Erica Jesselson

JESSELSON--Erica. We mourn the loss of a treasured jewel of the Jewish people. A singular and dynamic woman of intense energy, vision and creativity, her very being radiated strength, compassion and generosity. Erica lived each day rooted with a firm belief that her resources were granted by the Almighty to benefit others. She taught members of her family, her huge circle of friends and countless others that the meaning of life was not acquiring but giving. When one considers the range and scope of the charitable activities to which she was devoted, and the personal involvement and caring that she exhibited as a lay leader, one understands the definition of a true philanthropic role model. When one realizes the joy, happiness, peace of mind and healing that she helped to provide, the religious and secular knowledge she helped to foster, and the wonderful aesthetic sense that she brought to so many organizations and institutions, one begins to understand the depth of her persona. Of course, most of these activities were accomplished side-by-side with her beloved "Luddy". The name Jesselson is synonymous with the founding, growth and development of Shaare Zedek Medical Center. Through her service as Chair of the American Committee and Chair of the National Women's Division, we were the beneficiaries of Erica's leadership, creativity and inspiration. The world-class facilities of the Jesselson Heart Center at Shaare Zedek stand as a beacon of hope to the more than 25,000 cardiac patients that are treated there each year. We will forever be grateful to her and will always cherish her memory. To Erica's sister Lucy Lang, sons Michael (current Chair of the American Committee), Daniel and Benjamin, their spouses, all the grandchildren and the entire family, we offer our heartfelt condolences. May they be comforted amongst the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. American Committee for Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem Jack C. Bendheim, President Menno Ratzker, Vice Chair Phil Friedman, Vice Pres Sidney G. Adler, Treasurer Emeritus Ronald Abrams, Treasurer Abby Ellison Kanarek, Secretary Prof. Jonathan Halevy, Dir. General Lee Weinbach, Pres. Nat'l Women's Div. Fayge Schwartz, VP, Nat'l Women's Div. Ann Dachs, VP, Nat'l Women's Div. Paul Glasser, Exec. Vice Pres