The Crown Heights community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Rabbi Menachem (Mendy) Raitport, a cherished resident, devoted family man, and passionate advocate for communal growth and safety.
Rabbi Raitport tragically passed away on Tuesday night, the 25th of Nissan, 5785, in a fatal car accident while returning to New York after spending Pesach in Florida. He was 57 years old. Rabbi Raitport was known throughout Crown Heights and beyond for his unwavering commitment to his family, his community, and his faith.
A familiar face to many, he was the longtime proprietor of Crown Kosher Meat Market on Kingston Avenue—a staple of the neighborhood that provided not only kosher meat but also a warm smile and meaningful conversation to those who entered.
His dedication to upholding the highest standards of Kashrus continued in recent years as he worked as a Menaker in Shechita, lending his expertise to respected Hechsherim such as CHK, Skver, and others.
But Rabbi Raitport’s contributions extended far beyond the walls of his butcher shop. He was a man who believed deeply in the power of civic engagement and the importance of representation.
Over the years, he ran in various political races, driven by a desire to amplify the voice of the Crown Heights community and address key concerns such as public safety, education, and fair government representation.
Though he never held public office, his campaigns were rooted in sincerity and love for his neighbors. His presence in the political arena reminded many of the importance of involvement, no matter the outcome.
Those who knew Rabbi Raitport remember him as a man of integrity, humor, and heart. His interactions were marked by kindness and an ever-present willingness to help others, whether offering assistance to someone in need, answering questions about kosher practice, or standing up for community issues.
His life was one of service, both to his fellow Jews and to the broader public. Rabbi Raitport was a deeply devoted husband and father. Together with his beloved wife Esther, he built a home rooted in Torah, mitzvot, and unwavering love.
He was a father to eight sons—Eliyahu, Yehuda, Shloimy, Dovid, Dubi, Avrami, Zevi, and Chanoch—each of whom carry forward his values and legacy. His role as a father and husband was central to his identity, and the bond he shared with his family was visible to all who knew them.
He is also survived by his loving parents, Harav Yitzchok and Shaindel Raitport of Boro Park—widely respected philanthropists who instilled in their children the importance of giving, faith, and community.
In addition to his children and parents, he leaves behind siblings and a wide circle of extended family and friends. He was predeceased by his brother, Sholom Dovber Raitport, of blessed memory, whose passing he felt deeply.
The Levaya (funeral) for Rabbi Raitport will take place on Thursday, passing by 770 Eastern Parkway at 12 PM, a location synonymous with his faith and dedication to the Rebbe and the Chabad-Lubavitch movement.
Burial will follow at 1 PM at Montefiore Cemetery, where family, friends, and community members will gather to honor and say farewell to a man who gave so much of himself.
The loss of Rabbi Menachem Raitport is deeply felt across the Crown Heights community and beyond. He leaves behind a legacy of service, commitment, and love that will continue to inspire. May his memory be a blessing and may his soul be bound in the bond of eternal life.
