Obituary: Fred Glusman

Fred Glusman, 91, of Atlanta, Ga., died on Dec. 8, 2023. He was born in Mannheim, Germany, to Anna and Bernard Glusman, of blessed memory, and immigrated to the United States as a young child in 1937. In addition to his beloved wife, Gloria, he is survived by his brother and sister-in-law Marvin and Jane Glusman of Sarasota, Fla., and sister-in-law Bonnie Starkand Weiner, his children Rabbi Brian (Laurie) Glusman, Alison Rosengarten, and Danny (Florie) Glusman, and his grandchildren, Adam (Emily), Lauren, Nathan, Rebecca, Deena, Eliana, Rael, Mira, and Kemp.

Fred and Gloria were married for 63 years and raised their family in Atlanta. Fred always considered himself to be very lucky and grateful for the many blessings in his life. He was an active and beloved member of the Jewish community. Fred attended a yeshiva in New York as a child before moving to Nashville where his father served as Cantor at the West End Synagogue. After graduating from Vanderbilt University, Fred served in the US Army at Fort Richardson in Alaska and was appointed as acting chaplain. He remained an active participant in the local Jewish War Veterans organization.

Fred met his bride, Gloria Tunkle, in Huntsville Ala., where they became founding members of Congregation Etz Chayim. He served as lay rabbi and was the state president of B’nai B’rith. Following a move to Atlanta, Fred became the first Executive Director of Congregation Beth Jacob, a position he held for 26 years. During that time, Fred had many accomplishments and helped facilitate the growth of the congregation.

He established a city-wide Chevra Kedisha (burial society) dinner which includes synagogues representing all denominations and an annual Passover campaign to collect funds to support those in need. Fred was also instrumental in the creation of the Annual Beth Jacob Purim Parade. He served as Treasurer of the Beth Jacob Men’s Club and was a member of the Men’s Choir for many years. Fred was active in Hemshech, a local organization of Holocaust survivors, and chanted the memorial prayer at the annual Yom HaShoah commemoration. Upon his retirement from Beth Jacob, a Torah scroll was dedicated in his honor. Fred continued to volunteer for many years at the synagogue and worked at Berman Commons Assisted Living and Memory Care in Dunwoody as chaplain, teacher, kashruth supervisor, and community liaison.

Fred was a kind, enthusiastic, gentle, and giving man who always maintained a positive and youthful spirit. He was a true mensch, always willing to help anyone in need. Fred had a great sense of humor and made friends with everyone he met.

He was well-regarded throughout the Atlanta community. Fred was cherished by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Contributions in honor of Fred’s life may be made to Congregation Beth Jacob, a Jewish school, or a charity of your choice.