Obituary of Ilene Donner Scheinbaum

Ilene Donner Scheinbaum, 79, passed peacefully to her eternal rest on March 2, 2020. Ilene was born in Brooklyn, NY, to Lilyan and Milton Donner, both of blessed memory. At the age of 17, she married Monte Scheinbaum, her first boyfriend, and the couple remained married until her passing. A devoted wife, Ilene raised their 4 children while the family frequently relocated to accommodate Monte’s education, career, health needs and personal interests. Locations where Ilene lived include Massachusetts, Switzerland, New Jersey, Tennessee, Florida, Upstate New York, Louisiana, Maryland and Washington State. Ilene continually worked and took on several successful careers during her child-rearing years and beyond, including Microbiologist, Science Teacher, Real Estate Agent and most recently, Certified Financial Planner. In addition to advanced degrees in microbiology and secondary education, she earned CFP certification. Ilene enjoyed traveling and was privileged to have visited every continent, including Antarctica, numerous countries, states and cities. Ilene’s singular passion was her family. She provided endless love and support to her children: Dr. Karen Scheinbaum of Houston, TX, Charles (Sandy) Scheinbaum of Newcastle, WA, Laura (Dan) Dembling of Glenmont, NY and Robert Scheinbaum of Montclair, NJ. Ilene adored and showed boundless pride for her 8 grandchildren: Ian, Shira, Max, Andre, Lily, Jessica, Sam and Hannah. Ilene was also a sister to Marilyn Schneider of Amiad, Israel and Neil (Patrice) Donner of Tamarac, FL, as well as a beloved aunt to her 7 nieces and nephews. She is also survived by many cousins, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Ilene will be remembered most for her outpouring of love and generosity. She was the hub of communication for her extended family. Progressing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia significantly impacted her quality of life and ability to serve this purpose in more recent years. When the need arose for long-term care facilities, she was fortunate to receive dedicated care from many medical professionals and caregivers who grew to love her dearly. Ilene was showered with love by her daughter, Laura, and son-in-law, Dan during her final years. Funeral services and interment will be held at 1:00pm on March 8, 2020 at Palms Memorial Park in Sarasota, FL. A memorial service will also be held at the Levine Memorial Chapel, 649 Washington Avenue in Albany, NY, on Monday, March 9, 2020 at 4pm. The Dembling family will be receiving visitors in their home at 59 Manor Drive, Glenmont on Tuesday, March 10, from 5-8pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any of the following by those wishing to honor Ilene’s memory: Alz.org, Hadassah.org, or Autism-society.org.