Helene Rochelle Lechtner, 90, of Boca Raton, FL, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026. Born on December 9, 1935, in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Lillian Steinberg.
Helene was the beloved wife of Leonard ("Len") Lechtner, who preceded her in death by just three months. Their love story began in Louisville, KY, where they met at a Sweetheart Dance. They married six months later and built a beautiful life together in Erie, PA, before retiring to Boca Raton.
She is survived by her son, Larry Lechtner; her daughter, Sheri (Marc) Freedman; her grandchildren, Max (Jackie Harth) Freedman and Hallie (Vlad) Bulkin; her great-granddaughters, Lily and Mia; her brother, Elliot (Emily) Steinberg; nieces Debbie Steinberg and Jennifer Cohen (Golan Ben-Chorin); nephews Ken (Sheila) Steinberg, Dave (Kathy) Steinberg, and Jon Cohen (Davida Rabinowitz); and many cherished relatives and friends.
A devoted member of Brith Sholom Congregation in Erie, Helene served on the Executive Board as Treasurer, helped lead the congregation's popular Center Bingo, and generously volunteered in the synagogue kitchen, where her love of cooking and food decorating brought countless people together. In recognition of her dedication, she received the congregation's Woman of Valor and Golden Heart Awards.
After retiring to Boca Raton, Helene continued to build lasting friendships and remained active in her community. Above all, she was devoted to her family. Being a grandmother and greatgrandmother brought her immense joy, and her warmth, generosity, and loving spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A graveside service will be held Thursday, July 9, 2026, at South Florida Jewish Cemetery in Lake Worth Beach, FL.
Memorial contributions may be made to Chabad Central of Boca Raton or the Alzheimer's Foundation of America.
