March 4, 2005
23 Adar I, 5765

Max M. Fisher

Max Fisher, the founding chairman of the Jewish Agency`s Board of Governors died on Thursday, March 3rd in Detroit at 96.

The son of Russian immigrants, Max Fisher grew up in a small town in Ohio, and attended Ohio State University. Through decades of an outstandingly successful business career, Mr. Fisher also worked energetically on behalf of public causes. He played a leading role in the Republican party and served as advisor to four U.S. presidents. He championed the economic revitalization of Detroit, and actively supported numerous charities and civic organizations.

Listed as the oldest member of Forbes400, Fischer made his wealth in the oil business.

Fischer was instrumental in the airlift of U.S. arms to Israel during the 1973 Yom Kippur War.

Mr. Fisher played a leading role in almost every major Jewish community organization, including the American Jewish Committee, B'nai B'rith International, the Council of Jewish Federations, HIAS, United Israel Appeal, the Jewish Agency for Israel, and United Jewish Appeal.

For further information contact:
Michael Jankelowitz
Liaison to Foreign Press
The Jewish Agency for Israel
Cell: 050-7601706
Voicemail: 02-6202780
e-mail: michaelj@jazo.org.il