David Freiman Obituary

Dear Ruth, Lennie, Nancy and Family All,



You all know that I spent many Sunday afternoons of my youth at your house, eating "real" mashed potatoes and reading the Sunday Times. But you probably don't know that there came a time when I was in college, my parents were away, and I had to ask for some advice about a particular English course. I had to make a decision, because the registrar wouldn't wait. So I came by to chat with David. English may not have been his field, but that didn't mean he didn't know what about the substance of the course.



To me it was a really big issue (well -- it was big then), and I expected profound, nuanced, intellectual advice. Instead, I got advice that amounted to (no surprise here) "Get on with it."



I thought I'd get something a bit more subtle. Bzzzzzt. Wrong. Not only that, but his bottom line recommendation was not what I wanted to hear. (Remember, he said: "Get on with it." I wanted to hear: "Let it go and find another way.")



But, after I left the house, I realized, slowly, that the bottom line of his advice wasn't important. The framework within which to come to an answer was what he had given me.



I hope you all realize how important that framework was to me. The ideas he pitched at me that afternoon really amounted to: "You can do it if you try, but if there are choices, go with your strengths, not your weaknesses."



It was sound advice, and has stayed with me.



Now, my father is out of town and David is too. I wish they were both here. I could use some advice on my kids.



All my love. We'll all miss him.

Dear Ruth and Family,

I was saddened to learn of your loss. I had the privilege to visit with you as we worked together at BIDMC and to watch the two of you together. I have fond memories of you, Ruth, sharing your stories of Saturday morning food preparation "mixed" w/ a dance in the kitchen while listening to music. The stories you shared with me about your trips to NY City and the opera are a treasure. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

Linda

Dearest Ruth and Family,



I was very saddened to learn of Dr. Freiman's repose. I knew him best while working in Facilities at BIDMC. Dr. Freiman spoke about his family often, and loved you all very much and my life is all the more richer for having known him too. He will be greatly missed.



With Love,

Olympia Constantinou