Read the family history of Endowment Book of Life signers:

A B C D E F G H J K L M N P R S T W Y Z

Arnold R Adler
Because I was able to escape Nazi Germany in 1938, I want to provide help to other Jews in countries where they are persecuted and assist them in emigrating and settling in the United States.
December 3, 2002 ... Page 211-A

Dana Adler
Soon after moving to Tucson I joined Temple Emanu-El and began meeting people through Sisterhood, religious school and other activities and committee work. Our daughter's Bat Mitzvah was a wonderful experience, which touched my heart and inspired me to learn and become more involved. I believe in giving back to the community as a contributor at any level, whether it is through work, education, advocacy, volunteerism or financial means. Religious involvement requires a commitment, work and conscious effort and from this involvement have come the greatest rewards of my life.
March 11, 2003 ... Page 218-A

Arthur Alexander
In 1991 my wife, Doreen, my daughter, Beth, and I moved from Los Angeles and chose Tucson to be our new home. A large component of that choice was the very active and friendly Jewish community which we perceived as flourishing. Our perception was not wrong. Hopefully, future generations will be fortunate enough to have the same experience.
September 28, 1993 ... Page 62-A

Doreen Alexander
As refugees from Los Angeles to Tucson, Arthur and I truly feel this is home. This sense of comfort is in large part related to the warmth and accessibility of Tucson's Jewish community – reminiscent of my wonderful girlhood experience in BBG. Here we are all needed to participate and support Jewish life. My cherished hope is that our daughter, Beth, follows by example.
June 16, 1994 ... Page 62-B

Myles Beck
I came to Tucson, seeking a place where I would have a rich and full life. I wished to be a participant in a growing and vibrant community; both the Jewish as well as the general. It has been all that I could have hoped for.
September 29, 1994 ... Page 93-A

Richard Belkin
From the 1800s toward the year 2000 each succeeding generation accomplished their mission: survive, learn, thrive, contribute. The echo of our forbearers' words and deeds will always be with us.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 54-D

Sherry Belkin
Tracks, sand or snow, are soon lost. The tracks of a Jewish heart are forever. Love the indelible print. It is that mark which we leave to Tucson.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 54-C

Frances Beren
Although I never went to Hebrew school, my childhood home was unmistakably Jewish. I always knew when it was Friday night or a holiday. Because I wanted my children to understand their heritage I sent them to Jewish day school, and because I wanted to strengthen my community I worked in Tucson for Handmaker, Hadassah and Brandeis. Photo: Moe and Frances Beren.
September 29, 1994 ... Page 74-A

Moe Beren
The continuity of our heritage depends on the willingness of the present to invest in the future. Through commitment and tzedakah, we must fulfill our obligation to preserve this wonderful heritage.
September 29, 1994 ... Page 74-B

Bruce Beyer
I grew up in Shaker Heights, Ohio but came to appreciate my Jewish identity when I moved to Tucson. Among a diverse population, I realized the significance of belonging to – and helping to build – a strong Jewish community. I hope that my volunteer efforts, along with those of others, will ensure a vibrant Jewish lifestyle for generations to come.
October 14, 1991... Page 17-A

Dr. Nathaniel Bloomfield
I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, February 19, 1931, third of four brothers. My father, Joseph, was in the dress manufacturing business and my mother, Henrietta, was a home maker and social volunteer. I was educated in the Shaker Heights School System and subsequently at Western Reserve University. I served two years in the army and then spent five more years at Western Reserve for an M.D. degree, after which I served my residency of four years at Mt. Sinai Hospital in Cleveland. My Jewish education came from Congregation Tiffereth Israel (The Temple) under the guidance of Rabbi Abba Hillel Silver.

I came to Tucson in 1963 with my wife, Suzanne, and three children—Miriam, Andrew, and Rachel—and opened a practice in OB-GYN at 5th and Wilmot. I soon became involved with Planned Parenthood (Medical director 1964-1974), Temple Emanu-El (President 1978-80), Camp Echo for handicapped children (President 1965), Jewish Federation (Board member for 19 years and Vice President), United Way, Pima County Medical Society, Combined Jewish Appeal (Campaign Chairman 1974-75), and Jewish Family & Children's Service (President 1972-75). The Jewish community chose to honor me with "Man of the Year" award in 1975.

I am obviously committed to the survival and success of the world Jewish community having lived long enough to have survived the Holocaust only because I was on the west side of the Atlantic Ocean, knowing full well that most of my contemporaries in Europe did not survive even to the age of 15. My greatest hope is that the awful things that one person does to another, or that one nation does to another, will be recognized for what it is, relegated to the past, and outlawed as human behavior for the present and the future.
May 28, 1992 ... Page 12-B

Alma Bongarten
From Sinai my paternal forbearers wandered to Silesia, Latvia and on to America. My mother's family journeyed to Germany where they became members of the incipient Reform movement. The product of an Orthodox and Reform marriage, whatever role I have played in life – daughter, wife, mother or grandmother, my primary identity is Jewish and shall ever be so.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 42-A

Harold Bongarten
My parents, Samuel and Krindle, grew up in Orthodox families. Leaving Warsaw in 1925 we joined my mother's mother and brother and settled in Boston. After serving in W.W.II, I searched the concentration camps for my relatives. I found none. Later, I discovered that of my large family only four first cousins survived. I shall always remember the Holocaust.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 42-B

Henry Brodsky
As a teenager Henry left his family in San Francisco to seek his fortune. He did so in the real estate industry in the Southwestern U.S. and Mexico. Henry outlived both of his wives. Ida and Patricia and named his fund in their memory. In his later years Henry felt a strong connection to his Jewish roots and wanted his legacy through the Foundation to reflect this commitment.
September 26, 1996... Page 71-A

Ben Brook
I came to Tucson from New York City in 1949 with my wife Betty. We both helped to build the Jewish community, most notably by helping to establish the Jewish Family and Children's Service, the Jewish Community Center, and the Handmaker Jewish Nursing Home. We will continue to serve the needs of the community for generations to come.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 13-B

Betty Brook
Before coming to Tucson with my husband, Ben I had never heard of the city – within a year I realized I never wanted to leave. Our children, Mark and Robert, were raised here, and all my working life has been spent here. I was director of the Jewish Family and Children's Service and hope it continues to serve the changing needs of our community.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 13-A

Esther Capin
For me, the continuity of the Jewish community is based on strong organizations. I grew up in Los Angeles where the Temple was a focus of activities. At UCLA my participation in an interfaith, multiethnic panel strengthened my Jewish identity. I talked about Judaism and being Jewish. When I moved to Nogales, I was challenged to provide the strength of a Jewish community I had enjoyed.
September 28, 1993 ... Page 66-D

Marsha G. and Ernest Allen Cohen
One snowstorm too many brought us – born and bred New Yorkers – to Tucson. Imagine our surprise at finding a vibrant Jewish community here in the glorious Sonoran Desert. Because we both have parents who emigrated from Russia, we have been very involved with the resettlement of Russian refugees both here and over a decade ago in Bergen County, New Jersey. Helping our Soviet brethren become established, acculturate and prosper has been extremely rewarding for us. It is gratifying to be able to be a part of and contribute to this community and to the Jews yet to come in perpetuity.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 50-C&D

Marjorie Cunningham
My family moved to Tucson in 1957 after my father, a dentist, had been stationed with the Air Force in New Mexico. I grew up in Tucson, attended Temple Emanu-El, graduated from Palo Verde High School, the U of A and ASU, College of Law. George and I met at the U of A and were married by retired Judge Fenton in 1969. We have three children, Paul, Evie and Molly.

Stephen S. Dickstein
My father's family came to Grand Rapids, Michigan, from Russia in 1910. My grandfather served as shochet and mohel. Our home-life centered around Jewish observance and it was natural that I too became involved in Jewish communal life, first as Chairman of the Tucson High School for Jewish Studies, then as a certified Reform Mohel and Baal Tekiah at Temple Emanu-El.
October 30, 1991 ... Page 67-A

Gary Emerson
I grew up in a household full of love fostered by my parents' devotion to family. This is the main reason for my happiness and well being. I hope to develop the same sense of love and stability in my children. I will also try to teach them that a community is like an extension of family and needs devotion in order to thrive.
September 28, 1993 ... Page 53-C

Jerry Franklin
I am a retired CPA and came to Tucson from Dallas in 1996 for the active retirement community.  I enjoy the wonderful weather and serenity of the mountains, but also my wife and I found a wonderful Jewish community here.  The best thing in my life was that I met my wife by accident at a Temple youth conference.  We became a team immediately and are inseparable even today.  Before actually moving here, we joined Temple Emanu-El and have stayed very involved with B’nai B’rith.  The important thing to me and my family is to keep my sense of humor and to do something for others everyday. Helping the next person in need is the foundation of the good life.
November 12 , 2002 ... Page 208-A

Marlene Franklin
Both my maternal and paternal grandparents emigrated from Russia, arriving at the turn of the 20th century, settling in Philadelphia, where I grew up. My mother had a great pull towards Jewishness, not so much the religious aspect, but from the standpoint of Jewish identity. I guess the apple does not fall far from the tree. Growing up, I was involved in the temple youth group, BBG and later in Hillel at Temple University. In 1947, just after Jerry and I were married, I got involved in B'nai B'rith Women. B'nai B'rith and Temple Emanu-El (in both Dallas and Tucson) have been the focus of my Jewish involvement, continuously holding positions of leadership. I learned Tikun Olam from my parents. As a child during the great depression, I remember the "blue box" on the window sill and dropping my leftover pennies and nickels therein. My husband and I have designate a portion of our estates towards Jewish charity. We want Judaism to continue. We hope what we are doing will help to keep it alive and thriving.
November 12 , 2002 ... Page 208-B

Jami Gan
I remember as a child, my father telling me, "Giving what you have is called sharing. Giving what is more difficult to give – that is called Tzedakah." Growing up I watched my parents live these words that their parents taught them and that I will teach my children, Maddison, Noah, and Max.
October 28, 1998 ... Page CAI 15-A

Danny Gasch
My parents, Abraham and Chava, both Holocaust survivors, immigrated to Canada from Israel to raise a family in a country not at war. I moved to Tucson in 1982 where I met and married Janis in 1985. As we raise Sam and Molly, my wish is to see the Tucson Jewish community strengthen and flourish for all our children's benefit.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 11-A

Fanny Gluck
I grew up in a small town in Germany. After the war, I moved to America, married a Holocaust survivor, and converted to Judaism. We moved to Tucson with our four children 32 years ago. From the beginning Anshei Israel was very important to us. We made wonderful friends and two children were Bar Mitzvah. I was involved with Sisterhood and became a Hadassah Life Member.

Being involved with your faith gives you strength when you are down. Without this faith I don't think you can make it.
April 21, 1999 ... Page 34-A, CAI

Ann Goldfein
My father, who was a radiologist, said he needed to take care of "me and mine." For him "me and mine" was his family and the people who worked for him. My mom had a larger family. Her "me and mine" included the members of her Temple. My father abhorred ritual. But, every Friday night he drove her to Temple, waited in the car for her to come out, and then drove her home.

For me, "me and mine" is not only Sam, our children and their families, but the whole family of the Jewish people... with or without ritual. I signed the book in honor of them all, and I promise to work to insure their future.
September 21, 1993 ... Page 10-C

Joe Gootter
Paulette and I were married in New York in 1957. We moved to Tucson in 1971 with our children Steve, Shari and Claudine; where we have enjoyed a wonderful family and community life. Signing this Book symbolizes passing the scrolls – LDor Va Dor – so that our Jewish beliefs and traditions remain alive for future generations.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 41-A

Harold Greenberg
Our involvement in Jewish affairs has been central. It has brought warm friendships, a wonderful Jewish quality to our home, joy in our Jewishness, and a strong sense of worth to our lives. We hope that our new grandchildren and those that may follow will take pride and inspiration from this heritage we pass on to them.
October 28, 1991 ... Page 3-C

Randy Greenberg
My parents, Edwin and Lois Greenberg, and my grandparents, Pauline Small and Sylvia and Samuel Bellows, taught me the importance of family and friends and to respect myself and others. For this, and for their love and acceptance, I am eternally grateful, especially from my siblings Melody, Sandy, and Dean. My hope is that the ignorance of the world toward people who are different will be eliminated along with AIDS.
September 28, 1995 ... Page 90-A

Barry S. Hirsch
I arrived in Tucson in 1948 with my parents Janet and S.E. Hirsch. Active in Tucson AZA, became the first president of AEPi Fraternity and wrote Teenbeat for the Arizona Post. At Congregation Anshei Israel, I sang in the choir and assisted as Gabbai. My moral cornerstone was the Fifth Commandment: honor your father and your mother. Photo: Barry Hirsch dressed in Anshei Israel choir robe and tallith. The plaque in the background honors my mother, Janet Hirsch, for being named Woman of Valor 1989.
December 30, 1991 ... Page 60-B

Janet Hirsch
A Tucsonan since 1948, I served the community as President of JWV Auxiliary, Congregation Anshei Israel's Mr. & Mrs. Club, and Sheva Pioneer Women. I was Pioneer Women's Woman of Valor in 1989 and Anshei Israel's Woman of the Year in 1990. My husband is the late S.E. Hirsch and my children are Barry, Susan, and Gloria. For 16 years I worked once a week in the Sisterhood gift shop. I also did visitations for Shul members every week giving each patient a doodad. After 20 years at the Veterans hospital I retired. Photo: Janet and Samuel E. Hirsch at Congregation Anshei Israel activity.
December 17, 1991 ... Page 60-A

Yetta Jaffee
There is no place I'd rather be. Tucson is my destiny. A Jewish home here in the sun. Community for everyone.
September 28, 1995 ... Page 83-C

Morton Javer
Having lived with his family in Israel for many years, Mort retained a passionate interest in and feeling for the Jewish State throughout his lifetime. He was up to the minute on news and politics, loved Israeli music, and dreamed of making a bequest upon his death. The Morton Javer Endowment Fund is a fulfillment of that wish.
Tribute Statement

Leonard Joffe
I have followed the example of my mother and father in Jewish community life. They were my role models. Having emigrated from Zagaren, Lithuania to a small South African town, they participated in every aspect of Jewish life, religious and secular. In 1976 our family left a bigoted political system and came to the United States. In 1979 we started our home in Tucson.
October 16, 1991 ... Page 16-B

Marcelle Joffe
My mother was a first generation South African. Her father was from Poland, her mother from England. My father and my husband's parents emigrated from the same shtetl in Lithuania to South Africa. I have known Leonard much of my life. We arrived in Tucson in 1979 with our three children. I continue to serve the Jewish community in many ways to ensure the continuity of Jewish life.
October 16, 1991 ... Page 16-A

Koreen Johannessen
Why do I bother to make such a public promise of such a private commitment? Would my word mean less if my name were not on this page? Would I forget all who came before and all who will come after and the man who sold Kosher chickens in the Bronx and the cousins who sang Sephardic songs at family weddings?

What does my promise mean to those now gone, my grandparents, Regina and Ralph, my great aunts Mathilda, Sarah, Julia and uncles Hymie, Isaac and Sam, - the loud and loving ones who joked in Spanish, and recited the Kiddish in Hebrew—the ones who left Turkey, crossing oceans and bridging cultures to come to America to keep a promise to me.

What does my promise mean to my Tucson community where no man sells Kosher chickens on the corner—or to Israel? What does it mean to my children and my children's children... it means forever.
October 7, 1997 ... Page 42-C

Carol Karsch
My parents, Florence Goldberg and Bill Waldman moved from Philadelphia to Norristown, PA where I loved Hebrew School and USY. In 1972 Dan and I moved to Tucson with our children and have enjoyed a rich Jewish life, especially Shabbat dinners, UJA and Interfaith Missions to Israel, our Federation and Schul. May Tucson Jewry flourish as part of an eternal Am Yisrael. Photo: Carol Karsch standing with her daughter, Hannah Karsch Hochner, on the Tayalet at Talpiot overlooking the city of Jerusalem.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 3-A

Daniel Karsch
My parents Joseph and Lillian Karsch of Philadelphia transmitted to me the values and heritage of Judaism which they received from their Russian immigrant parents. My children Mordy, Hannah, & Benjy have benefited from a strong Tucson Jewish community at THA, Anshei Israel, and at home. Hopefully, they will pass on the tradition in America and in Israel.
December 25, 1991 ... Page 3-B

Fran Katz
I want to pass on to my children the values and traditions that were passed on to me by my parents and European grandparents. My wish is to ensure the future so that our children will have the support of a strong Jewish community as I did. My involvement started with BBYO and hasn't stopped. My hope is that they will do the same.
September 28, 1993 ... Page 6-C

Abraham Kaufman
Like others, my family came from Poland to New York. I grew up in Fallsburg, a small town in the mountains about 100 miles NW of New York City and home to the Catskill resorts, a popular vacation spot. I settled in Tucson in 1973. Being part of the Jewish community has continued to enrich my life. I hope to give back some of the bounty.
September 28, 1995 ... Page 34-D

Vicki Kaufman
From a farm in Kiev my grandparents came, fleeing evil, seeking peace, carrying candlesticks. Now I continue the story, raising Jewish sons, safeguarding the future of Israel and my community. Each of us has the power to alter the course of history by what we do.
September 28, 1995 ... Page 34-C

Jane Kivel
My deep feeling of giving back to the Jewish community began with my mother's mother. She had no money and was supported by our family. When she died, we found a box full of receipts, showing the many donations she had made. The amount wasn't important. Giving tzedakah was all that mattered.

Growing up in Connecticut and New York, I loved watching my mother and aunts cooking together for the holidays. Later, my husband's rabbinical career took us to many cities with warm communitites. In Evansville, Indiana our door was always open and we never knew how many to expect for dinner.

When we moved to Tucson, I joined Anshei Israel, and became active in Hadassah. The Hadassah women welcomed me and put me on the board. My first project was for Yahrzeit, where people donate money to Israel in memory of thier loved ones and a remembrance plaque in Israel bears their name. From that involvement I became President of our group.

No matter where I lived, my commitement to tzedakah has always made me feel "at home" in the Jewish community. Signing the Book of Life is my statement of that belief. I hope my children will feel the same way.
September 28, 1995 ... Page 34-C

Edward Kleinerman
Our family – Morris, Bess and Elyse – moved here in 1940, and I became involved in Jewish affairs as the AZA's first president in 1941. In 1956 I became president of B'nai B'rith, and then president of the Jewish Community Center in 1969. Participating in the growth of our Jewish community has been a continually challenging, gratifying, and warm experience.
November 7, 1991 ... Page 64-B

Joan Kleinerman
I became involved in the Jewish community as a University of Arizona freshman in 1945, when I was a charter member of the new Hillel Building Committee on campus. I later became President of B'nai Brith and was an active member of other Jewish organizations. Helping make our community a successful one has been a privilege and a pleasure.
November 6, 1991 ... Page 64-A

Billie Kozolchyk
I grew up in Yonkers, New York, and was the only Jewish kid in my neighborhood. My Jewish education was non-existent, but my Jewish consciousness was strong. I learned a great deal more about Judaism from college friends and, later, from living in post-Holocaust France. Marriage to Boris and involvement in Tucson's Jewish community has contributed to my Jewish growth.
July 26, 1992 ... Page 18-B

Boris Kozolchyk
I was part of Cuba's largest Jewish family, (my father had eight siblings) which was very committed Jewishly and ran the political gamut from Betar to Bund. My parents founded the Yiddish school and the Jewish Community Center. They instilled in me my love for Judaism and I hope I have been able to do the same for my children.
July 26, 1992 ... Page 18-A

Michael I. Krupnick
My grandparents' new life in the USA began in 1910. My parents, Elaine and Sam grew up and lived in Chicago. I relocated to Tucson in 1986. In 1992 on a mission to Israel, an event jelled my life. While greeting two El Al planes of immigrating Russian Jews, I experienced my Jewishness – my roots and my connections to my parents and grandparents.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 31-B

Brenna Lacey
A rabbi who motivated young people to learn about and use their Judaism; a Temple that transmitted history, Hebrew and religious thought; community service, fun and leadership in BBYO; summer in Israel; family observance—all combined to feed my spirit and forge my identity. I want these opportunities to continue for the nurturing of future Jewish souls and the betterment of our people and the world.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 50-A

Peggy and Richard Langert
After living in many other Jewish communities, we find Tucson to be a very unique, dynamic and congenial place to raise our family. We are honored to be able to share in insuring the continuity of this exceptional community for future generations. It is also our hope that our children will continue to do so by following our example.
September 29, 1994 ... Page 89-B

Matthew Lehrer
I am 32. But my Jewish heritage dates back 3,400 years, to Mount Sinai. I stood with the children of Israel and learned our values and traditions. By making Torah meaningful, Mimi and I will insure our children's participation in the obligation to create a perfect world. Our children are our greatest legacy because through them our 3,400-year heritage lives.
January 26, 1994 ... Page 19-A

Carole Whitebook Levine
I write this statement in memory of my parents, Pearl and Ben Whitebook, who immigrated, as young children, from Russia. I was born, raised, and educated in Iowa City, Iowa, a community of twenty Jewish families. My mother and father, by example, taught me to learn, love, and live my life as a Jewish woman, wife, mother, and grandmother. L'Dor V'Dor.
October 28, 1998 ... Page CAI 6-C

Mildred and Bernard Levine
Since coming to Tucson in 1978, we have led a full, peaceful life, including excellent activities and programs of the Jewish Community Center and B'nai B'rith. We wish to insure that future generations of Jews have the same nourishing environment and opportunities as we have enjoyed.

Bertie Levkowitz
As a child survivor of the holocaust, I know first hand the emptiness of growing up without a functioning Jewish community to nurture you spiritually and emotionally. My identity survived because those of my parents had been formed indelibly when there was a rich and healthy community for them to develop in before the war. Tucson has given me a community. From the day I moved here and joined the Levkowitz family, I have felt the need to participate and help our community grow. My single greatest contribution has probably been participation in the creation of a Jewish day school. I see all Jewish children – past, present, and future – as our children. Just as I see all new Jewish immigrants to the community as our family. It is a joy and a mitzvah to help build a community that will be there to nourish and help the Jews of the Tucson community for today and for tomorrow.
November 30, 1991 ... Page 20-B

Beatrice Martin
Living in Tucson has made me realize the importance of Yiddishkeit. It is good to be a Jew – to posses a tradition that connects us one to another, that recalls the past and envisions hope for the future. We must support our Jewish traditions. We must keep the candles burning brightly for all our future generations.
September 29, 1994 ... Page 83-B

George Martin
My parents, Abraham and Eva Martin, came from Russia to St. Louis in 1903. They taught me and my four brothers basic Judaism: involvement in the community and the value of education and knowledge. These values which I practiced throughout my life in Tacoma, WA and in Tucson, I bequeath to my grandchildren.
September 29, 1994 ... Page 83-A

George Miller
I was always a conscious Jew involved in both the Jewish and non-Jewish communities committed to working toward positive solutions to problems. This was a legacy of responsibility learned from my parents, Louis and Bertha Miller. They believed intensely in the need for a Jewish Homeland and actively supported the Jewish National Fund in the 1930s and throughout their lives. Photo: George Miller and his oldest son, David.
January 26, 1994 ... Page 55-D

Roslyn Miller
My unorthodox parents, Edward and Helen Girard, educated us in Jewish history and Yiddish literature interwoven with strong threads of social conscience and political activism. My later studies revealed Tikkun Olam was their guide to living Jewishly within and beyond the Jewish community. The joy and enrichment of this heritage inspires hope that my children and grandchildren will seek the same path. Photo: Roslyn Miller and Aaron Einfrank, one of her many grandsons.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 55-C

Dr. George L. Nadler
We visited Tucson many times during my work with the Public Health Service in Chinle, Arizona, from 1964-66, and found a friendly, open city, rich in culture and an active Jewish community. In 1970 we moved to Tucson seeking to re-establish our Jewish identity and were not disappointed. We have received more than we could ever give back.
October 15, 1991 ... Page 40-B

Nathan D. Perlman
Born in Denver, March 25, 1911, and moved to Detroit at eight. As a teen, I joined the J.C.C. where I met my future wife, Ruth. Shortly after, we moved to Ann Arbor. I was a founder of its Jewish Center. My asthma brought us to Tucson in 1952. I helped found the Tucson J.C.C., where we remain active. Photo: Nathan and Ruth Perlman at his 85th birthday celebration, March 25, 1996.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 4-C

Ruth Perlman
I was born in Russia, arrived in the U.S. in 1920, and lived in Michigan until 1952, when we moved to Tucson for Nate's health. We've lived here 41 years, and the Jewish Center has been one of the hubs of our lives – nurturing our family. It is time to invest in the future – for others who will follow.
November 5, 1992 ... Page 4-D

Evie and Shaol Pozez
Evie and Shaol both came from families with unshakable Jewish identity and values. At twelve, Shaol even left his family in Topeka, Kansas, and spent a year in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to get better Bar Mitzvah training. Evie also grew up in a small town, in a large family structured around Judaism.

Settling down in Topeka, they carried on the traditions of their parents, keeping kosher, celebrating the holidays, and teaching their own children strong Jewish values.

Shaol's cousin Louis Pozez and wife Ruthann moved to Tucson and urged Evie and Shaol to follow. When the came, they immediately felt the warmth and sincerity of the Jewish community. Involved in Tucson Hebrew Academy, they found deep satisfaction helping the school grow. When their children and grandchildren also moved to Tucson, their family circle was complete. It is their fervent hope that their children and grandchildren will also find satisfaction in supporting the Jewish community.
October 14, 1991 ... Pages 25 A&B

Louis Pozez
I was born in Poland and lost my parents and brother in the Holocaust. I came to Topeka, Kansas in 1938, aged 17. Ruthann and I have three children: Stephen, MD; Andrea, MD; and Norman, an attorney. Before retiring to Tucson in 1982 I co-founded "Payless Shoesource." I have tried to set a standard of excellence in dealing with others.
May 14, 1991 ... Page 1-A

Bobby Present
My father's parents moved to Tucson in 1926 and, as such, are one of the Jewish pioneer families. As other families arrived they would "check in" with my grandfather, Elmer, who was one of the leaders of Tucson's Jewish community. It was his commitment to that community that provided a role model for my own involvement.
November 8, 1991 ... Page 49-C

Victor Resnick
I was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in a home that was steeped in Jewish values and traditions. After I married, my own home continued in the same pattern. It is my pledge to perpetuate the vision of a strong committed Jewish community life that my parents had for their children and grandchildren.
November 1, 1991 ... Page 63-B

Ruth Rodgveller
I can still feel the blue box in my hands the day my mother sent me, as a young girl, to collect money for Yerushalayim. This love for the Jewish people has stayed with me through my life and my children also feel strongly for Yerushalayim; which is now known of course as Israel.
September 29, 1994 ... Page 89-A

Fay W. Roos
Arriving in Tucson in 1955, we immediately joined Temple Emanu-El and have been involved in the Jewish community ever since. As I grew up, my family was involved in Vicksburg, MS., so "community" has always been important to me. Hopefully, our commitment to the Jewish community of Tucson will help ensure a vibrant community for future generations.

Lillian Rosenzweig: The Courage to Leave
My parents came from Chelm, Isaac Singer's town of fools. Father left at age 7 for America, at 21 returned to Poland. At the Station, he fell in love. Two months of wooing – wedding – returned to America together; no fools they! War destroyed both Polish families, so without a
20-year-old's courage, I wouldn't be here. I must give back.
November 4, 1991 ... Page 21-B

Charlene Sampson
Caring and compassion are at the heart of Jewish values. Within a period of ten days, I lost both my husband and my infant granddaughter. The outpouring of support from the Jewish community gave my family and me the strength to go on. My participation in the Book of Life reflects my support of the Jewish community.
September 29, 1994 ... Page 77-A

Irene Sarver
My maternal grandparents were the first Jewish family in Pontiac, Michigan. Their strong commitment to Judaism has flourished from generation to generation. Since Jack and I were married in Michigan in 1948 and arrived here, Tucson has played an important role in our lives. Our dedication to our heritage continues to thrive in our children and in their children.
December 5, 1991 ... Page 7-B

Blanche Seferlis
I was raised believing in the importance of being an active Jew. My father attended Yeshiva (in Hungary). He later served Anshei Israel in many ways. Mother cared for the family. As a Jew, and a Levite, I take pride that my husband, Chris, and I have contributed to the Tucson Jewish community and hope its future will continue to flourish.
September 28, 1993 ... Page 30-A

Chris Seferlis
At 42, I met and married the love of my life, Blanche Appel. I developed a deep relationship with her parents, Elmer and Jenny, which opened a new chapter in my Jewish life. My parents were born in Greece, I was raised in French-speaking Maine, even though I traveled the world, it was my pilgrimage to Israel that sealed my connection to Judaism.
September 28, 1993 ... Page 30-B

Louise Shapiro
As I grew up in depression-era New York, my father taught me respect for all human beings. Norman and I moved to Tucson in the late 1940s. We were educators all of our adult lives.

Everyday I am grateful that my needs are taken care of. The Jewish community has been so viatl in my family's life; it is a blessing to share my good fortune iwth them. My legacy: to educate the next generation at Tucson Hebrew Academy, to ensure that the diverse population at Handmaker will live in dignity, thereby honoring my father's love and respect for humanity.
October 17, 1999 ... Page 2-D, CAI

Esther Sherberg
My maternal grandparents, who emigrated from Russia in 1917, provided the strong Jewish influence in my life. My mother wrote that when the ship landed in Seattle,... the Jewish Agency people took over and got us a hot meal and a place to stay. As others were here for us, we must stand ready now to help fellow Jews. Photo: Standing in an ancient cave in Israel, holding the top half of a 2,200-year-old pot, just uncovered from the cave's floor. Across the years!
October 14, 1991 ... Page 31-A

Terrie L. Sherman
I am a 4th generation Louisvillian. My great-grandparents founded the synagogue in which I grew up. Judaism has always been an important part of my life. This included family holiday and Sabbath observances, attending services weekly, being a member of BBG and USY and my Bat Mitzvah. I want to know that in the future, others will have the same opportunities to embrace Judaism as did I.
March 20, 2003 ... Page 226-A

Irving Silverman
We chose to retire in Tucson in 1979 after researching other desert communities. We were determined to devote ourselves to volunteer work, both religious and secular, and were lucky to find such a friendly, cooperative reception. Unfortunately, personal tragedies have forced us to curtail our activities, but the community, especially the Jewish element, is supportive and continues to enrich our lives.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 15-A

Ken Silverman
2500 years ago the Greeks had a great civilization. Souvlaki and wine that tastes like asphalt is not enough. What have they done lately? When my home is excavated and my Elvis on velvet is uncovered, those people will also find my part to further our Jewish heritage and aspirations.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 49-A

Ruth K. Silverman
Irving and I came to Tucson for my health in 1979. One of the first things we did was to shop for a Shul. We joined Congregation Anshei Israel and were warmly welcomed into the synagogue family. From then on, we became part of the Jewish community and surprisingly, at that stage of our lives, we made lasting and meaningful friendships.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 15-B

Jerry Sonenblick
My core belief in humanity sustains my faith in Judaism. Community: the feeling for people and the love of family, constitutes the essence of Jewish. I inscribe my name as an added dimension toward building my Jewish foundation.
January 25, 1994 ... Page 22-C

Steve & Naomi Spitzer
Our families are from Austria, Germany, Latvia and Russia. Esther Solomon Spitzer, Leon Spitzer, and Eva Scherman Rochlin were born in New York City; Nat Rochlin in Russia. Our lives intertwined from childhood. Our parents moved to Tucson for our mother's health in 1947. We both attended Hebrew school at Anshei Israel, and graduated from the U of A. In 1964, we married and had our children, Eric and April. We believe in the identity of the Tucson Jewish community. Among our diverse involvement, Steve was president of Anshei Israel, and Naomi, co-president of the Sisterhood. To remind the future Spitzer generations of our Jewish commitment, we are leaving this legacy. We kept the faith. So must you.
October 29, 1991 ... Page 43-C and 43-D

David Steinberg
Since coming to Tucson in 1948 with my parents Maurice and Sadie and older brother Leonard, I have seen the Tucson Jewish community grow to one of the most active in the United States. I consider it an honor to be involved in the Endowment Book of Life tradition. I know the benefits will result in our children's and their children's community involvement, giving them even greater opportunities.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 59-B

Irene Steindler
The cornerstone for my sense of values was laid down for me in early childhood by my parents, Louis (Ludwig) and Elsa Darmstadter, who believed that what is given to us must be shared and passed on. This belief causes me to join with all who sign the Endowment Book of Life.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 27-A

Jack Steindler
Before moving to Tucson in 1986 I had lived in the same small town for over 60 years. In Tucson, I have found a warm Jewish community (and not only in the summer!), where many share my belief that service is the rent we pay for being here.
October 15, 1991 ... Page 27-B

Lynn S. Strauss
May this modest bequest someday open for a child a path that would
have remained closed but for a little help from his or her community.
September 26, 1996 ... Page 94-A

Gerry Tumarkin
The examples set by community leaders like Dave Kramer, Saul Syde, Jack Fruchthendler, and Saul Tobin have helped me crystallize my commitment to the Jewish people and Israel. I hope that my participation has in some way enhanced that tradition.
October 25, 1991 ... Page 43-A

Linda Tumarkin
I moved from New Jersey to Tucson in 1970. An open, welcoming, warm Jewish community immediately made me feel at home. This community provided an atmosphere where my Jewish identity could grow and prosper. I now hope to do my part to help strengthen and ensure the survival of the Jewish people and Israel.
October 25, 1991 ... Page 43-B

Sharon Weich
Having been born Jewish, surrounded by an agnostic family, I felt Jewish in "name only." It wasn't until I married and subsequently moved to Tucson, that I knew who I was and where I belonged. My hope is for my children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren to feel comfortable with their Judaism and enjoy the beautiful identity that it offers.
September 28, 1993 ... Page 58-A

Doris Weiner
I moved to Tucson in 1943 when my husband, Leonard, was sent here by the Air Force because of his asthma. When we arrived we knew nothing about the city, but we quickly grew to love it. With our children, Charles and Elizabeth, we have continued to work to make Tucson a better place for the Jewish community to flourish.
October 16, 1991 ... Page 23-C

Dr. Leonard Weiner
The Air Force posted me at Davis Monthan air base in 1943 because I was suffering from intractable asthma. My wife, Doris, and I found a tiny apartment with a kitchen so small that we cooked our evening meals over an open fire at Sabino Canyon. Wonderful memories. We survived to try to make Tucson's Jewish community stronger than ever.
October 16, 1991 ... Page 23-D

Jack Weinstein
Being a Jew, living in a country whose population is predominently Christian, demands a unity of Jews in so many programs. By contributing to the Foundation, we hope that the fund will help Temple Emanu-El; and the Jewish community to continues their growth and be stronger for the future.
March 11, 2003 ... Page 212-B

Ruth Weinstein
When we arrived in Tucson we knew only one family. We then decided to get involved in the Jewish community for which we are very happy we did. They made us feel welcome in our second home in Arizona. Therefor, we are delighted that we can contribute to a community that was so generous to us.
March 11, 2003 ... Page 212-A

Diane Weintraub
I moved to Tucson in 1947, when I was 12. In these early years I enjoyed my Jewishness through the Jewish Community Center and BBYO; later through Hillel and the Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority at the University of Arizona. I have continued to support our Jewish institutions to help ensure their survival for the future.
November 11, 1991 ... Page 61-A

Ronald H. Weintraub
Support for our local, national, and international Jewish organizations is as important today as it has ever been. Our very existence as a people depends upon the good health and vitality of our institutions, now and in the future.
November 11, 1991 ... Page 61-B

Celia Weitzmon
The community has given us so much. It is our responsibility to give
back in kind.
May 2, 2004 ... Page 232-A

Sherman Weitzmon
Let us not be judged by what we say, rather by what we do.
May 2, 2004 ... Page 232-B

Grete (Margie) Wohl
Born in Germany, I was able to escape the Holocaust by going to London. There I met Leo while he was in the Army. We married and lived in the United States. In 1953, we came to Tucson, joined Congregation Anshei Israel, and I was a member of Sisterhood for many years. Like Leo, I have always been interested in the welfare of family and performing good deeds for people.
December 8, 1999 ... Page CAI 4-C

Leo Wohl
I was born into an Orthodox family in Germany. I remember the terror of Kristallnacht and being imprisoned by the Nazis. I was able to enter the US in 1940 and I joined the US Army in 1942. In Tucson, I worked at Davis-Monthan AFB, joined Congregation Anshei Israel, and was active in the Holocaust Survivors Group. Most important to me are family and Jewish education.
December 8, 1999 ... Page CAI 4-B

David Yeglin
My parents were Lithuanian emigrants, who had 5 children in Des Moines, Iowa. We were Kosher, attended Hebrew school and were Bar Mitzvahed. I met my wife at 15 and married her 15 years later. I was a chemist for the Air Force for 42 years and retired to Tucson in 1980. I want to be remembered as true Jewish and true American. Photo: (Left) David and Mildred at DMAFB in Tucson, November 1985. (Right) In 1958 as an Air Force Tech Sergeant, later Master Sergeant.
October 15, 1991 ... Page 34-A

Mildred Yeglin
I am one of 13 children of immigrant parents. We had very festive family holidays. I started in vaudeville at age 15 at the 1933 Chicago World's Fair. Later, my two brothers, Morris and Saul Katz, and I formed a trio and played all over including the Borscht circuit. In 1947, I married my husband David and left the theater. David and I traveled a lot and retired to Tucson in 1980.
October 16, 1991 ... Page 35-A

Bryna Zehngut
I moved to Tucson with my parents in 1961. Tikun Olam, repairing the world, has been the overriding influence in my Jewish community involvement. My activities have provided for spiritual growth and wonderful friendships. I hope my children will know the joy of carrying on our Jewish traditions and values.
October 14, 1991 ... Page 57-A