- Named Endowment Funds
Established in loving memory by the Lasky family, the Henry Brand Lasky Memorial Endowment Fund continues the caring legacy of Henry Lasky z’l by supporting palliative and end-of-life care for Sonoma County seniors.
Henry Lasky z’l
Henry was born in Troy, New York, and grew up in Albany. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts from Cornell University and law degree from Albany Law School, he was called to active duty in the US Air Force. While serving at Hamilton Air Force Base, Henry honed leadership skills that would serve him throughout his life and gained judicial experience. He also fell in love with California.
As Henry raised a family and built an illustrious career as an attorney and federal judge, he continually made time to serve the community, sharing his wisdom and legal expertise with committees of the California State Bar and as a board member of several organizations. He received numerous awards for his service, including the American Jewish Committee Lloyd R. Sankowich Leadership Award and the Jewish Family and Children’s Services’ Fammy Award.
After his retirement, Henry became even more active as a volunteer in his beloved Sonoma County. Henry brought his deep understanding of community issues, sincere commitment to helping people in need, and discerning counsel to JFCS’ Ethics Committee, Public Issues Committees, and Palliative Care Task Force.
Henry also completed training to become a volunteer in JFCS’ Palliative Care Program, through which he offered friendship, time, and compassion to those facing serious health issues. Henry and Bonnie’s dog, Sophie, a graduate of our Canine Corps therapy dog training program, accompanied Henry for six years on these visits.
Henry was survived by his wife Bonnie, a dear friend and former board member of JFCS; his daughters, Rebecca Thomas and Paula Price; and his grandchildren, Sasha and Ben Price and Eva Thomas.
“I learned what’s important in life. It isn’t about how much money you make or about awards. It’s about relationships with people. I feel blessed.”
—The Honorable Henry Brand Lasky
The Henry Brand Lasky Memorial Fund advances Henry’s legacy by ensuring Sonoma seniors in need receive the Palliative Care Program’s extra layers of support to improve their quality of life and to help relieve physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering.
To make a donation to the Henry Brand Lasky Memorial Endowment Fund, please click here. In the box labeled “If desired, enter a JFCS Named Endowment Fund to receive your gift,” please type Lasky Fund.
We also invite you to watch this video tribute to Henry.