Kotel defined the word alive. To imagine that someone so alive is no longer among the living, is something I cannot wrap my head around...
Kotel was the rosh v'rishon (first person on the scene) whenever someone needed some help. He had his hands in so much of the chesed that takes place in our community.
For the many Israelis who passed through New Orleans for liver transplants, he was a friend and a guide and source of assistance in so many ways. I think back on the many "goodbye" parties in the lobby of Brent House for each of them.
Kotel was the go to guy for anything that anyone needed relating to construction and renovation. I cannot believe that I will not hear his voice again on a call in reply to my SOS saying, "Rabbi Ma Nishma?" along with a solution to the problem that was stored in his truck together with an endless supply of everything that a person could possibly need to fix or install something. More importantly he gave you his time and with a big smile dismissing any attempt to apologize to him for taking his time.
He truly rejoiced with you in your happy occasions and he knew how to be there for you in times of distress.
How many people have a direct association with Kotel and the end of Yom Kippur chanting of Norah Alilah? Who will now show up at Hakafot on Simchat Torah with other-worldly scotch for everyone to enjoy? Kotel had the best costumes on Purim! I could go on and on...
Kotel was REAL and kept it real. He was the most unpretentious person. Had no use for pompousness. He was real with you and wanted real in return.
The man who nobody thought would ever settle down found an equally real and special person to settle down with. Sigal, our hearts are torn with you. Life without Kotel in the community is unimaginable. Your loss is incomparably greater. We are there for you as you and Kotel have been there for each and every one of us.
Kotel was a gem of human being with the warmest Jewish heart that one could ever encounter. We can only beg Hashem to speedily bring us to time when He in His great mercy will remove death forever and wipe the tears from upon our faces with the coming of Moshiach NOW!