Naomi Kahan, beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and artist was born on March 29, 1936, in the Bronx to Fanny and Samuel Mendelowitz. The youngest of three children, Naomi’s early life was marked by hardship. Her father passed away when she was just 13, and with her mother in poor health, Naomi, along with her brother and sister, grew up in challenging circumstances.

Despite these obstacles, Naomi discovered a passion for art while in high school. Determined to pursue her calling, she applied to The Cooper Union, a prestigious and competitive art and engineering school in New York City. She was accepted into both the day and evening programs but chose to take evening classes so she could work during the day to support herself.

After earning her degree, Naomi began working in the art department at Metropolitan Life Insurance, where she contributed her talents to designing brochures. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Jesse Kahan—an encounter as unexpected as it was serendipitous. Jesse had come to pick up her sister for a blind date, but it was Naomi who won his heart. They married in 1959 and built a life together, first in Queens and later in Englewood and then finally moving to Ridgewood in 1973 where she resided until her death.

Naomi served on the board at Temple Israel, organizing fundraisers like the temple’s annual craft show for many years. Her artistic talents extended to floral design as well, working in a Ridgewood flower shop and later starting a business creating arrangements and centerpieces for weddings, and Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.

Naomi and Jesse shared a beautiful marriage that lasted 53 years, until Jesse’s passing in 2012. In a twist of fate, Naomi found love again with Sidney Rogoff, a lifelong friend. They spent the last 10 years together, sharing love and companionship until they passed away just 11 days apart.

Naomi’s creative spirit was the thread that wove her life together. A talented artist, she explored numerous mediums, including oil painting, watercolor, soft sculpture, and collage, exhibiting and selling many of her works. Her artistic legacy is cherished by all who knew her, as her art lives on in the homes and hearts of her family.

She was not only an artist but also a philanthropist, quietly donating to numerous causes that were dear to her heart. Naomi’s generosity reflected her deep sense of compassion and desire to make the world a better place.

Beyond her artistic and philanthropic endeavors, Naomi was a poet, a mother, and a grandmother whose love and creativity touched all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of passion, generosity, and beauty, remembered by her children, Mitchell, Margo and Clifford, their spouses, Jennifer, Daniel and Leslie, and her six grandchildren: Adam, Kira, Charlotte, Liam, Max, and Ella.

Naomi’s spirit will forever be missed, but her love, kindness, and artistry will continue to inspire all of us.