A visionary leader and a cornerstone of the Tel Aviv University community

It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Josef Buchmann, a Vice Chair of our Board, an Honorary Doctor, a founding father of Tel Aviv University, and a cherished friend and benefactor for decades.

Josef was a visionary leader and a cornerstone of the Tel Aviv University community, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy in both Israel and Germany. Over the decades, he was not only a generous supporter but a passionate initiator of projects across diverse fields, including the Faculty of Law, dedicated to the memory of his parents, and the School of Music, which he established alongside his close friend, Maestro Zubin Mehta, and which became a crown jewel of the University.

He also extended his support to medicine, Jewish heritage, and Holocaust commemoration. Among his impactful initiatives was the Buchmann Doctoral Scholarship Fund for outstanding students from Frankfurt University and Tel Aviv University, which embodied his commitment to advancing German-Israeli academic relations. As a key figure in the German Friends Association, his leadership fundamentally shaped TAU’s connection with Germany.

Beyond his remarkable achievements as a businessman and philanthropist, Josef will be remembered for his sharp mind, courage, humility, and deep devotion to his family. Above all, his unwavering commitment to the State of Israel and the Jewish people, and his countless acts of generosity touched thousands of lives.

We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Bareket, his daughters, and the entire Buchmann family.

May his memory be a blessing and a source of comfort to his loved ones.