Steven Tharler

Born in Leominster, Steven attended Leominster High where he was a good student, active on the swim team and in theatrical productions. He studied Advertising and Anthropology at Syracuse University, where he was among the first class to graduate from the Newhouse School of Public Communications. After school, he served in the National Guard, attaining the rank of Sergeant.

During the first phase of his career, he crafted his copywriting skills at several advertising agencies in the Boston area. He co-founded the award-winning agency Tharler/Opper in 1984. He was a sought-after MC and lecturer for the New England Direct Marketing Association, for which he served as president in 1987 and by whom he was named Direct Marketer of the Year in 1998. And in 2006, he founded THARLER DIRECTs, a versatile, independent, marketing communications firm specializing in strategy, creative and mentoring.

Steven was known for his keen wit, warmth, devotedness, philanthropy and generosity. He was an active member in his synagogue, and for many years participated with wife Nancy in the annual Jimmy Fund walkathon, raising thousands of dollars. He loved art, jazz, bridge, poker, tennis and golf.

Steven is survived by his wife Nancy of Wayland; brother Gary of Sebastopol, California; son Scott and family of Albany, New York; daughter Marni of Boulder, Colorado; and niece Jen of Los Angeles.

Services are scheduled for 10AM on Monday, December 3rd at Temple Shir Tikva, 141 Boston Post Road in Wayland. Shiva will be at his and Nancy's home in Wayland, Monday following interment until 4 PM and from 7-9 PM, and continuing on Tuesday from 2-4:30 PM and 7-9 PM, with minyan services each night at 7:30 PM.

The family has requested any donations be sent to Rabbi Danny's Discretionary Fund at Shir Tikva, either to the street address above or online through www.shirtikva.org/make-a-donation.