Yarden Bibas Delivers Heartbreaking Eulogy for His Wife and Sons

In a heart-wrenching ceremony at the Tzohar Cemetery, Yarden Bibas bid farewell to his wife, Shiri, and their two young sons, Ariel and Kfir. The family, whose story has touched hearts across Israel and beyond, were buried together on Wednesday.

Wearing an orange kippah, Yarden stood before the gathered mourners, his voice filled with both love and grief. He began by speaking to Shiri, recalling the early days of their relationship and the moment he first called her "mi amor." It was a term of endearment he had hesitated to use too soon, fearing it might seem premature. Yet, he confessed, he had already fallen in love with her back then.

"Shiri, I love you and will always love you," Yarden said. "You are everything to me—the best wife, the best mother, my best friend." His words painted a picture of a deep and enduring love, a partnership marked by shared decisions and dreams.

Reflecting on their final moments together, he recounted a harrowing choice they faced while hiding in their safe room. When he asked Shiri whether they should "fight or surrender," she chose to fight. With deep remorse, Yarden expressed his sorrow for not being able to protect his family, saying, "If only I had known what would happen, I wouldn't have fired."

The eulogy turned to memories of their sons, Ariel and Kfir. Yarden spoke to Ariel, his "Chuki," who had made him a father and brought maturity and joy into his life. He imagined Ariel bringing laughter to angels in paradise, just as he had done on earth with his jokes and impressions. He envisioned him surrounded by butterflies, a nod to their cherished family picnics.

To Kfir, his "Poopik," Yarden shared tender memories of his youngest son’s birth and the delight he brought to their family. Kfir’s red hair, infectious laughter, and sweet smile had filled their home with light and happiness. Yarden's regret for not being able to protect him was palpable, as was his longing for the simple moments they shared morning games and cherished snuggles.

Throughout his eulogy, Yarden expressed a deep yearning for Shiri’s presence and guidance. "Shiri, please watch over me," he pleaded. "Shield me from harmful things and protect me from myself." His words echoed the struggle of a man seeking strength to carry on while grappling with an unimaginable loss.

The tragedy of the Bibas family is a somber reminder of the human toll of war and terrorism. As Yarden spoke his final words, promising to share more in private moments, those in attendance and all who heard his story were left with a profound sense of loss and a reminder of the love that endures even in the face of darkness.

Through pain and sorrow, Yarden’s voice carried a powerful message of resilience and love. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates to honor the memory of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir, and to stand with Israel through its times of grief and hope.