Albert -Avraham- de Havila

Nov 28, 2002 - Albert (Avraham) de Havila, 60, of Ra'anana, was one of three Israelis and 10 Kenyans killed when a car bomb exploded in the lobby of the Israeli-owned beachfront Paradise Hotel, frequented almost exclusively by Israeli tourists near Mombasa in Kenya.

At approximately 7:30 a.m. there was a massive explosion, when a car carrying explosives crashed through the gates of the hotel and into the lobby. In addition to those killed, about 80 were wounded, including 21 Israelis.

Albert de Havila was the tour guide of the Israeli group which had just arrived at the hotel. Most of the group had already gone up to their rooms, including his daughter, Ruti, who was unharmed. Albert remained in the lobby to be sure everyone was settled and was killed in the explosion along with Dvir and Noy Anter.

Albert immigrated to Israel from Morocco with his wife, Estheria. They originally settled in Beersheba and later moved to Ra'anana. The couple had three daughters: Ilana, who currently lives in the U.S., Ruti (34) and Keren (26). After retirement, Albert served as a tour guide for Israeli groups traveling abroad, mostly to his native Morocco, but also to other countries.

Albert de Havila was buried in Ra'anana. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, and three grandchildren.