Search by Name

Search by Name

JACK COHEN Obituary

COHEN--Rabbi Jack. The Board and all those associated with The Mordecai M. Kaplan Center for Jewish Peoplehood mourn the passing of our beloved Honorary Chairman, Rabbi Dr. Jack J. Cohen of Jerusalem, who died there on April 16 at the age of 93. The Jewish people have lost a giant of a teacher and a role model. One of Mordecai Kaplan's greatest and most devoted disciples, Jack was the foremost advocate in Israel for the Reconstructionist approach to Judaism for more than 50 years. Among many other accomplishments, Jack was a founder of Congregation Mevakshei Derech in Jerusalem and the creator of its Kaplan Center. A man of enormous talents and erudition, Jack also exemplified true humility and treated all human beings with respect and kindness. His tireless passion for continuing the work of his teacher Mordecai Kaplan was an inspiration to all of us. We will miss both Jack's intellectual leadership and the gentleness of his soul. Jack's memory will forever be a blessing. Eric Caplan Daniel Cedarbaum 
Mel Scult 
Jack Wolofsky

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

Published by New York Times on Apr. 19, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for JACK COHEN

Not sure what to say?





Benjie Gruber

April 13, 2024

As the state of Israel is on turmoil, and Jews around the world search for answers and guidance, I continue to look back into Jack's Torah. He did not believe in one correct answer. He asked and encouraged asking. He invisioned an Israel we continue to hope for...
His personality and Torah are as relevant and needed as ever.
May we not just remember him...but look for his guidance.
May his memory, Torah and actions serve as a blessing and direction.
Humbled disciple
Benjie Gruber

Benjie Gruber

April 13, 2023

More than ever today in Israel Jack's wisdom, insight and compassion is needed. His Torah is as relevant as always.

May 6, 2012

WE MOURN OUR BELOVED JACK...A ROLE MODEL FOR ALL...ANNETTE RUBENSTEIN

May 1, 2012

Rabbi Yaakov -Jack as he insisted to be called, even declining to be called, "moree v'rabi" --which he was--was a giant of a man in stature: morally, intellectually, spiritually. I especially call his name for blessing as a builder of Hillel, Jerusalem, as Director and in recent years returning as a member of the board.
Rabbi Shaul R Feinberg

April 22, 2012

I mourn my great teacher and Rabbi. He made me a better person.
Benjie Gruber, Kibbutz Yahel

Shirley and Rabbi Emanuel S. Goldsmith

April 21, 2012

We mourn the passing of our beloved rabbi, teacher, and friend. His legacy has changed our lives. We will do our best to transmit it to others.

April 20, 2012

Fond remembrances from SAJ, New York. David, Caroline, Andrew, Elizabeth Saxe

Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results

Make a Donation
in JACK COHEN's name

Memorial Events
for JACK COHEN

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support JACK's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor JACK COHEN's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more