GERSHON KEKST

One of the finest people I have been privileged to meet. Working at his company (in the 1980's) was a pleasure because it reflected his principles and beliefs. The world is diminished by his passing.

I worked with Gershon in the mid-1960s when he headed Ruder & Finn San Francisco. I was a 25-year old Canadian (from Montreal at that time, Ottawa now) and R&F had the PR account for the UN's 20th Anniversary... a very exciting time. Gershon and I were the lone Hebrews working in that office so he had adopted a fatherly attitude toward me. When I announced that I was going to leave SF and wanted to go back east to work for R&F in New York, Gersh called me into his office, shut the door...

A kind wise and gentle man; caring and devoted father and loving husband to Carol .

Our sympathies to Carol and the Kekst Family. Gershon's work and philanthropy will continue to be a great blessing in America and also Israel.

I had the distinct privilege of having been granted an "audience" with Gershon in his office when I was seeking advice about a career move that ultimately led me to leave the private practice of law and become a Judge. His advice was sage and to the point. I will not only remember that, but also our conversations in synagogue about hazzanut and the cantorate. We were both great admirers and friends of Cantor Lefkowitz. May his memory be for a blessing.

Sincerest condolences to the entire Kekst family. Gershon was the epitome of a mench.

My deepest sympathies to Carol and the Kekst family for the passing of Gershon, a man who was larger than life and will forever leave a treasured memory to all those who who had the deep honor and pleasure to have known him.

May his name be remembered and blessed.
Howard Rubin

To the Kekst Family and friends, I am sorry for the loss of your love one. Please be assured God loves you and is near to all who calls on him in prayer. (Psalms 145:18, 19).