Scharr, Jerome
Jerome "Jerry" Mitchell Scharr, 89, of Deep River, Connecticut passed away peacefully on Monday, February 20th, 2023 in Jupiter, Florida, leaving behind his loving wife Marlene (Ginsberg), married 65 years. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, on March 22, 1933, Son of the late Philip and Mabel (Richman) Scharr and eldest brother of Merle "Terry" Kurtzman (Irv), and Lynn Sharp (Dan). Father of three to Michael Scharr (Julie), Janet Gochberg (predeceased), and Elizabeth Scharr. He is a proud grandfather to three grandchildren, Amanda Sears (Doug) of Northborough, MA, Alison Sjoberg (Stefan) of Suffield, CT, and Katelin Gochberg of Boston, MA.
Jerry was raised in the Elmwood section of West Hartford and went through the West Hartford Public Education system, spending most of his time either in the classroom or with his friends and family. Academics came quite naturally to him, he especially excelled in math. After High School, he began his college education at Trinity College as a pre-med student, but quickly realized his true passion for engineering. He graduated from University of Connecticut with his degree in Engineering. Throughout college Jerry worked as a short order cook and developed a skill for making eggs and bacon, a skill that his wife, children, and grandchildren were very grateful for.
A lifelong businessman and inventor who started multiple companies, leading to branches across the United States and Internationally, including starting Scharr Industries Inc in the early 1960's, Techni-met Inc. with his son Michael, Scharr Motors car dealership, and others over the years. Outside of his work, Jerry was a classic car enthusiast, lover of the water and Connecticut shore. Jerry was very active with the YPO (Young Presidents Organization) and enjoyed all the trips with that group and the close friends that he made during this time. He always had a philanthropic spirit and was a strong supporter of the Jewish Association for Community Living, Jewish Federation, and Foundation.
With his wife by his side, they spent time in West Hartford and Deep River, Connecticut, Rancho Bernardo, California, and Jupiter, Florida, as well as many trips with family around the country. One of Jerry's greatest joys was spending time with his three grandchildren. Not only was he meant to be a father, but it was his purpose to be a grandfather. As a family man, Jerry was very kind, gentle, and caring, he enjoyed a cup of black coffee, the latest paper, heading into the office for a good day of hard work, and a sweet treat of vanilla ice cream.
The service will be held on Friday, February 24 at 10am at Beth El Temple, 2626 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT followed by a graveside service at Beth El cemetery at 51 Jackson Street, Avon, CT. There will be a livestream link for the service provided by Beth El Temple.
The family will be sitting shiva at the Scharr family home in Deep River, CT from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday, February 26th and Monday, February 27th. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Jewish Association for Community Living. www.jcl-ct.org/ donate