VINNEWS Phoenix, Arizona – December 25, 2023
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In a heartwarming and touching story that unfolded in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, Robert Goldberg, a lifelong resident of Newport Beach, California, found solace and compassion in his final days, ultimately receiving a traditional Jewish burial.
A month prior to his passing, Robert, who was battling stage four cancer, embarked on a unique journey to Lake Havasu City, Arizona. His motivation was to spend his remaining days in the company of an old friend from work in this remote northwestern Arizona desert town, which had a small Jewish community and was nearly 200 miles away from the closest large city.
Amidst the joyful celebration of Chanukah, the local home hospice agency caring for Robert reached out to Rabbi Mendel Super of Chabad in Lake Havasu City, seeking the presence of a rabbi to provide spiritual support during this challenging time. It’s a situation that many turn to their faith for comfort. Without hesitation, Rabbi Super responded with unwavering support.
The following morning, Rabbi Super visited Robert Goldberg. Together, they recited Viduy, chanted the Shema, and Rabbi Super helped Robert don tefillin for the first time in his life. As an additional gesture of kindness, Rabbi Super gifted Robert a menorah, candles, and doughnuts, offering both comfort and a sense of belonging.
During their visit, Rabbi Super broached the delicate topic of burial plans, knowing that the local area lacked Jewish burial options. Robert had initially considered cremation due to financial concerns. In response to Robert’s hesitation, Rabbi Super, driven by his deep conviction that no one should be cremated, generously offered to cover the additional expenses if Robert would reconsider. Touched by this act of compassion and guided by his faith, Robert agreed to a traditional Jewish burial.
On the 7th of Teves, Robert peacefully returned his soul to his Maker.
On Sunday, the 12th of Teves, December 24th, Rabbi Super embarked on a remarkable 400-mile roundtrip journey to Phoenix, Arizona, to officiate at Robert’s funeral.
Although most attendees did not personally know Robert, approximately 20 individuals from the local Jewish community came together to pay their respects.
Rabbi Super’s selfless act of kindness extended to personally covering $7,500 in funeral expenses. He expressed his commitment to preventing cremations whenever possible, emphasizing the importance of providing a proper burial. He expressed gratitude to the generous donors who consistently step in to assist in such cases.
For those who wish to be part of this Mitzvah and support Rabbi Super’s mission, you can contact him at [email protected] or visit ChabadHavasu.org.
No one like a Chabad shaliach. Thank you to what you Chabadnicks do for am Yisroel
Good reminder about the importance of advanced directives. Check out https://shabbosvayechi.org/
Some here think they know Chabad lessons but the truth is they have just scratched the surface. For instance, the Tzedaka that will be given for a Mes Miztva by myself and others on account of some comments here will be beautiful!
You thought you are making a cynical comment but B’Pnimius it was your Neshama feeling bad and really wanting to contribute and now it will. This is Chabad!!!
Mi K’amchu YISROEL !!!
In this instance desert is justifiably spelled dessert, as in ‘just dessert’ found.
Good PR by Mendel, he learned his Chabad lessons well.
Money raised above expenses will go to Mendel’s Lubavitch operation I guess. Let’s see how well this PR works out for him.