Rabbi Avraham Menachem, Longtime Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Migdal HaEmek, Passes Away at 88

Rabbi Avraham Menachem, the Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Migdal HaEmek for nearly 50 years and founder of the "Ner HaTzafon" institutions, died at the age of 88. Born in Morocco, he immigrated to Israel as a teenager and arrived in Migdal HaEmek during its early days. Throughout his decades of service, he played a central role in establishing religious, cultural, and educational institutions for the city's residents and new immigrants.

Alongside Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi Yitzhak David Grossman, Rabbi Menachem helped found the "Ner HaTzafon" network, which includes Talmud Torah schools, kindergartens, a yeshiva, and the "Or HaEmek" synagogue. Rabbi Grossman eulogized him warmly, highlighting his dedication to religious standards and his compassionate character, noting the timing of his passing near the Jewish fast of Tisha B'Av.

Rabbi Menachem was remembered as an accessible and humble community leader who regularly taught daily lessons and was deeply involved in local life. He leaves behind a legacy of public and educational contributions and a family continuing his work. His funeral procession began at the "Ner HaTzafon" institutions and concluded at the city cemetery in Migdal HaEmek.