Tributes pour in following tragic death of Kulanu MK's mother

'My mom called me at 4:14 p.m., right before she left the headquarters. It deeply pains me that I was unable to say goodbye to her for one last time,' said MK Roy Folkman

Naomi Folkman with Minister Moshe Kahlon just prior to her death on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 (photo credit: KULANU)
Naomi Folkman with Minister Moshe Kahlon just prior to her death on Tuesday, February 5, 2019
(photo credit: KULANU)
MK Roy Folkman’s mother, Naomi, 78, was identified as the woman who was killed after being struck by a cement truck after leaving the Kulanu Party’s campaign headquarters in Tel Aviv on Tuesday afternoon.
The MK confirmed the news in a statement released soon after the tragedy.
“My mom called me at 4:14 p.m., right before she left the headquarters,” Folkman said. “I told her not to wait for me because I was running late to a meeting I had. It deeply pains me that I was unable to say goodbye to her for one last time.”
Following the news, Kulanu chairman Moshe Kahlon posted on Facebook, “The tragedy, which has befallen Roy and his family is unbearable. I met her very shortly before this terrible incident. We hugged each other and said good-bye. Who knew this would be our last meeting?”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also sent his condolences to Folkman.
“In my name and in the name of my wife, we send heartfelt condolences to MK Roy Folkman and his family for the tragic death of his late mother Naomi. Together with many people, we wish to strengthen them with their grief and hard times.”
Outgoing Zionist Union MK Ksenia Svetlova tweeted Folkman, saying, “I sympathize with you and bow my head with you and the whole family. The loss is so great. R.I.P. A big hug.”
MK Yael Cohen Paran (Zionist Union) said, “I send condolences to my friend, MK @Roy_Folkman, for the heavy loss and grief caused by the tragic accident that took the life of his mother, Naomi Folkman.”
MK Rachel Azaria, who recently announced her leave from Kulanu, tweeted her condolences.
“I am with you in the deep mourning, shocked by the terrible loss of your mother, Naomi Folkman, z“l. This is a moment when there are no words. Sorry for your loss.”