Michael John Ellenbogen

Lawyer dedicated to his community, human rights and social justice

DEDICATED TO the Liverpool Jewish community, Michael Ellenbogen’s interests extended into campaigns for social justice, including human rights in Burma, before this became a fashionable cause. He and his wife Michelle, née Cohen, whom he married in 1995, committed themselves to helping those in need.

Michael Ellenbogen, who has died aged 56,will be remembered for his life of community engagement, education and dedication to making the world a better place. He was the only son and middle child of Raymond and Bella Ellenbogen, surrounded by older sisters Judith and Suzanne and younger twins, Elizabeth and Ruth.

Michael attended the King David Schools in Liverpool and then studied law at Liverpool University, taking his solicitors’ finals at the College of Law in Chester. He qualified in 1986. As a solicitor undertaking considerable legalaid work, often poorly remunerated, Michael’s professional life was devoted to helping the ordinary people of Liverpool. He specialised in family law and welfare issues — often going far beyond his legal duties to benefit his clients with what would normally be provided by a social worker or a counsellor. He was a great colleague; he and I had reciprocal arrangements to act when required as independent solicitors. Michael was always willing to help without reward.

Michael’s deep religiosity and positive outlook were his bedrock in navigating the complex world in which he engaged fully and inclusively. He accepted other people as they were and always strove to see the good in others. He did not preach or impose. Regardless of any personal problems, he met everyone with a cheery disposition, broad smile and exuded pleasure in life.

He enjoyed good books, especially Dickens. He loved nature and long walks, alone or with others — some of whom were less able to keep up with his stamina and persistence in inclement weather. As a child of about five, when I was happy just to play with my toy cars, Michael had to dismantle them to see how they were put together (much to my chagrin) He liked history and culture and was a regular at Limmud and the Jewish Historical Society .

He was a devoted and loyal family man and friend, open and engaged with the world and living his life with genuine humility and chesed.

The Liverpool Jewish community depended upon him. His untiring acts of devotion spanned all ages, from the Kids @ Liverpool Learning Melava Malka programme, to leyning at Princes Road Synagogue and to his regular 30-year attendance at Stapely Old Age Home and Hospital, to run services and spend time with the residents.

Michael was faced with many challenges and hardships, but maintained his faith and accepted that not everything can be known. Michael’s faith was his admirable ethical anchor. The dignity and equanimity with which he faced his illness was exceptional.

He did not rage about the dying of the light and continued almost to the end, doing as much as possible to live his life, by continuing to work, going to shul, walking, attending talks and supporting others, including visiting shivah houses.

The wisdom of Proverbs resonates when remembering Michael’s qualities. He pursued charity and kindness and chose a good name rather than riches or other ephemera. It is this name and reputation for which he will be remembered. He is survived by Michelle, children Dassy and Hannah, his mother Bella and sisters.

Michael Ellenbogen: born April 26, 1961. Died March 25 2018