Helen Ruth (Levin) Isenman passed away peacefully at home on August 28, 2024, at the age of 99. She was born in Boston on August 20, 1925, the daughter of Benjamin and Rebecca Levin. Helen graduated from Dorchester High School for Girls in 1942 and earned a degree from the Forsyth Training School for Dental Hygienists (now part of the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences) in 1945. Helen married Morris J. Isenman of Portland in 1955, and then moved to Portland where she lived the remainder of her life.
Helen worked as a dental hygienist in Boston early in her life. After moving to Portland, she helped Morris run the operations of Presumpscot Manufacturing Co., a family-owned business which manufactured and sold twine and cordage throughout the United States.
Helen was a member of Etz Chaim Synagogue and Temple Beth El. She was active in a number of organizations. Helen was a lifetime member of Hadassah, and a member of the Temple Beth El Sisterhood, the National Council for Jewish Women, and the American Legion Auxiliary. Helen also volunteered at the Maine Medical Center.
Helen was extremely active throughout her life, including exercising three days a week at Basics Fitness until the pandemic, and then participating virtually. She also participated for many years in the Jewish Community Center Women’s Bowling League.
Helen was a strong and independent person, who lived life to the fullest. She approached life with appreciation and took advantage of every opportunity to enjoy each day. Helen was always optimistic and full of energy. Helen also valued her relationships with family and friends, and had the ability to let everyone that she met know that they were important to her. Helen was a role model to her family, for whom she was an inspiration.
Helen was predeceased by her husband Morris, her brothers Theodore Levin and Maurice Levin, and her sister Hilda Gold. She is survived by her daughter Susan Isenman and her partner Richard Abramson of Portland, her son Barry Isenman and daughter-in-law Margaret Gavigan of Downers Grove, Illinois, her grandchildren Lauren Isenman and Matthew Isenman, and her sister Harriet Pinto.
A graveside service was held on Friday, August 30 th at the Mt. Carmel Cemetery. The family asks that any donations be made to Etz Chaim Synagogue or a charity of your choice.