By Mary Malloy
We communication the old-fashioned way - by writing on a notepad, since Bock has been profoundly deaf since childhood. He was born and raised on Long Island and remained here ever since. He went to the New York Academy of Art as well as the Visual Art School, and worked as a Technical Illustrator and with computers for over forty years. He never married.
Bock is well known as Atria's "artist", according to Community Sales Director Sandy Hunt. He spends much of his time painting and drawing for residents and staff. "Ed is a good friend to all," Hunt said. "He brings sunshine to our community. It is so nice to see that a resident can continue to do what he loves and make others happy."
Bock was named Resident of the Month last August. He has lived at Atria Lynbrook for two years. Here is what he had to tell us:
Herald: When were you born?
Ed Bock: August 1, 1938.
H: Were you born deaf?
EB: No, it was from an accident.
H: How did it happen?
EB: When I was about three years old, I was riding a tricycle outside of the nursery school I was attending. A little girl's tricycle hit mine in the back, and I fell over [Bock demonstrates how he fell sideways] and hit my head. Wham - like that, he shows.
H: Do you have any siblings?
EB: On brother, and two sisters. One sister has died.
H: What do you enjoy doing the most?
EB: Painting and drawing. I give my friends some of my paintings.
H: What do you paint?
EB: Scenery, and people, everything.
Comments about this story? MMalloy@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 202.
Photos by Mary Malloy/Herald
