Beloved Belz Hasidic Leader and Iconic Bnei Brak Grocer Ze'ev Rosenfeld Dies at 89

Rabbi Ze'ev Rosenfeld, a revered elder of the Belz Hasidic community and owner of the famed grocery store on Chazon Ish Street in Bnei Brak, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning at the age of 89. Known for his deep devotion to the Belz dynasty, Rosenfeld was a steadfast follower of the late Rabbi Aharon of Belz and the current Belz Rebbe. Born in 1936 in Teglas, Hungary, he descended from a distinguished Hasidic family closely connected to the early Belz leadership.

Throughout his life in Israel, Rosenfeld maintained a strong spiritual connection to the Belz Rebbes, frequently traveling to Jerusalem to visit the Rebbe during Sabbaths and holidays. His grocery store, located at 8 Chazon Ish Street adjacent to the Alexander USA synagogue, was one of Bnei Brak's oldest and most renowned, preserving an atmosphere reminiscent of the 1980s. Together with his late wife, he served customers with integrity and kindness, often studying religious texts while working.

Beyond his business, Rosenfeld was known for his quiet charity work and managing a gemach (charity fund) discreetly. He was a regular worshipper at the central synagogue on 5 Belz Street for many years. He leaves behind a blessed family, including children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His brothers included Rabbi Shmuel Rosenfeld, father of the current Darag Rebbe, and Rabbi Berel Rosenfeld, both respected Belz Hasidic elders in Bnei Brak. His passing marks the loss of a significant figure from the old generation of Belz Hasidim. May his soul be bound in the bond of life.