Arlene Berchanko

SHIVA: Shiva will be observed at the home of Beth and Drew Findling

OBITUARY

We are sad to announce the passing of Arlene Berchanko on Monday, March 10, 2025, at the age of 91. Arlene was born in the Bronx, New York, to Irving and Eva Wolf (née Canter) on February 13, 1934. She was known to many as the most stylish and elegant woman they had ever met.

In the mid-1950s, while attending the University of Georgia, Arlene met her first husband, David Kaplan (z”l). Together, they built a beautiful life and had three daughters: Michelle (z”l), Nina, and Beth. Arlene is survived by her daughters, Nina Altman and Beth Findling; her son-in-law, Drew Findling; her sisters, Marilyn Cohen and Sandra Singer and brother-in-law Richard Singer; her grandchildren, Deena, Zachary, Samantha, Matthew, Madison, and Noah; and her great-grandchildren, Jacob, Max, Maizy, and Asher.

After losing her beloved Dave, Arlene carried her vivaciousness and grace through nearly 50 more years. She found love again with her husband Kenneth Kopelman (z”l) and, together, they built a thriving business. Kenneth’s untimely death left Arlene owning and operating The Monogram Shop for over 35 years on her own. Her zest for life allowed her to find love once again marrying Harry Berchanko. 

She loved to play mahjong, bridge and spending time with her many friends. She was a successful and dedicated businesswoman, finally closing her store at the remarkable age of 87. She loved creating a joyful and welcoming space for her employees, customers and her family. 

Arlene’s elegance, passion for life, and deep love for her family were truly infectious. She inspired everyone around her, and her legacy will live on in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved her.