Dr. Gerald Kass, O.D., age 85, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family on February 3, 2025 at Monmouth Medical Center.
He was born Gerald Finkelstein in Long Branch, NJ on March 18, 1939 and lived in Monmouth County throughout his life. His father, Louis Finkelstein died when he was 6 months old. He and his brother Marvin Finkelstein were raised by their mother, Rose Kass, who later remarried, to Harry M. Kass, at which time he took on his stepfather’s last name.
Dr. Kass practiced optometry for 60 years and maintained a private practice in West Long Branch, NJ for 48 years. Dr. Kass graduated from Monmouth College, and later, the New England College of Optometry in 1963. He specialized in various areas of optometry, including corneal and contact management, pediatrics, and vision therapy. He was a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and held various leadership roles in the Monmouth-Ocean County Optometric Association and American Optometric Association. He was a proud United States Army Veteran as well.
Dr. Kass lived a vibrant, active lifestyle with boundless curiosity and countless hobbies and interests.
All who met him quickly came to learn that he was an avid fisherman, home cook, photographer, and carpenter. In his later years, he volunteered as an Optometrist at the Parker Family Health Center. He was an active member of the West Long Branch chapters of the Rotary Club and Lions Club for decades as well. He was also an active member of Monmouth Reform Temple in Tinton Falls, NJ and before that Temple Beth Miriam in Elberon, NJ.
Dr. Kass is survived by his loving wife Gail Kass of 62 years; his 3 children, Steve Kass, Lloyd Kass and Carolyn Jacobs; and 5 grandchildren, Amber Kass, Carson Kass, Willa Kass, Skyler Jacobs and Tess Jacobs.
Funeral service Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Monmouth Reform Temple, 332 Hance Avenue, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724. Burial to follow in Monmouth Fields Cemetery, West Long Branch, NJ 07764.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Parker Family Health Center, 211 Shrewsbury Ave, Red Bank, NJ 07701 (parkerfamilyhealthcenter.org)