Leibel Zisman, of blessed memory, was born in Kovno, Lithuania in the midst of a prominent family. At the age of 13 he was taken from the ghetto to Dachau and then Birkenau. His experiences in the Holocaust are recounted in his recently published book, “I Believe”.
After the war, Leibel was reunified with his brother, Berel, his sole remaining family member. He came to America and started his amazing life’s journey. He received Smicha (Rabbinic Ordination) from United Lubavitch Yeshiva. After completing his Rabbinic studies, he went on to acquire numerous degrees in mathematics, architecture and engineering. He taught higher math at CUNY School of Engineering while working as an actuary.
Leibel started Elzee Construction and became a well known builder and developer throughout New York City and beyond. His staunch adherence to Jewish law was reflected in his business life and contributed to his success.
Following his retirement Leibel devoted a significant amount of time speaking at college campuses, private schools and other venues around the world about his Holocaust experiences, and together with his wife Myrna he took numerous trips with Birthright to the extermination camps of Europe and to Israel. Leibel passed away on the 14th of Tammuz, 5773. May his memory be for a blessing.
Mr. Leibel Zisman (5)
Subsisting on black plums and fresh goat's milk, direct from the source, Leibel continues his search. In this episode, Leibel Zisman is finally reunited with his brother Beryl, the morning after a moving dream of his parents telling him not to give up hope.
Mr. Leibel Zisman (5)
Mr. Leibel Zisman (5)
Chutzpah to a nazi soldier, and he lived to tell the tale. Leibel Zisman shares one of many stories from his experiences in the concentration camps. It is humorous now, but no one was laughing then.
Mr. Leibel Zisman (5)
How can Russian boots change the course of history for one person? Mr. Leibel Zisman describes the value of his Russian boots and how his upbeat personality saved the day. This slice of his Holocaust experiences is a mix of the fascinating and horrifying, yet is given with humor. Click Here to order I Believe: The Story of One Jewish Life By: Leibel Zisman, Published by GJCF.
Mr. Leibel Zisman (5)