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Remembering Mordechai “Moraleh” Bar-On

8 March 2021
photo of Mordechai

Today we learned the sad news of the passing of Mordechai “Moraleh” Bar-On last night at the age of 92.

Moraleh led an extraordinary life, serving in various important positions in both the IDF, the academy, Israeli politics, and civil society. Morelah was blessed with a sharp mind, a brave and kind heart and a wonderful personality. Naturally, he gained friends everywhere he went.

Moraleh joined the New Israel Fund and served as the President of the board from 1991 to 1995. Ever since, he has been a prominent and well-respected member of NIF’s International Council and a dear part of our community.

We send our condolences to his wife, Erela, and daughters Einat, Tal, Hila, and their families. May they be consoled by the memories of his wonderful life and important contributions to promoting a better Israel for all.

Aaron David Miller, NIF board member, remembered Moraleh with great admiration and fondness: “I was truly fortunate that our paths crossed a couple of times over the years.” He writes. “Moraleh was a true warrior in so many ways – in defense of a country he loved; in search always of a better future for Israel where equality and justice prevailed; a seeker of peace when it was not always popular and seemingly impossible; and always a champion of clarity and honesty in his relations with those lucky enough to know him. May his memory not only be a blessing but an inspiration to all those fighting to make this world a better place.”

Naomi Chazan, another NIF past president, put it this way:

“Moraleh Bar-On lived an exemplary life of commitment to a just Israel, of service to all its citizens, of academic inquiry and of human decency. He was truly revered by generations of Israelis. I mourn his passing at this most turbulent of times. For over fifty years he has been a role model, advisor, colleague and true friend. He leaves this place emptier and even more rudderless. I will miss his presence deeply.”

She and the entire NIF community offer our profound condolences to his marvelous partner in life, Erela, and to the entire family.

Photo via Wikimedia Commons