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When Michel Illouz carefully navigated through the crowds beneath the tall evergreens and tropical trees at the burial ground in Ra'anana, a community located 13 miles north of Tel Aviv, he thanked people to countless visitors as feasible.

Previously he offered an invitation to the nation's citizens to stand with his relatives in mourning his twenty-six-year-old son, Guy, whose body had been repatriated from Gaza on Monday.

Massive Turnout

Numerous people answered the invitation. They lined the streets, followed the hearse carrying his remains, and gathered at the cemetery in such large quantities that the initial arrangement to hold the ceremony indoors had to be canceled.

Instead, the event was organized outside, set to the melody of birdsong.

Notable Occasion

This represented the opening memorial service since the last 20 living hostages came back from Gaza, accompanied by multiple remains. Another more than twenty of the dead prisoners are still unaccounted for, but at the very minimum this household now had a particular spot to mourn and commemorate their son, per companions.

Tragic Story

Guy Illouz, a artist and recording specialist, had been targeted in his posterior at the Nova music festival during the Hamas assault on October 7, 2023. Prior to the incident, he had called his father from a sheltered spot to share his affection; to say goodbye. He was seized, and per those captured simultaneously, he later died from his trauma due to lack of treatment.

Relative's Viewpoint

A family friend of the Illouz relatives, Michelle, aged 50, commented that it had been extremely important to them that the public gathered today. The Illouz relatives, comprising Guy's two younger sisters and brother, had undertaken the traditional grieving process, the extended period of bereavement, after learning of his death in December of the previous year. But now that Guy was finally back with them, they needed "supportive individuals again."

"This brings me comfort that you came," said Michel. "Your presence is deeply appreciated."

Father's Tribute

He spoke to his son. "My Guy-shuk," he uttered, using a term of endearment, "it's challenging for me to envision the days ahead without you. They snatched you from me – they killed you – they kidnapped me and took my sense of self and murdered my soul and heart."

"There's a void within me since that senseless shooting by those evil terrorists when they apprehended you and instructed you to turn around, and then just discharged two gratuitous rounds into your back."

Ultimate Parting

"And here I am this morning, heading toward Abu Kabir identification center to verify your remains and bid farewell. They unveiled the shroud, and the primary view I observed was that characteristic grin, that hopeful nature, that calm demeanor and dignity that so defined you."

"I made contact, tried to sense your aroma, tenderly touched all areas in your body. I saw you, I was in private with you, and yes, I felt with total assurance that it was you. Yes, I know, Guy-shuk, that you've rejoined our family. You've returned to your family's embrace, to all your companions, and to the numerous individuals whose hearts your story impacted."

Familial Courage

During the beginning phase of the ceremony, Illouz had dedicated all his efforts on supporting his younger children. He gently touched the locks of his girls, held his son, kissed his neck and maintained composure for them. But then his feelings emerged.

Treasured Recollections

"I'll miss so much exploring alongside you through this nation, sensing your presence, hearing your music, relaxing in mountainous areas and activating the stove to make coffee the way only you knew how – 'Papa, do you see the coffee froth? You have to boil it gently, let the foam rise, then simmer it additionally. Agitate the liquid with circular motions' – and then your expression while tasting the beverage and your delight in every individual sip."

"Earlier than my exit Abu Kabir today, I fulfilled my commitment. I looked at you, breathed you in one last time, and yes, I bestowed affection on the front of your head. I was could perceive your beauty even in the situation in which you returned to us."

Final Words

"Beloved child, I care for you deeply, I treasure you. I will long for you every moment and tiny segment of my existence. Be at ease, my dear child, repose after a travel of two years through unfamiliar realms to us. I hold you dear, my beloved son, my beloved firstborn son."