Skverer Court Celebrates Retiring Longtime Attendant

By: Yitzy Fried 

Hector Martinez was a newly-arrived immigrant from South America 28 years ago when he found employment in the home of the Skverer Rebbe, shlit”a. 

Having carried out his duties for close to three decades, Hector is now retiring, and returning to the country of his birth. 

In tribute to his years of dedication, attendants and gabo’im of the Rebbe threw a small farewell celebration for Hector, gifting him a valuable watch as a token of their appreciation for everything he has done for the Rebbe and for the home. 

Perhaps the greatest mark of his dedication was the fact that—even as he’s about to leave—he would not divulge anything that he saw or heard in the Rebbe’s home, and he has seen a lot take place there in these years. “He’s a closed box, right to the very end,” said one person in the inner circle. 

Before his departure, Hector went to take leave of the rebbe, who thanked him profusely for everything he has done for him. He also gave Hector a generous tip.

But Hector would not consider spending that money. “I put it in a special bag, and I’m taking it back home with me as protection,” he said.