Gerald Leissner – leader par excellence

PROF MICHAEL KATZ

He was humble and modest. He didn’t seek the glory and recognition which he so richly deserved.  In everything that he undertook he was committed and driven. He quietly got on with the job without any fuss or ceremony. Although he was a visionary in so many respects, when it came to the implementation of his vision he was totally practical, concentrating on what needed to be done and what was achievable. 

Gerald was an out-and-out community man, always seeking activities that would enhance the wellbeing of the community. He was absolutely dedicated to the religious, educational, welfare and historical needs of the Jewish community. 

When I was chairman of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies, Gerald was our vice-chairman and when I was president of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies, Gerald was the chairman.

These were difficult days for the country and the community and required much wisdom and leadership.  Gerald was a solid rock, displaying great maturity. He also displayed a well-developed social conscience with great concern for the poor and oppressed. In this regard he was ahead of his time and spoke his mind with courage. 

He was a pivotal fundraiser for the new museum in Westcliffe which is run by the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Foundation, of which he was vice-chairman. His vision, commitment and tireless work ethic will be sorely missed by his fellow trustees; board meetings will never be the same without the knowledge that Gerald is a pivotal member of the team. 

I say, without hesitation, that absent Gerald’s leadership and tireless fundraising efforts, the magnificent Holocaust and Genocide Museum would not have existed. His role in the establishment and running of the Yeshiva College also requires no elaboration. There, too, his contribution has been fundamental.

The organisation of the community’s funding requirements, including the IUA-UCF Trust and the structuring of Beyachad are also testament to Gerald’s vision and dedication, as is the 2000 Foundation. In addition he was chairman for some time of the South African Friends of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. 

He was also a leading South African businessman and has enjoyed a sterling career in the South African property industry. His achievements in that industry have been enormous and he is regarded by many as “Mr Property”.

His outstanding contribution to many spheres of life has been recognised by a multiplicity of prestigious awards that he received.  

In addition to the aforegoing, Gerald was a great family man.  He dearly loved his family and they meant a great deal to him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Shirley and the wider Leissner family. Thanks for sharing him with us. 

Gerald needs no epitaphs. They exist all over: including the Yeshiva College, Beyachad, the Jewish Holocaust and Genocide Museum, to name a few. Gerald was ubiquitous and will be sorely missed by his many constituents.