Now this man Moses was exceedingly humble, more so than any person on the face of the earth. – Bemidbar 12:3
These are the words that come to mind when I reflect on the unfortunate passing of Rav Mendel Feldman ZT”L, who left this world after suffering a terrible stroke some weeks ago
I learned with Rabbi Feldman over a period of about a year, picking him up in my car and driving him to the yeshiva before taking him back once more. I can truly say that he was the most humble man I have ever met in my life. Quietly spoken, never making a fuss over himself, a true gentle man. He was very learned, literally studying Torah day and night, you could ask him a source for anything in Shas, it was at his fingertips.
Always appreciative for the things you did for him, he was always concerned over your well being and that of your family.
It was truly a privelage and honour to have known him and I hope to emulate his wonderful character in my own personal life. I could write much more, but he would of wanted nothing of that, it was against his nature – He was after all a truly humble man.
Update: Please see here for a some beautiful thoughts from On the Contrary about growing up with R’Mendel
* Please watch this touching video of Rabbi Motti Feldman during the shivah (grandson of R’Mendel) telling over some stories of R’Mendel and his noble life.
He was a great chosid who merited to be a Ben Bayis of the Rebbe the Admor Rav Yosef Yitzchak and enjoyed a intimate relationship with the Rebbe the Admor Rav Menachem Mendel may their Holy merits protect us.
Rav Mendel thought born in America was imbued with Lubavitch of old in every respect.
He told me many things about our present times, he was correct on everything.
We miss him.