Harold Siegel

Harold Siegel, who lived most of his life in Newark, N.J., passed away on Aug. 5, 2012, at his home in Thorofare, N.J., at the age of 92. Harold was predeceased by the love of his life, Rita (nee McGrath), as well as by his brothers, Paul and Irving. He is survived by his children, Ann Cathy Vanderhoof (Steve Manley) and Martin Siegel (Jamie); grandchildren, Jeremy and Hillary Siegel, and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and great-grandnieces and grandnephews, all of whom loved Uncle Harold dearly. He is also survived by Judith Smith, his caregiver of the last five years. Harold's family feels truly blessed that Judy entered their lives when she did. Harold devoted considerable time to Beth David Jewish Center of Newark, N.J., and served as president of the congregation. A graduate of West Side High School and Newark College (Rutgers), Harold returned to school in his '60s, graduating with honors from Seton Hall University with a master's degree in taxation. He was a certified public accountant and partner in Bederson, Siegel and Company; Jacobs, Siegel and Company and Levine Jacobs and Company. Harold was quietly proud of the fact that so many of his friends became his clients, and so many of his clients became his friends. Harold played a mean game of pinochle, was difficult to beat at any game requiring thought, analysis and strategy, was a master of Scrabble and loved doing the New York Times crossword puzzles (in ink). A lifelong New York Giants' fan, Harold was a season ticket holder for nearly half a century. He refused to leave a game early, regardless of the score or weather conditions, always holding out hope that his Giants would find a way to pull it out. He loved celebrating holidays and reunions with the people he loved, and who loved him - relatives and non-relatives alike. Most of all he loved Rita. Services will be held 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2012, at Bernheim-Apter-Kreitzman Suburban Funeral Chapel of Livingston (973) 422-0600. Burial will follow at King Solomon Cemetery in Clifton. In accordance with Jewish tradition, the family requests friends not send flowers. Donations may be made in Harold's memory to the Alzheimer's Foundation or Heartland Hospice.