Eruch embodied the best of humanity. He was charming, brilliant, and compassionate and sincerely cared about every person he encountered. He showed us that true strength was born out of love and kindness, that true security came from opening your heart up to world.
Even as an older man, he never succumbed to the fear that seems to come with age, that wants to hate the 'other', to keep things like they were in the 'good old days'. He was always forward thinking and wanted what's best for all, especially the weak and voiceless.
Forty years ago he suffered a paralyzing stroke that should have taken his life. Instead, through pure determination, he embraced his condition and met each new day with gratitude and humility. Rather than feeling sorry for himself, he reserved his empathy for the down trodden, always giving what little he had to those who needed it most.
He'll also be remembered for his sly sense of humor. Often he was the only one in on the joke (whether waving to an invisible friend or laughing in bed at some stray thought), but his joy was contagious. His levity drew people in and made us feel that, even the in darkest moments, everything was going to be ok.
He was eternally playful and sharp. He never missed an episode of Jeopardy nor shied away from giving you an earful about the latest issue of the day. He was true to himself to the very end and we all loved him for it.
We celebrate his life!