David Mena (politician)|David Mena

It’s hard to believe we’re saying goodbye to David. He left us peacefully on April 18th, 2026, just shy of his 73rd birthday, leaving behind a legacy of passion, integrity, and a whole lot of laughter. David was, simply put, a force of nature. I knew him as a friend, a colleague, and someone who always, *always* had time for a good debate and a terrible pun. He had this infectious grin, you know? The kind that crinkled his eyes and made you feel instantly at ease, even when he was passionately arguing a point – which, let’s be honest, was often! I remember once, during a particularly heated discussion about local zoning laws, he paused, looked at me with that grin, and said, "Well, at least we can agree the coffee's good!" That was David in a nutshell – able to find humor and connection even in the most serious situations. Beyond his political life – serving in the Knesset from 1992-1996 and again in 2006 – David was a devoted husband to his beloved Sarah, and a fiercely proud father and grandfather. Family was everything to him. I’ll never forget the way his eyes lit up when he talked about his children and grandchildren; they were his greatest joy. He loved hosting Shabbat dinners, filling the house with the aroma of his incredible cholent and the sound of lively conversation. He was a constant presence, a guiding hand, and the heart of their family. He also had a quiet passion for classical music, particularly Bach, and could often be found lost in the beauty of a concerto, a stark contrast to his often boisterous personality. David’s commitment to justice and fairness was unwavering. As a lawyer and a politician, he fought tirelessly for what he believed in, always with a deep sense of responsibility to the people he served. But it wasn’t just about policy for David; it was about people. He genuinely cared about making a difference in the lives of others, and he did. He mentored countless young lawyers, championed causes for the underserved, and always lent an ear to anyone who needed it. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life, to understand their struggles, and to inspire them to believe in a better future. We’ll miss his sharp wit, his warm heart, and his unwavering optimism. The world feels a little dimmer without David’s light. He leaves behind Sarah, his children, grandchildren, and a community of friends and colleagues who will forever cherish his memory. May his legacy continue to inspire us to strive for a more just and compassionate world. *Yehi Zichro Baruch* – May his memory be a blessing.