Dorothy "Dena" Luborsky Obituary (1921 - 2021)

Dena Luborsky was born on October 1, 1921 in Philadelphia PA to Sucher and Frieda Order. At age 99, Dena died a peaceful death on February 4, 2021, due to complications from a stroke. Family was very important to Dena. She and Melvin raised 4 daughters, had 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Dena was also very close and devoted to her five siblings and their families. She often said that the most wonderful time of her life was raising her 4 girls. She told us that she would probably not leave us a fortune of money, but she would leave us something much more precious. She would say, "I give to you each other." Dena worked at keeping the extended family united by hosting many family holidays and celebrations in her welcoming home. Many of her special recipes are famous within the family, and shared widely. Throughout her life, Dena was very active in the synagogue. As a member of Beth Sholom in Elkins Park, PA, she sang in the synagogue choir and enjoyed participating in Jewish Song Festivals both in the US and Israel. At age 62, she studied for and became Bat Mitzvah. Subsequently, she was regularly called to the bimah to read Torah, which was a great honor for a woman. Dena was an enthusiastic volunteer in the synagogue as well as in the community. She loved studying and being a docent at the National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia. Throughout her adult life she was active in Hadassah, the Women's Zionist Organization of America. At age 80 she became president of her chapter. She lovingly shopped and prepared meals for Cook for a Friend at her synagogue. Dena was a hard and dedicated worker, always willing to lend a hand, organize, brainstorm, create opportunities and fundraise for causes she believed in. Dena was loved and appreciated by many people in all walks of life and would endear herself into people's hearts. We were blessed to have been graced by her indomitable presence in our lives. We love you, Mom, and always will. Go in Peace on your journey. Charitable gifts in memory of Dena can be made to: National Museum of American Jewish History www.nmajh.org Hadassah www.hadassah.org