The Jewish world suffered a great loss with the passing of Mr. Gabriel Shehebar. Publicly, he was known as the patriarch of a successful family business in ladies wear and a philanthropist. A rabbinical college, yeshivot and many synagogues in Israel and around the world were named after him. He also supported many orphanages and old age homes.
In both his Manhattan and Brooklyn offices Mr. Shehebar had regular hours where he would see people asking for advice, help and donations. Anyone from Israel seeking funds would have to agree to take a suitcase of clothing back to an Israeli orphanage.
Those who had the privilege of being acquainted with him personally, knew he was a wise man with a fine character who was an excellent role model for other men. He was humble, kind and generous.
Mr. Shehebar always had a smile on his face. In the community he was known as the man who was always willing to help others with their business or personal matters. He treated everyone with respect and dignity. During the week of Shiva his family met people from all walks of life who came to relate stories of the kindness he had bestowed upon them.
The first priority in Mr. Shehebar’s life was his family. He put their safety and well being above everything else. In the early 1950’s he left a thriving business and comfortable life in his native Egypt to settle in Cuba.
When Castro came into power, Mr. Shehebar and his family were forced to secretly flee Cuba and entered the US. Again he was faced with supporting his family in a strange country with an unfamiliar language. Again with patience and hard work he became successful.
His wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the joy of his life. He was not interested in publicity. He used his wisdom and experience to guide his family and his resources to help those in need. He never forgot who he was or where he came from.
