Lugassi, Michael

Son of David and Simi. He was born on May 24, 1955, in the town of Azni, Morocco, and immigrated to Kiryat Shmona in the town of Azni, Morocco, where he grew up and received his first education. Michael at the Chabad school, but at his request he was transferred to the “Aliyot” school where he completed his elementary studies, and then moved to the Rogozin Comprehensive High School. Then Michael decided to enroll in the military academy of the Ordnance Corps. It was a difficult decision for the parents to separate for a long time from their eldest son, whom they loved so much, and to commit themselves to a large sum of money in keeping their son in a boarding school. However, Michael insisted on his decision and did not deviate from it until they agreed to it. The distance from the beloved home and the spiritual and physical demands at the military boarding school made it hard for Michael, but he made no complaint. Over time, he was well integrated into the new framework, and his teachers and instructors were very pleased to stick to the task he had undertaken. His behavior was impeccable, and his achievements in studies and training were good. Michael studied sports, which became part of his life. He especially excelled in the volleyball game. After successfully completing the final exams at the boarding school, Michael enlisted in compulsory service. He was, of course, assigned to the Ordnance Corps and used as a tank mechanic. He did well in his work and rose to the rank of sergeant. In the Yom Kippur War, Michael spent nights and days in his responsible work, and never under enemy fire. It was a difficult time for him, especially his family, which knew that Michael was close to the front and the news from him was delayed. It was a tremendous physical and mental effort, and when he finally came home on vacation, they could not talk to him, but his pale face and shriveled body answered what he had been through those fateful weeks. Military life had a very positive effect on Michael. He overcame himself, acquired a gentleness and acquired soul-friends. Showed a sense of discipline and never rebuked any duty. He was in a good mood both in the army and during his visits to the house. He worked in the army not only in professional work but also in the organization and concentration of various sports branches, and for this he received special recognition from his commanders and friends. After four years of service, Michael was released from the army, and as if his mother had been stoned. However, Michael realized that his fate and future were inextricably linked to the army, and he returned to regular service. He only wanted to serve in another unit, to try and discover himself in a new arena as well. Indeed, he was transferred to a unit that was parked near Jerusalem, where he served as a tank examiner. Even in this new place he soon acquired the Lev of all his knowledge. Now Michael was closer to his home. Almost every evening he returned home, to the delight of his family, to whom he was very devoted and even shared his salary. Michael’s death came as a seal. He fell in the line of duty on 4 December 1977. He was brought to eternal rest in Kiryat Gat, left behind by his parents, brother and sister, and Michael wrote to the bereaved family: “Michael came to us about six years ago And was a unit tester as a unit tester, and as soon as he arrived he stood out as having good character traits, and his dedication was impeccable – in terms of his professional expertise. The parents donated a Torah scroll to commemorate his memory.