Former Meretz MK and social activist Ilan Gilon passed away at the age of 65 on Sunday morning, his family announced.
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Family members described him as a "man with the biggest heart," a "leader who advocated peace and social justice, and a great Zionist."
Lawmakers across the entire political spectrum paid tribute to Gilon.
"Ilan Gilon, a hard-working Knesset member who knew the Knesset, and an honest man with an enormous heart, passed away this morning prematurely," Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said in a statement. "He would work hard to solve the individual problems of citizens who approached his office. He used to say, 'A Knesset member should make decisions as if he were old, poor and sick, and not as if he were young, rich and healthy.' Condolences to his family. May his memory be a blessing."
President Isaac Herzog wrote, "Ilan Gilon, a beloved friend, public servant, and determined social warrior tragically left us this morning … He was one of the finest public emissaries we have known. I shall always remember him as an ethical and faithful social leader, loyal to this path and beloved by his peers, who overcame a disability and every impediment. May his memory be a blessing."
Gilon contracted polio as a child, which left him with some difficulty walking. He often used a mobility scooter to move around.
Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz, who heads Meretz, eulogized Gilon on Twitter, saying he was "a man of principles, a warrior, and most importantly – a mentsch."This is also what he considered most important – to be a human being. Beloved Ilan, you have been my partner and friend for many years. Can't believe you are gone. Ilan also represents a warm family – Jewish, the children, the grandchildren, and a million friends. Now [it is] most painful. On behalf of Meretz, I send you my condolences and a big hug."
Born in Romania, Gilon's family moved to Israel when he was 9, and settled in the coastal city of Ashdod. Gilon served as the city's deputy mayor between 1993 and 1999, during which he was responsible for education.
In 1993, he joined Meretz and served as a lawmaker until 2003, and then again from 2009 to 2021. Gilon devoted most of his activity in the Knesset to social affairs, as well as rights for people with disabilities and agricultural matters.
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Former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also eulogized Gilon, saying "The humanity that radiated from him transcended political controversy. He gave it a symbolic expression when he sent us a jar of jam he made on the occasion of Avner [Netanyahu's son] winning the Bible quiz.
"Although we were political rivals we maintained a cordial relationship over the years. Although we did not agree on many things, I could always see that his vigorous activity was done out of complete faith in the righteousness of his way – and for that, I greatly appreciated him. I will miss him. May his memory be a blessing," Netanyahu wrote.
