Buena have had a fascinanting history, I love to know all the details and I can see how many people have only good words. I understand why whas the perfect mate of Alan R Pearlman.
Buena wrote a wonderful story in this life.
 I want to send the warmest hug to Dina, a lovely daughter that sure will keep alive the memory of her parents. I'm sure of that since time, thanks for her work telling so many things about Alan and Buena.

Wish Alan and Buena can be together again in a better place.


Buena will always have a special place in my heart. She was genuinely warm, and welcoming with an open heart and arms. 

Buena was a lady with strong convictions, moral fortitude, and a forever curious mind. Intelligent, outspoken, and informed.

I will always cherish that mischievous little chuckle she had, and the love she showed all who entered her home. 

It was an honor to be part of her extended family. 

I only met Buena once, after a 3000 mile trip to film Alan’s story at their home in Newton.

Buena answered the door and it was immediately apparent that she was a formidable woman. She, rightly, eyed us up and down, then welcomed us into their home where we talked to Alan for hours. His story was engrossing and he regularly referred to Buena as his ‘guardian angel’. Even to an outsider it was clear they were very much in love and in tune with each other.

At the end of the interview Buena asked if we’d like to stay for supper? We were honoured and over bagels we chatted about everything from their love of art and music to their trip to a ‘stuffy’ 70’s London where, after a long flight, they were unable to get into the hotel restaurant because etiquette dictated that they drank an aperitif in the bar, before being allowed into the restaurant. However, they weren’t allowed into the bar because Dina was under 18.

“What did you do?” We asked. 

Buena laughed and said “I did what kept me alive as a child. I used my elbows to get to the food.” She then recounted her survivor past and our jaws hit the floor for the umpteenth time that day, At the end of her incredible story, which concluded with her meeting Alan, he looked at us, knowingly shrugged and said “My guardian angel” 

Cue two 50-something year old British males welling-up.

As we left, Buena gave us each one of her enamel bowls. Mine has permanent pride of place in a window with the best view. I’ve also watched Buena’s Testimony several times and each time I think “What an amazing woman. What an amazing couple.”

They say behind every great man is a great woman and this was undeniable with Alan and Buena. I truly hope that they’re together once more, making great art and laughing while watching Alan’s favourite comedy films.

I only met Buena once, but what a profound meeting that was and I remain forever grateful. 

Once upon a time Dina and I became very close friends and shared a home together. During that time, I had the pleasure of spending time with both Mr. and Mrs. Pearlman in their home. They were both warm and loving parents, with a wealth of knowledge they were happy to share. 

In particular, I felt a special bond with them. Not only were they  very close in age to my parents, but like my own family, they were also  Jews who were able to escape the atrocities of the Nazi regime before it was too late.

Mr. and Mrs. Pearlman blessed our world with knowledge, love, and a positivity that they passed on to their daughter.  It was an honor to have known them.

Dina I hope you find comfort in knowing that they will always remain as a part of who you are, and know that the love they always held for you, will continue to shine.

Much love to you in this time of sadness.

-Howie



After sharing stories of our parents for over a decade, I finally had the opportunity to meet Dina's mom, Buena about a year ago.  We had a wonderful lunch together. Buena was charming, warm, and intelligent. I loved how close she and Dina were. And, I will forever treasure the beautiful enamel piece made by Buena that now graces my living room coffee table.  I am also saddened by the loss of yet another brave Holocaust survivor.  May her memory be a blessing.


Dear Dina,
Linda and I are so sorry about the loss of your mother. Sending positive energy your way with the hope that your good memories will ease your pain.
Love,
Phil and Linda Cirocco 

OBITUARY

Buena (Alcalay) Pearlman

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Due to the current health crisis, funeral services are private