Yinon Arak

Yinon Arak was born in Petah Tikva on 17 Marcheshvan 5732, 5 November 1971, the son of Malka and Avraham. He was a brother to Tamar, Hadas, Sivan, Moran and Oz. Yinon and Moria made their home in Tene Omarim and raised nine children: Eliya, Mori, Avishag, Ayala, Ahinoam, Oholiav, Ahiam, Ariya and Ayelet HaShahar. Alongside military service and family, education and sport held a central place in his life.

Yinon taught physical education at Adam VeAdama High School in Hatzeva. The Ministry of Education's memorial publication describes a teacher who knew his pupils beyond the lesson: he heard about their successes and difficulties, took an interest in them and adapted training to their abilities. He made a point of coming every week despite the distance from his home, encouraging effort and excellence while remaining attentive and sensitive. In summer he incorporated swimming, and in winter athletics and strength training, according to the Arava's climate.

The pupils trained under his guidance early in the morning or after their school day at the agricultural boarding school. Those who struggled received his encouragement to keep moving and maintain a healthy lifestyle. His fellow educators also remembered his joy, modesty and the responsibility he brought to his work. After his death, Har Hevron Regional Council head Eliram Azoulai spoke of an athlete and swimmer who turned his love of sport into a means of empowering children, young people and adults, and of a figure who brought people together in the community.

On 7 October 2023 Yinon was called up for reserve duty and served continuously in the Southern Command. On 19 April 2024 he was killed in a motorcycle accident on Highway 6, near Kfar Menachem, while performing his duties. The Izkor website records his death on 12 Nisan 5784, aged fifty-two. Lieutenant Colonel (res.) Yinon Arak was laid to rest in the military section of the Meitar cemetery. He is survived by his wife, nine children, parents and five siblings. May his memory be a blessing.