It is with great sadness that Matzav.com reports the petirah of Rabbi Yitzchok Mitnick zt”l of Brooklyn, NY, a distinguished talmid of Rav Yitzchak Hutner and a trailblazing mechanech whose impact on generations of talmidim continues to resonate. He was 89 years old.

Rabbi Mitnick was formed in the illustrious halls of Yeshivas Rabbeinu Chaim Berlin, where he became closely attached to his revered rebbi, Rav Hutner. Under Rav Hutner’s guidance, he developed into a deeply thoughtful and principled ben Torah, absorbing not only the depth of Torah learning but also the broader vision of what it means to educate and inspire.

At the specific request of Rav Hutner, Rabbi Mitnick went on to found Mesivta Gur Aryeh, a bold and visionary undertaking at the time. With clarity of purpose and unwavering dedication, he built the yeshiva into a makom Torah that nurtured countless bochurim, instilling within them a lifelong connection to Torah, growth, and yiras Shamayim. His approach combined warmth and understanding with high expectations, allowing each talmid to feel seen while being challenged to reach his full potential.

As a mechanech, Rabbi Mitnick was widely regarded as a pioneer. He possessed a rare ability to connect to talmidim on their level while gently guiding them upward. His hanhagah was marked by patience, insight, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. Many of his talmidim went on to become bnei Torah, marbitzei Torah, and devoted members of the Torah community, carrying with them the values and lessons they absorbed from their beloved rebbi.

He is survived by his sons: Rav Elimelech Mitnick, rosh chaburah at Bais Medrash Govoah in Lakewood; Rav Yaakov Mitnick, rebbi at The Cheder in Brooklyn; Rav Simcha Mitnick, rebbi at Yeshivas Rabbeinu Chaim Berlin; and Rav Mordechai Mitnick, along with many grandchildren who continue in his path.

The levayah was held today at JFK International Airport, and the kevurah will take place on  Erev Shabbos on Har Hamenuchos in Yerushalayim.

The family will be sitting shivah at 1212 Avenue L in Brooklyn, NY.

Yehi zichro boruch.

{Matzav.com}