The Crown Heights community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Rabbi Menachem (Mendy) Raitport, who passed away in a tragic car accident on Tuesday night, the 25th of Nissan, 5785. Rabbi Raitport, aged 57, was returning to New York from Florida after celebrating Pesach with his family. His sudden death has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire Crown Heights community.
Meredith Liu Death & Obituary: Remembering an Educational Visionary
A Pillar of Crown Heights: Community Involvement and Faithful Service
Rabbi Raitport was a familiar and beloved figure in Crown Heights. As the longtime proprietor of Crown Kosher Meat Market on Kingston Avenue, he built more than just a business—he built a community hub. His shop was a welcoming space where neighbors not only purchased kosher meat but also found conversation, advice, and warmth.
Deeply committed to Jewish dietary laws (Kashrus), Rabbi Raitport also worked as a Menaker in Shechita, providing his expertise to respected kosher certification agencies like CHK and Skver. His meticulous standards and dedication helped maintain the community’s spiritual integrity and kosher practices.
A Voice for Public Service: Advocacy and Political Engagement
Beyond his professional endeavors, Rabbi Raitport was a passionate advocate for civic engagement. He ran for public office several times, driven by his commitment to public safety, education, and fair representation for Crown Heights. Although he did not win elected office, his campaigns spoke volumes about his devotion to uplifting his community and being a voice for his neighbors.
A Life of Integrity, Kindness, and Family Devotion
Those who knew Rabbi Raitport remember him for his integrity, sense of humor, and compassionate heart. Whether through personal acts of kindness or community initiatives, he was always ready to help others. His generosity and inclusive spirit made him a beacon of support for countless individuals across Crown Heights.
As a devoted family man, Rabbi Raitport built a home grounded in Torah values, mitzvot, and unconditional love. He is survived by his beloved wife, Esther, and their eight sons—Eliyahu, Yehuda, Shloimy, Dovid, Dubi, Avrami, Zevi, and Chanoch—each a testament to his deep commitment to faith and family.
Rabbi Raitport is also survived by his loving parents, Harav Yitzchok and Shaindel Raitport of Boro Park, both esteemed philanthropists, as well as his siblings and extended family. He was predeceased by his brother, Sholom Dovber Raitport, whose memory he carried with enduring reverence.
Funeral (Levaya) and Final Farewell
The Levaya (funeral) for Rabbi Menachem Raitport will take place on Thursday, passing by 770 Eastern Parkway at 12 PM, a sacred site for the Chabad-Lubavitch community. Burial will follow at 1 PM at Montefiore Cemetery, where loved ones will gather to honor his life and legacy.
Remembering Rabbi Menachem Raitport: A Lasting Legacy
Rabbi Menachem Raitport’s passing marks an immeasurable loss for the Crown Heights community. His legacy of faith, community service, and compassion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a blessing, and may his soul be bound in the bond of eternal life.