Arleen Sharon (Gratch) Lehman Obituary

Obituary

In Loving Memory of Arleen Sharon (Gratch) Lehman
July 10, 1940 – June 3, 2025

Arleen Sharon (Gratch) Lehman lived life with vibrant energy, a generous heart, and a laugh you could hear across the room. She was born in Chicago on July 10, 1940, to her devoted parents, Hymen and Yetta Gratch, who instilled in her a lifelong love of family, learning, and conversation. As a child, she spent carefree summers swimming at Union Pier with family and basking in beach days at camp—she loved being near water, a joy she carried with her throughout her life.

She made Poughkeepsie, NY, home for three decades, raising her four children with the same fierce love, curiosity, and enthusiasm that defined her every day. She then moved to Boca Raton, Florida, and began her new chapter of life, where she thrived for over 30 years, surrounded by sunshine, card tables, flea markets, and family visits.

Arleen could ask you questions for an hour, and you’d be surprised how much you’d end up enjoying it. She had an extraordinary memory and could recall names, events, and conversations from decades ago—just ask her, “Do you remember when…?” and she almost always did. She loved her family endlessly and bragged about her children and grandchildren with a sparkle in her eyes and zero apologies. She was a Grand Master in bridge, a skilled substitute math teacher, and an ever-curious, lifelong learner. And although she delighted in her own accomplishments, she was most proud of her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Arleen enjoyed traveling, savoring cruises with friends, and memorable trips with her children. She cherished family gatherings, especially during Jewish holidays, where traditions and connection meant everything. Fiercely loyal, she fought for what she believed was best for her children, and when something mattered to her, she simply never gave up.

In the final years of her life, as illness gradually dimmed her physical strength, it became a time of profound connection: her children rallied together to care for her, and in doing so, deepened their bonds and gave back the same love she had poured into them.

Arleen is survived by her four children and their spouses: Sheryl Lehman (Steve Levin), Brad Lehman (Li-wei Lehman), Michael Lehman, and Elisa Lehman (Ron Vitcusky); and her two treasured grandsons, Ryan and Eric Lehman. She is also survived by her beloved older brother, Alan (Sallie) Gratch. She now joins her cherished parents, Hymen and Yetta Gratch, whose love shaped her enduring strength and compassion.

Arleen’s spirit was big, her questions thoughtful, and her love unwavering. She will be deeply missed—but her laughter, stories, and legendary bridge hands will live on for generations. And though she is no longer physically with us, nothing important will pass her by—her children will carry her with them, always. She will never be alone, and she will never be far.

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