Herbert A. Rubenstein passed away peacefully on November 6, 2019, at the age of 93, surrounded by the love of his devoted wife of 49 years, Lynn Rubenstein, and his cherished daughter, Marla Rubenstein. In his final moments, the “Best of Bach” played softly in the background, while a family friend recited Hebrew prayers, providing a sense of comfort and reverence.
Born in New Britain, CT, on October 25, 1926, Herbert’s life was marked by dedication and passion. After graduating from high school in 1944, he began studying Electronics at Alfred University in New York, but his studies were interrupted when he was drafted into the Army. In June of 1945, he was deployed to Hawaii, Quadraline, Wetauck Island, and Okinawa for military training. After returning home from service, Herb worked with his father at Connecticut Furriers while pursuing his true passion—electronics.
Herbert’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to create his own business, “American Electronics,” which later became “Herbert Electronics” on Capital Avenue in Hartford, where he served the community for 30 years. Even after closing the store, his commitment to his craft never wavered, as he continued to repair electronics from his home for loyal customers. His skills and generosity also extended to volunteering several days a week at Auction It Today in Berlin, where he was treated like family.
Beyond his professional life, Herbert was a man of many interests. He loved attending tag sales, working in the garden, biking at the beach in Old Lyme, and indulging in sweets. A fan of “Blue Bloods,” Westerns, and “Jeopardy,” he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. His love for animals, especially cats and dogs, was evident in every encounter, and his musical tastes ranged from classical to jazz and big band music.
Herbert’s kindness and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew him. He was a devoted husband and father, always smiling and willing to lend a hand. His family, including his nephews Jeffrey and Curtis Widem, cousins Josh, Marc, and Arthur Rubenstein, and many other relatives, will forever remember his warmth and generosity.
Herbert was predeceased by his parents, Joe and Mary (Pearson) Rubenstein, and his sister, Sybil Widem. In gratitude for his life, donations in his memory can be made to the Humane Society or organizations supporting veterans—causes close to his heart.
A funeral with full military honors was held on Sunday, November 10, 2019, at Fairview Cemetery in West Hartford, followed by a luncheon in his honor. Shiva was observed in West Hartford, where family and friends gathered to remember and celebrate the life of a truly remarkable man.
Herbert’s life was one of service, love, and quiet dedication. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
