In a tribute marking the first yahrtzeit (anniversary of passing) of philanthropist David Chase, his children, grandchildren and many friends gathered in Morristown, N.J., at the Rabbinical College of America, a center of Torah study that bears his name.

The student body, faculty, members of the board of trustees, community members and Chabad-Lubavitch emissaries from throughout the state gathered to pay tribute to what they called a life of resolve, support and dedication.

Rabbi Moshe Herson, dean of the Rabbinical College, opened the event by sharing some history. A Holocaust survivor, Chase came to the United States with nothing—save the determination to rebuild his life and contribute to the Jewish community. Herson shared the story of Chase’s first encounter with the Rebbe—Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory—which eventually led to the purchase of the current campus.

Arnold Chase

Matthew Oshman, a trustee at the college, represented the board of trustees over which Chase—who passed away on June 1, 2016, at the age of 88—presided as chairman for years. He admiringly described Chase’s drive for success, and how he served as an inspiration to all who had the fortune to know and work with him.

A memorial video tribute showed excerpts of Chase’s interactions with the Rebbe and the trust that the Rebbe publicly placed in him.

In the video, former Connecticut Sen. Joseph Lieberman shared his memories of Chase and his love for many causes, “none more than the Rabbinical College” and its role in preparing the next generation of Jewish leaders.

Rabbi Mendy Herson, associate dean of the college, described his childhood memories of the unwavering support that Chase gave his father as they worked together to grow the institution and strengthen the Jewish community. He then described the educational institution’s global impact, as the training ground for so many Chabad emissaries.

Chase’s son, Arnold, spoke on behalf of the family, reflecting on his father’s life of benevolence. He also focused on his father’s indestructible faith in G‑d.

Two of Chase’s grandchildren recited a Psalm in his memory, followed by the memorial prayer “Kel Maleh Rachamim,” sung by faculty member Rabbi Avrohom Hersh Levin, and Kaddish chanted by Rabbi Moshe Herson and Arnold Chase.

Herson, left, next to William and Landon Chase, grandchildren of David Chase.

The student body, faculty, members of the board of trustees, community members and Chabad-Lubavitch emissaries from throughout the state gathered to pay tribute to what they called a life of resolve, support and dedication.

Matthew Oshman, member of the board of trustees

Rabbi Mendy Herson, associate dean of the college

Related Article:

David Chase, 88, Philanthropist and Businessman, Built Jewish Life Worldwide

David Chase, right, in one of many encounters with the Lubavitcher Rebbe—Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory

Visionary helped spur Chabad-Lubavitch growth, was the Rebbe’s ‘four-star general’