Itzik Gelerenter

Itzik Gelerenter, 56
Itzik Gelernter, a resident of the village ‘Irus’ and a beloved figure within his community, encountered a life-changing ordeal when he was kidnapped by Hamas terrorists from the Nova music festival on Saturday October 7. This distressing event plunged his family into a state of deep concern and uncertainty about his well-being. Itzik, who had recently navigated through the challenges of a divorce, was embracing life with newfound openness, exploring new experiences, including attending the festival; an open-air psychedelic trance festival that took place in the western Negev desert.
Known for his zest for life, Itzik is a man who cherishes simple joys: savoring food, enjoying a beer, seeking adventures, and marveling at sunsets by the sea. His youthful spirit extends to his role as a grandfather, especially evident in the special bond he shares with his six-year-old granddaughter, encapsulating a grandparent's love that knows no bounds.
Itzik's professional life is rooted in the construction industry, specializing in house construction and concrete work, earning him the affectionate nickname "the concrete man" from his children; 22-year-old Ily and 33-year-old Yarden. His last self-built house, a testament to his craft, features exposed concrete and embodies his strong, resilient nature.
The abduction of Itzik from the Nova festival by Hamas has left a void in the lives of those close to him. Before this tragic turn of events, he was celebrating alongside friends, unaware of the imminent danger. The aftermath of the attack revealed the extent of the tragedy, with Itzik being the only one of his group kidnapped alive, while his friends were tragically killed. The IDF's discovery that Itzik's phone was located in Gaza further confirmed the grim reality of his situation.
Amidst this turmoil, Itzik's family clings to memories of a man whose life is characterized by an infectious joy, a deep love for his family, and a commitment to his craft. His children, reflecting on their father's enduring influence, recall his wisdom, guidance, and the unconditional support he has always extended. As they navigate through this difficult period, their hope for Itzik's safe return remains undiminished, fueled by the belief in his strength and the indelible mark he has left on their lives and the community at large. Itzik Gelernter, in every essence, remains a beacon of strength, whose spirit continues to inspire hope for a reunion that will once again bring laughter, love, and shared adventures back into their lives.

On May 17, 2024, the IDF recovered the body of Itzhak Gelerenter and two other hostages, Amit Buskila and Shani Louk, in Gaza. The army reported that the three had escaped from the rave on October 7 before being murdered by Hamas terrorists, who then kidnapped their bodies. Gelerenter and Buskila were presumed alive until recently. The military announced on Friday that soldiers recovered the bodies of the three hostages from the Gaza Strip, amidst intensive fighting between Israeli forces and Hamas.
Itzhak’s family, friends, and community are devastated by this immense loss.

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