Steven D. Schatz

Condolences from a high school friend who just find ths obituary.

I was deeply saddened by the passing of Rabbi Schatz. I shall always remember his kindness and humanity.

I met Steve in the early sixties in Erie while we both worked for the Parks and Recreation Department and hadn't seen him since yet he made a lasting impression on me. Learning of his life's accomplishments comes as no surprise to me. I send my sincere regards to his family.

Rabbi was a dear man and a credit to our religion. I shall miss him.

I was one of Rabbi Schatz's hebrew school students at Congregation Beth Shalom in Corona. At the time, I didn't appreciate all that he had to offer our congregation. I often disagreed with his point of view and challenged him and his knowledge of the Jewish religion. It wasn't until he left that I realized how much I enjoyed the way he led services and how he always seemed to know the answers to my questions. He took an active role in getting to know us not only as students, but as people, and for that, I will truly miss him. My deepest sorrow goes out to his family, for I know that he is missed.

Steve Schatz was a wonderful, remarkable man. I first met him some years ago when he was rabbi at Congregation Beth Shalom in Corona. He guided me through my conversion to Judaism, and we also became fast friends. He loved learning and loved sharing his knowlege, and he was always up for a good "discussion." We often disagreed, but we always parted on friendly terms. He had a very witty sense of humor, and could see the humor in a lot of situations. Over the years I turned to him in times of crisis, such as my husband's heart attack. Steve was like the Rock of Gibralter for me and my family. He was there for us 100% in the toughest of situations. He loved teaching, and I have wonderful memories of learning under his guidance. My life is forever enriched for having known him. I will hold his memory forever dear. Since I am a convert to Judaism, neither of my parents are Jewish. Therefore it is my desire to honor Steve as my Jewish parent. I am saying Kaddish for him, and it is my desire to add him to my Hebrew name as a parent. My most sincere condolences are extended to his family.

With warmest regards,

Jan Davis

It saddened me deeply to learn of the untimely death of Rabbi Schatz.

I first met him when he came to Congregation B'nai Tzedek in Fountain Valley.

It was my pleasure to be the Jewish Wedding Ceremony Coordinator for his marriage to Marianne Drucker.

I will remember Rabbi Schatz as a warm, intelligent, kind, patient gentleman with a most pleasant sense of humor.

We were saddened to learn of Rabbi's passing. He was a very special man and we enjoyed talking with him at every opportunity. He will stay in our thoughts.