Bella (Baila) Rotner A”H was born in 1921 in Olkusz, Poland, and passed away in 2024 at the remarkable age of 103. Although nearly two years have passed since her petirah, she has still not been zocheh to receive the matzeivah that such an extraordinary woman deserves.

We are hoping to change that by raising $5,000 to erect a monument in her memory, and additionally establish a small fund to ensure that Kaddish is recited for her neshamah, and, iy”H, to sponsor Mishnayos to be learned l’ilui nishmas Baila bas Leibel A”H.

Before the Holocaust, Bella enjoyed a warm and loving childhood with her parents, three brothers, and younger sister. That beautiful life was shattered when the Nazis invaded Poland. Bella endured the ghettos, forced labor, and concentration camps, while nearly her entire immediate family was murdered.

Through unimaginable suffering, hunger, and loss, she survived the Holocaust with remarkable courage and unwavering emunah.

After the war, she met her husband and remained in Poland for a number years to assist the broken remnants of Jewry cope with their loss. The Rotners eventually settled in the United States.

Despite everything she experienced, Bella remained a woman of extraordinary emunah, gratitude, and optimism. She never lost her appreciation for Hashem’s world. She would often marvel at the beauty of the blue sky, the trees, and the flowers, and found joy in the simple gifts of everyday life. Even a simple visit or bouquet of flowers would fill her with gratitude, and she would often ask, “Why do I deserve this?”

Bella was blessed with one son and one daughter. Tragically, her daughter passed away during Bella’s lifetime, and today her descendants are no longer religious. As a result, Bella has not yet received a matzeivah. We hope to give her the lasting memorial and kavod that she deserves. If Bella’s story has touched you, we invite you to partner with us in this meaningful mitzvah. Every contribution, no matter the amount, will help make this possible. May this act of kindness be a tremendous zechus for Bella’s neshamah and for all those who participate.