105-year-old man arrives in Israel, setting new aliyah age record

Sanford Goldstein, 105, recently became the oldest immigrant to arrive in Israel. He and his wife, Rosalie, 100, moved from Englewood, New Jersey, to Netanya, Israel, roughly three and a half years ago. Their relocation ended a 65-year wait to fulfill their dream of making aliyah, a process they began attempting when Goldstein was 40 years old.

The couple previously lived in Brooklyn, New York, and spent the last 15 years in New Jersey. They now reside in the Ir Yamim neighborhood of Netanya. Their daughter, Risa Shapiro, a social worker and aliyah consultant, lives with them. The family includes five grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Goldstein noted that an aliyah representative informed him he was too old to immigrate when he was 40. He decided to proceed with the move after the couple recovered from the effects of the pandemic. Rosalie said they decided to act if not now, then never. The move broke the previous record held by Stella Rockoff, who immigrated from New Jersey in 2022 at age 101.

Goldstein described the community in Netanya as friendly and well-structured. He said that upon their arrival, dozens of strangers welcomed them at a reception. He added that the couple recently hosted a sukkah party attended by 300 people. Goldstein praised the local climate and the freedom to practice their religion without antisemitism.

The couple met at a synagogue dance and have been married for 79 years. Rosalie celebrated her 100th birthday in January, while Goldstein marked his 105th birthday in August. They spent their 79th wedding anniversary in September. Goldstein, a former certified public accountant, attributes his longevity to a daily diet of yogurt and blueberries.

Goldstein was honored with the first aliyah reading on Simchat Torah night at his synagogue this year. He advised others to consider immigrating slowly, starting with a tour to acclimate to the environment. He suggested that visitors observe the local culture and community before making a final decision.

The Goldsteins currently enjoy retirement activities with their extended family, including sharing pizza and ice cream with their great-grandchildren. Their son, Dr. Glenn Goldstein, a rehabilitation specialist in Manhattan, plans to join the family in Israel. He hopes to make the move in time for Goldstein’s 106th birthday.