Ira Yohalem, 77, of Mill River, accountant and business advisor, died on May 16 from a sudden illness. Born in Mt. Vernon, N.Y., Ira received his BA from the University of Michigan and MBA from Columbia University. He joined his father’s accounting firm, Yohalem Gillman, which he expanded and later merged with Anchin, Block & Anchin, a prominent New York firm.
A long-time second homeowner in the Berkshires, Ira and his second wife, Shirley, lovingly renovated an old home and then became full-time residents. Ira was a generous contributor to cultural institutions in the Berkshires. He was a board member and treasurer of Barrington Stage Company. An avid tennis player, he competed in tournaments at Wyantenuck Country Club in Great Barrington and became an enthusiastic golfer. Ira enjoyed talking sports and business and always found time to advise friends, young and old.
Ira is survived by his wife, Shirley; his children, Matthew and Beth and their spouses; two grandchildren; his brother, Nat, and sister-in-law, Louise, and their daughters; his sister-in-law, Judy Brown, and his many nephews and nieces who lovingly call him “Uncle I.”
Donations in his memory can be made to Barrington Stage Company in Pittsfield.
