Merritt Solomon Yoelin, formerly of Denver and past president of Jewish Family and Child Service of Portland, passed away Oct. 15, 2012, in Portland, Ore. He was 72. A memorial service was held Oct. 18 at Congregation Neveh Shalom in Portland.
Mr. Yoelin was born Feb. 16, 1940, in Denver.
He was married to Davita Cookie Yoelin for over 30 years. Mrs. Yoelin passed away on Oct. 19, 1999.
A resident of Portland for the past 50 years, Mr. Yoelin practiced law at Samuels, Yoelin, Kantor for four decades.
Chairman of the estate planning and administration section of the Oregon State Bar, he was listed in Best Lawyers in America for several years and was recognized as a Super Lawyer, 2006-2012.
Mr. Yoelin, who was involved with many civic and religious organizations, touched the lives of many Portland residents through his acts of charity and philanthropy.
As president of Neveh Shalom, he helped lead the thousand-member congregation through troubled times.
Mr. Yoelin served as president of the Jewish Family and Child Service and was on the Jewish Federation of Portland board. He also was an active member of the Kiwanis Club in Portland.
A member of the Royal Rosarians, he was on the Contemporary Art Council at the Portland Museum.
Mr. Yoelin is survived by his children Adam (Ann) Yoelin and Amara (Brian) Norman; and grandchildren Jared and Jordan.
Contributions may be made to Legacy Hopewell House Hospice, 6171 SW Capitol Highway, Portland, OR 97239.
Copyright © 2012 by the Intermountain Jewish News
