Gabriel Michael Hellman, 101, died on November 18, 2015 in Overland Park, Kansas. He was predeceased by both his wife, Rose Hellman, to whom he was married 69 years, and his brother, Morton J. Hellman. He was born on September 27, 1914 to Jacob and Gertrude Hellman in Bronx, New York. He went to college at City College of New York and graduated at age 19. He received his Master’s in Science degree in Mathematics four years later from New York University. He taught mathematics in the New York City School system and served in the United States Army during World War II. After receiving an honorable discharge he returned to civilian life. In addition to his full time employment and his family responsibilities he began evening studies in actuarial science. He became a highly regarded actuary with a specialty in pension planning. He retired in 1989 following a very successful career, and ultimately owned his own actuarial firm.
While a young man, in his early 20’s he became an outstanding chess player, competing regularly with the best chess players in the world. He ultimately ranked 7th in North America. After a 50 year hiatus from competitive chess, at age 76, he returned to competitive chess, rapidly rising to the level of Master based on his tournament performance. He remained a widely sought after chess player until his 95th year and continued playing until age 98. He was an excellent contract bridge player, achieving Bronze Life Master status in Duplicate Contract Bridge. He also was a competitive tennis player throughout his life, winning his last doubles title at his tennis club at age 85, and ended his tennis at age 87.
Gabriel had been the quiet patriarch of a large extended family, now spanning the globe, and he was a benefactor to many. He was particularly generous in his work and time for charitable organizations regarding mental health and disabilities in the young.
He is survived by his sons, Dr. Richard Hellman (wife Julie) of Leawood Kansas, Geoffrey Hellman, of Sydney, Australia, brother Burton Hellman of the Bronx, his brother-in-law Alex Eventoff and his wife Renee of Davie, Florida, his 11 grandchildren, and many nephews, nieces, and five great-grandchildren. He had a full life.
The funeral will be at Mount Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home at I-435 and Holmes Road in Kansas City, Missouri on Sunday, November 22nd 2015 at 12 noon. Burial will follow the service at the Beth Torah section of the Mount Moriah Cemetery immediately following the services. Mount Moriah can be reached at 816-942-2004. The family would like to thank Dr. Rick Harlow and all those who also assisted in Gabe’s care.
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