In March, B’nai B’rith International honored David Jacobson and Chicago Jewish Funerals with the Distinguished Achievement Award, given to recognize the accomplishments of key community members.
On the CFJ website, the event was described as: “It was an event to behold. Hundreds of friends, community leaders, clergy, and family came to honor David Jacobson and Chicago Jewish Funerals hosted by B’nai B’rith at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel … B’nai B’rith chose David to be honored simply because of his vast and generous achievements in the Jewish community.”
It was an event to behold. Hundreds of friends, community leaders, clergy, and family came to honor David Jacobson and Chicago Jewish Funerals hosted by B’nai B’rith at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel.
B’nai B’rith chose David to be honored simply because of his vast and generous achievements in the Jewish community. Few in the community deserve this honor more than David and Chicago Jewish Funerals. The faithful staff was all present adorned in their signature colorful ties.
A special guest, Talia, David’s eldest daughter, flew in from Israel and surprised all to be with her Dad. His son, Gabriel, still serving in the Israel Defense Forces, and Talia made a fun movie expressing their love and pride for all to watch at the event. Ruby-Sage, his youngest daughter led the beginning prayer with Talia and Rosalind Jacobson, David’s mother.
Michael Lorge, a community leader in his own right and special friend, was Chair Person who helped make the evening a resounding success.
A moving and heartwarming tribute was delivered by one of David’s best friends and colleagues, Stopher Bartol, Chairman of Legacy.com. He spoke of the hopes and struggles they both shared starting their new businesses. A bond of strength developed for many years. David’s father-in-law, Dr. Donald H. Greenberg, flew in from Arizona along with his wife to also offer words of tribute. Iris, David’s wife sang a beautiful tribute song.
The executive vice-president, Daniel S. Mariaschin of B’nai B’rith, was impressed by the Chicago turnout and for the achievements of the honoree. He spoke of the long history and the unyielding strength of this very international organization.
Finally, David Jacobson got up to speak. Finally, all silverware put down, clinking glasses stopped and a hush fell upon the audience. All eyes riveted upon David as he walked to the podium.
David spoke from his heart as he always does. With love and humor. One cannot dismiss his devotion to his family and friends and his singular mission of helping people at their most vulnerable time. As one looked around and viewed the audience, eyes were glistening with joy for a man they have known and loved. A beautiful moment. A proud moment that will last a lifetime.
And, that’s the way it should be.
