see your smile, hear your singing and feel your love as if no time has gone by and we are still together.
I'm sorry I have been absent lately but the past 3 years have been very challenging and sad as Jake is no longer with us. I can only hope you, Poppy Jerry and Jake are together now enjoying a special bond between grandparent and grandchild. We miss him terribly but know he is in good hands with you and Poppy as well as Barry and Joan. His legacy will live on forever as we were able to celebrate his life with two meaningful scholarships at University of Michigan. He was a good kid with a bad disease and, sadly, the disease won. Ben is doing well. No surprise he is very smart and very focused on his career in finance. Amy and I are very proud of what he has accomplished. And, his health is good which makes life easier for him. He misses Jake too as his only brother is now gone. He doesn't like to talk about it much but that is his way of coping. I cry almost every day and visit his grave as often as I can. Meantime, the world is crazy and I'm glad you have not been here to witness the insanity of Donald Trump as President and the global pandemic of Covid. Good news is there is a vaccine coming and hopefully the world can return to some sense of normalcy until the next crisis. Amy and I are doing well. We bought a second home in the Hamptons and are thoroughly enjoying it; you would love it. Also, we got another rescue dog.......a sweet girl named Rosie (how appropriate). She is cute, full of energy and has brought much needed joy into our lives. Mom, I will try to do a better job of keeping in touch. Just know you are missed and loved.
Eugene
Russell Todd
December 10, 2019
Dear Mom....No matter how much time goes by I still feel a hole in my life; a sadness in my heart. Even though we knew we loved one another and nothing was left unsaid, I still miss you and feel lonely at times, wishing you were here to talk to again. I loved our talks and our connection. I loved our outings and trips. I loved your sage advice and wisdom. You were an amazing Mom and friend. I was blessed to have you and to be your son. I hope one day we are reunited Mom. Until then, you remain my hero. I love you always.
Russell Todd
December 7, 2015
Mom..
Time has gone so quickly since you passed. It's hard to believe your beautiful face and lively spirit are no longer physically with us. Thankfully, your spirit remains alive within my heart and soul and for that I am eternally grateful. I miss you tremendously and think about you daily. I find myself laughing out loud when I think of so many things we shared together that made us laugh. I will always feel blessed that I'm your son and friend and hope one day we reunite again with Dad as well.
I love you Mom. You were and are a shining light upon the world and your family.
Until we meet again...
Always..
your Russ
December 6, 2015
Mom, hard to believe but today makes five years since you were summoned to finally get some well deserved rest. We think of you often and hope you and Dad are enjoying your time together again. All is well with your family.....Ben got a new job, Jake is graduating college this month and our newest family member, Peyton (now 2+ years) continues to bring much four-legged joy into our house....you would love him and he would love you! We miss you and our love for you eternal. All our love always... Eugene, Amy, Ben, Jake and Peyton
Russell Todd
December 8, 2014
Not a day goes by that I don't think about you and miss you. I see you in my dreams and feel you in my heart often and know you are around protecting and watching over me. I hope one day we all reunite again. I LOVE YOU MOM!- Russ
December 7, 2014
Mom, been four years now since you left us and while time continues to move on, our thoughts of you remain alive and intact. We think of you often and know you are still watching over us and smiling at what you see. It has been a good year for your family and we miss you very much. All our love always. Eugene, Amy, Ben, Jake and Peyton.
Susan (Williams) Petronis
December 9, 2013
I remember your Mom and Dad very well. When I go to Cap. rep, which I did last night I always think of her. I lived in Sycaway, in Dr.Evans home on the corner of North Lake/Hoosick St, and in fact, probably babysat you kids on occasion when your regular sitter could not. I always loved your Mom and Dad and do think of them often.
December 8, 2013
December 7, 2013
Mom, on the 3rd anniversary of your leaving us, we just want you to know you remain in our hearts and minds every day. We laugh at your jokes and remember so many good times. All is well here and you would be so proud of Ben and Jake. We got a puppy and he brings much joy into our lives. We all love you very much........Eugene
December 6, 2012
Mom, another year has passed and we remain saddened by your absence. We think of you often and continue to miss you on a daily basis. We love you.
Eugene, Adam, Russell
December 7, 2011
Hard to believe it's been one year since you left us. We miss you, your smile, and your spirit. Rest in peace Mom. We love you.
Eugene, Adam, Russell
Ivan and Bobbi Goldberg
January 11, 2011
Dear Eugene, Thank you for your fast response. It was a great pleasure speaking to you on the phone last night...you sound so much like your dad Jerry. Our whole family were extremely fond of your parents and spent much quality time with them first in Syracuse then in Troy, Tarrytown and Albany. We particularly enjoyed being together in the Berkshires when spending summers in that area. In the past few years we spoke to Iola at least once a month...loving always her joyful spirit and contagious laughter. More than cousins both Jerry and Iola were like a brother and sister to us both and will always have a special place in our hearts. Please extend our condolences to Adam, Russell and every member of your family. We always thought of your parents as "gifts" and we know they will always be missed by all those that were blessed with their friendship and love. Bobbi and Ivan Goldberg
Euge, Russell & Adam Goldberg
December 27, 2010
Again, thank you SO MUCH to everyone that has left such beautiful thoughts and loving condolences to all of us. Your words have helped us a great deal. We miss our mom so much and always will but feel she is in a better place and hopefully together with our dear dad, Jerry. Thank you again!! -Eugene, Russell & Adam
Sandy Cadman
December 12, 2010
To Iola's dear ones, I just learned of Iola's death today after being out of the country for the past week, and am very saddened by the loss of this wonderful friend. She loved all of you very much and often spoke of you with a special joy and pride. Iola's endless energy and her joy in learning about the world around her, as well as her intense appreciation for theater and music are especially memorable, but her love of friends and her delight in cozy conversations and "girl talk" made our times together very special. I will miss her very much. Warmly, Sandy Cadman (once of Troy, now in Sarasota, FL)
December 12, 2010
Our sincere condolences to your whole family. What a terrific ,fun-loving ,kind person she was. Just seeing her joyful smile and sparkling eyes always lifted our day. She will dearly missed by many.
Merrily and Frank Lewis, former Menands friends and neighbors
Joan Goldberg
December 11, 2010
Eugene, Adam, Russell and all in the family: I was so sorry to learn about Iola. Your family visits to Tarrytown and our visits to Troy were always made so much more warm and wonderful by Iola's infectious laughter and joy. I will miss her. My condolences.
Donna Kelly-Bruso
December 11, 2010
Kim and Russell
My heartfelt condolences on the loss of a loved one.
Russell Sage 1980 Grad
Bill Barnes
December 10, 2010
Eugene, Adam, and Russ,
I just learned of your Mom's passing from Sue Steiner and am so saddened. Her spirit of life, great enthusiasm, and infectious smile would brighten anyone's day. I always felt so welcome in your home. My sincerest condolences to the three of you on your loss and prayers have been sent to help comfort you.
Regards,
Eugene, Russell, Adam Goldberg
December 9, 2010
Thank you so much to all of you that left such heartfelt and loving messages here for all of us. It means a great deal and we sincerely thank you for your outpouring of love and sympathy. It's just wonderful to hear so many great things about our mom and I know we will all miss her always. Thank you again!!!
December 9, 2010
December 9, 2010
We want you to know how sad we are to learn that Iola has passed away. During the 10 years we lived in Menands, Iola was our neighbor and wonderful friend.The friendship lasted until the day she died. Our lives have been enriched by her ready smile, her sense of humor , the optimism, and joy she found in all the activities she enjoyed. All our sympathy. Joan and Herbert Freeman
Ed Leach
December 9, 2010
Hello my name is Ed Leach and I am sorry to hear of Iola's passing. I am the former House Mgr at the NYS Theatre Institute and loved her dedication to the arts in the community, it was very evident. She always spoke of what she was doing in the arts especially the volunteering. She was a very wonderful volunteer at NYSTI. Personally she was always so engaging to me at every show, always asking about my children. It was always enjoyable talking to her in the theatre lobby. Thank you
Susan Williams (Petronis)
December 9, 2010
I am so sorry to read about your Mom's passing. I lived in Sycaway and filled in as a babysitter occassionally. I also would see your Mom at Cap. Rep, loved talking with her about Jerry/Muncy Evans and the Sycaway days. She was such a great lady. I always will remember her.
Bill Pomakoy
December 8, 2010
Eugene, Adam and Russell:
My family is saddened by the death of your Mom, Iola. We have such great memories - memories that will last forever. Our prayers are with you and your families.
Bill Pomakoy
Nashville, TN
Luanne Ferris
December 8, 2010
Russel & Kim,
I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. I dealt with her many times over the years and always enjoyed our interactions and her enthusiastic personality. And I always marveled at the love and respect your parents had for eachother. I know you will all always miss her and that things, so sad to remember now, will one day, be your fondest memories. My condolences to your entire family.
Luanne M. Ferris, Troy High Class of 1978
December 8, 2010
Many years ago--in the 60s, I babysat for you boys. I always tried to arrive early so that I could spend extra time talking to your mom. To me, she was so beautiful and full of life. A few years later I went through a rough time and she was one of the few who reached out to me with love. I will never, ever forget her. Gay Foa Weeks Frederick MD
Coleen Barney
December 8, 2010
Kim & Russell,
Maureen & I have so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our prayers.
Tiiu Vainu
December 8, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Arnold Greenberg
December 7, 2010
Eugene, Adam, Russell & families. We were just taking about Iola at Sundays Victorian Stroll. You had the most wonderful mom, I always enjoyed her, she was always "full of enthusiasm" She touched so many people with love.
Lynda Goldberg
December 7, 2010
Dear Eugene, Adam and Russell Todd,
We are all related because your Dad Jerry and my Dad Ivan are first cousins (as you all know). Your mother IOLA was ABSOLUTELY one of my FAVORITE PEOPLE on the EARTH while I was growing up in NY and I can still remember to this day her MOST AMAZING SMILE and infectious disposition even though I have not seen her in many years! IOLA was so incredibly beautiful - inside and out (as ALL of us know) and I am SO devastated to hear that she passed away yesterday! My deepest sympathy to all of YOU as your mother was again one of my MY MOST FAVORITE PEOPLE on this earth! With Love and deepest sympathies to all of you...especially to Russell whom I was closest to when we were young...Love, Cousin, Lynda Goldberg
Nancy Meyer
December 7, 2010
Iola and I were brought together by our love of SPAC way back in the early 70s. We had some wonderful times there. One of my fondest memories was at the Action Council's Victorian Christmas Party when we waited until all the "kiddies" had taken their sleigh ride and then Iola and I and a couple of other Action Council members climbed aboard the Albany Carriage horse-drawn sleigh and as we glided around the SPAC grounds, we laughed and sang Christmas carols. I am so happy to have known her, worked with her and shared some great times with her. Eddie and I send our love and condolences to her family.
Paul Riven
December 7, 2010
Iola was one of the dearest people we've ever had the pleasure of calling "our friend". Her love of life was knew no boundaries. She shall be sorely missed by her family and the multitudes of people who knew and loved her.
Rochelle and Paul Riven
December 7, 2010
My deepest sympathies to Iola's family.I worked with her on projects for the Action Council and it was always a very pleasant experience.She was a delight to be around.She and Jerry were a great couple.Bobbe Weber
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