Missing you on your birthday and every day, grandpa. My son Eli is 6 and I love telling him about you. You would have loved him so much and been so proud of him!! We love you and will never ever forget you.
Missing my grandpa in the weeks after what would have been his 101st birthday. We love you so much and will never forget you and how much you meant to so many people!!
I knew Walter Goldstein from Art, Humanities, as Yearbook advisor, and numerous trips to visit him and Elaine in their home in Wantagh with a few other students. Often uninvited and a surprise visit, they always welcomed us in. They came to my wedding, and I treasure a watercolor he gave me I can only describe as Zen like, which hangs in my newer home in Asheville after years in my home on LI, and a pottery vessel from Elaine, always displayed in prominence. I remember in his art class the first day. He opened all the cabinets, listed every material in them, and told us to get to work. He then after observing each of us, would lay an open art book next to you, and ask you if you were familiar with this artist, which always struck a chord. My art book collection to this day is extensive.
In humanities one day we were talking about primal scream, and he asked if we wanted to try it. A number of us ran out onto the field and began screaming, running holding hands. I remember what seemed like hundreds of faces peering out onto the field from their classroom windows, wondering what was happening. It was exhilarating. On trips to the city to see films, he was fine if some went to a blockbuster, while he joined us for Bergman’s Cries and Whispers. To say he changed my life is an understatement. A friend and I went to the Uniondale Mini Cinema weekly when it existed, watching foreign films. We went into to city every Saturday and visited museums. I pursued art for a BFA. I have a studio in my home where I work daily. His gentle support was a Godsend in my life. I think about him and Elaine with much love. My condolences on your loss, and yet how fortunate you were to have them both as parents.
This is such a wonderful tribute to my beloved father. All these beautiful photos and heartfelt remembrances bring a tear to my eye and a smile to my lips. There will never be another like him, not in another 100 years. Happy birthday, Daddy.
I was lucky enough to have Walter Goldstein as my art and humanities teacher for all three of my years at Uniondale High School in the early 70s. He was the greatest. Sensitive, thoughtful, caring, inquisitive, wise ... he made a huge difference in my life. May his memory be forever blessed. Richard Erickson, UHS '74.
Peace be with all who love Mr. Goldstein. As you suffer with the physical loss of such a kind soul, please take solace in the knowledge that a person such as he never really dies. His spirit will extend for as long as time is measured, through the good he did for so many that carries on in the good they do for others. He is all around you, in all of Earth's natural beauty and in the loving relationships we share. Wherever love is present, he is there, now and forever.
I think of your mom and dad often, Allan and Marcy. They were always a joy to visit. I am so sorry for your loss. Condolences to your special mom, as well. Love, Rosanne
I am sorry to read this, some people, it seems, should always Be and Walter was one of those, as is Elaine. I remember Walter chasing my mother around our house trying to get her to talk about a very important subject that she wanted to avoid. I was so impressed with his passion and commitment. My brother and I both felt something special for "The Goldsteins", one of the few couples we felt were warm, real, and always interested. When my father died, they were the one couple I really wanted to be at the small gathering in Vt. for him and they came. I wish I had said more, asked more questions...Elaine, you are on my mind. Love to all. I have thought of you both often...