NEW YORK (Press Release) — Jack Kliger, CEO and President, and Bruce Ratner, Chairman of the Board, at the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, issued the following statement on Saturday on the passing of Dr. Ruth Westheimer, z”l, a member of the Museum’s Board of Trustees since 2004:
“The world feels a bit darker today with the loss of Ruth Westheimer. Dr. Ruth has been a cherished member of our Board of Trustees for two decades. Known worldwide, the ‘Holocaust orphan’, renowned sex therapist, educator, author, cultural icon passed away peacefully at the age of 96 years old.
Dr. Westheimer’s life story was a testament to resilience, courage, and the enduring human spirit. Born Karola Ruth Siegel in Frankfurt, Germany in 1928, she separated from her family and left Germany on the Kindertransport when she was only 10 years old, never again seeing her family who all lost their lives during the Holocaust. After the war, she emigrated to the United States, where she went on to become a beloved figure, known for her groundbreaking work in the field of human sexuality and her ability to connect with people across generations.
Her association with the Museum of Jewish Heritage was a source of immense pride for both Dr. Westheimer and our institution. As a Board member, she played an integral role in furthering our mission to educate, commemorate, and inspire future generations about the Holocaust and its lessons. Her commitment to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and ensuring that its history is never forgotten was unwavering.
Her warmth, wisdom, and tireless advocacy for Holocaust education resonated deeply with our staff, community, and fellow Board members. She often shared her personal story, offering invaluable insights into the indomitable human spirit and the importance of tolerance, understanding, and empathy.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions to the world at large, the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation honored Dr. Ruth Westheimer in 2016, and the Museum more recently honored Dr. Ruth at its annual Generation to Generation benefit in 2019, citing her dedication to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and ensuring that the lessons of history continue to shape a more just and compassionate future.
Dr. Westheimer’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Her legacy as a Holocaust orphan, educator, and advocate for human connection and understanding will continue to inspire us all. The Museum of Jewish Heritage is committed to upholding her vision and furthering her mission.
We extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Westheimer’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. The Museum will honor her memory through ongoing initiatives that reflect her commitment to Holocaust education and the values she held dear. Dr. Ruth Westheimer’s remarkable life will forever serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. May her memory be a blessing.”
Dr. Ruth Westheimer’s family has requested that donations be made in her memory to HaZamir: The International Jewish Teen Choir, the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, and YM&YWHA of Washington Heights.
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Preceding provided by the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City.
The following comment was received by San Diego Jewish World via email:
Doug Seserman, CEO of Americans for Ben-Gurion University (A4BGU), has issued the following statement on the passing of famed sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer, who had received an honorary doctorate from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) in 2021:
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Dr. Ruth Westheimer, a cherished member of our A4BGU family. Dr. Ruth, a Holocaust orphan who overcame immense adversity, became a trailblazer in the field of sex therapy and education. Her contributions transcended boundaries, impacting countless lives through her compassionate guidance and groundbreaking work.
“As an honorary board member of the A4BGU, and a recipient of an honorary doctorate from BGU, Dr. Ruth’s commitment to education and her unwavering support for our institution have left an indelible mark. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of students, scholars, and professionals worldwide.”