It is with deep sadness that Ben-Gurion University of the Negev bids farewell to Dr. Bertram Lubner, beloved President of BGU's South African Associates (SAABGU). 
Above: Bertie Lubner receives a Lifetime Acheivement Award at the 43rd Board of Governors Meeting in 2013
Bertie, as he was affectionately known to all who had the privilege of working with him, was a prominent South African Jewish businessman and philanthropist. He passed away on Monday April 18, 2016 in Johannesburg, at the age of 85, after an illness bravely borne.
Bertie's love for Israel and a deep concern and passion for nurturing young minds drew him to BGU. He said what first impressed him was the quality of people, "They represented to me true Zionists who were prepared to devote their lives to education at a desert institute, whereas they could have secured wonderful posts elsewhere." This bond led to the establishment of SAABGU, marking the beginning of a 40 year relationship which blossomed into a mutual and enchanting love between Bertie, his family and the University.
Above: Bertie and Hilary Lubner at the Welcome Dinner hosted by Prof. Rivka Carmi at the 45th Board of Governors Meeting in 2015.
It was his unwavering belief that partnerships between Israel and South Africa would address the developmental and economic problems we face; as well as enhancing relationships between our two countries. Bertie’s optimism underpinning this belief led to Ben-Gurion University awarding an honorary doctorate to President Nelson Mandela in 1997 – a momentous occasion for South Africa and Israel.
Bertie’s philanthropy is evident throughout the BGU Campus, with his name gracing the Founders Wall, as a member of the Ben-Gurion Society and his service on the Board of Governors for four decades. BGU awarded Bertie with an Honorary Doctorate in 1987 in recognition of his enduring kindness and philanthropy.
On the occasion of Bertie receiving BGU’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, BGU President and close friend Prof. Rivka Carmi commended Bertie as “a most remarkable and beloved friend of Ben-Gurion University and indeed of humanity", as well as being "a role model par excellence, dedicated and devoted to us as well as to the underprivileged communities in South Africa".
In 2015 Bertie, and his wife Hilary, opened the Lubner Children's Rehabilitation Centre at Soroka University Medical Center in Beer-Sheva. The centre, especially important to the Bedouin community and BGU, is testament to Bertie’s devotion and care for children with special needs.
From the Lubner Family Annual Prize for Excellence in Innovation and Research, the Lubner Family Chair in Child Health and Development and the Annual Lubner Prize for Community Service – Bertie’s warmth and generosity have made their mark in the hearts of BGU students and faculty alike.
Above: Bertie and Hilary Lubner meet with recipients of the Lubner Prize for Community Service during the 45th Board of Governors Meeting in 2015.
Bertie is survived by his wife Hilary, four children, Marc, Tony, Susan and Richard and his beloved grandchildren. The Lubner Family legacy at BGU is one that will be treasured for generations to come. May his memory be a blessing.
