Community Mourns the Loss of Longtime Volunteer, Diversity Champion

Family members and friends from around Greater West Bloomfield filled Temple Kol Ami Tuesday afternoon to mourn the loss of longtime community volunteer David Henig.

Henig, 69, died unexpectedly on Saturday. Before his retirement, the Sylvan Lake resident worked for the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit and was administrator for the Michigan Board of Rabbis. Those who spoke at his funeral noted Henig's devotion to his temple and many community organizations. 

Rabbi Jason Miller pointed out that Henig is currently "mayor" of Temple Kol Ami on FourSquare, a social media site that allows people to "check in" when they are visiting a listed location.

"He had 39 check-ins in the past 60 days," Miller said. "He lived here. His heart was here and in this community."

Rabbi Ariana Silverman said Henig ran Temple Kol Ami blood drives, collected and distributed food for those in need and championed the temple's recycling program. He had a love of learning, she said, and made it possible for others to learn as well. 

Silverman also recalled singing with Henig, who had a deep love of music. He was a member of the Temple Kol Ami choir, a 39-year member of The Jackson Chorale and served on the organizing committee for the Jewish Community Center's annual Stephen Gotlieb Music Festival. 

"David was the absolute prototype of what it means to get involved," said Rev. Chris Richards of Pine Hill Congregational Church. He talked about Henig's work on interfaith initiatives and the January United We Walk event, celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Henig is survived by his wife of 39 years Bonnie; their daughter Sara (Bruce) Henig; grandson Ethan; brother Les (Carol) Henig; sister-in-law Cindy (Dana) Randall and brothers-in-law John Scholz and Peter (Wendy) Scholz; and many nieces and nephews. Donations in his memory may be made to the URJ Camp Scholarship Fund, Temple Kol Ami, 5085 Walnut Lake Rd., West Bloomfield, or to any charity.