Jack was a valued volunteer for the Let's Talk! ESL program at the Newton Free Library.  We all enjoyed being in his presence.  He was an unflappable gentleman who graciously facilitated any group assigned to him.  His lovely smile radiated good humor and warm intelligence

When I went off to college nearly 20 years ago, Poppy suggested I call him on Sundays... and we've spoken on the phone every Sunday since. That's more than a thousand phone conversations filled with his infinite wisdom, sage advice, and unconditional love and support.

Even last Sunday, as he lay in his bed at hospice audibly weak, he asked all about my life, down to the most seemingly insignificant details, and told me how much he loved me.

Poppy passed away this past Sunday in the early morning. It was the first Sunday on which we didn't speak since I was a kid. Waking up on Sundays will be tough for a while, but I'll carry the love he showed me and the lessons he taught me for the rest of my life.

Poppy was always  a big part  of my life. I was so close to him and had so many experiences with him. And honestly, I thought he was going to live to 100.

From, Saul

This is a picture from a year ago!





So, we’re on our way to play Golf and Jack’s phone rings. It’s a grandchild calling Poppy. “Hi,” says Jack. “I can’t speak right now as I’m in the car with other guys and we’re going to play Golf. I’ll call you back.” Or we’re on our way to dinner. To lunch. A lunch. To the theatre. We could be walking. Or driving. Or just sitting. Same thing. Sometimes it’s a grandchild. Or Judy. Or a son or daughter. It could be in Cooperstown. Or Montreal. Or Miami. Or South Dakota. No matter. A family member checks in. 

Jack kept his many friends close and his extended family even closer. Did the call sometimes disrupt a conversation? Yes, but so what? As it should, family always came first; our conversation could wait. That was Jack. And we admired that in him and were even a little envious. Future trips without Jack will be much too quiet.

With Love,
Ron and Sandi Levy


As many people will reflect,  Janet and I also have wonderful memories of our dear friend and neighbor, Jack.  Whether at dinner in the South End, on a cruise in the Caribbean or just a casual chat in the driveway, Jack’s quick wit, incisive thinking, or all around decency was always on display.  I want to also say, for me personally, I have a special memory of Jack that I will always treasure.   For 7 years, once or twice a week from February to May and then again, fro September to December, I would spend a good part of the day with him driving to and from HILR.  Just he and I, in the car, back and forth, once a week.  That was a special time together when we discussed, argued, confided and laughed.  Just the two of us.  We (and I) will miss Jack a great deal and hope we can call on his wisdom from time to time to help us live our lives as he lived his.
Joe and Janet

So many sweet memories of our years as friends and neighbors--bridge games, poker games, dinners and theater, golf, visits in Franconia and Ogunquit.  Most of all we will miss seeing Jack around the "project," in the car, in the driveway, at the pool, always with a beautiful smile and a kibbitz.
We will miss him so much.

OBITUARY

Jack Kushinsky

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