Aunt Gail will always hold a special place in our family. I learned so much more about her when I came to visit Israel. A trip to Israel always meant a visit to the Schmidt home. On my first trip in high school, I spent my free weekend there – just as so many in our family have done when visiting the country. I was welcomed with open arms by Aunt Gail and Uncle Avi after traveling through Eastern Europe and Israel, learning about our family’s history.
I will never forget that weekend with Aunt Gail. We explored Jerusalem and even took a day trip to Tel Aviv. She took me to parts of the city I hadn’t seen before, and it was amazing to experience it all through her eyes. That weekend became one of the most memorable parts of my trip. It was truly special to have that one-on-one time and to learn about her life in Israel. I’m so grateful I had the chance to spend that time with her, and I will never forget it. She was a generous soul with a kind heart, someone who cherished family and connection.
Whether in Israel or in the U.S., seeing Aunt Gail and feeling her love are memories I will always hold close.
