Born in Ramat Gan to Bat Galim and Chaviv, and the youngest sibling of Shai, Assaf, and Ofira, Yair was especially beloved by his family. Known for his humility, modesty, and dedication to unity and kindness, Yair always responded with a “yes” to any request for help, constantly putting others before himself.
He attended the Yavneh Yeshiva High School in Ramat Gan and was active in the local Bnei Akiva chapter. Yair enlisted with a strong desire for meaningful service in the IDF, joining the Kfir Brigade and eventually graduating from the officer training course. After completing his regular service, he studied civil engineering at Ariel University, where he excelled academically year after year. He quickly advanced to a project management role in a successful construction firm, balancing his civilian career with active reserve duty. His commitment earned him the Gaza Division’s Excellence Award in 2023. His colleagues and family often said that “whatever he touched, he excelled in — in academics, in the military, and in his humanity.”
Just two weeks before the outbreak of war, Yair married Maayan, a computer science student at Ariel University. They shared an indescribable love, building dreams and plans for a shared future.
On October 7, as always, Yair was the first to report for reserve duty, filled with unwavering faith in his mission and country. His soldiers fondly remember him as the “mother of the unit” for his attentive and caring leadership, treating each soldier as family. His quiet strength inspired all who knew him. Known for his modesty and profound sense of responsibility, Yair always made sure that everyone was treated equally and protected those who needed it most.
Yair was set to be discharged the week he fell after nearly five months of reserve duty. However, fate had other plans. When his company commander was injured, Yair assumed command, leading his team with courage and composure. Tragically, on February 12, 2024, Yair and his team were struck by the blast of a booby-trapped building, and he was killed in action.
Maayan, his beloved, is determined to continue his legacy in every way possible. His family and friends cherish his memory, establishing a foundation in his honor dedicated to good deeds in Yair’s spirit. Through him, they say, we continue.
May his memory be a blessing.
