The family of Melvin Cravitz say messages, vigils and small acts of kindness have brought strength in the wake of a devastating synagogue attack
The family of Melvin Cravitz, who was killed in the Crumpsall synagogue terror attack earlier this month, has expressed deep gratitude to the public for the outpouring of support they’ve received since his death.
Melvin, 66, died during the attack on Heaton Park Synagogue on 2 October, which took place on the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur. He was remembered by his family as a kind and caring man who “would do anything to help anyone”.
Now, nearly a month on, his loved ones have broken their silence once more to acknowledge the strength they have drawn from those who honoured his memory.
In a heartfelt statement issued via Greater Manchester Police, the Cravitz family said:
“We would like to extend our deepest and most sincere thanks to the public for all of the messages of condolence, flowers and gifts that were sent as a tribute to Melvin.
“We would also like to thank all of those who attended vigils, lit a candle and carried out a good deed in his memory.
“We want you to know that these actions and messages of support, solidarity, humanity and compassion have been a great source of strength and comfort to us.”
The family described hearing from people of all backgrounds who had been touched by Melvin’s kindness, warm personality, and what they called his “huge, cheeky smile”. Many wrote to share how even the smallest encounter with him had brightened their day.
The statement continued:
“We are still trying to process the tragic and painful events of Yom Kippur at Heaton Park Synagogue. There is a space in all of our lives that used to be filled by Melvin and we are missing him greatly.”
As the grieving process continues, the Cravitz family has asked that their privacy be respected and confirmed that they will not be offering further public comment or interviews.
A fundraiser launched in Melvin’s memory to support causes close to his heart remains open for one more week. Donations can be made via the ‘Cravitz Family, Charity Extra’ online campaign.
Officers targeted anti-social behaviour in Rochdale and beyond during Bonfire Night clampdown
Teen stabbed in Rochdale Bonfire Night attack as police cordon off street
Council leader’s column: Unity must prevail as we reject hatred and stand together in remembrance
Reg Birch Community Garden and the Richard Bentley Smalley Memorial Hall, Middleton wins Britain in Bloom award on first attempt
Major road in Middleton closed as crews tackle phone mast fire and gas safety fears
Rochdale community garden earns top award in regional Britain in Bloom scheme
Work begins on major housing scheme that will bring 81 new homes to Rochdale
🚒 LIVE: We join Greater Manchester fire crews in Rochdale tonight for a ride-along
The school where phones are locked away
Rochdale-born creative agency founder spotlighted in ‘extraordinary’ Greater Manchester business campaign
Bury bows to GMCA pressure with £12k Cannes trip as taxpayers foot bill for global investor summit
Masked gang targets couple in terrifying early morning burglary in Littleborough
Comments
Add a comment