Daniel Kalem

Daniel D. Kalem, 90, of Springfield died Nov. 28, 2012. Born in the Bronx, he lived in Springfield since 1950.

Mr. Kalem was the founder of KRA (Kalem Rekoon) Insurance Agency, Springfield, with which he was affiliated for over 40 years. He was then the coordinator of Counseling on Health Insurance for Medicare Enrollees (CHIME) of Union County, for which he also trained volunteers. He often spoke to senior groups and wrote extensively on Medicare issues for seniors.

A graduate of City College of New York, he studied Russian at Yale University and taught insurance at Fairleigh Dickinson University.

A veteran of the U.S. Army during World War II, he served as a war correspondent.

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He was the recipient of the prestigious Certificate of Merit presented by the Health Care Finance Administration.

Deeply committed to public service and volunteerism for most of his life, he was an active member of the Springfield First Aid Squad since 1955, serving several years as its president. He also served as president of the Union/Essex chapter of Mended Hearts and was a member of the Rotary Club of Springfield. He and his wife were founding members of Temple Beth Ahm Yisrael, Springfield.

He was affiliated with Overlook Hospital in Summit for many years and served as Medicare Coordinator for Union County.

Predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Susanne (Hallo), and a daughter, Jeanette Kalem, he is survived by three daughters, Allyson Aborn (Bruce Doniger) of Scarsdale, NY, Toni Kalem (Billy Pryor) of New York City, and Rachel (Bill) Funcheon of Watchung; five grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

Services were held Nov. 30 with arrangements by Menorah Chapels at Millburn, Union. Memorial contributions may be made to the Springfield First Aid Squad.