Dr. Eli Talkov

Devoted father of Dr. Paul Talkov of East Boston, Roger Talkov of Swampscott, and Cynthia Talkov Boyd and her husband Andrew of Marblehead. Cherished Papa of Ara, Ethan and Eric. Dear brother of Leonard Talkov and his wife Joan of Richmond, VA, and brother-in-law of Elaine Samuels of Dedham. Devoted husband of the late Muriel Talkov, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage. Loving son of the late Hyman and Esther Talkov of Milton, MA. He also leaves many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends who will miss him dearly.

Eli grew up in Dorchester, MA surrounded by a close-knit extended family. He was a graduate of the Boston Latin School, Boston University and Tufts School of Dental Medicine. He proudly served his country practicing dentistry in the US Air Force during the Korean War, after which he began his own dental practice in Lynn, MA, where he compassionately cared for his patients for over 45 years.

Eli excelled at playing bridge, enjoyed poker nights with friends, and was always up for blackjack at a casino. But he really hit the jackpot when the gorgeous and brilliant Muriel agreed to be his wife. In short order they settled into their dream home in Swampscott. Over a span of nearly 60 years in that special home, they lovingly raised their children and relished their grandchildren, all of whom lived just minutes away.

A man of great faith, Eli found tremendous joy in the practice of religion, Hebrew prayer and song, actively participating in and leading services at synagogue and online throughout his entire life.

Everyone who knew Eli was truly amazed at his uncanny optimism, the degree to which was especially surreal and constantly on display in his latter years. Being witness to this extraordinary outlook on life is an enduring legacy to his children, his grandchildren, and all those who have had the honor to know this special man.

A temple funeral service for Eli will be held Friday, May 30, 2025 at 10:30 AM at Congregation Shirat Hayam of the North Shore, 55 Atlantic Ave, Swampscott, MA. For those who are unable to attend in person, a livestream of the funeral service will be available: https://www.youtube.com/@congregationshirathayam/streams

Burial following the service at Congregation Shirat Hayam Cemetery, 506 Lowell Street, Peabody, MA.

A Shiva will occur at the home of Cynthia Talkov Boyd and Andrew Boyd on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Eli’s memory to the Special Olympics of Massachusetts www.specialolympicsma.org, to Congregation Shirat Hayam in Swampscott www.shirathayam.org, or to a charity of your choice.