At the funeral ceremony, Ran [Kochva]’s widow Galit dedicated to her husband the song “Who loves you more than I do,†written by Micha Sheetrit, describing his love for the land of Israel, and noted that her husband had given her the CD as a gift.
Major Kochva, an architect doing his reserve duty in the helicopter squadron, was survived by his wife, five-year-old daughter and one-year-old twins.
“From the place I am now, I can’t imagine life without you,†Galit said, filled with emotion. “I have no idea how to make the feeling of a family for our children. You were so beautiful from the inside and outside, loving, devoted. Kind-hearted and caring. I could count on one hand the days on which you were sad. You taught me to love and know this country. I know you trust me to be strong for the children.â€
(From Ynet)
Israel has lost other soldiers in harsh battles over the past few days including Major Benji Hillman, 27, of Raanana, Staff Sergeant Rafanel Muskal, 21, of Mazkeret Batya, Staff Sergeant Nadav Balua, 21, of Carmiel, Staff Sergeant Yonatan Hadassi, 21, from kibbutz Merhavia and Staff Sergeant Yotam Gilboa, 21, from kibbutz Maoz Haim. There are also injured soldiers who remain in the hospital in grave condition and, of course, civilians who have been killed by Hizbullah rocket fire as well.
To their grieving families and friends, we wish you strength and share your loss.
(On left is Yonatan Hadassi; on right is Ran Kochva)