Sharon Birnbaum
Denver native and longtime Temple Sinai Preschool teacher Sharon Birnbaum died on August 18, 2025, at the age of 77. A service was held on August 21 at Temple Sinai, officiated by Rabbi Richard Rheins. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
Born on April 11, 1948, Mrs. Birnbaum (née Kerstein) grew up on Denver’s West Side and attended George Washington High School. She married Stephen Steinberg and they had two children. She was married to Len Birnbaum for the past 25 years.
After a brief career as a dental assistant, Mrs. Birnbaum began her career as a preschool teacher at Temple Sinai for decades. Mrs. Birnbaum later earned a certification in massage therapy.
“Of all her roles in life, Sharon’s most cherished was being a mom, and more recently, a nana,” her family said. “She was known for her baking and loved nothing more than being with her family and dear friends.
“Sharon will be remembered for her big heart, quick wit and ability to find laughter as illustrated by her loving, nurturing compassion and genuine interest in every person lucky enough to cross her path.”
Survivors are Mrs. Birnbaum’s husband Len; children Jared (Jacqueline Sene) Steinberg and Devin (Justin Cline) Steinberg; siblings Marcye Rothberg, Howard (Joann) Kerstein and Stanley (Suzi) Kerstein; and grandchildren Braxton Cline, Henley Cline and Omar Sene.
Contributions may be made to The Denver Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Assn.
Gerald “Jerry” Lukton
Denver native Gerald “Jerry” Lukton passed away on July 29, 2025, at the age of 93. A service was held on August 1 at Emanuel Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
Born on May 2, 1932, and growing up in downtown Denver, Mr. Lukton began working at a young age selling newspapers on South Broadway and bussing tables at the Brown Palace Hotel. He went on to build a successful career as an insurance and financial advisor.
The longtime member of Temple Emanuel held positions with B’nai B’rith Denver Lodge 171, Allied Jewish Federation (JEWISHcolorado) and the Committee for the Economic Growth of Israel. In 1993, Mr. Lukton co-founded the Rocky Mountain chapter of the American Friends of Assaf Harofeh Medical Center. He also volunteered on an Israeli Army base through Sar-El Volunteers for Israel.
Survivors are children Lori, Cynthia (Cindy), Larry, Bert, Michelle (Shelly), Jennifer (Jenny) and Netanya; 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Contributions may be made to Craig Hospital Foundation or Temple Emanuel.
© IJN 2025
