Alex Eisen, one of the very last of a generation of Holocaust survivors, passed away peacefully on March 24th, 2022 in Toronto. He was the loving husband of Olga Eisen z”l, beloved father of Marvin and Cindy and grandfather of Menashe, Aaron, Rafi z”l and Shoshana. His parents Mordechai and Chana, and only sibling Róża, perished in the Shoah.

Alex was a charismatic and successful businessman who dedicated much of his life raising funds for charities both locally and abroad, many of which he was instrumental in forming. Countless hours were spent each week at his “office”, a corner table at the Bagel Plus on Sheppard Ave. where his sage advice was sought by many. Just a few of the many institutions that benefited from his sharp intelligence, unusual creativity, unrelenting perseverance and good humour were Reena Foundation, Baycrest, the Jewish National Fund, Yad Vashem, Beit Halochem and Beth David synagogue, of which he was a founding member. He had a passion for cantorial music and provided decades of support and guidance for the musical genre in Toronto. Alex was also the brainchild behind the Megillat Hashoah, a lifelong dream which he commissioned and had translated into several languages, which is recited annually around the world to ensure that the Holocaust will never be forgotten.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to Leny Capati for her years of wonderful care and continuing devotion. Alex will be dearly missed by his friend Mynne Lefkowitz, Les and Eva Saperia and their children, extended family, and all those whose lives he touched so deeply. Alex lived his life within the framework of tikkun olam, improving the world, leaving it in a better condition than when he found it. He did so humbly, without seeking any recognition or praise. He was a wise and loyal friend, a tireless worker on behalf of the needy, a man of vision who busied himself by rebuilding and always, always looking forward.

Memorial donations may be made to Beit Halochem Canada, Aid to Disabled Veterans of Israel 905-695-0611 https://beithalochem.ca/ways-to-donate/, or to the charity of your choice.

Date of Death:  Thursday, March 24, 2022
Date of Funeral:  Friday, March 25, 2022
Time of Funeral:  12:00 PM
Memorial Service Location:  Beth David B’Nai Israel Beth Am
Burial Service Location:  Pardes Shalom Cemetery, Beth David B’Nai Israel Beth Am section.
Shiva Details: Shiva will be observed at 22 Christine Crescent, Toronto. Shiva visits Sunday to Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The Eisen family will be attending Zoom services at Beth David (links and times provided below). Shiva concludes Thursday after the morning service.