Photos: Friends and Family Gather for Shloshim

On Sunday, the 11th of Tammuz, family and friends of Mordechai Goldin a”h gathered at F.R.E.E. to mark his Shloshim.

The very place where for many years Mordechai davened, farbrenged, and told his captivating stories, is where people now came to tell their stories about Mordechai.

Mordechai’s son Moishe Goldin made a siyum on mishnayaos, followed by the kaddish recited by him and his brothers Zevi and Pinny. Mordechai’s daughters Miriam and Tova prepared a touching video tribute to their father. The Goldins served a beautiful seudah to mark the occasion.

Zevi Goldin, Mordechai’s oldest son, MC’d the event. Before introducing other speakers, Zevi shared with all present how privileged he and the rest of the Goldin children felt to have been raised by “a real person, a father who taught not just by words, but by example.”

Rabbi Eli Bloch of Chabad of Rego Park spoke about the deep impact Mordechai made on his life and his shlichus. To Rabbi Bloch, Mordechai towers as the epitome of true chasidishkeit.

Mr. Moshe Friedman recounted an incredible story about Mordechai. The day that Mordechai’s son Pinny was born, Mr. Friedman was shot! Mordechai not only facilitated his getting the quickest and best medical care, but then also stayed at Mr. Friedman’s bedside that entire night…

Mordechai’s brother Eli told humorous stories about Mordechai while still in Russia and from his early days in Crown Heights and Morristown. Michoel Albukerk summed up what has come to be known as a universal truth about Mordechai Goldin, “everyone thought they were his best friends. In reality, he was our best friend.”

After the more official part of the commemoration, friends lingered behind to farbreng and reminisce.

Ed Note: Mordechai’s friends have started a “Give Back to Mordechai” fundraising campaign. To donate, go to gofundme.com/mordechai