Princeton Rabbi Dies In Hawaii On Christmas Eve

PRINCETON, NJ — The Princeton Jewish community is mourning the loss of Adam Feldman who served as Rabbi at the Jewish Center of Princeton since 2005.

Feldman reportedly died while on vacation with his and his wife's family in Hawaii while on an outdoor activity with the family, according to Randy Brett, president of the Jewish Center.

"The details are unclear but his passing was quick and without suffering," Brett said.

Funeral arrangements have not been finalized.

"The Jewish Center was blessed to be under Rabbi Feldman's spiritual and rabbinic leadership for more than fourteen years. During that time, the congregation made many significant advances, and Rabbi Feldman devoted his energy, passion for Judaism, love of teaching, and innovative programming for the benefit of the congregation and community," Brett said.

Feldman was married to Sara Bucholtz, a corporate lawyer, and lived in Princeton with their children Talia, Dena, and Ilan.

During his time at the Jewish Center Feldman was part of the educational team that created their new #SULAM Hebrew High School Program; served as a teacher in the Adult Learning Program; and helped the center receive national awards for synagogue programming.

Feldman was also a founding member of the Princeton Police Department’s Chaplain Program.

"He was a fervent supporter and friend of the department and over the 15 years that he served the Princeton Community he became a personal friend to me. There was not a week that went by that Rabbi Feldman did not call me or stop in the station to check on the department. His first words were always; how is everybody? He took his position as Chaplain very seriously and he had a genuine concern for the wellbeing of the department and all of its members," Princeton Police Chief Nicholas Sutter said. "I will miss his presence, support and most of all his friendship and I know the community and department will as well."

"I only had the privilege of working with Rabbi Feldman for three months, when I was Interim Executive Director at The Jewish Center in Princeton last year. His passing saddens me greatly," said Ken Turkewitz.

"In addition to serving as the rabbi of The Jewish Center, Rabbi Feldman was an influential leader in Mercer County. We will miss his vision, sense of humor and presence. We send our deepest condolences to his beloved family and congregants at The Jewish Center," Congregation Beth Chaim of Princeton Junction stated.

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