Obituary of Miranda Sugarman

Miranda Sugarman PEABODY—Miranda Sugarman, 87, passed away at her home on Wednesday morning October 26, 2011, following a long illness, while in the comforting presence of her dear friend at her side. Born in Germany, she grew up there and learned the fine art of the Russian style of ballet. She became a very accomplished Prima Ballerina. Her gift helped her live through the war-torn Germany and by adding her feisty character, she lived through the Holocaust. Miranda had opportunities to go to Canada or Australia, and chose the United States in 1964. She first lived in Revere, and opened a dance studio of her own with her partner, Gene Murray. She later taught at Sandra School of Dance, and finally moved to Peabody where she lived the last 23 years. Ms. Sugarman honed her craft well, and with her dancing partner, Vladimir Jakovlevs who came from Latvia, Russia, they entertained and thrilled many an audience. She was a member of the Dance Teachers of America. She will be remembered for her qualities to be feisty, and honest. Either she would not pay too close attention to those whose skills were less than top-notch; or she would hound and passionately offer intensive teaching to those she believed had the gift of dance. Although not a religious woman, she had a good spirit and lived with compassion for people and animals. She is survived by several close friends who looked after her, including Karen Harribine of Peabody, Nancy Baldwin of Peabody, Sandra & Malcolm Rice & family of Chebeague Island, ME, Richard & Susan West & family of Kennebunkport, ME, her dear friend, Eleanor Hill, formerly of Malden, now residing on Chegeague Island, as well as many other dear friends at Crowninshield St in Peabody, and her associates and grateful dance students. She also had a sister, Renate Kraube, living in Germany. Following cremation, a private family gathering and ceremony will be held in Maine. Expressions of sympathy may be made with donations to the MSPCA, or an animal shelter, or an animal rescue league in Miranda’s memory. Cremation service planned with Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, Peabody.