Fallen IDF Major Asael Babad's Wife Eulogizes Him

In a moving tribute at her husband's funeral, Chagit Babad remembered fallen IDF Major Asael Babad as a pillar of strength and faith.

She shared her deep grief during the funeral: "My beloved, I can't believe I'm eulogizing you. This isn't how it was supposed to end, and not for a single moment did we believe this would be the outcome. For three months, every day and every moment, you fought with all your strength, gathering every bit of energy, and you managed to recover despite the terrible fever and infection. You walked and stood up again, facing it all with such incredible bravery, it just doesn't make sense. You didn't deserve for it to end like this."

She continued, reflecting on his unwavering faith: "We don't understand any of it, and as you always said, 'That's how God tested us.' You had immense faith, without questions or doubts, accepting everything from heaven with love, even when it was hard. You never complained or asked why. You were a man of truth and integrity, with a huge heart and golden hands. 'Asael'—what a fitting name, God made you, and you spent your whole life creating upwards, a man of action with a divine touch."

Chagit spoke of his practical skills and their life together: "Whatever you touched just worked out; you could fix and solve everything on your own with those strong hands and ten fingers, full of creativity and wisdom. You built and created so simply, without seeking applause or compliments, and I'm so proud of you for that simple, authentic life. Thank you for 15 years together of shared creation, for being my backbone, my stability, and building me a home. Now our pillar is crumbling a bit, our heart, and suddenly there's meaning in your organs saving other lives.

She recalled their recent celebrations: "We managed to celebrate Hanukkah together, pausing to give thanks for what we have, and we prayed for more miracles. I want to believe those prayers strengthened you and helped, and they'll help us going forward, even though it's hard to imagine life without you. I miss you so much, your quiet presence, your ability to listen and absorb, your control and decisiveness in getting things done without laziness or excuses."

"You were such a righteous man, full of kindness, helping so many people at any hour without a second thought. Even in reserves, in 'Uriah Force' that you so wanted to join, you always said, 'I do what needs to be done.' You were simply my hero, our hero, and a hero for all of Israel. They must need you up there, but don't forget we need you here too. You left behind five sweet children, each with 50% of you: Omer, Shay, Ayelet, Gilad, and our beloved Noga, who are true heroes for how they've coped these past months."