Bernard (Albert) Gilman

Bernard Albert Gilman, 94, of West Hartford, died Thursday, November 20, 2008. He was the husband of the late Eleanor (Benjamin) Gilman. Born in Hartford, he was the son of the late Morris S. and Annie Gilman. Bernie was a lifelong resident of the greater Hartford area, except during his military service, residing in Hartford, Bloomfield and West Hartford. He received an undergraduate degree from Richmand College in 1937 (University of Richmond, VA); and a Masters in Education from Trinity College in Hartford. He served in the US Army from 1939-1975 retiring as Captain. He served in World War II from 1939-1945 in Panama, the Pacific Theatre and in Alaska. He also was an Army recruiter in Ohio. Bernie was also a school teacher and guidance councilor at Bloomfield High School and Hartford High School retiring in the mid 1980’s. He was an active member of Congregation Beth Israel in West Hartford, the Masons and Shriners, a member of Level Lodge No 137 A.F. & A.M. now the Masonic Temple Association of West Hartford. He rose to the level of 32nd degree, and he was a long time member and supporter of the Hartford YMCA. He leaves his brother, Leon Gilman and his wife Velma Van Gilman of Danvers, MA; three nephews, David Gilman, Howard Oshman, and Lee Oshman; a niece, Hannah Gilman; four grandnieces; three grandnephews; and eight great grand nieces and nephews. He also leaves two step-children, Annie and Shiah. He was predeceased by his sister, Jennie Oshman. A graveside funeral service will be held TODAY, Friday, November 21, 2008 at 12:00 Noon in the Beth Israel Cemetery, Hartford, with Rabbi Michael Pincus officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Beth Israel, 701 Farmington Ave., West Hartford 06119. Arrangements entrusted to Weinstein Mortuary, Hartford. For further information, directions, or to sharer memories of Bernie with his family, please visit online at www.weinsteinmortuary.com.