R’ Schneur Zalman Yomtov, 78, OBM

R’ Schneur Zalman Yomtov, a father and grandfather from Jerusalem, passed away on Sunday, 14 Shevat, 5782.

He was 78.

R’ Schneur Zalman was born in Yerushalayim on 15 Sivan, 5703. A descendant of distinguished lineage, his father, Reb Shmuel Chaim Yomtov, is said to have been one of the 36 hidden tzaddikim, and was a well-known figure in Meah Shearim.

Orphaned at birth, R’ Chaim was raised in Minsk by his maternal grandparents. The turbulent years in early 20th century Russia forced Chaim to wander until he found his way to Reb Levi Yitzchok Schneerson, the Rebbe’s father’s court. There he was raised with the Rebbe and became Reb Levik’s Gabbai. He was imprisoned and tortured by Russian authorities for teaching chassidus. Eventually, he made his way to Eretz Yisroel and married into a prominent Chabad family that originated from Charson, Ukraine on his father-in-law’s side; his mother-in-law’s side tracing roots to the Bach and the Abarbanel.

As a result, R’ Zalman was raised with a deep appreciation for the meticulous adherence to halacha and middos tovos.

R’ Zalman was always careful that his tefillah was pronounced clearly and carefully, stressing the importance of dikduk and kavanah – concentration. He was particularly careful with halacha and mitzvos of bein adam lechaveroh. In his later years, he would spend most of his day saying tehillim for his children and grandchildren. Every Yom Tov, he was careful to buy the most mehuder matza, lulav and esrog.

His warmth, eidelkeit, and sincerity was recognized by all and he would always have a kind smile and warm greeting for whomever he met.

His children and siblings felt his love and warmth, and his constant giving nature. He was always concerned about the well-being of others, yet for himself he did not want much. He was humble, didn’t look for kavod and was respectful to all.

He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters.

Three of his children, Menachem Yomtov of Crown Heights, Yehuda Yomtov of Boro Park and Elka Ezagui of Crown Heights will be sitting Shiva at 792 Montgomery Street. Yehuda will be splitting his time between that location and his home in Boro Park.

The Levaya will take place in Israel.

Nichum Aveilim
Sunday to Thursday till 9:30pm
Friday till Mincha at 1pm

Minyan schedule:
Shachris Monday 9:30am
Tues-Friday 9:30 am
Mincha is 4:30pm
Marriv is b’zman

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.