Colette, Baruch Michael

Son of Ruth and Ezra. He was born on 12 October 1962 in New Delhi, India. The youngest son of his parents and the fifth child in the family. He was a delicate, sensitive and thoughtful child. He attended an elementary school in New Delhi and continued his studies at the Air Force High School in New Delhi. Baruch, who was nicknamed “Bagh” by his family, was a lover of poetry and music, especially avant-garde music, and was writing poetry and playing guitar. When his brothers and sisters left the house and some immigrated to Israel and some emigrated to Canada, he remained alone in his parents’ home. In 1986 he also immigrated to Israel. At first he was a volunteer at Kibbutz Mishmar Hasharon and later went on to study at the Hebrew University. He studied in the Department of English Literature and Philosophy, excelled in his studies and earned a bachelor’s degree. His university studies were the happiest period of his life. In February 1988, Baruch was drafted into regular service in the IDF and was assigned to serve in the General Staff, in the service of the IDF Spokesperson. Having no family in Israel, he was recognized as a lone soldier. He lived in Ashdod. Baruch fell during his service on August 12, 1988 and was laid to rest at the military cemetery on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. He was succeeded by his parents, two sisters – Edna and Rivka and two brothers – Uri and Yoel. His commander, Brig. Gen. Efraim Lapid, wrote in a letter of condolence to the bereaved family about Baruch’s qualities, who during his six months in the unit demonstrated his perseverance and initiative at work, and his modesty, integrity and credibility.