MILTON HARRY NIRKEN

1940-2017

Dr. Milton Harry Nirken, born on October 19, 1940. Beloved husband, honored father and grandfather, devoted physician, and cherished brother, uncle, and friend, passed away in his home in Austin on August 4th surrounded by his family. After fighting heroically through debilitating illnesses, he now rests in peace comfortably. He was a hero to countless numbers of children and parents over his 40+ years as a distinguish pediatrician in Houston, and was certainly seen as a guide post of honesty and integrity to those that knew him. He loved people and would jump at the chance to help friends and strangers alike. He was known for his touching and heartfelt speeches and his countless stories some based on fact with just a bit of humorous fiction(a/k/a “Miltonisms”). He cherished his beloved wife, Allene, for more than 40 years and will soon rest comfortably again with her by his side. He loved to travel, fish, and of course eat to his heart’s content. His family, faith, friends and his pugs (Ozzie and Lettie) were the lights of his life and he brought joy to all those around him. Milton is survived by his children Melanie and Jeff Kaplan, Howard and Amy Nirken, and Robin and Martin Berson, his grandchildren Shawna and Jeremy Kaplan, and Alexis Berson, his sister and brother in law Annette and Jack Rau, Reva Shapiro and Bruce Stein, and a plethora of loving cousins, nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank all those that helped with the care of our dear father: Linda Hernandez, Charles “Choppy” Moore, Robbie Fisher, Debbie Davis, our Rabbi’s Neil Blumofe and Chabad Levertov and the countless number of doctors who aided him throughout his journey. Donations can be made in his memory to the Austin Jewish Academy or Jewish Family Services. Service will be held from 11:30 -12:30pm at Congregation Beth Yeshurun 4525 Beechnut Houston Texas, followed by a 1:00 burial at United Orthodox Cemetery Adath Ameth on Sylvester off Airline and 610 freeway. Additional services to be held on Monday at the home of Bruce Stein, and on Tuesday in Austin at Congregation Agudas Achim. For further details check online at Levy Funeral Directors.