Rabbi Max A. Shapiro Obituary (1917 - 2009)

RABBI MAX A. SHAPIRO, age 92, of Minnetonka, passed away October 16, 2009. Beloved Rabbi of Temple Israel, Minneapolis 1955-1985, Director of Jay Phillips Center of Jewish-Christian Learning, University of St. Thomas 1985-1996. The recipient of seven academic degrees (two Honorary), Rabbi Shapiro served on numerous commissions and boards of trustees, both local and national. Author of two books as well as a number of liturgical texts, he was named one of the ten most influential clergy in the Twin Cities by Minneapolis-St. Paul Magazine. He was also named as one of the 100 most important individuals in Minnesota by the Minnesota Journal of Law and Politics. In 1989, Rabbi Shapiro was recognized for his outstanding contribution to the Jewish-Christian Dialogue. The Franciscan Monks gave him their International Franciscan Award, and the National Conference of Christians and Jews presented him with its Humanitarian Award. Preceded in death by his wife Bernice (1984), his parents, Samuel & Clara, two brothers, Dr. Joseph and Rabbi Robert, sister, Sylvia Slocum, sisters-in-law Charlotte and Harriet, and brother-in-law Michael Slocum. Survived by his wife, Abby Lou Evans, his children Susan (Dan Rae) and Steven, his grandson Zachary, Abby Lou’s children Bill, Patti and Bob Aisner, Elizabeth, grandchildren Jonathan and Sally Aisner, Sabena Evans, Gabrielle Evans and nieces and nephews. His family’s gratitude goes to Kay Stahlke, Kelly Hanson, and his other devoted caregivers. Funeral services TUESDAY 11 AM, TEMPLE ISRAEL, 2324 Emerson Ave. So., Mpls. In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to the Rabbi Max A. Shapiro Chair for Rabbinic Scholars, Temple Israel, 2324 Emerson Ave, Minneapolis 55408 or to Jay Phillips Center for Jewish-Christian Learning, University of St. Thomas, 2115 Summit Ave., St. Paul 55105. SHIVA, 7 PM Tues and Wed. at Temple Israel.