We mourn the passing of Rabbi Joseph Karasick, zt”l, a former president of the Orthodox Union from (1966-1972), Chairman of the Board of Directors (1972-1978) and one of the most significant lay leaders of twentieth century Orthodoxy. Rabbi Karasick was widely respected as a man of principle, a natural leader, eloquent speaker, erudite rabbinic scholar, and successful businessman.
Rabbi Karasick and his late wife Pepa were particularly proud of the Pepa and Rabbi Joseph Karasick Department of Synagogue Services and the leading role they played in pioneering Orthodoxy in America. He also played significant leadership roles in Yeshiva University, the Conference of Presidents, the Beth Din of America and The International Jewish Committee on Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC).
Rabbi Karasick is survived by Rabbi Mark and Linda Karasick, George and Denise Karasick, Rabbi Benjy and Bernice Mandel, Alyssa and Baruch Colton, Aviva and Menachem Lipner, Rachel and Azi Mandel (Associate Vice President, OU Board of Director), Rabbi Aryeh and Batyah Mandel, Ami and Elana Mandel, Rabbi Zev and Shoshana Karasick, Yaakov Karasick, Avi Karasick, Yitzi and Teri Karasick, Rabbi Akiva and Yael Willig, Yaakov and Nomi Friedman, Dr. Tzvi and Tami Plowiss, Yechiel and Chaya Friedman, Shimmy and Shira Karasick, Avigayil and Eli Fink, and many great grandchildren.
The words of this author reflect his/her own opinions and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Orthodox Union.