Reb Arthur Waskow z”l
(1933-2025)
Reb Arthur Waskow z"l, founder of The Shalom Center, died peacefully on Monday, October 20, surrounded by his wife Rabbi Phyllis Berman and adult children David Waskow and Shoshana Elkin Waskow after visits during the past week with all the grandchildren and in-laws. Just days after celebrating his 92nd birthday, Arthur left his body with ease.
Arthur is mourned by his wife Rabbi Phyllis Ocean Berman, whom he married in 1986, his son David Waskow (Ketura Persellin), his daughter Shoshana Elkin Waskow (Michael Slater), his stepchildren Josh Sher (Christy Sher) and Morissa Wiser (Jason Wiser), and five grandchildren Yoni Slubin (Hilary Slubin), Elior Waskow, Shifra Waskow, Kalman Slater, and Yaela Wiser. He was predeceased by his brother, Howard, who died in 2012.
You can read Arthur’s full obituary here.
A funeral will be held at 12pm on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 in Philadelphia, and there will be shiva minyanim in days to follow. For funeral and shiva information and Zoom links, please send an email to office@theshalomcenter.org.
Baruch Eyl Rachamim v' Emet. Blessed is the Breath of All Life, Merciful and Truthful.
Donate in Arthur’s honor
Up until his very last days, Arthur was deeply motivated to see The Shalom Center thrive beyond him, still trying to brainstorm new ways to raise funds even after transitioning to hospice.
To honor Arthur’s memory, please donate to support the growth of the next lifecycle of Arthur’s vision of prophetic Judaism.
Send blessings for Arthur to his family
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Preorder Arthur’s two new books
Between the time he turned 90 and his recent passing, Reb Arthur z”l wrote two new books (with the help of scribes), the culmination of a lifetime of thought, reflection, and lived experience. Preorder these two special books now as part of a special Shalom Center offer!
