Allegra Banker, who came to the US in 1963 to escape Gamel Abdel Nassers persecution of Egyptian Jews, passed away Sept. 10, 2011, at Shalom Park. Rabbi Selwyn Franklin officiated at the Sept. 12 graveside service at Mt. Nebo Cemetery.
Rabbi Bruce Dollin and Cantors Joel Lichterman, Zachary Kutner and Martin Goldstein were also in attendance. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
In Egypt, every Friday afternoon after school we went to the small synagogue where Maimonides studied and later died, recalls son Albert Banker. The poorest Jews in our community would gather there, and my mother always made sure my brother and I gave tzedakah.
She was the example of generosity and lovingkindness.
Mrs. Banker was born Sept. 4, 1928, in Cairo, Egypt. Her mothers housekeeping job for the chief rabbi of Cairo enabled Allegra to attend an Italian boarding school for high school.
My mother spoke nine languages, Albert said. And she was quite a seamstress.
She married Maurice Moishe Banker on March 21, 1948.
When Nasser assumed control of Mr. Bankers company, the family fled to the US and established roots in Denver.
Mrs. Banker made custom drapes for the Columbine Manufacturing Co. and did alterations for friends.
She later worked at the BMH day care center, where she loved being with the children.
Mrs. Banker and her husband were honored by BMH-BJ in 1999.
Mr. Banker passed away on Jan. 11, 2009.
Mrs. Banker is survived by her sons Albert (Brenda) Banker and Felix (Jenny) Banker of Denver; siblings Maurice Rousso of Chicago, Klemi Halfon and Joseph Rousso, both of Israel; and grandchildren Ryan (Marissa) Banker and Hailey Banker.
Contributions may be made to BMH-BJ.
Copyright © 2011 by the Intermountain Jewish News
