Nathan Kaplan

Nathan’s greatest treasures were his family, his friends and the people for whom he was honored to be of service. Nathan never knew a stranger. If you needed a friend, he was there, if you were sad, he comforted you, if you were alone, he was your listener. His compassion was without boundaries. He was known by his quirky, funny sense of humor.

Born in Fort Worth on October 30, 1933, Nathan was proud of his heritage as a Jew, an American, and a native Texan. He served as chaplain at the former Golden Acres Home for Jewish Aged and earned the love of the residents there who called him Rabbi. He provided support for families and officiated at funeral s and celebrations when called upon. He chanted Sabbath and Holy Day services and lifted spirits.

Nathan was a past president of the Dallas Hebrew Free Loan Association and served as chaplain for the Dallas Jewish War Veterans. He was a member of the National Association of Jewish Chaplains. Nathan graduated from Forest Avenue High School in 1952 then went on to serve his country in the United States Army Infantry during the Korean conflict. He still enjoyed attending his alumni association gatherings.

Nathan is survived by his beloved wife of fifty-three years, Dell, his wonderful children Susan Kaplan, Risa and Joe Liken, and Ami Kaplan, his beautiful grandchildren Jessica and Julia Liken, numerous nephews and nieces, and his dog Schnitzel, whom he rescued and loved.

The family wishes to thank his friends and neighbors, his former co-workers from Golden Acres, and all the wonderful staff at Legacy at Preston Hollow who gave him loving care when he needed it most.

Funeral Service will be held at Sparkman Hillcrest Funeral Home on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Legacy at Preston Hollow, Jewish Family Service, Temple Emanu-El, Dallas or Congregation Nishmat Am, Plano.