Statement from Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley:
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a great man, Rabbi Mark Loeb.
“Rabbi Loeb’s life and good works were an inspiration both to his own congregation, and to our entire State. He spent his time on this earth living the timeless Talmudic notion that ‘the highest form of wisdom is kindness,’ always standing up for our most vulnerable citizens, always fighting for social justice, always pursuing Tikkun Olam, repair of the world.
“On a personal note, I was very grateful that the Rabbi stepped forward and volunteered to serve on our Commission on Capital Punishment, where he dealt with some of the more difficult issues we face as a society, taking his role seriously, and handling his responsibilities with dignity and grace.
“Our hearts go out to the Loeb family, the Beth El Congregation, and the countless Marylanders who turned to the Rabbi for guidance, support, and leadership.”
Statement from U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski:
“It is with profound sadness that I learned of the death of Rabbi Mark Loeb. Rabbi Loeb was a wise and highly respected leader of the Jewish community and a lifelong advocate for social justice for all people. He was a dear friend and a trusted advisor.
“Rabbi Loeb was a man of warmth and wit. He had a great sense of humor. He loved everything from opera to wrestling – which may explain his love of politics. He was a champion of social justice – and loved to wade into the thorniest situations.
“Rabbi Loeb moved to emeritus status as the Rabbi at Beth El – but he never retired. He continued to teach, to build bridges, to speak out.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Rabbi Loeb’s family and his beloved Beth El community.”
Statement from Mayor Sheila Dixon:
"Today I join other state leaders and the Jewish community to mourn the passing of a great Marylander, Rabbi Mark Loeb. Rabbi Loeb was an inspiration to not only his congregation but our entire region. His humanity and compassion towards building a better community was recognized far and wide and personally by me.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family, congregation, and thousands of others who are mourning the loss today of a strong leader and a great man.”
On behalf of Jimmy Berg, Chair of the Board and Marc B. Terrill, President, THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore:
As Beth El’s spiritual leader for more than three decades, Rabbi Loeb served the congregation with reverence and distinction. In addition, he served in numerous leadership roles within THE ASSOCIATED and its agencies. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the members of Beth El Congregation and his many friends and colleagues throughout the community. He will be deeply missed.
Statement Sent Out by Chizuk Amuno Congregation:
Our synagogue community is profoundly saddened by the death of Rabbi Mark Loeb, Rabbi Emeritus of Beth El. Rabbi Loeb passed away in Milan, Italy where he was serving a congregation and pursuing many of his personal interests. We express our most sincere condolences and offer our prayers for comfort as we join in mourning the passing of such a passionate, caring, and learned leader. Rabbi Loeb was both a communal and personal friend to many of us at Chizuk Amuno, a participant in some of our sacred moments and personal milestones.
Rabbi Loeb was a powerful advocate for social justice, and a voice of conscience who spoke with honesty and integrity. Rabbi Loeb cared deeply for others, was devoted to his colleagues, and committed to improving relations between different peoples and faith communities. We at Chizuk Amuno, as the whole Baltimore Jewish community, are diminished by his loss.
Statement Sent Out by Baltimore Hebrew Congregation:
We mourn the death of Rabbi Mark Loeb, Rabbi Emeritus of Beth El Congregation. Rabbi Loeb died in Milan, Italy, where he was serving as an interim rabbi and enjoying the fine culture he so loved. Baltimore Hebrew Congregation's Clergy, Board of Electors, staff and membership join with our friends and family at Beth El, and indeed the entire Jewish community, in mourning the loss of this inspiring and committed teacher, ethical voice, and leader. Information regarding the funeral is not yet available.
Rabbi Loeb served Beth El for 32 years, almost all of those as Senior Rabbi. His rabbinate extended beyond the walls of his own congregation as he spoke out on behalf of social justice, interfaith relations, and education. He was a local and national leader on many issues. Rabbi Loeb warmly welcomed new rabbis to Baltimore and was deeply committed to our Jewish community. His long and vibrant tenure became a hallmark of the Baltimore religious community.
Zikhrono li'vrakhah, may Rabbi Mark Loeb's memory be forever a blessing for his family, his congregation, and our community.
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