Obituary: Rabbi Fred Ackerman a”h

Issue of March 27, 2009 / 4 Nissan 5769

Rabbi Fred Ackerman, known affectionately as “the Rabbi” of Woodmere Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, passed away on March 5.

“Rabbi Fred Ackerman a”h was a true mensch,” said Leba Sonneberg, director of marketing at Woodmere Rehab. “He was a very special friend and mentor to all who knew him. He always arrived here with a broad smile on his face and a friendly twinkle in his eyes. He had a kind and uplifting word for each individual that he encountered.”

Sonneberg recounted how Rabbi Ackerman endeared himself to fellow residents and to the center’s staff by engaging them with stories about his family and his personal life. He was known for leading the Jewish davening services at the facility every Shabbat and Yom Tov. He also led a Rosh Chodesh series each month to enlighten his peers about upcoming holidays.

“He had an amazing gift of making the Chagim (holidays) come alive for our residents,” Sonneberg recalled. “Everybody always looked forward to his programs and they were all well attended.”

One of Rabbi Ackerman’s sons, Rabbi Gregg Ackerman, used to lead the davening if his father was unable to come, a job that he will now take over in his father’s memory.

“We are very fortunate that Rabbi Gregg Ackerman will continue to lead the Jewish programs here at Woodmere Rehab because he posesses his father’s wonderful traits and talents,” Sonneberg said. “We extend sincere condolences to the entire family of Rabbi Fred Ackerman. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.”

-- Yaffi Spodek