Debbie Friedman Obituary

Friedman, Debbie
January 9, 2011
Debbie Friedman - With deep sadness, The Covenant Foundation board, staff, and the entire Covenant family mourn the passing of legendary American Jewish composer, singer, and recording artist, Debbie Friedman.
A 1996 Covenant Award recipient, Debbie brought joy and comfort, healing and inspiration, and the love of Judaism to everyone she touched through her music. Her transformative contributions have enriched our community, creating an enduring cultural legacy for future generations.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family.
Eli N. Evans, Chairman
Harlene Winnick Appelman, Executive Director

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times from Jan. 10 to Jan. 12, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Debbie Friedman

10 Entries

Kate Kinser

January 13, 2011

Debbie's music and her life example were an inspiration to me and to millions. When I was doing hospice work in the 1980's and 90's, I had a Debbie Friedman mix tape that kept me going and renewed me after each patient visit. I had the privelege of telling Debbie how much her music had meant to me in the midst of so much sadness. She was a warm, generous person to everyone who wanted to talk to her at conferences or concerts. Todah rabbah, gentle, musical soul

Ron and Yvonne Ross

January 13, 2011

To Debbie's Mother, Sisters, Cousins, and family members.
Debbie's music will be here for generations and generations.
My story is short but I want you to know her healing music does work.
Ten years ago, my wife now of 31 years had a very serious illness. It was called Leukemia. Two infections set in over a two year struggle for life. Well I can say she survived and the doctors called it a miracle in both cases. We had Debbie's CD music and songs on at all times. Even when my wife was not alert, she knew that Debbie was at her side. My wife completed her treatment at Cedars Siani in Los angeles where all you heard in the background Debbie's music comming out of the speakers.
A few years later, Debbie had a concert at Temple Beth Shalom in Santa Ana, California where her funeral took place this past Tuesday. Only Debbie would have her funeral on 1-11-11 @ 11am. (A day that all of us will be able to remember). At this concert my wife and I went up tp the bimah (stage) where our Ark and Torah scriptures were housed. My wife and I went to her and I gave her a big hug and a thank you for her beautiful music. I told her as she was in a wheel chair that my if my wife who stood next to me could make it with all of her prayers and God's help she will beat her terriable disease that has inflicted her body. Tears came to Debbie's eyes with a big smile. Debbie said "Thank You for telling our story" as ill as she was, for the last 20 to 25 years she was as couragous as any one in this world could be. Debbie, you made it all the way and now you are singing up in the stars of heaven. Shalom Debbie, You will be missed on earth but you will always be with us in song and prayer as you will always be in our hearts forever. Ron and Yvonne Ross from Lake Forest, California.

les gottlieb

January 12, 2011

To her family :
I was often moved by her music and her spirituality. Her memory will be for blessing..
Leslie Gottlieb

Rabbi Alan Abrams

January 12, 2011

haMakom yinachem etchem. May Debbie's memory be for a blessing. We will miss her and her music.

kathleen

January 12, 2011

Being raised as a Christian and at one point being introduced to Debbie's music and lyrics, I finally came to understand the beauty and truth of Judaism. When I heard of her passing, I wept becaue of the impact she had on my life. I will live out the rest of my days having been deeply touched by this talented and powerful woman of G-d.

pamela embrey

January 11, 2011

Thank you for your gift of voice for healing me when I needed it the most. You will surely be missed on this earth. I am grateful to have a VHS of you performing and will be playing it all night. Condolences to your family and fans.

Susan Leigh

January 11, 2011

Thank you for the beauty you gave to this world with your music. My heart is singing Mi Sheberach to all those who hold you close. Thank you, for your example of how to live life with a chronic illness. It gives me continued strength.

Jeri Gatsik (Kadison)

January 11, 2011

Debbie Friedman was and remains to be an angel on earth.She was and will remain God's messenger. Having the privilege to participate in Kallahs led by Debbie-and meeting her precious mother-I was blessed.Lately, every day, I have been listening to her latest CD -feeling uplifted, inspired-and healing from loss. Debbie 's words, voice and music touches my heart and soul.Tthe generous gifts she has given to me is a gift she has given and will continue to give to innumerble others.
Debbie has and continues to give me courage-and to get in contact with God.
This is a truly a loss to her beloved family and to the world.
Debbie-may you teach the angels how to sing-and may your spirit soar. Your legacy is passed on through the hundred of thousands who have had the blessing to meet you, learn from you and listen to your music.
God bless you and your family
with sadness, and sincerest condolences to your family and to your family of women, men and children throughout the world.
Jeri Gatsik Kadison

January 11, 2011

My condolences to the family and friends of Ms Friedman. May the God of all tender mercies, who comforts us in our pain and sorrow give you all the needed strength to endure this sad occassion Psalm 34:18.

The Daniel Family

Gail Ostrow

January 11, 2011

Your music and words brought joy and meaning to my Jewish practice. I now sing your "Mi Shebeirach" for you.

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