Pearl J. Finkelstein's Obituary
Pearl J. Finkelstein, a long-time resident of Miami Shores, who had moved in 2018 to Riddle Village a LifeCare retirement community in Media, Pennsylvania, died on December 23, 2020 at the age of 96.
Pearl is survived by her children Dr. Mark Finkelstein-Zeik, Cherie Cannon, and Norman Finkelstein; her grandchildren Megan Cannon-Seccareccio, Matthew Cannon, and Sarah Finkelstein; her great-grandchildren Lily and Shyann; her sister, Lydia Shifman; and her children and granddaughter’s spouses Michael Zeik, Debbie Finkelstein and Andrew Seccareccio. She was predeceased by her husband Dr. Daniel M. Finkelstein (2009) and her parents.
Pearl was born in Hartford, CT in 1924. She received her nursing degree (RN) from King’s College, NYC. In 1950, she married Daniel M. Finkelstein, DO in Miami, Florida. Together, Pearl and Daniel lived an exceptionally giving life for 59 years. They were co-founders in the establishment of the now defunct Osteopathic General Hospital in North Miami Beach and were one of the original founders of the first Florida osteopathic medical school, Southeastern College of Osteopathic Medicine (SECOM) which evolved into the Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine. During their lifetime, she and her husband acted as foster parents to over 200 children. After retiring from nursing, she owned and operated, Heirlooms of Tomorrow, a gift and collectible shop in North Miami Beach.
Pearl was a vibrant, life-loving and people-loving person. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and was a great storyteller. She would make friends wherever she went and loved socializing with people. She loved growing orchids, painting, was an avid reader, created hook rugs, and loved spending time with her family and friends. Her ability to make quick life-long friends was extraordinary. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Her internment will be on December 30 at 11 AM at Mount Nebo Miami Memorial Gardens in West Miami. Rabbi Amy Morrison of Temple Israel will officiate. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Pearl’s name to Temple Israel of Greater Miami (www.templeisrael.net).
Arrangements by Levitt-Weinstein Blasberg-Rubin-Zilbert Memorial Chapel (305) 932-2700
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