Roman Povalinsky, 40, chief editor, owner and publisher of the Chicago Russian language weekly newspaper Reklama, developed it into a free publication that has served the city’s Russian Jewish community, especially those who have immigrated here in recent years.
A resident of Northbrook, he apparently drowned while boating Sunday in Lake Michigan near Burnham Harbor.
A member of the boating party experienced trouble while swimming alongside the boat. Mr. Povalinsky and others entered the water to assist. The swimmer was rescued but Mr. Povalinsky disappeared under the surface. His body had not been recovered as of Wednesday.
“Reklama” means advertisement in Russian. The weekly paper had averaged more than 100 pages and principally consists of ads. However it also has news accounts from both Russia and Israel. The ads are placed by professionals and others who provide services to the Chicago Jewish community.
“Roman was a very jovial, very positive person, who was also very energetic,” said Rabbi Misha Tillman, a friend. “His paper was famous for quality material, ethical practices, standards and charitable activities.”
Mr. Povalinsky was born in Vinnitsa, now in Ukraine. He lived most of his life in Odessa and came to Chicago with his family in 1989.
He was instrumental in creating and developing Shaarei Atid, the first American Russian Reform synagogue. The name means Gates of the Future. It now serves 120 families.
Survivors include his wife, Anna; a daughter, Polina; his mother, Shelya; and a sister.
A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Sunday in Am Sholom, 840 Vernon Rd., Glencoe.
