Yochai Gur Hershberg

Yochai Gur Hershberg was born on December 14, 1970, in Gedera, Israel, to his parents, Ze’evah and Philip. He grew up surrounded by the values of hard work and dedication, qualities instilled in him by his family, particularly through the legacy of his father, Philip Hershberg.

Family and Personal Life

Yochai was a devoted father to four children: Noya, Roy, Neta, and Itai. His love for his children was evident in every aspect of his life, and he was known to be a caring and dedicated parent.

Military Service and Tragic Death

On October 7, 2023, Yochai was called up for reserve duty, serving in the Human Resources Corps of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Yochai held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and was the commander of the Missing Persons Identification Unit within the 98th Division, a role he performed with utmost dedication.

Tragically, on December 5, 2023, during his reserve service, Yochai was involved in a fatal road accident. He was traveling in a private vehicle with some of his comrades when they collided with a truck on Highway 25 near Sde Teyman. This accident claimed the life of Yochai at the age of 52. He was laid to rest in the military section of the Gedera cemetery, leaving behind his four children.

Legacy and the Philip Farm

Beyond his military service, Yochai was deeply connected to the land, continuing the legacy of his father, Philip Hershberg, who founded the renowned Philip Farm near Kiryat Gat in 1950, shortly after Israel’s War of Independence. The farm became a symbol of resilience and dedication, offering agricultural activities, tourism, workshops, and donkey tours. It became a popular attraction in the northern Negev, particularly during the “Red South” festival.

Philip Hershberg, Yochai’s father, was born in Poland in 1908. He had a rich history, with his father having served in the Russian army during World War I. After his father’s death, Philip was sent to live with his uncle, who owned a large agricultural estate in Poland. There, he acquired the skills and knowledge that later helped him establish the Philip Farm in Israel.

A Life of Giving and Coexistence

Yochai was known for his endless generosity and his commitment to helping others. Whether it was assisting stranded travelers or fellow farmers in need, Yochai was always there with a smile on his face. His friend of 30 years, Tzvika Shlomo, who owns a neighboring farm, fondly recalled Yochai’s infectious smile and his tireless efforts to maintain and develop the farm despite the many challenges posed by the authorities.

Yochai also stood out as a symbol of coexistence, fostering strong relationships with Bedouin communities in the area. His legacy of generosity and commitment to peaceful coexistence remains a testament to the values he held dear throughout his life.