Obituary of Aaron Pines

Ithaca - Aaron Pines, 86, of Ithaca passed away on Wednesday, March 17th at Kendal of Ithaca. Aaron was born and grew up in the Bronx where he lived with his family above his father's pharmacy. He attended the Bronx High School of Science and then New York University for his bachelor's and dental degrees. He was introduced to Sara while he was in dental school. They married in 1959 and moved to France for Aaron's military service. After military service, they moved to Greenwich Village and Aaron also spent time in the South monitoring hospital compliance with new desegregation regulations. In 1971, they moved to Ithaca in order for Aaron to accept a position at the Willard Psychiatric Center. He loved the patient and staff community at Willard and always had a smile and time for former patients he would see in downtown Ithaca and, later, at Loaves and Fishes where he volunteered. He loved living in Ithaca and enjoyed drinking coffee downtown, playing chess with friends, attending outdoor concerts, and sharing wise borrowed quotes with anyone who would listen. He and Sara were involved in the founding of Ecovillage at Ithaca and he was involved on a daily basis in the Friendship Donations Network, founded by Sara, for many years. Aaron spent his last nine years at Kendal At Ithaca and was graced with new friendships as well as kindness and care from staff, especially during his three years at Kendal's Assisted Living Unit and Taughannock House. His wife, Sara, wishes to express her gratitude to the Owasco Unit staff "for the most outstanding and individualized nursing care anyone could wish." Staff provided compassion, warmth, constant attention, and humor during his last few months. Aaron is survived by his wife, Sara, their children, Daniel Pines and Elizabeth Pines-Learner, grandchildren, Abigail and Noah Learner, son-in-law, David Learner, sister-in-law, Marcia Pines Camerano, niece, Andrea Pines and nephew, Philip Pines. He is pre- deceased by his parents, Rose and Jack Pines and brother, Solomon Pines. Due to Covid restrictions and risks, there will be no funeral.