In Memoriam
Gloria Bravo
United Federation of Teachers member Gloria Bravo died Sept. 16. Gloria worked as a school psychologist at PS 250 in District 14, Brooklyn. She worked for the Department of Education for 22 years.
Gloria was a compassionate person and loved her work with children and families.
She is survived by her son, Joshua.
Michael Citron
Retired UFT member Michael Citron died March 18.
A UFT chapter leader in the late '80s and early '90s, Mike was a staunch advocate for teachers. He encouraged his colleagues to attend workshops and rallies and to know their basic worker's rights. Mike planned holiday activities for teachers and students.
Mike worked in various teaching positions over the years, but was best known for his work as a teacher for homebound students.
Ralph "Hawk" Haflin
Retired teacher Ralph Haflin
of Apalachin died Dec. 16 at the age of 80. A graduate of Ithaca College, he was a U.S. Navy veteran who served in World War II and Korea.
He taught physical education at Saint Mary's Academy in Little Falls, Westover School in Johnson City and Glenwood School in Vestal. He was the summer playground director for the recreation departments in Owego and Vestal.
One of his greatest loves was teaching and working with children.
Ralph is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marion; his son and daughter-in-law; and grandchildren Bill, Ramona, Gus and Sam.
Donations may be made to Lourdes Hospice/Oncology, c/o Lourdes Hospital, 169 Riverside Drive, Binghamton, N.Y. 13905.
James Lunenfeld
Retired UFT member James Lunenfeld died Dec. 9; he was 63.
Jim worked as a special ed teacher for more than 30 years, spending much of his career in Brooklyn for Home Instruction Schools. He is remembered as an extraordinary teacher, vocal performer and friend who will be sorely missed.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sandy, and children Allison, Joe and Mark.
Harry August Schildt
Harry Schildt, a retired member of the Port Jervis TA, died Jan. 23; he was 73.
Harry attended Brooklyn Law School for two years before being drafted into the U.S. Army.
He later taught sixth grade mathematics in Port Jervis schools. After Harry retired, he joined the American Wine Society and was a tour guide with the Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville.
Harry is survived by his wife of 48 years, Dolores; his son, Timothy (Susan); and two grandchildren, Debra and Michael. He was predeceased by a son, Stephen.
Lucinda M. Wright
Lucinda Wright, a retired member of the Voorheesville TA, died March 23; she was 88.
A Potsdam State Teachers College graduate, Lucinda began her education career in 1940 in Voorheesville Central Schools, where she taught second grade and music.
She helped found the Voorheesville TA in the early '50s and served as its president.
Lucinda retired with many awards and commendations, the greatest of which was the Minerva Award for Outstanding Achievement of 50 years in the field of education in New York state.
Contributions may be made to the Helderberg Reformed Church, 117 Main, Guilderland Center, N.Y. 12085 or Potsdam College Foundation, Potsdam, N.Y. 13676.
New York Teacher will print obituaries received in a timely fashion. Fax (518) 213-6415, or write Andrew Watson, New York Teacher, 800 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, N.Y. 12110-2455. Obituaries should include the decedent's full name, local union and date of death. Please send photographs that do not need to be returned; write the cover letter on your union's letterhead.
