It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the passing of Rabbi Ronnie Cahana z”l, former rabbi of Beth Israel, on Thursday, August 13, 2026.

 

He was predeceased by his parents, Alice Lok z”l and Rabbi Moshe Hillel Cahana z”l, and his aunt, two uncles, grandmother, and great-grandfather who were taken in the Shoah.

 

The wellspring of his love overflowed into his wife of over forty-two years, Karen; his children Kitra, Tamira, Briah, Dvir, and Sapira, who adored him endlessly. He lovingly embraced his growing family: Fletcher and granddaughter Rakiya Aliz, Shane and granddaughter Tzofia Peleia, and Shalhevet. Proud brother and brother-in-law of Rabbi Michael and Cantor Ida Rae Cahana, Rina Cahana – who is the heart of the family, and brother-in-law of Janet and Bob Boraz, and Judy Knie. Rabbi Ronnie will also be fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

 

The funeral will take place on Sunday, August 16, 2026 at 11:00 am EDT at Eternal Garden Cemetery in Pointe-Claire, Quebec. Click here to join via livestream.

 

Shiva will be held in Montreal at Ronnie and Karen’s home (720 Kenaston Ave., Mont-Royal, QC H4P 1E9 Canada) on Sunday, August 16 at 7 to 9 pm, on Monday, August 17 through Thursday, August 20 at 2 to 4 pm and 7 to 9 pm, and on Friday, August 21 at 2 to 4 pm.

 

Evening services on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 pm.

 

Shiva will be held in Miami at his son Dvir’s home on Tuesday, August 18, 6:30 to 10:15 pm, Wednesday, August 19, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, 2:00 to 4:00 pm, 7:00 to 10:00 pm, Thursday, August 20, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, 2:00 to 4:00 pm, 7:00 to 10:00 pm, and Friday, August 21, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

 

Shacharit services on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 8:00 am.

 

Contributions in his memory may be made to the Rabbi Ronnie Cahana Memorial Fund at Shaare Zion Beth El Congregation at 514-481-7727.

 

May His Memory Be For a Blessing.