Mildred "Millie" Hochman

Mildred “Millie” Hochman led a life filled with love. Born 11/01/1921 to Fannie and Ruben Plotzky, she was the baby of the family, adored by her big sister, Claire (Meyerson), and brother, Hy. Accompanying a friend to a dance, she met Nathan, and a great romance began. They married within the year and had two children, Richard, and Linda (Leni). Millie and Nat enjoyed a close circle of friends. She played Mahjong and Canasta weekly, and hosted many gatherings of friends who argued politics yet still loved each other. (Imagine!)

No long list of degrees (though she was valedictorian of her high school), her titles were given to her by her friends and family: "Doctor Hochman" for her educated nurturing and "Saint Millie", not because she was born on All Saints Day, but because she opened her heart to everybody. She loved her grandchildren, Robin and Daniel, unconditionally, and then embraced their spouses, Brandon and Areum, with genuine love. She and her son-in-law defied stereotypes, loving each other deeply. She cherished her nieces and nephews. Family meant everything to her.

Her world was shaken when her son was killed in a car accident by a drunk driver. Remarkably, she and Nat supported each other through the tragedy and managed to find happiness again. They made the best of their retirement; bought a condo in Florida, traveled around the world, and enjoyed Elderhostels. Her world was shaken again when Nat died as they approached 44 years of marriage.

A year later, an old family friend, Leonard Daniels, managed to win her heart, and once again she was totally adored. His family became her family too. They traveled extensively and had 15 great years before he died.

Millie was devoted to her sister Claire and wouldn't leave Florida until after she passed. She moved to Ithaca in 2015 to be near her daughter, with whom she shared a rare relationship of mutual respect and admiration, first residing at McGraw House and then Old Hundred. She was cared for and loved by many aides and the family is forever grateful.

She knew how to love deeply, and in return, she was loved by many. She was an inspiration.

Millie will be buried beside my father and brother. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Robin Fund-GIAC (https://www.paypal.com/donate/...), Open Doors English or the American Red Cross.

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