Yisrael Kristal was born on September 15, 1903, in Poland. He grew up in a small town and was raised in a Jewish family. At a young age, Yisrael experienced the hardships of World War I, which prevented him from celebrating his bar mitzvah when he turned 13.
Despite the challenges he faced during his youth, Yisrael went on to become a successful businessman. He was self-employed and specialized in creating boutique sweets, such as tiny liquor bottles made of chocolate, jam-filled chocolates, and chocolate-covered orange peels. These sweets were popular among Soviet soldiers, and his business thrived during this time.
In 1928, Yisrael married Chaje Feige Frucht, with whom he had four children. Tragically, Chaje passed away, and Yisrael later remarried to Batsheva in 1947. He has nine grandchildren who bring him great joy and happiness.
In March 2016, Yisrael Kristal made headlines around the world when he was officially recognized as one of the oldest living men by the Guinness World Records at the age of 113. He also gained recognition as the world's oldest Holocaust survivor in 2014. Yisrael's incredible resilience and strength have inspired many people around the world.
Despite not being able to celebrate his bar mitzvah at the age of 13 due to the circumstances of World War I, Yisrael finally had the chance to mark this milestone in September 2016 when he turned 113. It was a touching and meaningful moment for Yisrael and his loved ones.
Yisrael Kristal's life story is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith. Despite facing unimaginable challenges and tragedies, he was able to rebuild his life and find happiness once again. Yisrael's positive outlook and determination serve as an inspiration to all who know his story.
His remarkable journey serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of cherishing every moment we are given. Yisrael Kristal's legacy will continue to live on through his family, friends, and all those who have been touched by his story.