Remembering Joe Hess, Beloved Philanthropic Leader And Holocaust Survivor

Pictured: Joe Hess (2nd from Left) a cherished Holocaust survivor, philanthropist, and community leader passed away on January 21, 2025, at the age of 92.

Feb 18, 2025

The Greater Los Angeles Jewish community and beyond mourn the loss of Joe Hess, a cherished Holocaust survivor, philanthropist, and community leader, who passed away on January 21st, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on June 25th, 1932, in Fulda, Germany, Joe’s incredible life story was one of resilience, determination, and dedication to making the world a better place.

Joe was just six years old when he and his sister, Ilse, bid farewell to their parents for the last time, escaping Nazi persecution via one of the last Kindertransports to England, where they lived with a foster family. In 1948, they immigrated to the United States, settling in Millville, New Jersey. After completing high school and beginning studies at Rutgers University, Joe joined the U.S. Air Force, where he began his distinguished career in aerospace and defense. While stationed in Boston, he met and married Margie (Z"L), his devoted wife of 68 years. In 1954, Joe was joyfully reunited with his father, Max, whom he had believed perished during the Holocaust.

Professionally, Joe excelled as a government technical manager, international aerospace consultant, and United Nations volunteer. He worked at the Air Force Cambridge Research Labs in Massachusetts and, in 1968, moved to California to serve as Director of Space Division for the U.S. Department of Defense. Joe also developed workshops worldwide to help developing nations harness space technology for societal benefit. As Vice President of the International Arid Lands Consortium, he addressed critical issues in arid and semi-arid regions globally. 

Joe’s enduring legacy is deeply intertwined with his nearly 30-year partnership and leadership with Jewish National Fund-USA, where he served as National Campaign Chairman, Vice President of Zones and Regions, and President in Orange County before moving to Los Angeles. “If Israel had existed, my parents would have been saved,” was a sentiment that fueled his tireless efforts. Joe’s vision and leadership were instrumental in securing Israel’s water future, contributing to the creation of over 250 water reservoirs and helping the organization achieve NGO status at the United Nations.

His contributions were recognized with Jewish National Fund-USA’s prestigious Tree of Life® Award and Legacy Society Heritage Award. As a proud Century Council member, Joe inspired countless others to join him in ensuring a vibrant future for Israel and the Jewish people. 

Jewish National Fund-USA Chairman, Dr. Sol Lizerbram remarked, “Joe was one of the founding fathers of the modern Jewish National Fund-USA. His leadership, vision, and commitment are woven into the fabric of everything we’ve achieved for Israel. His impact will be felt for generations.”

Joe was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and will be deeply missed by his family and numerous friends. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him. 

To honor Joe Hess’ memory and his enduring impact, contributions can be made to Jewish National Fund-USA at: www.jnf.org/donate - Or a tree can be planted in Israel at: www.jnf.org/tree - Or call: 1 (800) 542-8733. For more information, contact Sharon Joy, JNF-USA National Campaign Director at: sjoy@jnf.org.