With deep sadness, I bring news of the death Rabbi A. David Packman, z”l, on February 10, 2020. He is survived by his wife Nina Packman, and his children Keren (and Ted) Alpert, Kenan Packman (and Steve Quinn), and Jana (and Mark) Greenblatt; his brother, Gerald (and Linda) Packman, and 5 grandchildren.
David was an incredible guy. He was one of the first and fiercest supporters of GFC in the days of its infancy. As the rabbi of Temple B’nai Israel of Oklahoma City from 1976 through 2004, David’s first year in Oklahoma City was also the first year of the Camp. He and Nina not only came to Greene every summer to serve on our faculty, they sent all their children to camp. Keren, Kenan, and Jana continued as staff “lifers,” with Keren continuing as a faculty member and Kenan as President of TOFTY. Eventually, David and Nina achieved the distinction of becoming the parents of campers also to become grandparents of campers when Keren’s children became campers and then staff members. Our community would not be what it is without the contributions and support of David and Nina Packman. We will all miss him terribly. He had a great sense of humor and a unique streak of individuality. There will not be another like him.
-Loui Dobin
A 2pm service is planned for this Friday, February 14, at Temple B’nai Israel in Oklahoma City. Shiva will be observed on Saturday and Sunday evenings at Temple B’nai Israel, times to be announced.