Mrs. Bondareff was wonderful with such a humorous outlook on life. Her DC neighbor was a Congressman (retired involuntarily in a primary) who clearly missed giving speeches. And he made up for it delivering a eulogy for Mr. Bondareff. She wondered if it would ever end.  They built their house opposite the market-- sold to us in 1991-- with assists  from kids at Lafayette Elementary across the street. She described how during recess  they loved to help the construction crews move sand, cement and all the works. Probably violated all kinds of local laws, but the kids had a delightful time and break from routine of school.

I loved Mrs. Bondareff and am so sorry to hear of her passing.  In 1991, Michael Mosettig and I had the great fortune of buying the home she built with her husband in Chevy Chase, DC, and got to know her before she moved to Florida. 
What a spirit she had. Thank you, Esther for a wonderful house.

Esther was so important to our family. When our son was first injured, she helped in so many ways, esp our younger daughter. Thirty years ago Esther gave her an elephant pillow which Claire has to this day. Cornell brought Esther into our lives. She is still in our hearts. 
Ken and Molly DeDominicis

Esther had a presence that made her a role model to many. Her love of Cornell University was contagious!

Esther was one of a kind, the very best kind! I am happy and proud to have known her. Baruch Dyan Emet.

Since 1984, the Cornell Club of Washington, DC, has conferred the "Bondareff Award" annually on a Club member who has given "outstanding, significant, and continuous service" to the Club. This award was created by and named for Esther Schiff Bondareff 37 and her husband, Daniel Bondareff 36.  I was honored to receive the Bondareff award in 2005, and I cherish my memories of volunteering with Esther in various ways in the 1970s to increase the membership of the Cornell Club of Washington and to attract and recruit high school seniors to apply to Cornell.  Esther was a real pistol, and she got stuff done!  Love you, Esther.  XXX  Judy Gleklen Kopff (Arts '68)

Incomparable and irreplaceable.  Rest in peace Esther.

May God's loving kindness comfort you and help you through this very sad time
Psalms 29:11

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IJ Morris at Star of David Cemetery of the Palm Beaches

Esther Bondareff

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Esther Bondareff

11 June, 1915 – 19 December, 2017

IJ Morris at Star of David Cemetery of the Palm Beaches

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