Golan Community Gathers in Katzrin to Honor Teen Yonatan 'Tony' Klimian

Hundreds of residents, family members, and rabbis gathered at the Bnei Akiva Ulpana in Katzrin for a memorial evening honoring Yonatan "Tony" Ephraim Klimian, a 16-year-old from Katzrin who tragically died last Sunday after falling from a height while rappelling in Keshet Cave. Yonatan, a yeshiva student and Bnei Akiva youth leader, was on a family trip when the accident occurred. Rescue teams confirmed his death at the scene, shocking his family and the Katzrin community where he grew up and was active.

Vered Tepperberg, head of the Bnei Akiva Ulpana in Katzrin, explained that the Klimian family is deeply rooted in the community. She said the Ulpana immediately opened its doors to local youth on the night of Yonatan's death to provide a space for mourning and support. The Ulpana also served as the gathering point for transportation to the funeral. The memorial event took place at the Ulpana, where Yonatan's sister currently studies, two other sisters are alumni, and his mother chairs the parents' committee. The family’s community also prays regularly at the Ulpana's Beit Midrash.

The evening included Torah lessons and speeches by several rabbis, including Rabbi Eliyahu Mazuz of Katzrin, Rabbi Chaim Eizentel, head of the high school yeshiva in Hispin, Rabbi Osher Tavivi of Ohel Hanachal synagogue, Rabbi Yoel Manovitz, head of the Golan Yeshiva in Hispin, and Rabbi Shagai Moldovan. Refreshments were served in memory of Yonatan during the event. Katzrin Council Head Yehuda Dua also participated in the gathering.