Passing and Legacy

Aviva Helfand, a beloved figure in the Jewish community of Long Beach, California, passed away on Erev Shabbos, Parshas Vayera, corresponding to 19 Cheshvan 5787. She was 74 years old at the time of her death.

Culinary Skills and Community Contributions

Aviva was renowned for her exceptional cooking and warm hospitality. She played a pivotal role at the Hebrew Academy of Huntington Beach and Camp Silver Gan Israel, where she catered to the needs of countless students and staff with love and dedication.

As one of the few kosher caterers in Southern California at the time, Aviva organized a myriad of events, providing delicious meals and beautiful cakes that became the highlights of various simchas. Her culinary creations were not only pleasing to the eye but also delectable.

Early Life and Influences

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Aviva developed a deep connection to her Jewish heritage while living with her grandparents. Her grandfather, Carl Urstein, was a respected cantor, and listening to him daven greatly influenced her appreciation for Jewish traditions.

Despite her later embrace of a more free-spirited lifestyle, which included living in a cave in Big Sur and working in a fashionable boutique on Sunset Strip, Aviva’s heart always remained tied to her roots.

A Return to Roots

Aviva’s journey back to traditional Judaism began when her son, Josh, attended the Hebrew Academy. Through volunteering and forming meaningful relationships with families in the community, such as Robin Greenspan and Sora Warhaftig, she reconnected with her faith.

Family Life

In Crown Heights, Aviva met her husband, Mottie Helfand, during a Shabbos meal. Together, they returned to Long Beach, where they created a warm and welcoming home, often filled with guests enjoying Aviva’s culinary delights.

As a devoted mother, Aviva navigated the challenges of caring for her daughter Mindy, who had special needs, pouring her heart into nurturing Mindy until her passing in 2000.

The Helfand Home

Aviva’s home was always open to guests, reminiscent of Avraham Avinu’s famous tent that welcomed all. Her Shabbos tables were renowned for accommodating large numbers, always prepared with fine china, and her generosity made everyone feel like family.

Enduring Legacy

Shiva occurred during the week of Parshas Chayei Sarah, which speaks to the legacy of Sarah Imeinu. Aviva’s legacy will endure, defined by the warmth and love she shared with those around her. She has left an indelible mark on everyone who crossed her path.

She is survived by her children—Yosef Helfand and Esther Nolan—and their families, along with her sister Nili Hudson and numerous grandchildren, all of whom were cherished by Aviva.

Aviva passed away predeceased by her husband, Mottie Helfand, in 5770, her daughter Mindy in 2000, and her son Joshua Hofer in 5785.

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.