I knew Gidon for more than 60 years. We came from the same Capetonian/South African background, and our Zionist education started within the Habonim movement at a young age.

   Many years later, since both of us were living near Netanya, we would meet up at various times, and there was always something to talk about, whether from the past or the present.  It was only after I became active in ESRA that I discovered how much he had become part of the many voluntary organizations in Israel.

   His great concern and compassion for those in need, his readiness to serve on committees and get involved, his initiative and his willingness to get things done - these are the qualities that exemplified Gidon.

   When he was a social worker with the Netanya Municipality, he worked tirelessly with Ethiopian immigrants, and he was instrumental in helping set up the ESRA sewing centers for both men and women to learn a new skill. He was active in the Hand-to-Hand Food Pantry, the distribution of the ESRA Magazine and writing articles for it, and the ESRA secondhand shop. As a member of the Netanya branch of ESRA, Gidon was always ready with a positive suggestion, and willing to help. 

   He was also an active member  in  many other organizations: Forgotten People's Fund, Netanya branch of the Israel Geneology Society, Israel Guide Dog Center for the Blind, Henry Koor Judaica Library, AACI (Americans and Canadians living in Israel) and Telfed - South African  Zionist  Federation (Israel),

   The fact that he found time for all these activities,  and was ready to give of himself to anyone  in  need  of  his help and support,  is proof that he was always  prepared  to be involved if it was for the good of the community and the betterment of the individual.

   We extend heartfelt sympathy to his wife Erga and the family. May they draw solace from Gidon's care for others, and find comfort in remembering the many people who knew and valued him. We in ESRA will miss him sorely.

 May his memory be blessed.