Pola Fialkoff

Pola Fialkoff, a beacon of light, love, and compassion in the lives of her family, friends, colleagues, and countless students passed away on May 19, 2024, in Cromwell, CT. Born on January 27, 1948, in Havana, Cuba, Pola's journey led her to touch many hearts and minds with her wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support. Pola's early years in Havana set the stage for a life of vibrancy and resilience. Embracing the world with open arms, she carried the warmth of her homeland in her heart as she later made Connecticut her home. Her parents, Ruben and Raquel (Levin) Fialkoff, instilled in her the values of education and service, a legacy she upheld throughout her life. Though they preceded her in death, their spirit lived on through Pola's actions and the love she shared with her family. Pola's life was rich with love and partnership. She found joy and companionship in her partner, Catherine Carter-Hancock, with whom she shared precious moments and unwavering support for more than 40 years. Her family was her pride and joy, including her daughter Kimberly Handleman, son-in-law Damon, and her cherished grandchildren Evan, Joshua, and Alexandra. Each day, she poured her heart and soul into their lives. Her brother, Bernard Fialkoff, will remember Pola as a source of inspiration and a pillar of strength within their family. Together, they shared a bond that transcended time and distance, rooted in shared memories and an unspoken understanding of life's complexities. Pola's commitment to personal and intellectual growth was unwavering. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Science from the University of Hartford, laying the foundation for a career as a bilingual high school counselor. From 1979 at Bulkeley High School to her retirement at Classical High School, she worked with love and admiration, dedicating herself to promoting and advocating for student success and personal growth. Pola's impact was recognized far and wide during her career, earning her the honor of Teacher of the Year. Her expertise and passion for education led her to become a Hartford delegate to the United Nations' University for Peace in San Jose, Costa Rica. There, she furthered her mission of spreading peace and understanding through education on a global stage. She recently led the Bulkeley High School retirees group and always found ways to stay connected and help others in her community. Colleagues and students alike knew Pola as a strong leader and team player. She had the unique ability to see potential in every individual and worked tirelessly to foster an environment where everyone could thrive. Her thoughtful, loving, and kind nature was not just a description of her character but the essence of her being. Pola's story is one of a life well-lived, a life dedicated to the service of others, and a life that exemplified the beauty of human kindness. She approached each day with a spirit of possibility and encouraged others to do the same. Her legacy is not merely in the accolades she received, but in the lives she transformed and the hearts she touched. As we commemorate the remarkable life of Pola Fialkoff, let us not just remember her but carry her spirit forward. Let us be thoughtful in our actions, loving in our relationships, and kind in our words. Let us honor her memory by becoming beacons of light in our own communities, just as she was in hers. Pola's journey on this earth may have ended, but the ripples of her influence will continue to spread, inspiring generations to come. A Graveside Service will take place on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Beth Sholom Memorial Park, 222 Autumn St., Manchester, CT. To leave a memory or message of condolence, please visit www.blumensteinfuneralhome.com







Services

Graveside Service
Wednesday
May 22, 2024
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Beth Sholom Memorial Park
222 Autumn Street
Manchester, CT 06040