Barbara Schiff Chane

Barbara Schiff Chane died peacefully with her family by her side on February 21, 2015 in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Barbara is survived by her husband of 51 years, Arnold Chane, her children, Laurie Chane (Rob Bovarnick), Sarah Chane Abend (Andy Abend) and Jonathan Chane (Christina Chane).

Also surviving are her sister Anne Schiff Faivus (Jeffrey Faivus), sister-in-law Suellen Schiff, her seven grandchildren, Elly and Mia Bovarnick, Joshua and Zachary Abend, Harper, Jack and Liliana Chane, her niece Rebekah Faivus, nephews Scott Faivus, Stephen Schiff, and Ian Schiff, and cousin Jacqueline May. Barbara moved to West Palm Beach in 1943 and lived there most of her life. She attended Palm Beach High School and graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in education. She was proud to have taught thousands of students at a number of local schools including Forest Hill High School, West Palm Beach Private School and Bear Lakes Middle School, and always enjoyed being recognized by her students many years later. Barbara and Arnold met in West Palm Beach and married in 1963. They lived in Orlando and Huntsville, AL early in their marriage before returning to West Palm Beach, where they raised their three children. Barbara and Arnold celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2013 surrounded by dear friends and family. Barbara was a great cook and could prepare a meal for many with, what appeared to be, little or no effort. She was fantastic at needlepoint and knitting, and created many beautiful gifts for her children and grandchildren. She was the founding President of Temple Judea and watched with pride as it grew from just 12 families in 1982 to over 600 today. She was especially proud that her son, Jonathan, is the current President of the Temple. Of all the things Barbara did well, her greatest accomplishments were her children. While she was proud of their professional accomplishments, she was most proud of their own roles as parents to her beautiful grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 23rd at 11:30 a.m. at Temple Judea (4311 Hood Road, Palm Beach Gardens), followed by a graveside service at Star of David Cemetery (9321 Memorial Park Road, West Palm Beach). A gathering will follow at Jonathan and Christina's home. Rabbi Yaron Kapitulnik and Cantor Alicia Stillman will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Barbara's life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Judea. The family would also like to thank the caregivers and staff at La Posada for their efforts, care and dedication.