FINIFTER, Bernard

Dr. Bernard Morton Finifter, 88, of Boynton Beach, Florida, passed away on December 31, 2023. Born on October 7, 1935, in Baltimore, MD. Bernie was loving, caring, and generous to his family and friends often displaying his sense of humor. Bernie was creative, talented, and insightful. Dedicated to his profession and his students, he had a strong intellect which inspired both students and colleagues.

Bernie had a passion for education and dedicated his career to academia. He retired as Associate Professor of Sociology (Emeritus), sharing his knowledge and wisdom with students throughout his professional life. Bernie was also an internationally recognized researcher and scholar. His research was often interdisciplinary in its approach and ranged in topics from sociological methodology to a study of US emigrants to Australia to understanding mass murder occurrences. His educational experience includes the following: Forest Park High School, Antioch College (BA), University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (MA), and University of Wisconsin-Madison (PhD).

Outside of his career, Bernie was active in political and social issues. He believed in making a difference in the world and was deeply committed to creating a better society. He served as one of the first participants in the Peace Corps, serving in Venezuela.

Bernie is survived by his beloved wife Sheila Bernstein Finifter and his brother David H. Finifter. He was preceded in death by his parents Esther and Morris Finifter, his sister Ethel Lee Finifter Shore, and his sister Merrill Lynn.

A memorial service for Bernie will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at Eternal Light Memorial Gardens in Boynton Beach, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Operation Smile and the Michigan State University Library. These organizations were close to Bernie’s heart and reflect his values and interests.