Bernard “Bernie” Greene passed away Tuesday, June 24, surrounded by loved ones during a celebration of his 93th birthday at his home in Newport Beach. The passing was befitting of a man who most enjoyed kibitzing with family and friends.
Bernie was born in Chicago in 1921, the second son of Sol and Fannie Greenstein. He attended Roosevelt High School and the University of Illinois for college and dental school. The young dentist fell for a striking black haired beauty who was a patient in his office. He married her, his beloved Adele, in 1947. He served our country in the Army and remembered his time at Edwards Air Force Base fondly; it marked the beginning of his lifelong love of Southern California, where he moved his young family in 1953. He was an amateur thespian, world traveler, spirited philanthropist, avid golfer, volunteer sheriff, and skilled driving-route analyst. Above all, he was a family man: a devoted son, a supportive husband, and an engaged and playful father who took his family on weeks-long summer road-trips.
He was saddened by his beloved wife’s passing five years ago. He was also preceded in death by his beloved parents, brother, and many wonderful friends. He leaves behind his three children: Thubten Chodron, Russell Greene (and his wife Jane), and Robyn Moses; his five grandchildren; and his two great-grandchildren.
His funeral will be held at Pacific View Cemetery in Newport Beach at 2 p.m. Friday. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sravasti Abbey, 692 County Lane, Newport, WA, 99156; the City of Hope, for which he and Adele hosted many a lively fundraising gala in their younger years; or Temple Bat Yahm, 1011 Camelback St, Newport Beach, CA 92660.
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