Israel Zehavi
Jan. 6, 1950-Jan. 12, 2016
Palo Alto, California

On Jan. 12, 2016, Israel Zehavi passed away due to complications from Progressive Supra Nuclear Palsy. He was 66 years old. During his last week and as he passed, at his bedside he was comforted by his wife of 23 years, Kathryn Zehavi, as well as his daughter, stepdaughters, sons-in-law, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, niece and his wonderful caretaker, Longo. Israel was born in Tel Aviv on Jan. 6, 1950, where he was raised by his parents along with his two brothers, Shimon and Moki. His family owned a beach kiosk where he worked and enjoyed spending time in the sun and in the ocean, paddle boarding. Israel attended the Technical Academy of the Israeli Army and later the Technia Business School in Haifa. He joined the army in 1967 and was wounded in the Yom Kippur War of 1973. Following his military service, he operated a small business in Israel. Israel moved to the United States in 1983. He moved to California in 1987 and founded Diamonds of Palo Alto, a well-respected jewelry shop located in downtown. His loyal clients appreciated his beautiful gem collections and personal service. He was also active in the Rotary Club, the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce and the Palo Alto Downtown Merchants Association. Israel was an enthusiastic supporter of the Downtown Streets Team and all things that promoted the vitality of Palo Alto. He regularly donated blood to benefit babies in need.

Israel continued to work through the early stages of his disease, arriving at his office in his wheelchair. However, as the disease progressed, he decided to close the business and retire in 2008.

After retiring, he continued to live his life to its fullest and enjoy many of its simple pleasures. He loved his family and their frequent gatherings. He also enjoyed his rose garden, the ocean, movies, books on tape, Mozart, a good meal and playing with his grandchildren. He adored his wife Kathryn, who steadfastly stood by his side through every part of his decline, and was his rock. She too adored him.

Israel spent his last four years in a nursing home but stayed with Kathryn for long weekends. He also faithfully attended services and studies at Congregations Beth Am and Kol Emeth. It was a testament to the type of person and friend Israel was that he had a packed schedule of regular visitors each week that read to him, brought him a favorite meal or just came to enjoy his company.

Israel is survived by his brother, Moki in Jerusalem; his devoted wife, Kathryn in Palo Alto; and his children, son, Doobi in Tel Aviv, and daughter, Mirit Callioni (Gianpaolo) of Redwood City. He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Jennifer Robertson (John) of Los Gatos and Emily Pollard (Jeff) of Palo Alto.

Israel was the proud grandfather of nine: David and Lynn in Israel, and Maggie, Jack, Logan, Drew, Daniele, Alessandro and Brady here in the Bay Area.

Tags: business