Rita Ackerman Goldberg, 92, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017. She was born on July 18, 1924, in the Bronx, N.Y., to Louis and Rose Ackerman.
Rita Goldberg was a delightful, funny, feisty, elegant yet earthy, Bronx transplant who brought to Norfolk the embodiment of New York City attitude, street-smart wisdom, fashionable attire and a zest for life that so many of her friends and acquaintances found infectious and engaging in her presence.
She was the totally consummate Jewish mother who raised her wonderful children with warm affection and love, strong family and religious values, constructive humor and fierce loyalty. Her friendships were always very special, warm and highly precious to her. To be in her presence was to feel the warmth of her personality, bask in the beauty of her smile and know the goodness of her heart, so uplifting to experience. She was truly one of a kind and will be sorely missed by all who knew her, her acquaintances, special friends and companions, and especially her family members who treasured and were nurtured by her warmth, love and care.
Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Rose Ackerman; sister, Hilda Harwicke; husband, Barton Goldberg; and son, Ted Goldberg.
Left to cherish her memory are her daughter Jane Goldberg Warden Park, and her husband, Bill Park; granddaughters, Leah and Carli Warden; and extended family members and friends.
A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 8100 Granby St., Norfolk, with Rabbi Michael Panitz from Temple Israel leading the service. A meal of consolation will be held at Jane’s residence, 2904 Brighton Beach Place, Unit 108, Virginia Beach, following the service. Shiva will be observed from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, and Tuesday, Jan. 10, at Jane’s residence.
