BDE: Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, z”l, Global Leader of Chabad Shluchim

By Y. S. Gold

We are saddened to inform you of the passing of Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, a historic figure within the Chabad-Lubavitch movement around the world who was an central pillar of the work of the Chabad shluchim around the world. He was 74 years of age, and his passing is being mourned by thousands around the world. 

The son of Polish Holocaust survivors, Reb Moshe was soon inducted into the Merkos l’Inyanei Chinuch, the umbrella organization for many of the Chabad activities around the world. He rose steadily through the ranks, founfing more and more branches and departments within Merkos as the kiruv activities grew and branched out. 

Reb Moshe was a globe-trotting Rabbi, making his way to the most far-flung corners of the earth to assist the shluchim with whatever they would need, and he raised many, many millions of dollars from philanthropists in order to fund these activities.  

He was stricken with an illness in recent years, but he did not back down. As he fought the ravages of disease, he only increased his activities, promising to do more and more, if Hashem would only grant him the strength and the ability. 

The incredible infrastructure that Reb Moshe built over the decades will remain and thrive, and as he leaves This World, he leaves the keys in able hand who will continue his life’s work. 

The Levaye will take place tomorrow 1:00pm at 770 Eastern Parkway, after which he will be brought to kevurah near the Ohel of the Admorim of Lubavitch in Queens. 

Yehi zichro baruch.