Obituary of Harold Stanley Yood, MD
Harold S. Yood, a physician and lifelong resident of Plainfield, NJ, passed away peacefully at home in the presence of loved ones on June 12, 2021. He was born on February 23, 1920, the youngest son of Dr. Raphael and Netta Yood. He graduated from Plainfield High School at age 16 and enrolled at his beloved University of Virginia, earning a BA in 1940 and MD in 1943. At UVA, he met the ”most beautiful strawberry blonde he had ever seen.” The next day they had a date, married in 1941, and remained united until Helen’s passing in 2009. They had four children; Pamela Yood of Arlington, VA; Patricia Yood Herskovitz (Robert) of Roanoke, VA, and Dr. Andrew Yood (Ruth) of New York City. His youngest daughter, Paula Yood Peterson, preceded him in death. Two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren also survive him and affectionately referred to him as “Grump”. He will also be missed by his faithful companion, Dawg.
Following his graduation, he interned at the Syracuse University Medical Center. In 1943, he went to serve his country as a Medical Officer (Captain) in the US Army. He saw action at the front in the Battle of the Bulge and crossed the Rhine in a combat glider. He received a Purple Heart, three battle stars, and one arrowhead. He was indeed a member of “The Greatest Generation.”
After the War, Dr. Yood returned to Plainfield, where he practiced medicine for 44 years. He was cherished and admired by his patients. He was on the Muhlenberg Regional Medical Center staff and served as Chief of Medicine and President of the Medical Staff for six years. Following retirement from practice, Dr. Yood spent ten years as medical director of the CJIPA.
Dr. Yood served in numerous civic capacities: the Boards of Union County Medical Society, MSNJ, AMA, United Way of Plainfield-Fanwood and Union County. He was also President of Plainfield Jewish Community Center, VP Jewish Federation of Central NJ, Board of Directors NJ Jewish Home for the Aged, and President of the Plainfield Lions Club.
In his later years, he became a ”political activist,” keeping the Plainfield City Council “on its toes” both by attending and speaking at Council Meetings and through his widely read “OldDoc’s Blog.”
Dr. Yood was a big sports fan, following UVA in every sport, both men and women. He was incredibly proud of the 2019 national championship basketball team. He saw the Mets play in all three of their stadiums, and last year he was thrilled to be recognized by the New York Mets as “Veteran of the Game.” He and Helen were bridge champions for many years. His final hurrah was winning the family “Oh Hell” card game on Memorial Day.
The family would like to thank his spectacular caregivers, Sonja Wittock and Vee Palmer. These ladies were truly gifts from God. In addition, the support of two dear friends, Doug Long and Howie Cohen, was invaluable for many years.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 18 at 11:30 a.m. at Temple Sholom, 1925 Lake Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076. followed by interment at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery, 189 Gill Lane, Iselin, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Temple Sholom or the charity of your choice.
