Rabbi Howard Matasar, a beloved community leader, esteemed scholar, and devoted teacher, passed away during the holiday of Sukkot on Chol Hamoed, October 19, 2024, at the age of 70. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the Jewish community of Central New York.

Born to Harry and Jeanne Matasar on November 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, he graduated from Indiana University with an undergraduate degree in History and received his Orthodox Rabbinical Smichah from Hebrew Theological College in Skokie, IL. His commitment to Jewish education and spiritual leadership led him to serve in five congregations throughout the United States, most notably at Orthodox Congregation Zvi Jacob in Utica, NY, for over 31 years. He also served as a Jewish chaplain for the New York State Department of Corrections, from which he recently retired.

Rabbi Matasar was known for his passionate sermons, insightful Torah teachings, and deep compassion for his Shul family. He belonged to the Rabbinical Council of America and looked forward to attending their yearly conventions.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mimi; his devoted children, Tracy and Hillel; and his loving brothers, Ronnie (Edwina) and Dale (Sandy).

Rabbi Matasar loved baseball, enjoyed traveling, discussing politics, and visiting national parks and kosher restaurants. He was well-known for his strong work ethic. He will be remembered for his love of Torah, halachic wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Jewish community and will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Friends of the IDF at support.fidf.org, the sole organization authorized to collect charitable donations on behalf of the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces across the United States.

The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at Congregation Zvi Jacob, 110 Memorial Parkway, Utica, New York, 13501, at 2:00 PM, followed by burial at the House of Jacob Cemetery. Due to the celebration of the Sukkot holiday, Shiva will be observed starting on motzei Shabbos, Saturday, October 26, at 7:30 PM and Sunday-Wednesday from 6-8 PM at Congregation Zvi Jacob.

Arrangements are with the Mark C. Bentz Funeral Service, Inc., New Hartford.

To view the service remotely go to:  https://facebook.com/markcbentzfuneralservice/         You do not need a Facebook account to watch.