Gerald Beckerman, Esq.

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Gerald Beckerman, a lifelong Brightonian, passed away on June 30th, 2022. Born on December 15th, 1930, Jerry lived a long, rich life that centered on his two great loves – his unconditional love and devotion for his wonderful family, and his endless love for the law which he practiced with dignity and honor for over six decades.

He was predeceased by his parents, Abe & Dora Beckerman; son, David S. Beckerman. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Joyce (Hurvitz) Beckerman; sons, Steven (Jackie) Beckerman, Douglas (Terri) Beckerman; daughter-in-law, Ann (John) Germanow; grandchildren, Rachel & Lauren Beckerman, Richard, Evan (Chelsey) & Sophie Beckerman, Dylan & Kira Beckerman; great-granddaughter, Penelope Beckerman; brother, Murray (Renee) Beckerman; niece, Martha (Richard) Birnbaum.

His childhood was filled with joy, surrounded by his parents Abe and Dora, and his older brother Murray. After graduating from Brighton high school in 1949, Jerry went on to gain a degree in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He was then on to Cornell University, where Jerry received his law degree in 1956.

It was during law school that Jerry married his cherished sweetheart, Joyce Hurvitz, who he spent the next 68 years with, building together a beautiful family, with their 3 sons Steve, David, and Doug. A devoted father for Jerry meant 9 years of little league coaching, leading various Cub Scout packs, and being President of Ski Valley, a family ski club.

Jerry’s family was at the center of his world, and as it expanded, so did his tremendous pride and joy. First, with the addition of his three daughters-in-law, Ann, Jackie, and Terri, whom he loved like his own, followed by the birth of his 7 grandchildren, Ricky, Evan, Sophie, Rachel, Lauren, Dylan, and Kira, and most recently his great-granddaughter Penelope. Each of them having their own special relationship with him that they will treasure always.

Just as his family life flourished, so did his esteemed career. Soon after law school, Jerry joined his brother, Murray, to form the firm, Beckerman and Beckerman, working together for several years. He went on to practice with colleagues, creating Beckerman, Davidson, Fink, and Cook where his career blossomed, gaining him a distinguished reputation for the highest caliber of ethics and capability.

Without a doubt, however, the highlight of his legal career was in 1983 when his sons Steve and David, joined him in his practice, resurrecting the family firm of Beckerman and Beckerman. It was a gift he worshipped every day, to work in the career he loved with his sons by his side.

Jerry practiced law the same way he lived his life with tremendous integrity and utmost humility, steadfast principles that he passed on to his children/partners. He became the quintessential general practitioner – a lawyer’s lawyer – truly gifted in all areas of civil practice. His exemplary reputation, and great respect from his peers, culminated in his serving as President of the Monroe County Bar Association in 1990, after years of active participation in the bar association on both the local and state levels, holding a variety of leadership roles.

However, it was truly Jerry’s charismatic personality and infectious sense of humor that were legendary with his many friends and acquaintances over the years. You didn’t have to spend much time with Jerry to be personally touched by his genuine warmth, charm, and quick wit. His multitude of famous one-liners have been proudly adopted, over time, by his children and grandchildren, and will live on for years to come, as will all of the special memories that we were fortunate enough to share with this wonderful man.

A Graveside Service will be held on Sunday, July 3rd at 11AM at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Temple B’rith Kodesh Section. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the main entrance to the cemetery across from the Distillery Restaurant at 10:45.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 3rd from 2-5 PM on the Patio at the Summit, Summit Circle Drive in Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Jewish Senior Life, 2021 Winton Road South, Rochester, NY 14618.  Donate Online