One of the victims killed in what is believed to be the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in U.S. history has family in Massachusetts.
Jerry Rabinowitz, 66, was one of 11 killed at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh Saturday. Relatives say he died trying to help the injured, but that does not make the grieving any easier.
His mother, Sally, lives in Bedford. She is still in disbelief that her son is gone. Fighting back tears, she shared memories of Rabinowitz, who also leaves behind a wife and a brother.
"He was such a wonderful human being," she said. "He loved life. He loved people. He loved helping people."
She said her son was a fixture in the synagogue and was, at one time, president of the congregation. He was also a beloved physician who is being remembered as a hero to his patients during the AIDS crisis.
"He often held our hands (without rubber gloves) and always, always hugged us as we left the office," Michael Kerr wrote on Facebook.
His passion for being a doctor is why his mother is not surprised to hear how her son spent his final moments. She said he was running to help those who were hurt when he was shot and killed.
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Being 93 years old, she is not traveling to Pittsburgh, but her other son is already on the way to attend services there.
Rabinowitz will also be remembered in Bedford at several ceremonies, including one on Thursday at the First Parish Church, where his brother attends.
