World ORT is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its past Honorary President, Robert (Bob) Sill, on 17th June 2018 and we send our condolences to his wife Eileen and to his entire family.
Bob’s leadership and vision has guided ORT for the past 35 years. He served as a member of the Central Board of World ORT Union from 1983-2000, a member of the Executive Committee of World ORT Union in 1996-1997 and a member of the Executive Committee of World ORT from 2000-2008. In 2000 Bob was elected as President of American ORT, a position he held until 2004, and was a member of the World ORT Board of Directors from 2000-2005, the World ORT General Assembly from 2000-2008 and Chairman of the World ORT Board of Directors from 2005-2008. He served as Honorary Chair of the World ORT Board of Representatives from 2008-2012, Honorary Chair of the World ORT General Assembly from 2012-2016 and Honorary President of World ORT from 2016-2018. In addition, Bob served as President of the World ORT Inc. Board of Directors from 2012-2017 and as Honorary Vice President of World ORT Inc. from 2018- present.
Bob and his wife have a long history of involvement with the Cleveland Jewish community. He served as Vice President and a Trustee of the Cleveland Jewish News, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the United Jewish Cemeteries, Chairman of the Chaplaincy Committee of the Cleveland Jewish Community Federation, Chairman of the Insurance Division of the Jewish Welfare Fund and was a former Treasurer of Brandeis Men’s Club. In addition, Bob was a lifetime member of the Board of the Fairmont Temple and served as head of its Investment Committee.
World ORT President Dr. Conrad Giles noted that “Bob served with great distinction World ORT Union, American ORT, World ORT and World ORT Inc. As a committed, dedicated leader he distinguished himself as a role model and mentor to two generations. Among other accomplishments this must rank among his greatest lasting legacies.”
World ORT Director General and CEO Avi Ganon added: “This is a sad day for the entire ORT family and a great loss for the world organization. Bob was at the helm of ORT’s leadership and dozens of teachers and students benefitted from his support. Only last May ORT held its National Directors Forum with his help and generous assistance. ORT will work to commemorate his memory and perpetuate his work in our schools around the world.”
