Michael Berenstein

Michael J Berenstein (Mordechai Yosef ben Yaakov Nuta)

On September 22, 2025 at the age of 88

Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy, his parents, Jack and Tillie, his brothers, Danny (Joanne), and Freddie Berenstein.

Survived by his children Rabbi Avrohom (Elisheva) Berenstein and Natalie Berenstein, his grandchildren Tova (Yossi) Rubin, Yehuda (Bashie), Aliza, Yaakov and Raphael Berenstein and 4 Great grandsons; brother-in-law Rabbi David (Kayla)Seff, sister-in-law Toby Marquit; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Michael was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. Growing up he spent lots of time with his grandparents. His Zeidy taught him the davening and his Bubby taught him how to cook. These 2 passions - davening and cooking - accompanied him throughout his life. In the late 1950’s when he came to OSU, he was the host and cook at the Hillel and led the davening on Shabbos and the holidays. He continued leading the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services through the early 1970’s.

While at OSU, he met Judy, the love of his life. They married in December of 1966 and soon afterward settled in Bexley and became members of Congregation Ahavas Sholom, where Michael led the davening on Shabbos and the holidays for decades.

In the mid 1990’s, after more than 30 years, Michael retired from the Franklin County Department of Human Services, where he dedicated his professional life advocating for the elderly and AIDS patients. Upon his retirement, he dedicated his life full time to his synagogue, Congregation Ahavas Sholom. He was involved with all aspects of the shul. But shopping, preparing and serving Shalosh Se’udos was his pride and joy each week.

Always one with a joke, he made everyone laugh and feel welcome.

For the past several years, he battled numerous health ailments. Thank you to all of his doctors and nurses. Thank you to his caregivers: Minerva, Willie, Todd, Mona, Jackie and other members of their team.

Graveside services will be held at 3:30PM on Monday, September 22, 2025 at New Ahavas Sholom Cemetery, 2565 Performance Way.

Contributions in his memory can be made to Congregation Ahavas Sholom or The Columbus Community Kollel.