Rafi was born in Paris in 1929, when his parents, Vered and Moshe Mokady, lived there. A short time after his birth his parents separated and Rafi and his mother returned to Israel. Vered raised Rafi on her own – not a simple task in those days. Her efforts had a lasting effect on Rafi and shaped him into a devoted and loyal man. He promised himself that the family he would raise would be a family in the full sense of the word.
He married Shoshana Weinstein after they graduated from university and in the following years they had 3 children: Orna, Ofer and Dan.
His path as a scientist in the field of soil and water was characterized by original thinking, precision and uncompromising integrity. With infinite vigour he improved and enhanced Israel’s soil research by implementing new approaches and tools. His enthusiasm resulted in a following of both students and scientists.
Rafi was also active in military reserve service out of a sense of dedication to his country and responsibility for the men of the Brigade with whom he served. Over the years he attained the position of Commander of the Brigade’s Reconnaissance Company.
The responsibility, dedication and integrity that characterized Rafi were manifested in full force on June 9, 1967, in the breakthrough battle of the Golan Heights – the battle in which he was wounded.
