Lazar, Elimelech

Elimelech (Eli), son of Deborah and Yehoshua (Alexander), from Cyprus, was born on September 14, 1954, in Tel Aviv. He studied at the Herzog High School and then continued his studies at the Hate Urban-Religious Comprehensive School in Tel Aviv, in the economic track. Elimelech was an outstanding student, and diligent. The principal of the elementary school wrote: “He had a quick thought and quick action, and whenever there was a need for voluntary, Eli was there to help. His teacher at the elementary school wrote that “he was a gifted child and had exemplary workability.” The principal of the high school says he was talented and fit for study, his virtues were virtuous and his manner was pleasant, and he was often involved in acts of kindness and helping others.” His teacher said that “his opinions were balanced and his answers were said calmly and comfortably and their wording was clear.” The rabbi of the neighborhood said that “despite the paucity of his years, he was a treasure trove of Torah and action.” Elimelech was a member of the Bnei Akiva youth movement. He had a musical hearing and a wonderful memory. He had a pleasant voice, and passed before the ark on Sabbaths and festivals, and there were those who read (“Baal Koreh”). He was a son of Torah who embodied the love of Israel and love of man, and meticulous in mitzvot. Eli loved to engage in public affairs and was the gabbai in the synagogue of the students. He read many different areas and wrote lyrics. There was modesty and humility in him, and his way was very low. He was loved by his friends, and they trusted him, admired him and respected him, so he was able to instill peace in every situation with his peace of mind and his gentleness. He was a true man, pure-hearted and noble. He takes on every role and every task and performs them by the force of faith. Elimelech was drafted into the IDF at the beginning of November 1972 and volunteered to serve in the Golani Brigade, after completing his basic training course, which ended on the eve of Yom Kippur 1974. He was a good soldier, disciplined and obedient, and filled every order without argument or complaint. His parents, and told them nothing about what happened to him in the army On October 12, 1973, Elimelech fell in battle on the way to Tel-Khadar and was brought to eternal rest in the Kiryat Shaul cemetery. And his mother died on Sunday, February 18, 1980. After his fall, he was promoted to sergeant. In a letter of condolence to the bereaved family, his commander wrote: “Elimelech was an example to his comrades with his great devotion and carrying out the missions in the battalion.” The platoon commander said that “he was the best soldier in his department.” His parents published a pamphlet in his memory that included things about his character, eulogy, memoirs, lyrics, letters and photographs; They also donated a Torah scroll to the Shalom-Heichal Yitzchak synagogue in northern Tel Aviv, as well as pairs of tefillin.