Rami Levi's Father and Former Lehi Fighter Mordechai Abud Levi Dies at 96 in Jerusalem

Mordechai Abud Levi, father of Israeli businessman and supermarket chain owner Rami Levi, passed away at the age of 96 after collapsing at his home in Jerusalem. His funeral is scheduled for Friday at 3:30 PM at the Har HaMenuchot cemetery in the Givat Shaul neighborhood of Jerusalem.

Born into a Kurdish family in Jerusalem, Mordechai joined the Lehi underground movement at age 15, participating in the fight for Israel's independence. He was seriously wounded during an operation, sustaining lasting injuries to his back and leg. Despite his disabilities, he attempted to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces after the state's establishment but was discharged during basic training due to health reasons.

Following his military involvement, Mordechai worked for many years in the sanitation department of the Jerusalem municipality while raising a large family. His son Rami Levi later founded one of Israel's largest and most recognized supermarket chains. Family members described Mordechai as a humble, hardworking man deeply proud of his service and contribution to the country, who preferred a private life away from the spotlight.

He is survived by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The family will observe Shiva in the Malha neighborhood of Jerusalem after the funeral.