Rose Kates’ 100th birthday
By Elaine Socol.
Rose’s father-in-law was an Orthodox rabbi in Toronto.
In the 40s, after being married for a few years, Rose and her husband, Charlie Kates, thought seriously about joining HBT, since that was where her sister (my mother, Molly Rossman) and her family were members.
They were a little concerned about telling Charlie’s father, since in those days, it was unusual to wear a kippa in HBT and this was often discouraged by other members. However, when they told Charlie’s father, this Orthodox rabbi, he was very pleasant and said that it didn’t matter to him what synagogue they would join, as long as they were good Jews.
To this day, Rose talks about her father-in-law with the utmost respect and calls him one of the most liberal thinking persons she ever knew.
[line]
Rose Kates, closest to the camera, on the right. This photo taken in the 1940s.
Rose Kates on the left with her niece and her niece’s husband. Photo taken two years ago (2012) when Rose was 98.
Rose Kates with a dear friend. Photo taken also two years ago (2012) when Rose was 98.
