VALE PDG RABBI SHALOM COLEMAN It is with deep regret that the club was advised of the passing of PDG Rabbi Shalom Coleman, on the morning 26 April 2025, aged 106 years. Rabbi Coleman was a Past President of the Perth Rotary Club 1985 - 1986. Rabbi attended the Presidents Cocktail Party this year where he provided a short address to members. He asked us all to strive to be good Human Beings.
Rabbi Coleman lived independently until a few weeks ago, when he moved to Marice Zeffert Homes aged care. Shalom Coleman was conscripted in 1939 and became a Royal Air Force Gunner/Wireless Operator with 107 Boston Squadron, operating over Western Europe. From 1947 – 1960 he was a Padre (Rabbi) with the South African Forces. In 1966 he migrated to Perth and became Chief Rabbi Perth Hebrew Congregation until 1985. He was also Chairman Perth Beth Brin 1966 – 1985. In 1966 he became Chaplain 5th Military District (Captain), served as Padre to Z Special Unit, and a number of other ex-service associations, including the Fleet Air Arm Association. He was appointed a JP in 1967. He was a very keen member of the Rotary Club of Perth and became the District Governor of District 9450 in 1993-94 He was a member of the Murdoch University Senate, Vice Chairman of the Save the Children Fund in 1967, Chairman Committee of National Pride in Schools 1981 -1991, Committee on Religious Studies in Schools 1983 -85, a Trustee of both the Karrakatta Cemetery Board and Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park, Chairman Perth Dental Hospital Board. Rabbi Coleman was also a member of RSLWA state Executive from 1985 to 1987. In 1977 received the Queens Coronation Medal and Awarded the Order of the British Empire – Commander (Civil) (Imperial) in recognition of service to youth, education and Jewish community in 1980. In 1990 he was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of service to religion and the community. A life of exception service to his religion and his community. PDG Coleman’s funeral was held Monday 28th April. Our thoughts go out to his family.
(D9423 District Round-up Newsletter)
