Miriam Abileah Bendor 

Miriam Abileah, the middle daughter of Professor Arie Abileah and Fea Helles Abileah Moved from Switzerland to Israel in the early 20’s. Professor Abileah, a Pianist who came from Russia to enhance his musical talent in Geneva, Switzerland with one of Franz Liszt’s students, helped to establish the first school of music in Israel while Fea eventually opened a Eurhythmic school in Paris, France.

Miriam’s older sister, Dr. Deborah Doniach lived in London, UK where she practiced medical research. Miriam’s youngest sister, Maia Aaron Helles, lives in NYC and continues to teach the unique exercise techniques developed by her mother Fea.

Family reunion in Deauville, France (L-R) Maia, Deborah and Miriam-Circa 1950 Miriam was trained in music, specifically the harp, and throughout her life, loved music.    This was a passion which she transferred to her sons.

In her early 20’s Miriam was employed at the Palestine/Israel Electric Company where she worked in the billing department. It was there that she met Zvi Bourkaff. In 1937 Miriam and Zvi got married and moved to their apartment at George Eliot Street in Tel-Aviv. In 1940 Miriam’s first son (Giora) was born; WW II was well on its way. Three and a half years later Miriam’s second son (Jonathan) was born with adverse reaction to her RH-factor. Through sheer miracle Jon was saved as in those days there was no remedy for the potentially fatal reaction for the newborn.

The Family (L-R) Jon, Zvi, Miriam, Giora and Professor Arie Abileah

After years of rearing a family in the midst of never ending tensions with the Arab neighbours, and while still working at a full time job, Miriam and Zvi decided to move the family to the USA where Zvi had two brothers. In 1957 the family uprooted to New Rochelle, NY where a new life had to be started. Zvi worked with his youngest brother in the garment industry located in lower Manhattan. 

Upon becoming US citizens the family changed its surname from Bourkaff to Bendor. After supporting two kids through college Zvi and Miriam retired to their dream home at High-View, NY. It was their “dream come true” with fresh air, beautiful view of the valley below and a chance to work the land. When they reached their mid 80’s Miriam and Zvi moved to a senior citizens community in Northborough, MA; not far from their youngest son, Jon.  The Bendors’ two sons are married with 5 kids between them. Miriam and Zvi have three great-grand-daughters who live in Maryland.