Mark Leyfman, 76

Posted

JOHNSTON, R.I. – Mark Leyfman died Oct. 14 at home. He was the beloved husband of Maria (Malyar) Leyfman for 57 years. Born in Siberia in 1945, he was the son of the late Yaakov, an architect, and Nina (Serlina) Leyfman. Mark’s father passed away when he was 9 years old, and by age 16 he was working full time during the day to support his family, and going to school at night.

Eventually establishing a successful career as an electrician in Kiev, Mark had to give up this occupation when he and his family fled Ukraine and immigrated to America. Seeking religious freedom, Mark and his family settled in Pawtucket but eventually moved to Johnston, where he lived for over 30 years. 

Mark loved to sing, play chess and card games, and he also was an avid traveler. Mark and his wife, Maria, always traveled together and made many friends along the way. Upon arriving in Rhode Island, Mark became a passionate fan of the Bruins and Celtics.

Mark was also quite the romantic and loved surprising his longtime wife, Maria, with flowers. Mark loved his wife’s cooking, but would often insist on going out to eat just to give her a break. 

He was the devoted father of Yanina Katz and her husband, Ronald, of Lincoln. He was the dear brother of the late Lev Leifman. He was the loving grandfather of Emily, Trisha and Dylan.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (Greater New England Chapter), 300 Jefferson Blvd., Ste. 101, Warwick, RI 02888, https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/MAM/Donate. 

obituary, Mark Leyfman