Gary Tauzniaski

May 22, 2002 - Gary Tauzniaski, 65, of Rishon Lezion was one of two victims of a suicide bombing in the heart of the city. It was the second such attack in Rishon Letzion in two weeks.

The explosion occurred near the crowded city promenade, in the area of Gan Ha'ir - a park with sheltered benches and tables which is frequented mainly by the elderly. Gary used to go to Gan Ha'ir almost every night to meet friends and play backgammon. Gary's daughter, Angela, and one-year old granddaughter were spending the evening with him and had just left the park area when the explosion happened.

Born in the Ukraine, Gary and his mother survived World War II by hiding from the Nazis in an apartment in Odessa. He and his wife immigrated to Israel three years ago in order to be closer to Angela. Another daughter remained in the Ukraine.

Tauzniaski contracted cancer of the throat 10 years ago, underwent surgery and has been unable to speak ever since. His illness forced him to leave his job as a painter. His wife Lilia said, "What destiny, to live 10 years with such a harsh illness and die in a terror attack." Friends told how he had won his battle with cancer only recently.

Gary was described as an amicable, polite and easy-going man. After leaving his job, he dedicated himself to his family and fighting his illness.

Gary Tauzniaski was buried in the Gordon cemetery in Rishon Lezion. He is survived by his wife, Lilia, two daughters and three grandchildren.