Born London, October 20, 1948.
Died London, May 20, 2008, aged 59.
Prodigiously talented musician and showman, Howard Wolfin served the Pinner community for two decades.
Brought up in Edgware with his bro-ther, Michael, who survives him, he went to Christ’s College, Finchley, and worked for 40 years in his family textile business. After marrying Diana, his wife, in 1971, they joined the Wembley community, where Mr Wolfin made a name for himself, writing and directing Purim spiels, in which he also starred.
He took his Purim tradition with him when, in 1986, he, Diana and their four children moved to Pinner where he quickly became involved in the community. Thrice elected shul warden, he was noted for his help and friendliness. He also learned to lead services.
With his melodic voice and range of tunes, he was among the most popular lay chazanim in the community, teaching dozens of barmitzvah boys and adults who wished to help in services.
A long-standing member of the Magic Circle, he performed at countless charity events. He was also a Freemason and crossword addict.
But he was perhaps best known for his extraordinary talent as a pianist. Unable to read music, he crafted his unique style for more than 50 years, focusing on jazz and putting a modern take on classic piano standards. In 2005 and 2007 he reached the finals of the Yamaha Amateur Pianist competition at London’s Cadogan Hall.
A long-standing Spurs supporter, he played a weekly game of football and badminton. Having played in a Maccabi league in his teens for Athletico Neasden, he set up a veteran game, Pinner Tuesday, 15 years ago, and played occasionally in the Maccabi Masters league.
Whilst playing in his regular Tuesday night game, he collapsed and died of coronary artery disease, having previously displayed no symptoms. The shock of his death was all the more acute in the light of his vitality, sharp wit and joie de vivre.
He is survived by his mother, Elisabeth; wife Diana; two daughters, Emma and Nicola; two sons, Andrew and Benjamin; and seven grandchildren.