Obituary: Jules Nelson Greenblatt

Jules Nelson Greenblatt passed away on Sept. 4 after a brief and brave battle with cancer. Jules was a devoted dad, partner, sibling, uncle, and friend to many. Upon diagnosis, he continued to treasure and hold dear his love of family and friends. He was intent on living his best life.

Born in East Patterson, N.J., and the oldest of three, Jules was preceded in death by his parents, Barbara Lee Rubinstein, daughter of Julius and Florence (Lipsky) Rubinstein, and Don Greenblatt, son of Harry and Mary Greenblatt and by Phyllis Maslia, his beloved wife and loving mother of their son, Sam. Jules looked up to his father, Don, who was a special influence in his life.

Jules was a true renaissance man and had varied interests and talents including music, cooking, gardening, fishing, and traveling. A frequent concert goer, he played guitar and enjoyed a variety of music genres. Jules was a superb cook and was enthusiastic about new and creative recipes. He could plate and platter with the best of them! Over his lifetime, Jules loved and always had dogs and leaves behind Molly. Most of all, Jules was a kind and loyal person who chose to connect deeply with those around him.

Jules adored his son, Sam, nieces, and nephew. At family gatherings, he could be seen watching the children with a huge grin on his face. He continued to be close to his childhood friends and was touched by their care and devotion during his illness.

Jules will always be loved and remembered by son, Sam Franklin Greenblatt, partner, Elaine Cobern (he called her “queen”), sisters, Sharon Spiegelman (Marty) and Lisa Halpern (Marty), nephews, Alex Halpern (Alli), Lewis Halpern (Rachael), and Andy Halpern (Sophie) and four great-nieces and a nephew.

The funeral was held at noon, Sunday, Sept. 6, at Arlington Cemetery. Shiva was held at the home of Jules Greenblatt and Elaine Cobern. Donations in Jules memory can be made to One Good Deed, a program of Jewish Family & Career Services.

Sibling lunches on Wednesdays will never be the same.