Henry Karsh, a Holocaust survivor and partisan fighter who came to Denver after the war, passed away July 2, 2010, in Denver. He was 91.
Rabbi Bruce Dollin officiated at the July 4 service held at the HEA. Interment followed at Rose Hill Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
Mr. Karsh was born on May 20, 1919, in Torchin, Poland, near the Ukraine, to Sheva and Lazar Karsh.
His large family, which resided in the region for four generations, all perished in the Holocaust.
After witnessing their murder, Mr. Karsh joined the Polish partisans and fought against the Nazis throughout WW II.
He met Ellen in 1946 in Berlin, and they married after an eight-day courtship.
In 1949, Mr. Karshs uncle Phil brought the family to Denver.
Mr. Karsh began working at Shwayder Brothers and held part-time jobs at Star Bakery and Bears Stadium.
He then became a partner with Phil at the Food Basket grocery store on 32nd and Lowell. When the store closed in 1959, Mr. Karsh started working at Sigman Meat Co., where he eventually became a supervisor.
He retired in 1986.
A loving and devoted family man, Mr. Karsh found special joy at the Hebrew Educational Alliance during his retirement.
He greeted guests with siddurim on Shabbat mornings and welcomed new congregants.
He always had a smile for everyone as well as candies for the children, the family said.
Additionally, Mr. Karsh enjoyed being chef at the annual HEA barbecue and offering samples of his homemade pickles.
Mr. Karsh is survived by his Ellen, his wife of 64 years; children Sheila (Bob Steapp), Larry (Irit) and Beverly; and his grandchildren Jason, Lauren and Melissa.
Contributions may be made to the HEA or Beth Nehamah Hospice.
Copyright © 2010 by the Intermountain Jewish News
