Devoted Father Dies Suddenly on Rosh Hashanah After 16 Years of Waiting for Child

Rabbi Yaakov Weiss, 48, passed away on the first night of Rosh Hashanah after collapsing shortly after arriving in Jerusalem with his family. Doctors fought for his life, connecting him to ECMO just before the holiday began, but ultimately informed his family they had done all they could. He passed away minutes before midnight.

Weiss was known as a kind and devoted individual who worked at a neighborhood grocery store and was deeply involved in acts of kindness. He and his wife had waited 16 years for their only son, who is now nine years old. For nine years, Rabbi Weiss raised his son with immense dedication, serving as his father, teacher, and friend.

The family learned of the tragedy after the holiday concluded. His widow is now left to raise their son alone, facing immense grief and financial hardship. The article emphasizes the family's urgent need for support and assistance to cope with their loss and rebuild their lives.

Weiss was also devoted to his ailing father, visiting him in the hospital after his own workdays. The article highlights the tragic timing of his death, occurring while visiting his parents for the holiday, and the profound shock experienced by his young son, who witnessed the event without fully understanding its gravity.

In the context of the Ten Days of Repentance, the article appeals for donations to aid the widow and orphan, stressing the importance of charity and communal support during this difficult time.