Sir Zelman Cowen
Sir Zelman Cowen, the second Jew to hold the position of Governor-General of Australia who passed away last week at the age of 92, was laid to rest in Melbourne today.
Sir Zelman Cowen
The burial, which was a private family affair, followed a service at St Kilda’s Temple Beth Israel. Sir Zelman Cowen’s coffin was draped in Australian flag.
An attendee sent J-Wire this report:
The state funeral of Australia’s 19th governor-general, Sir Zelman Cowen was much like the man himself – dignified, steeped in ceremony, but at the same time filled with warmth and humour.
Sir Zelman’ son, Rabbi Dr, Shimon Cowen spoke movingly on behalf of the family and there were tributes, giving personal insights into both the private and the public man, from Mr. Josh Frydenberg MP, Professor Don Markwell, Warden of Rhodes House, Oxford and Mr. Steven Skala.
St Kilda’s Temple Beth Israel synagogue was filled with over 1000 mourners, including Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Governor-General Quentin Bryce, former governors-general and former prime ministers Malcolm Fraser, Bob Hawke and John Howard .
An eloquent eulogy was given by Rabbi Dr. John Levi, which reflected the esteem and love with which Sir Zelman Cowen was regarded.
