A Driving Force Behind L’Chaim 5K Run/Walk for Israel
The community is mourning the loss of Lenny Brafman (Yehudah ben Ze’ev) z”l, a beloved figure known for his boundless energy, deep love for Eretz Yisrael, and unwavering dedication to g’milus chasadim (acts of kindness). Lenny, born in 1954, passed away on Thursday, December 5, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness, compassion, and service to others.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Lenny was an active member of the Young Israel of Jamaica Estates (YIJE) for over three decades. Together with his wife Lois, he was instrumental in supporting the shul and the wider community. Their tireless work, from organizing events to raising funds, helped solidify the shul’s place as a central hub for Jewish life in Queens. Lois, alongside their children, Rebecca (and David Max), Yonatan (and Ariela), and Daniel (and Ahuva Leah), grandchildren Elleora, Zevi, Sori, Aroha, Ari, Hananya, Jordana, Gitty, Meirav, Avrami, Yossi, Hodaya, and Odelia – and his siblings Carol Schajer, Linda Berger, and Sharon Brafman – have continued Lenny’s work, embodying the same values of commitment and devotion that she and Lenny instilled in them, in their respective k’hilos.
Lenny’s love for Israel was central to his life. He was one of the driving forces behind the L’Chaim 5K Run/Walk for Israel, a YIJE affiliated event that raised significant funds for Israel’s medical and security needs, exemplified by the pasuk, Omdos hayu ragleinu bish’arayich, Yerushalayim – Our feet were standing within your gates, O Jerusalem.” The race would start with a shofar blast, symbolizing Lenny’s deep connection to Jewish tradition and his unwavering support for Israel. “Lenny’s work behind the scenes – securing sponsorships, selling raffle tickets, and mobilizing the community – was crucial to the success of the race, which raised around $75,000 annually for Israel-related causes,” said Linda Spiegel, Director of Public Affairs for anchor sponsor Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. His leadership in the event reflected his ability to inspire and galvanize neighbors and friends to act for a cause dear to his heart.
In addition to his work with the L’Chaim 5K, Lenny, together with Lois, prepared the next generation to lead the Jewish people, initiating the annual Lag BaOmer Medurah (bonfire) some 35 years ago. What began as an informal gathering became a beloved community tradition that kept a focus on the community’s youth. Lenny’s passion for creating opportunities for families to connect and celebrate together made a lasting impact on all those who participated. Leading YIJE clothing drives, and spearheading the YIJE Book of Remembrance and Yizkor Service commitments were other local chesed passions Lenny encouraged.
Lenny was also instrumental in the formation of the Israel Action Coalition at YIJE. In 2002, along with co-chairs, he helped rally 70 community members to form a ten-committee coalition dedicated to supporting Israel. The coalition’s efforts included raising funds for crucial resources, such as purchasing an armored vehicle for Jewish communities in the Israeli territories. Lenny’s role in this initiative was just one example of his deep commitment to the State of Israel and his ability to mobilize others to take meaningful action. YIJE honored the Brafmans at their 38th Anniversary Dinner in March of 2017.
Lenny’s commitment to family was equally remarkable. He was deeply involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren, passing on the values of kindness, respect, and devotion to his family. His example of kibud av va’eim (honoring one’s parents), and his role as a loving husband and father, influenced generations to come. The warmth and generosity he shared with those around him will continue to resonate in the community he helped shape.
The l’vayah service for Lenny Brafman took place on Friday, December 6, at Schwartz Brothers Memorial Chapels, officiated by YIJE’s Rabbi Dov Lerner, with k’vurah following at Riverside Cemetery in Saddle Brook, New Jersey. The community extended their condolences and support to Lenny’s family during shiv’ah at their Jamaica Estates residence.
As we remember Lenny Brafman z”l, his legacy is one of kindness, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to Israel, his family, and his community. His work to strengthen Jewish life in Queens and his tireless dedication to the State of Israel will continue to inspire all who knew him. May his memory be a blessing and an inspiration to all, and may his family find comfort in the love and support of their community during this difficult time.
Lenny Brafman’s impact was immeasurable, and his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the remarkable work he leaves behind. May his neshamah have an aliyah.
By Shabsie Saphirstein