Jerome I. Rossman, Jr., 88 years old, formerly of Scarsdale and Purchase, New York, passed away peacefully at his home in Jupiter, Florida on Wednesday, July 8, 2015, surrounded by his family.
Jerry proudly served his country in the U. S. Marine Corps. He was a truly kind man who had many significant friendships in all aspects of his life, and will be remembered dearly by all for his keen sense of humor, his loyalty and his love of family.
Jerry dedicated his life to furthering education and independence for individuals who learn differently. He served as Chairman of the Board of The Maplebrook School in Amenia, NY which focuses on quality academic programs for youngsters with learning differences. Maplebrook provides individualized instruction, where students are assisted in reaching his/her academic, social, vocational and physical potential. Jerry and his wife, Eva, were deeply involved with Maplebrook and the Maplebrook “Parents Association” for many years, which their son, Peter, attended.
As Peter was graduating from Maplebrook, Jerry and two other Maplebrook parents founded Chapel Haven, with the vision to establish an independent living facility in New Haven, CT providing lifelong individualized services for people with developmental and social disabilities, empowering them to live independent and self-determined lives. Jerry’s devotion and determination paid off. Today, Chapel Haven is an award-winning, nationally accredited school and transitional program serving 250-plus adults with a variety of abilities and needs. Chapel Haven teaches independent living.
Jerry, surrounded by his loving family, in Florida.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Eva; his adoring children, Peter Rossman, Karen Fleck and Bryan Fleck, husband of Karen. He was predeceased by his parents, Jerome and Alva Rossman and his sisters, Florence Asch and Barbara Engel.
A memorial service will be held at a later date at Maplebrook School.
Chapel Haven President Michael Storz said, “On a personal level, I am very saddened. Jerry was an incredible friend and champion of state-of-the-art programming for our population. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Jerry and his family for their tireless work and incredible vision in cofounding the agency we all know and love today. Our deepest condolences go out to his family.”
Memorial donations in Jerry’s name may be made to Maplebrook School www.maplebrookschool.org or Chapel Haven www.chapelhaven.org.
