Comments on: His Life

By: Lev D. Zilbermints

Lev D. Zilbermints — Sun, 12 May 2013 04:24:54 +0000

Dear Orenstein Family,

I was shocked to read in the Jewish News of Rabbi Orenstein’s untimely passing on May 5, 2013. The news came to me in a copy of the newspaper I read yesterday. Equally shocking was the discovery that the Rabbi had ALS. I heard he was ill, but never imagined it to be ALS. In fact, when I last saw Rabbi Orenstein in 2011, he appeared perfectly fine to me. We played some chess and talked about various things. That was the last time I saw him.

Rabbi Orenstein and my family goes back many years, into the late 1970s/early 1980s. My family arrived from Russia in 1975. We lived in Irvington between 1975 – 1979. Back then, it was a different town, with two movie theaters (there are none now) , a wealthy suburb. I did my bar mitzva in the early 1980s, at Congregation Beth El. Rabbi Orenstein officiated. We had over 300 people as I recall. Prior to bar mitzvah, I had to memorize the blessings and the readings in Hebrew!

Over the years, Rabbi Orenstein and I kept in touch. We would meet at his home and play chess, talk about Jewish affairs, politics, my college studies. He would give very wise advice, urging me to get ahead in life.

I speak on the behalf of the entire Zilbermints -Raskin – Gurdon family when I say that we are all going to miss him deeply. We will cherish his memory and strive to persevere in life and make great successes. Our condolences and deepest sympathies to Sylvia and the entire Orenstein Family.

By: Rabbi Dr. Wallace Greene

Rabbi Dr. Wallace Greene — Fri, 10 May 2013 02:35:43 +0000

I was fortunate to have Rabbi Orenstein as my student at the weekly Talmud class that I conducted for several years at Beth El. It was primarily a class for rabbis but several others joined our group. He always had something to contribute and I enjoyed our dialogues. He was bright, articulate, never tardy and a gracious host. This Renaissance man will be missed. Yehay zikhro barukh.

Wally Greene

By: Fran Reibman-Myers

Fran Reibman-Myers — Tue, 07 May 2013 03:53:27 +0000

Although you are not here, you are in my heart and I know you can hear me. You cried with me when my father passed away. You helped my son to become a man and take his place in the community. You built Beth El and touched thousands of lives. You inspired me to study Talmud and become a Rabbi. It has been my honor and privilege to know and your family.
Z’L’

Fran Reibman Myers

By: Karen Sortino

Karen Sortino — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:30:55 +0000

Dear Jehiel,
I was inspired by your bio. I know now why you are so special; you have had a life full of uplifting experiences and people who have inspired you…Heschel, of course, but also Sylvia, your talented children, and a diverse group of teachers along the way. I knew you were a great chess player, rabbi, chaplain , teacher, father, grandpa, husband, BUT I didn’t know the many ways that formed , created (can’t think of the correct word) you. Now I know. Best wishes on your birthday.
Frank & I send you our love.
Karen

By: Lonye Rasch

Lonye Rasch — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:51:28 +0000

Dear Rabbi, I echo your last sentence. I am privileged to know you, and will never forget your teachings — your philosophy of life, your approach to spirituality, the way you invite people to a more spiritual life, lived with kindness and humility. It always amazed me how your sermons resonated with me and reached my soul. Every single one! With Love and Appreciation, Lonye

By: Roz Diamond

Roz Diamond — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:26:38 +0000

Dear Rabbi Orenstein: You touched me deeply and profoundly with your teachings, your humor, your life examples. May you be surrounded by love for your birthday celebration, and forever more.

Roz Diamond, member
Congregation Beth El