Community Mourns Bernard Rosenfeld

Bernard Rosenfeld, the only mayor of the village of Kaser, died Dec. 31. He was 71.

A teacher and school administrator, he was involved in the incorporation of his community as a village, and had served as its mayor since its founding.

"I found Mayor Rosenfeld to be a fully engaged leader who cared deeply about the needs of his community," said Rockland County Executive Ed Day. "Since first becoming Mayor he worked tirelessly in the service of the people of Kaser. I extend my deepest condolences to his friends and family and to the residents of Kaser who knew him best."

The Rockland County Legislature issued this statement:

Members of the Rockland County Legislature are mourning the loss of longtime local community leader Bernard Rosenfeld, a devoted educator who was also the mayor of Kaser village.

“I knew him for many years and I can say sincerely that he was completely devoted to serving the community,” Rockland County Legislator Phil Soskin said. “Even though he was the mayor, he was really always a very humble servant.”

Mr. Rosenfeld served as mayor of the village of Kaser since its founding in 1990.

But he is also known for his great efforts in overseeing the education system throughout Viznitz – an area that extends beyond Kaser.

“He was a smart, refined and genuinely nice person,” Rockland County Legislator Aron Wieder said. “He rose through the education system from the ground up. First, he was a teacher, he then became a principal and finally, he became administrator of many of the schools in Viznitz.”

Legislators Soskin, Wieder and Itamar Yeger, as well as Legislature Chairman Toney L. Earl attended the funeral for Mr. Rosenfeld today.

“Mayor Rosenfeld was beloved by his community and I want to extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and neighbors as they struggle through this difficult time,” Chairman Earl said.

Rockland County Legislature Minority Leader Lon Hofstein said, “Mayor Rosenfeld was a highly respected man who dedicated his life to serving the people, and on behalf of the Legislative Minority, I offer our deepest sympathies to his family and to the members of the community he served.”

Legislator Harriet Cornell said, “You don’t serve as mayor for nearly 30 years unless the people of your community value your contributions. Mayor Rosenfeld is a role model for so many, particularly in light of the value he placed on education.”

Legislator Alden Wolfe said, “Mayor Rosenfeld was a good listener who acted in the best interests of those he served. His loss is a loss for all of Rockland County.”

Legislator Aney Paul said, “Mayor Rosenfeld was a kind and well-respected leader who held the trust of those he served, as well as their best interests at heart. My deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and community.”

Legislator Wieder said he will request that the Legislature’s next full meeting be adjourned in remembrance of Mayor Rosenfeld. The Legislature’s organizational meeting is at 7 p.m. Thursday.