Born and raised in Moldova to the late Nisel and Sara Bovelniak, Bella’s journey to America was one of courage, strength, and determination. Together with her daughter, Dina, and her husband, Jakov (Yasha), she traveled from Ukraine to Vienna, then to Israel, Belgium, and ultimately to the United States.
When Bella arrived in America, she spoke no English, but that never stopped her. She found work at a manufacturing company sewing sweaters. At 50 years old, still learning English, Bella enrolled in classes to become a Medical Assistant. Having previously studied nursing in Ukraine, she was determined to continue the work she loved. She went on to work at Coney Island Hospital as a Medical Assistant for many years—a testament to her determination, independence, and strength.
Throughout her life in America, Bella called several places home, moving from Brooklyn to Manalapan, then to Miami, and finally to Old Bridge, where she lived for many years.
Bella was a true nurturer who devoted herself to caring for the people she loved. She especially loved cooking for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She took great pride in caring for herself, stayed active, and loved to walk. Affectionately known as “Baba Bella” to her family and so many of their friends, she was loved by all and will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Bella shared an extraordinary life with her beloved husband, Jakov (Yasha). She cared for him deeply, and the two of them spent virtually every day together. Whether it was one of their regular TJ Maxx runs or quietly disappearing to Atlantic City without telling anyone, they were happiest simply being together. They were true companions in every sense of the word.
Since Jakov (Yasha) passed away, this has been the longest they have ever been apart. There is comfort in knowing that Baba Bella and Jakov (Yasha) are finally together again.
Bella is predeceased by her beloved husband, Jakov (Yasha) Jusim.
Surviving are her loving daughter and son-in-law, Dina and Eugene Finkelstein; her dear granddaughters, Honey and Natalie; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Sasha, Rianna, Livia, and Zayd, who brought tremendous joy to her life; as well as many loving family members and friends.
Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday at Bloomfield-Cooper Jewish Chapels, 44 Wilson Avenue, Manalapan, NJ 07726, with burial to follow at Mount Sinai Cemetery in Marlboro.
