The Trustees and staff of the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust deeply mourn the passing of our dear friend and Vice-Chairman Howard J. Rubenstein z”l, who died at his home in Manhattan on Tuesday, December 29.

Amy and Howard Rubenstein
Amy and Howard Rubenstein at the Museum of Jewish Heritage

Instrumental in the Museum’s founding, Mr. Rubenstein was the Co-Chair of the New York Holocaust Memorial Commission.

“Howard Rubenstein has left a legacy for generations to come,” says Jack Kliger, President & CEO of the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust. “Mr. Rubenstein was not only a legendary figure in the NY communications and media industry, he was a key part of the group that established the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to The Holocaust.

“Mr. Rubenstein was a part of the Museum’s history from the very beginning, helping to create a ‘living memorial’ – a vital place of memory with a mission to educate people of all ages and backgrounds about Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust.

“His acumen and knowledge of New York City helped create awareness and recognition for the Museum and helped to turn a project into a reality that will soon celebrate 25 years as the third largest Holocaust Museum in the world.”

“Howard Rubenstein has helped guide the Museum since its founding,” says Bruce Ratner, Chairman of the Board of the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust. “He served as a co-chair of the NYS-NYC Holocaust Commission, and was a valued counselor and supporter of our institution, in keeping with his passion for making New York City a better place to work, live, and visit.”

We are profoundly grateful to Mr. Rubenstein’s dedication to our Museum, and we send our deepest condolences to his family and all of those who mourn him.


Read Mr. Rubenstein’s New York Times obituary online or in PDF format.