With tremendous sorrow we inform you of the passing of Rabbi Dr. Chaim Wakslak, OBM, beloved rabbi of the Young Israel of Long Beach and clinical director of HASC.
The funeral was Friday Feb. 21, at the Young Israel of Long Beach, 120 Long Beach Blvd. Burial is in Israel.
Rabbi Wakslak was known for his love of the Long Beach community and his dedication to Hebrew Academy For Special Children. Following superstorm Sandy, Rabbi Wakslak and his wife, Rivka, were commended in 2013 by the New York State Assembly for the help they gave to the community.
“Their heroic and extraordinary contributions toward the recovery in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy were truly remarkable and will long be remembered. … Rabbi Chaim and Rivka Wakslak were initial responders and continue to assist in the recovery efforts. …Rivka Wakslak, the Rabbi’s wife, checked on people, including elderly citizens, and the synagogue provided food, water and and kosher meals to those in need,” the commendation reads.
Rabbi Dr. Wakslak was also instrumental in helping HASC clients find shidduchim.
Assemblywoman Melissa (Missy) Miller said, “He was especially sensitive to the needs the special needs population, as the clinical director of the HASC Center, and has changed many peoples lives. His kindness and contributions to our community and beyond will forever be his legacy. This is a tragic loss.”
“Rabbi Wakslak was a fixture of the Long Beach community and dedicated so much of his life to Jewish faith,” said state Senator Todd Kaminsky. “He left an indelible mark on all his congregants and his teachings and wisdom will not be forgotten.”
Rabbi Wakslak was the backbone of the frum Jewish community, said Rabbi Eli Goodman, who heads Chabad of the Beaches.
“When my family moved to town all most important Jewish institutions, such as Mikvah, kosher establishments, Eruv, etc. were all firmly established thanks to his efforts. His tremendous efforts are appreciated and he will definitely be missed.”