Aleza Gould Myer, 53, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend and dentist passed away peacefully at her home on July 1 surrounded by her family and was laid to rest on July 3. Burial was in the Congregation Beth Torah section at Mount Moriah cemetery.
Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, she moved to Kansas City in 1985 to get her master’s degree in dental hygiene at UMKC. Once here she realized the better career path was to become a dentist. She attended the UMKC School of Dentistry where she earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery. She had a vibrant dental practice in south Kansas City for over 25 years until her retirement earlier this year.
Aleza was an active member of Congregation Beth Torah where she was involved in many facets of synagogue life. She was co-chair of the annual Mitzvah Day program and provided free or very low cost dental services to those in need within the congregation and the Jewish community as well whenever asked. She was also active at the Shul Chabad of Leawood where she was a Shabbat regular as well as attending numerous classes and lectures. She cherished her time spent with her synagogue family.
Her last six years were spent fighting a fierce battle with breast cancer that slowly progressed to her brain, lungs, liver and bones. Through it all she always had that great big smile and was happy for whatever time she could spend with her family and friends. She was a fighter until the very end. When told there was nothing left that could be done she accepted her fate with strength and grace and died peacefully a few days later.
She was a member of several professional organizations and study clubs. She was also a lifetime member of Hadassah.
Aleza had that special ability to bring sunshine into any room she entered. With her bubbly personality and that great big smile it was impossible not to feel her positive energy. She loved life, cherished her religion, family and friends. Her passing has left an unrepairable hole in the hearts of so many. She will be missed.
She was preceded in death by her parents Dr. Sol and Audrey Gould and sister Nancy. She is survived by her husband Larry Myer and children Jordan and Elyanna Myer; brother and sister in law Dr. Richard and Michelle Gould of Sacramento, California, and Dr. David and Robin Gould of Rockville, Maryland; nieces and nephews Josh and Michelle Gould, Dr. Dan Gould, Naomi, Rebecca, Joey, Isaac and Morey Gould; great-nephew Rubin Gould, numerous cousins in Chicago and Albuquerque and her very special friend, her dog Kiki.
Contributions can be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, 8900 State Line #333, Leawood, KS 66206.