Joseph Bernard Zicherman

As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now a part of us; as we remember them.

Obituary

Dr. Joseph Bernard Zicherman was born on February 8, 1946 in Mount Vernon, New York. He was the beloved son of Miriam and Nelson Zicherman, first generation American Jews, and brother to his dear sister Ina Blumenthal.

After completing his undergraduate studies in New York and his master’s degree in North Carolina, Joe served in the United States Marine Corps at Camp LeJeune. He then headed to the University of California Berkeley for his PhD, where he fell in love with the West Coast and never looked back. He lived in Berkeley for the rest of his life and built a wonderful second home and vineyard in Boonville, becoming deeply involved in the local community and culture of the beautiful Andersen Valley.

Joe was an engineer and a respected expert in fire safety, forensics, and the fire performance of materials and systems. Joe started the consulting firm Fire Cause Analysis in 1979, employing many dozens of engineers and scientists to research fires and investigate how to prevent them. His research was funded and used by train car manufacturers and operators, including our own Bay Area Rapid Transit and Amtrak systems. Over the years he served on many Codes and Standards committees, including as Chairman, developing design methods and rules to prevent fires in consumer products, clothing, furniture, buildings, factories and forests. Even in retirement Joe continued working in fire prevention and protection, serving on the Mendocino County Fire Safe Council. He also mentored engineers involved in fire investigation at Berkeley Engineering and Research Inc.

Joe passed away from complications of blood cancer on November 27, 2024. He leaves behind his wife of 34 years Virginia Roemer, his children Nona, Benjamin and Nathan Zicherman, his nephew and niece Dan and Julie Blumenthal, and his four grandchildren. His family will miss his strong personality, his wisdom, the joy he found in food, nature and travel, and the unconditional love he had for us all.

Gallery

Memory wall

December 6, 2024

Joe and I were dear friends for more than four decades. Our friendship began when our daughters, Nona and Alison, were competing for a formula bottle. We kept in close touch ever sense. In many respects our lives were on parallel paths. Both of us had Jewish roots but we were not very observant. Both of us served time in the military but we were very far removed from being natural soldiers. Both of us were in the consulting business. I loved Joe for many things. I always enjoyed his humor but most of all he impressed me with his enormous passion -- for his family, grapevines, Boonville, and just life in general. Joe gave everything 1000%. I will miss him dearly. Joe -- we will always love you.
Richard

Richard Gilbert

December 6, 2024

My deepest sympathy for Ginny, Nathan and all Family members and friends of this remarkable man. I remember Joe as a multi-talented & determined gentle man who knew his own mind, with an exacting nature who got things done. The hard work he applied his lifetime to was palpable. I believe Joe’s spirit will long be present in all he achieved and in the great love expressed for and through his beloved Family. It was a blessing to have known him.

Becky Rozewicz

December 5, 2024

Condolences to Ginny and family. It is a terrible disease. Sending prayers your way. Such a talented and brilliant man with a beautiful family.

Judith Garvey

November 30, 2024

I'm remembering Joe's good energy and laugh. I'm also remembering how he smiled at Ginny and Nathan. I'm grateful I saw him in his element in his beautiful home and got to swim in their pool.

Maria Simon

November 30, 2024

We’re so glad Joe came into our lives. He was always so smart & resourceful - full of energy!. We’ll miss him! Love to Ginny & Nate, who will also miss him greatly.

Beth Roemer

November 30, 2024

Joe was a force of nature! He enriched our lives so much with the Boonville Experience. I have countless memories of wonderful fun gatherings with Joe and family over the past few decades. I will carry you in my heart and memory forever Joe♥️

Terry Roemer

November 29, 2024

Love you

M V Roemer

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