Sanford (Sandy )Lee Israel, 76, passed peacefully on May 10 at home surrounded by his wife, Judy and son Steve.
He enjoyed over 53 years of marriage with his ‘one and only’ who he described as his ‘affectionate and passionate and devoted life partner’. As a dad he raised his children focused on honesty, principles, and self-sufficiency – sharing his passion for the water and sailing. He gave back to the community through “meals on wheels,” took a keen interest in local projects and consistently counseled a bias for action when queried. His keen wit kept family and friends smiling, and ensured laughter was a key ingredient at the gatherings he presided over.
As an Engineer, he graduated with a Masters in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and designed portions of McDonell Douglas’ F4H- Phantom, cooling systems for nuclear power plants at United Nuclear (where he earned a patent), and completed his career at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, earning a Meritorious Service Award for his work related to safety following Three Mile Island.
He will be missed by a broad range of colleagues, friends and family with whom he shared humor and his keen intellect.
We will be gathering in Rockville this weekend for a cultural shiva (wake), and a memorial service will be scheduled in early July when all the family can be present.
The family will be receiving friends and family at our home in Rockville on Saturday, May 11 from 7 to 9 PM and Monday, May 13 from 7 to 9 PM. (301) 881-8643.
A memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, July 7 at 4 PM at Adat Reyim, 6500 Westbury Oaks Court, Springfield, VA 22152. Those who wish to share their memories of Sandy will have the opportunity.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to the Jewish Social Services Agency (JSSA), 6123 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852 where dad volunteered and from whom he received hospice care.
Thank you again for your support...we cannot express how much your love and concern touches us at this time.