We are saddened by the news that Rabbi Joshua Stampfer, z”l, passed away yesterday evening. Rabbi Stampfer was the driving force in founding Camp Solomon Schechter, but his legacy goes much further. His tireless efforts over the past 65 years to strengthen Jewish institutions, make Conservative Judaism more accessible and inclusive, advocate for peace, and share his extraordinary scholarship through teaching have left us all a great legacy.
On a personal note, I will miss his wisdom, guidance, conversation and, most importantly, friendship. At an initial meeting with Rabbi after returning to CSS, we took this photo, and I have it framed in my office to remind me of Rabbi’s intention for camp . . . that we continue to inspire, teach, and empower our campers and staff to be proud of being Jewish. We will honor his commitment to building Jewish identity, community, and continuity by infusing Jewish tradition and culture at the foundation of everything we do. Rabbi Stampfer’s impact on our community will last forever.
Our thoughts are with Rabbi’s children, Elana (Matt, z”l), Meir (Claire), Nehama (Rod), Shaul (Sylviane), and daughter-in-law Carol (Noam, z”l), as well as 20 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. May you have strength and great memories of your loving parents and family.
Following a private (family only) interment, the funeral service will be Sunday, December 29th at 4:00pm at Congregation Neveh Shalom (2900 SW Peaceful Lane, Portland, 97239). The service will be followed by a meal of consolation, also at the synagogue.
The family will sit shiva and receive visitors at the Stampfer home (2800 Peaceful Lane, Portland 97239) from 12:00-5:00pm on Monday through Thursday and 12:00-3:00pm on Friday next week.
Shiva Minyanim are also scheduled for Monday through Thursday evenings (December 30, 31, January 1, and 2) at 7:00pm in Stampfer Chapel at Congregation Neveh Shalom (2900 SW Peaceful Lane, Portland, 97239).
Please do not bring food – the family has plenty.
The Jewish community has lost a truly great man. May Rabbi Joshua Stampfer’s memory be for a blessing and let all of us reflect on the many ways that he touched our lives.
B’Shalom,
Zach Duitch
CSS Executive Director
