11 People Killed in Pittsburgh Synagogue Mass Shooting
By: [Author Name]
Published: August 2, 2023, 11:40 a.m. ET
Eleven individuals tragically lost their lives in a mass shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh on October 27, 2018. The incident occurred during Saturday Shabbat services, where three congregations had gathered. Here are their stories:
Bernice and Sylvan Simon:
Bernice and Sylvan Simon, who had been married at the Tree of Life synagogue over 60 years ago, died together during the attack. Their wedding announcement from 1956, published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, described a beautiful ceremony where Bernice carried a Bible adorned with white orchids and streamers. Their love story tragically came to an end in the same place where it began.
Jerry Rabinowitz:
Jerry Rabinowitz, a well-respected primary care physician in Edgewood Borough, was known as a pillar of support for HIV patients in Pittsburgh. He was known to hold patients’ hands without gloves and offer them comforting embraces during a time when stigma surrounding the disease was high. Many patients credit Dr. Rabinowitz with keeping them alive during a terrifying period in their lives.
Irving Younger:
Irving Younger was known for his warm hospitality, always welcoming newcomers and helping them find their seats at the synagogue. His dedication to serving others extended beyond the synagogue as he enjoyed spending time at a local coffee shop, where he welcomed people as a greeter. Younger also coached Little League and was remembered as a kind-hearted individual.
Melvin Wax:
Melvin Wax had a zest for life, and his biggest passions were his grandson, his religion, and the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team. He was known for his good humor and was usually among the first to arrive at Friday night and Saturday morning services. Wax was highly knowledgeable in reciting Jewish prayers.
Rose Mallinger:
Rose Mallinger, aged 97, was a devoted family woman and regularly attended the Tree of Life synagogue with her daughter, Andrea. Her family remembers her as a sharp-witted, humorous, and intelligent individual who knew her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild better than they knew themselves. Despite her age, Mallinger still prepared family meals for high holidays.
Joyce Fienberg:
Joyce Fienberg was cherished by her employers at the Learning Research and Development Center, where she had a long and successful career as a research specialist until her retirement in 2008. Students of her late husband, a Ph.D. professor, also adored her. Fienberg was described as engaging, elegant, and warm-hearted—a true caring person.
Richard Gottfried:
Richard Gottfried, in an interfaith marriage with his Catholic wife, played a vital role in helping other interfaith couples prepare for marriage through the St. Athanasius church. He was a well-known figure in the community of Ross Township, where he served as the district’s dentist for many years.
Daniel Stein:
Daniel Stein, aged 71, was a humble man who didn’t require much in life. His son, Joe Stein, expressed profound sorrow at losing his father earlier than expected, and mentioned the need for their lives to take a different path.
Cecil and David Rosenthal:
Brothers Cecil and David Rosenthal were inseparable and were well-known through the Pittsburgh nonprofit ACHIEVA, which supports people with disabilities. Cecil’s infectious laughter and David’s kind and gentle spirit endeared them to all. They were respected for their strong faith and genuine respect for everyone around them.
The community of Pittsburgh mourns the loss of these eleven lives that were tragically cut short. Their memories will forever be cherished by their families, friends, and the community at large.
[CNN’s Dakin Andone, Eric Levenson, Shelby Rose, Jason Kravarik, Sonia Moghe, and Artemis Moshtaghian contributed to this report.]