Waiting a year for the Jewish Home Assisted Living, Kaplen Residence for Senior Living to open, the day finally arrived for our first occupants - the distinguished Cantor Kurt and Mrs. Inge Silbermann. They are thrilled with their new living arrangement, having chosen the JHAL because Jewish laws and traditions are practiced and observed, it is close to their friends and family, it’s beautiful and within walking distance to a shopping area.
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Unable to manage the chores in their original home, the Silbermanns knew it was time to make a change. Now, their laundry is taken care of, their apartment thoroughly cleaned weekly, their beds made and trash taken out daily. The food is excellent and beautifully prepared. Inge feels like she’s in a “fine private hotel” and Kurt, on a “cruise.” They find the staff very accommodating and there are plenty of activities and trips. Kurt and Inge invite friends to dine with them frequently, and they attend services at their synagogue, Temple Emanu-El of Closter.
Inge and Kurt were both born in Germany and fortunately left before the doors were closed and war took over. They came to the United States (separately) with their families when young and settled in Washington Heights. Inge’s interests are children (was a Brownie leader), needlepoint, volunteer organizational work and cooking (co-edited 2 cookbooks). She had various jobs and was a Sunday School teacher. While still in Germany, Kurt attended a seminary to become a cantor and teacher. In the U.S. he apprenticed to be a silversmith. In 1948, Kurt entered the first cantorial school in America – Hebrew Union College. He is active in cantorial organizations and was president of the Cantor’s Assembly. Kurt received 2 Honorary Doctorates in Jewish Music from Hebrew Union College and The Jewish Theological Seminary. He taught adult education of Jewish subjects and prepared over 1800 b’nai mitzvah. His hobbies are language studies, word and number game puzzles, and non-fiction books.
Kurt and Inge married in 1948, and will celebrate their 60th Wedding Anniversary in February 2008! They have a daughter and son-in-law, Judy and Ary Freilich, and 2 granddaughters, Sarah and Elizabeth. In 1962 Kurt became the Cantor and teacher in Temple Emanu-El of Englewood (later becoming Temple Emanu-El of Closter), retiring in 1989.
The Silbermanns have had an interesting and fulfilling life. Very outgoing and active, they continue their favorite pasttimes and friendships, and enthusiastically support Jewish organizations. The Jewish Home family is pleased to welcome Kurt and Inge to the Jewish Home Assisted Living Residence.