Prominent Breslov Hassid and Rescue Activist David Yehuda Greenwald Dies at 57

David Yehuda (Duki) Greenwald, a prominent activist within the Breslov Hassidic community and a founder of early rescue organizations in Israel, passed away on the first evening of Sukkot at the age of 57. He died at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in Jerusalem after a period of suffering. Greenwald was known for his extensive charitable work and dedication to helping others, particularly in establishing the "Hatzalah Israel" rescue organization in Jerusalem.

Born in 1969 to a notable Breslov Hassidic family, Greenwald was educated in Breslov institutions. He lived in the Ramat Shlomo neighborhood of Jerusalem for many years and was a beloved figure among Breslov followers worldwide. His life was characterized by selfless assistance to the needy and vigorous activity for the public good. He was among the pioneers of the first Haredi rescue organizations in Israel, dedicating himself to saving lives around the clock and laying the groundwork for life-saving initiatives within the Haredi sector.

Greenwald experienced a significant personal tragedy several years ago with the death of his wife, Chana Rachel Greenwald, at the age of 47 after a difficult illness. She was the daughter of Rabbi Chaim Menachem Kremer, a prominent Breslov influence. Despite this profound loss, Greenwald demonstrated immense strength of spirit, raising their seven orphaned children with devotion. In August 2025, the family celebrated the completion of a Torah scroll he and his son donated to the main Breslov study hall in Ramat Beit Shemesh D' in memory of his wife.

He was also known for his annual trips to Uman, Ukraine, where he held prayer services and hosted large Kiddush gatherings. Friends and acquaintances remember him as a kind, welcoming individual dedicated to charity and hospitality, whose home was always open to those in need. In recent years, he opened a synagogue in his home in Givat Moshe after moving from Ramat Shlomo to ensure he never missed a communal prayer service. His passing comes just a month before his son's wedding.

Member of Knesset Meir Porush eulogized Greenwald, calling him a dear friend, a man of kindness and action, and a pioneer of emergency medical services in the Haredi public. Porush highlighted Greenwald's decades of round-the-clock dedication to saving lives and assisting those in distress in Jerusalem and beyond. He noted Greenwald's significant role in establishing life-saving systems and his deep love for the Jewish people. Porush also recognized Greenwald's contributions to the Breslov community and his tireless work for the public good, despite personal hardships, including his wife's passing and his own recent battle with illness, which he faced with faith and resilience.