David Federman, a co-owner of Maccabi Tel Aviv, died at 81 on Sunday morning in Israel, according to a statement from the club.
Maccabi described Federman as “a true Maccabist” and “a central, significant figure” over decades, citing his dedication, love, and deep commitment to the organization.
In its announcement, Maccabi said Federman “accompanied Maccabi Tel Aviv with devotion, love and deep commitment,” calling him a man of values, a patriotic Israeli and a lover of people.
“His leadership and immense contribution to Maccabi Tel Aviv and to Israel’s sports community will be remembered forever. The club extends its deepest condolences to the Federman family. May his memory be a blessing,” the statement said.
Federman was born in 1944 in Tel Aviv. He owned 29% of Maccabi Tel Aviv and served on its board of directors.
He previously controlled Israel Petrochemical Enterprises and then used it to acquire the controlling stake in Haifa Refineries.
He and his wife had four children, one of whom died in 2014 from cancer. His son, Danny, was the former CEO of Maccabi Tel Aviv.