Rabbi Joseph M. Strauss

February 1st, 2015

I just learned of the Rabbi’s passing. My late husband Hank Tausend and I joined Temple Menorah for our wedding in 1972. We have been members ever since. Shortly after we returned from our honeymoon my husband suffered a heart attack. I don’t know how Rabbi Strauss learned of it, but he visited my husband at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. My husband was so touched by his visit and never forgot his kindness to a very new member of his congregation. After the Rabbi’s retirement, we saw him only occasionally when he attended services on High Holy Days. But he always remembered us and asked about our careers.
He was kind, compassionate and caring. Just what one hopes their Rabbi will be.

~Iris Tausend
~Temple Menorah congregant, Chicago, Il

January 26th, 2015

Rabbi Strauss Bar Mitzvahed me 40 years ago at Temple Menorah. I remember his kind guidance, encouragement, and high expectations. I would like his great grandchildren–whom are probably the age of my children–to know that Rabbi Strauss was revered by his congregants for his knowledge, empathy, and courage.

He will be missed and will be remembered with love and admiration. I cared deeply for him but, as a kid, didn’t tell him. That’s why I am telling you know.

Paul Manus

~Paul Manus
~The rabbi bar mitvahed me.,