Gary Covel
Lev Tov Award
Gary Covel, a native of Columbus, was involved in the Jewish community since his youth. He grew up in a loving environment, where he learned the importance of both secular and religious studies. Gary had his Bar Mitzvah and married Lana Bernstein, z’l at the Agudas Achim Synagogue. Gary’s parents z’l, served as role models for him, which makes him the kind, friendly, and giving individual that he is today. Gary’s parents served as brotherhood and sisterhood presidents at Agudas Achim and as presidents of the PTA at the Columbus Hebrew School. Gary gained a love of Jewish music in his home, where his parents had a collection of Hebrew and Yiddish records, which included the works of world renowned cantors. His father was a member of the Agudas Achim choir. Many other individuals had an influence on Gary’s life such as his maternal grandfather, Frank Rich z'l, who lived with Gary and his parents. Frank taught Gary the importance and love of prayer.
Professionally, Gary has worked in life and health insurance for 50 years, helping families become financially secure. He also worked as a tax professional with H&R Block and as a supervisor for the Department of Franklin County Human Services.
Gary’s involvement in the Columbus community is extensive. He was active in the BBYO, founded the Capital AZA chapter, became its first president, and later its advisor and chairman of the BBYO Adult Committee. He was a charter member of the B’nai Brith Men’s Maccabee lodge, eventually serving as its president. He was on the executive board of the Jewish National Fund, worked on the Super Sunday fundraising program for the Columbus Jewish Federation, helped to form youth groups at Agudas Achim, taught Sunday School there, finally served as a member of the synagogue board and as Brotherhood president. Gary was on the board of the Columbus Vaad, has participated in the community Chevra Kadisha for 25 years and serves on the Eruv Society board. Within the larger Columbus Community, Gary served as a counselor for the Juvenile Probation Council, helping youth who had served time in jail and been released on probation. He was recognized with the Counselor of the Year Award. He has been a poll worker for the board of elections for many years.
Gary enjoys music, dancing and theater. Of course Gary is a Buckeye fan, but enjoys watching all sports. He has played softball and was a member of the B’nai Brith Men’s Bowling team.
Gary met his wife Lana through her sons David and Dan. Gary loves and is proud of David, Dan and grandson Bryson. In Bexley, they made many new friends and opened a hospitality suite in their home, inviting guests from all over the world. Lana’s passion for cooking led her to study the culinary arts and become a professional executive chef. As a couple, they enjoyed traveling, taking classes at the Columbus Community Kollel and participating in activities at the JCC.
Gary joined Ahavas Sholom in 2005. He especially enjoys the warmth of members at the shul as well as their deep commitment to chesed. Gary would like to thank Rabbi Claman and his wife Shira, who have been very kind and hospitable to him. Gary appreciates the shiurim and joined the Daf Yomi study group, completing a 7 1/2 year learning cycle, culminating in his attendance at the Siyum Hashas in New York.
We are proud to recognize Gary with the Lev Tov Award, as an outstanding member of Ahavas Sholom and the Columbus Jewish Community. Gary would be thrilled to have you join him as a partner in supporting his incredible shul, by joining him at the Ahavas Sholom virtual Gala, and by placing an ad in the Ahavas Sholom ad journal.