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February 27, 2004/Adar 5 5764, Vol. 56, No. 23
Slain Sedona couple remembered
PAULA BLANKENSHIP
Sedona Red Rock News
For the many people who loved and worked with Larry Birkner, 54, and Ruth Birkner, 55, the couple's passionate and civic commitment was a beauty that's irreplaceable.
The Birkners were found murdered in their West Sedona home early Feb. 18. Three suspects, including a man who had done contract work in the Birkners' house, have been arrested.
The Birkners played a large financial role in the completion of the new Jewish Community of Sedona and the Verde Valley facility.
"One of the reasons we're able to finish this building is because of Larry and Ruth," said Joe Knauer, president of the synagogue. The Birkners dedicated part of the religious community's new synagogue in memory of their parents. The couple was also eager to contribute time and money specifically for the congregation's children.
"They were concerned a school would be built," said community member Ira Marxe. "They were absolutely generous and caring. They were new to the community, but they took Sedona to heart and made it their life."
In their professional lives, the couple devoted themselves to industrial hygiene and workplace safety. Ruth was president and Larry was vice president of McIntyre Birkner & Associates, the couple's consulting firm.
The Birkners will be remembered at a memorial service 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 29, at the Jewish Community of Sedona's Synagogue and Community Center, 100 E. Meadowlark Drive, Sedona. Rabbi Albert Plotkin will lead the service. Call (928) 294-1286.
Reprinted with the permission of Larson Newspapers. Staff Writer Jennifer Goldberg contributed to this story.
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