Marc Sternberg Obituary, Death: Cape Town Philanthropist and Chai Club Founding Member Remembered

Marc Sternberg Obituary, Death: Cape Town Philanthropist and Chai Club Founding Member Remembered

The Cape Town Jewish community is mourning the passing of Marc Sternberg, a respected philanthropist, supporter and founding member of The Chai Club whose generosity helped strengthen programs serving Jewish students and children.

Sternberg was remembered for giving quietly and consistently, often supporting organizations without seeking recognition. His commitment to charitable causes extended beyond financial contributions, with friends and community leaders also recalling his guidance, mentorship and personal involvement.

Supporting Jewish Students

Chabad on Campus remembered Sternberg as an early and dedicated supporter of its work. According to a tribute, he became the first person in Cape Town to commit to a monthly donation toward establishing the organization’s campus activities.

Rabbi Nissen Goldman recalled meeting Sternberg at a synagogue in Camps Bay while discussing efforts to build a community for Jewish students. Sternberg quickly offered his support and continued asking how he could do more.

As Chabad on Campus expanded its activities to Stellenbosch, Sternberg remained involved. He provided encouragement and guidance, supported annual student events, helped provide mezuzot and encouraged the development of a full-time Chabad presence for students in the area.

A Commitment to Giving

Sternberg was also remembered for the care he put into his charitable giving.

Rabbi Goldman recalled seeing a detailed spreadsheet Sternberg maintained to organize his monthly charitable donations. The document reflected the importance he placed on supporting multiple organizations and causes.

His approach to tzedaka was described as thoughtful and deliberate, with his generosity extending across different areas of community life.

Support for Children

Oranjia also paid tribute to Sternberg, highlighting his involvement with the Simcha Fund.

Through the fund, his support helped children celebrate their Bnei Mitzvot feeling special, proud and surrounded by happiness. The organization expressed its gratitude for his kindness, generosity and affection for the children it serves.

His contribution to the community therefore reached beyond institutions, directly affecting young people and helping create meaningful experiences for them and their families.

Community Mourns Marc Sternberg

A funeral held at Pinelands Cemetery brought together a large gathering of mourners, according to Rabbi Goldman. The turnout was described as a reflection of the influence Sternberg had on people and organizations throughout the community.

He is survived by Tanya, Zoe, Aaron, Liv, Michael, Leora and Lauren, who were remembered with deep affection.

For those mourning his passing, Sternberg’s legacy is defined not simply by the money he donated, but by the time, encouragement, guidance and personal commitment he gave to others.

The Cape Town Jewish community will remember Marc Sternberg as a man whose generosity helped support Jewish students, children and community organizations while leaving a lasting impression on the people he encountered.

May his memory be a blessing.