It breaks our hearts to announce the death of the finest woman we have ever known, our mother, grandmother and sister, Adele Jochelson, who died when and how she wanted, in her own home, surrounded by family.

Adele was born in Vilna Poland, where she had a happy childhood until WWII, when her parents died tragically and she was forced to live in the Kovno Ghetto and Klooga concentration camp, where she was among the very few who miraculously survived. She moved to Brooklyn after the war, where she met her beloved husband Boris, who proposed on their third date. Despite her horrific experiences, she chose to look at the world with optimism and positivity. She was never one for self-pity, even at the end.

She cherished every minute of every day, every moment spent with those she loved or even alone. She was an amazing storyteller and loved to entertain her many guests who always wanted to return for more tales from Adele. She loved antiques, thrift shops, Scrabble, crossword puzzles, cooking cabbage soup for her grandchildren, cheese-filled pastries, Olive Garden, CNN, Seinfeld and Naked and Afraid. There is a book out about her life, “In The Lion’s Mouth”, and another one in the works.

She is survived by her two daughters, Maxine and Carrie, sister Tola, and grandchildren Bo, Justin, and Jenny.

There will be a celebration of her life when it is safe to be together.

In lieu of flowers, if you are inclined to do anything please donate to a food pantry of your choice.