The West Hempstead Jewish community was rocked with very sad news on Sunday morning with the announcement of the passing of Uriel Soniker, beloved son of Rabbi Elon and Rebbetzin Estee Soniker. After a very difficult delivery, Uriel tragically never gained consciousness and passed away less than two months after being born.
The greater West Hempstead community showed their outpouring of support for the Sonikers by holding prayer vigils and performing acts of kindness during Uriel’s short time with us. The Sunday afternoon funeral was attended by hundreds of people from the community who came out to Beth David Cemetery in Elmont to pay their final respects. Extreme heat, a Jewish fast day and the threat of thunderstorms made for a difficult situation as the community was moved to tears by the powerful, distressed and sorrowful words of Uriel’s father, Rabbi Elon Soniker.
Later that Sunday, an email went out from Congregation Anshei Shalom, where Rabbi Soniker is the Rabbi and spiritual leader. The email which is reprinted below, exemplifies how this strong, supportive community bands together during time of tragedy:
‘Over the last hours we have received hundreds of messages from The Anshei Shalom Family, The West Hempstead Jewish Community and beyond, offering to help the Soniker Family during this unimaginable tragedy.
We are truly humbled and touched by all these genuine offers to help. At this time, all efforts are being coordinated by The Anshei Shalom Chesed Committee and we will send out another message in the coming days regarding what assistance and support is needed.’
