Remembering Shelly and Joel Sanders

Shelly Sanders ~ April 18, 1948-February 24, 2013 / Purim  Joel Nathan Sanders ~ May 28. 1945-January 2, 2014 / Rosh Chodesh Sh'vat Our parents met when they were 7 and 10 years old at the beach in Rockaway, NY. They started dating when they were 17 and 20. They got married in January of 1968 and quickly started their family moving to Monsey, NY, where they lived for most of their 45 years of marriage. Our mom worked most of our childhood as a proofreader, and we inherited our love of reading from her. She was such a people person. She made friends wherever she went, the supermarket, plane trips, workplaces, everyone felt so close to her and she made everyone feel like they were her best friend. Our dad sold life insurance and did estate planning. He was extremely friendly and outgoing, and everyone who met him felt his warmth and enthusiasm when he spoke to them. Torah learning was very important to him - he always had Divrei Torah to share and did it in such a way that made the story come alive.  They were an integral part of the Monsey community, friendly with everyone and committed to doing for others. They were the epitome of Chesed. Our dad used to bring strangers home to our house on shabbat who needed a meal, and my mom always made sure there was enough for anyone who might show up and make them feel like they belonged there. My parents were big believers in giving. On most Sundays, people came to the door asking for tzedakah.  Everyone was invited in, given a drink and everyone left with a check, feeling heard and good about themselves. They taught us that it is our obligation to give without judgement.  They were very loving parents but there was nothing like their love for their grandchildren.  They would've loved watching their seven grandchildren grow up, reach milestones, get married, and of course, the great grandchildren There are so many memories and they left us way too early. There was definitely not enough time with them. Our parents were very supportive of all we do for the community and were extremely proud of Marci's decision to work within the special needs community and give to others.   We invite you to contribute generously to Shutaf Inclusion Programs in Jerusalem to honor their memory. They would be humbled to be honored this way. Marci Tirschwell and Tina Appel and families