Ernest Gleckman, 87, of Poughkeepsie, died peacefully at home on February 20, 2017. He was healthy, active, independent and joyful to the last day.
Born in Providence, RI, on April 26, 1929, Ernie attended Hope High School, graduated from Brown University (magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa), and earned a master’s degree at the University of Connecticut. He taught English at Dutchess Community College for over 35 years, happiest when he was able to teach Russian literature, but proud of his success in teaching remedial writing.
In 1959, while teaching at the University of Idaho, Ernie met Lorraine (“Rainy”) Rothbard from New York City, a fellow member of the English faculty. They became engaged a few months later and enjoyed 39 years of marriage until Rainy’s death in 1998 after a long illness, during which he cared for her devotedly. Ernie served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1948, stationed in Zama, Japan.
Ernie is survived by his children, Jason Gawain Gleckman (Ada Fung) of Hong Kong, and Kezia Gleckman Hayman of Poughkeepsie; his grandson Lev Hayman; his step-grandchildren Amie and Andrew Azad of WI; his brothers, Robert (Sheila) Gleckman of CT and Michael Gleckman of FL; nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Louis and Lillian (Gabrilowitz) Gleckman of RI, and his parents-in-law, Louis and Lottie (Pearlman) Rothbard of NYC/Poughkeepsie, to whom he was a beloved son.
Ernie was profoundly moved by classical music and literature. He loved great movie acting, music from the Great American Songbook, and accounts of expeditions to the Nile and South Pole. He was the epitome of calmness, unpretentiousness, common-sense, and generosity toward family and friends. He was adored. There will be a private memorial gathering at a future date.
Arrangements are under the direction of the William G. Miller & Son Funeral Home, Inc. 371 Hooker Avenue, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.wmgmillerfuneralhome.com

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