Naftali Shmueli

Click on the icons above the image and read the story of Alegría Turgeman Naftali Shmueli

Home

My children left Malkiya, and I am concerned about what will happen to my property. My house is registered in my name. Malkiya is my home, my view, and my heart, and I will end my life here. I hoped a grandchild would live here, but that seems unlikely. Transportation is harder for me, as I don’t have a car.

 

Memory

I arrived in Malkiya in 1952. I have four children (three daughters and a son). I was widowed 26 years ago. During Israel’s War of Independence, my family moved to Tel Aviv. At 17, I left home, joined the Working Youth, trained in Hulata, and later in the Nahal. I was sent to Malkiya after the kibbutz split, leaving few members. Upon arrival, there were only 27 members.
I immediately joined the construction sector and worked for 50 years in construction and financial matters, serving as the kibbutz treasurer during the 1956 Sinai Campaign at age 25.

Gratitude

I am satisfied with my life. Despite being widowed at 65, I experienced a rebirth: meeting people, learning, and traveling. Life taught me: you either sink or swim.

October 7

On October 8, it took time to process the events. The kibbutz manager informed me of the evacuation. Initially, I stayed with my children, then joined the community at the hotel.
I participate in Veterans of the Galilee activities. My caregiver is a longtime friend.
Security improvements, like bomb shelters, are underway so we can return safely. The kibbutz was relatively unharmed.

Love

My wife, Livna, was my partner from a folk dance group at age 16. She moved to Malkiya to join me. I miss a steady partner. My caregiver, Ilanit, is a friend but not a partner, which I miss. Though not young, I feel this absence.

Meaning

I have traveled passionately. After widowhood, I studied and filled my life with learning. Today, I am educated and skilled, despite only having elementary school initially.

Life Work

I built the kibbutz and am proud. I touched every house—both private and communal.

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