Much loved educator Allan Karp passes on

ILAN HERRMANN

Allan grew up in Springs and after qualifying through Unisa, began teaching at Barnato Park. He subsequently took up the post of vice-principal at King David Linksfield Primary, which lasted over a decade and then became principal at the Toras Emes School, for some 20 years.

At the time of his passing at age 66, Allan was still teaching at three schools namely Mesivtah Shaarei Torah, Beis Yaakov, Hirsch Lyons as well as at Boston City College.

Since his passing, his family have been receiving countless message of goodwill and condolences from past students across the world including: Israel, London and the US.

He was laid to rest at the West Park Cemetery in the special area delineated for people whose contribution to community is especially tall.

Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein also attended the funeral in which the eulogy, delivered by Rabbi Moshe Kurtstag, Rosh Beth Din, described Allan as “someone who was incredibly knowledgeable, possessed a wonderful command of English and delivery skill, and from whom everyone could learn”.

An emotional Rabbi Yechezkel Auerbach of Ohr Someyach in Glenhazel told the gathering that Allan was someone who “passionately and deeply wished the success of people in their lives”. 

Allan’s brother Michael described him as one who had an encyclopaedic knowledge. “My brother’s breadth of information was extraordinary. He specialised in English and also had a supreme knowledge of Jewish history.” 

Allan was a sports fundi and was often called upon by the SA Football Association and officials from other sporting bodies, especially during the time of the 2010 Soccer World Cup, to write speeches for delivery at public events.

His nephew, Rabbi Eli Karp, speaking at prayers, characterised his uncle as one who took a personal interest in his students. “He built his students through encouragement and imparted a sense of belief in them, of their ability to succeed.”

“Allan had a deep empathy, genuinely cared for people and really touched lives. He understood the value of education as few people do,” were the words of one of the numerous rabbis who attended the funeral.

Allan is survived by his wife Beverly, son Tzivi and brother Michael.