On July 20, Arline Gotkin Atlas of Rockville, MD, devoted wife, mother, mother-in law, grandmother, sister, aunt and amazing friend passed away. Arline leaves behind her adoring husband of almost 70 years, Alvin Atlas. Arline was the loving mother of Robin Atlas Tolin (Seth), Larry Atlas (Andrea) and the late Craig Atlas and Allison Atlas. She was a devoted and much-loved grandmother to Jennifer Atlas, Coby Tolin and Asher Tolin and the eldest sibling to the late Mervin Gotkin who she adored. She will be missed by her family and many dear friends.
Born in Washington, D.C., Arline was the daughter of Sylvia and Max Gotkin. She graduated from Wilson High School and attended University of Maryland, where she was a member of Phi Delta Sorority. In 1952, when she was 16 years old, she asked Alvin to a sorority sister’s party and they have been together ever since, living life as a team.
Arline was a constant host, creative, passionate and caring person always willing to go that extra mile. She was an active member of Adas Israel Congregation and a supporter, and board member of Jewish Foundations for Group Homes where she was often found taking residents bowling or out to dinner.
In 1989, along with Alvin, her giving nature became personal when her daughter Allison needed a marrow donor to live. Together, Alvin and Arline spear headed a nationwide search to help all people looking for a marrow donor. Along with Allison, Arline and Alvin participated in media tours, organized bone marrow drives and educated others of the importance of becoming a marrow donor. Even after Allison passed away, Arline continued to help other families searching for a donor. In 1998, Arline and Alvin were awarded Washingtonian of the Year. They also earned the Rabbi Joseph P. Weinberg triumph of the spirit award and the B’nai Brith Humanitarian award.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her memory may be made to Makom (formerly known as JFGH). Arrangements entrusted to Torchinsky Hebrew Funeral Home, 202-541-1001.