By Jacob Kamaras
LA JOLLA, California — Michael Rabin — beloved son, brother, friend, and community member — passed away on May 14 at home in La Jolla. He was 42.
Born in Seattle on October 18, 1979, Michael was arguably best known for his vibrant, inimitable, unforgettable smile — a smile that made countless others crack a smile themselves. He moved to San Diego in 2009 and since 2015 had worked as a courtesy clerk at Ralphs on Villa La Jolla Drive, where he was adored by his colleagues and customers alike. In fact, shoppers commonly made a point of using the checkout lane where Michael was working so that they could enjoy a conversation with him.
Michael’s infectious smile was also felt palpably at La Jolla’s Congregation Adat Yeshurun, where he attended services regularly and was a cherished member of the community.
An avid sportsman, Michael played in a recreational softball league. He had also joined the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center basketball team shortly before his death, making a tremendous impression on his teammates in two games and two practices.
Michael never complained about the profound challenges that he experienced. He always navigated those challenges with a smile on his face, navigating life with courage, optimism, dignity, and grace. For that, Michael was his family’s hero. More broadly, he served as a role model to those around him in the workplace and in his community, inspiring them to give back and grow into their best selves.
Michael is survived by his mother and stepfather, Devorah and Yaakov Shore; his father and stepmother, Dr. Marty and Tami Rabin; and his sisters, Johanna Rabin and Tziporah Pogrund. Michael is sorely missed. May his family be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem and know no more sorrow.
Michael was a gentle and beautiful soul. I will always have fond memories of him.
Michael I knew you from being the “beloved boy child” to the amazing man you became. Your sweetness prevailed. Inside your beautiful Soul is a person who loved and cared deeply. I hold you in my heart and know you are making a difference once again in the next transition. Sending you so much love on your journey. Janaki
A beautiful expression for a truly beautiful person. Michael brought people together, demonstrating courage and dignity as you so eloquently pointed out. We already miss this special young man. May his family be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem and know no more sorrow.
It’s hard.to verbalize what a wonderful person he was.
Thank you Jacob for a true and beautiful obit. Yaakov Shore