In sergent Shay Michaeli's light
Speak less, do more"
This was the motto that guided Shay
"Even what is not perfect, is whole"
Perfection is the ability to find value and meaning even in what is not perfect.
Sergeant Shay Michaeli, of blessed memory, served as a combat soldier in a classified IDF unit and was killed in a covert operation during the Iron Swords War. To his parents he said: “I have no choice but to defend the country. We have no other homeland.”
His commander, Lt. N., eulogized him: “With your kind blue eyes, there was not a single person you didn’t see.” He added: “Your eyes shine like the blue sea, full of goodness and radiating serenity.”
Shay was born and raised in Rishon LeZion, a blue-eyed boy with an optimistic, sweet smile, remarkable intelligence, a generous heart, and broad knowledge. He was recognized as gifted from an early age, excelled in table tennis and chess, trained in martial arts, studied in an advanced science program and excelled in every field he pursued.
He represented his city, Rishon LeZion, and the State of Israel in table tennis competitions both in Israel and abroad. He was a role model of excellence, perseverance, humility, attentiveness to others, professionalism, and courage. Shay was driven by a strong sense of mission, solid values, and personal responsibility – qualities expressed not only in training and combat service but also, among other things, in his participation in an operational mission to rescue hostages.
Shay loved life: music (including his collection of vinyl records and his deep knowledge in the field), concerts, outings, and friends.
He is survived by his parents, Orly and Yoram, and his sister Shir, grieving, proud, and forever longing for him.
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