Rabbi Kelman inspired, educated, and empowered us, creating Congregation Netivot Shalom’s ethos as a participatory, egalitarian, and inclusive community. He was a mentor, a leader, and an innovator in Jewish education, in Chevra Kaddisha work and more. He was a scribe, a musician, a community-builder, and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, and friend. His legacy will endure, and we will always be grateful to him for the countless ways he impacted our lives.

Rabbi Kelman’s memory will continue to be a blessing. He will be greatly missed.

Tzedekah 

Donations in memory of Rabbi Kelman may be made to Congregation Netivot Shalom, Camp Ramah in Ojai, Edah, and JADE (Jewish Association for Death Education).

Please do the mitzvah of nihum avelim, comforting the mourners, by reaching out to Vicky and all of the Kelman family members in the days and weeks ahead.

HaMakom Yenachem Et’chem Betoch She’ar Aveilei Tziyon VeYerushalayim. 

May God comfort Vicky, Navah, Michael, Eliana, Yoni,Tali, Ari, Eva, Bella, Malachi, Etan, Alison, Dena, Yael, Elana, Adam, Yair, Nevo, Etai, and the Kelmans’ many dear friends and all of our community, together with all other mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

Congregation Netivot Shalom
Berkeley, California