I still can't believe that when I drive along Oak Street I will never again see Rabbi Dubrawsky (z"l) walking along the sidewalk - wearing his familiar black hat or his raincoat on a rainy day. Each time I happened to notice him walking either towards Chabad or towards his house it always brought a smile to my face and brightened my day just to have seen him.
Many people have written many heartfelt, beautiful and eloquent things about our beloved Rabbi. It is really quite stunning how many people Rabbi Dubraswsky (z"l) touched and had a profound and lasting effect on. Of course, it is also well known that behind every great man there is a strong woman. Dena you were undoubtedly Rabbi Dubrawsky's (z"l) greatest strength, the two of you were definitely a team.
Being invited to your Shabbat or Yom Tov table was always special and the food was always plentiful and delicious. However, not only were our bodies nourished with food - our souls were nourished listening to wonderful Chassidic stories or insights into the weekly Parsha. I often remember noticing how all the guests would be eating and drinking and listening to the Rabbi and at the end of the meal the plates would be cleared and somehow, Rabbi D. (z'l" never quite managed to finish what was on his plate as he had been so focussed on educating and imparting his brilliant knowledge to his guests.
My husband and I joined the couples study group which met every other Wednesday, about a year and a half ago. We were so honoured to be invited to join this very special group. I think that Dena and Rabbi Dubrawsky (z"l) enjoyed these evenings as much as each of us did. It was really through these classes that we got to know Rabbi D. (z'l) and Dena so much better. I fondly recall Rabbi Dubrawsky's (z"l) reaction when one of us made an intelligent comment or came up with an insight. He would say "oh oh - zer gut!" We need a L'Chaim for that! Those L'Chaims were so special - even more so now. The brachas he gave us - "Only Good Things - Good Health - Only Simchas"! We all drank to those blessings, unaware that Hashem had other plans for Rabbi Dubrawski's (z"l) health in what proved to be a very swift and untimely way. I have no doubt that Rabbi D's neshama is raised so high up in heaven - and he is still sending us those blessings now - minus the scotch!
One last thing I would like to share is that on my last visit to New York a couple of months ago - I made it a point to go and visit the Rebbe's grave in Queens. I would have to say that this was due to the influence of both Rabbi Dubrawsky (z"l) and Dena. It was a very powerful experience and one which I will repeat again with Ruben when we go to New York in June. This time there will be an extra grave to visit which is going to be very difficult.
There is no doubt in our minds that Rabbi Dubrawsky's (z"l) neshama was too pure for this world. To us Rabbi D. (z'l) exemplified whatever we have learned that a Jew is meant to be. The same adjectives come to mind that everybody else has used - humble, great humility, gentle, encouraging, noble and dignified. Rabbi Dubrawsky (z"l) set the bar very high for all of us - and we should all be inspired to act in ways which would honour his memory.
Our deepest and sincerest condolences go to Dena, all of the Dubrawsky children and their respective families. May Hashem strengthen you and comfort you and may you never know more pain or sorrow.
Fondly,
Ruben and Brenda Grubner
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