The women’s organization Esther Ha-Malka
and the magazine Ladies' World
extend their deepest condolences to our members — sisters Mira Zirkieva and Maya Nektalova — on the passing of their beloved father, Markiel Mushaev, a deeply respected member
of the Bukharian Jewish communities of Israel, Vienna, and New York. He passed
away just one month before his 98th birthday.
Markiel Mushaev was born in 1927 in the town of
Khattarchi (Samarkand region), into the esteemed family of Moshiach and Bracha Mushaev. In 1957,
after marrying Sonia (Tzipora) Mushaeva,
he moved to Dushanbe, where together they built a home filled with faith,
warmth, mutual respect, and an extraordinary devotion to one another.
His life journey took him across several
countries: from the former Soviet Union to Israel, then to Austria, and finally
— in his later years — to New York.
Many from Dushanbe remember this remarkable
couple — Uncle Markiel and Aunt Sonia: she, beautiful, wise, energetic, and a
true businesswoman, and he, kind-hearted, noble, and steadfast. Their home in
Dushanbe was known for its hospitality, generosity, and sincere love for
people.
Their four children — Mira, Maya, Alik, and Ruben — became the living
reflection of who their parents were. The love, respect, and warmth that filled
their home shaped the character and spirit of their children.
Dearest Mira and Maya, you are exceptionally
kind, gracious, and hospitable — true inheritors of the virtues of your
wonderful parents. We bow our heads in gratitude to them for raising such
daughters, who are a blessing to our community.
Everyone who knew your father remembers his
extraordinary positivity. He always greeted people with a smile, offered kind
words, and both gave and received blessings. His strength was rare — both
physical and spiritual. Even after unthinkable hardships, including robbery and
torture, he preserved his ability to rejoice in life and thank the Almighty. He
was principled, sincere, unwavering in everything he did — and exceedingly
generous. He transformed his store into a quiet haven of chesed, giving food to anyone who couldn’t afford it. He was
a true peacemaker, always seeking shalom,
even when it required sacrifice. He always chose peace over pride. Your father
was profoundly devout and left behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and
unshakable faith in G-d.
Despite difficulties, relocations, and losses,
he remained joyful, grateful, and never allowed bitterness into his heart. Even
in advanced age, he greeted people with a smile and a gentle word. Those who
knew him from the Longevity Center
recall his radiant eyes, gentleness, attentiveness, and remarkable ability to
bring inner calm to those around him.
Many years ago, after losing his beloved wife,
all responsibility for his care fell to his children, especially to you, dear
Mira. Your father spent his final years in your home, surrounded by love and
dignity. Your devoted care is a testament to the special place he held in your
heart and reflects the deep bond and love he instilled in you since childhood.
Dear Mira and Maya, you and your brothers have
every reason to be proud of your parents. May your children and grandchildren
carry that pride — and the light of their memory — throughout generations.
Now your parents’ souls are reunited once
again. May this bring comfort to your hearts. They lived a long and beautiful
life on this Earth. May you be granted the blessing to live yours with the same
dignity, kindness, and light.
May peace fill your homes, and may you be
blessed with strong health.
With love and heartfelt sympathy,
Dr. Zoya Maksumova, Rena Elizarova, Mara
Bababekova, Tamara Katayeva, Nina Normatova, Raya Davidova, Dr. Dora
Pinkhasova, Shushana Baraeva, Lana Levitina, Dina Katanova, Nina Kaelyakova,
Sveta Muratova, Lidia Koptyeva, Svetlana Kaykova, Mira Kagzanova, Rosa Babekova
