Rabbi Leo Dee Finds New Hope After Family Tragedy in Canada

In April 2023, Rabbi Leo Dee’s life changed forever when Hamas terrorists attacked his family during a trip in the West Bank, killing his wife, Lucy Dee, and two daughters, Maia and Rina. The incident shocked the world and thrust the Dee family into the public eye, marking them as one of the first families affected by the conflict that escalated significantly in October 2023. Despite the tragedy, Rabbi Dee has emerged as a prominent speaker and advocate for other bereaved families, sharing his journey of healing and resilience.

Following the loss of his family members, Rabbi Dee, now 53, found solace in his faith and community. In June 2025, he announced his engagement to Aliza Teplitsky, a Canadian who previously lived in Toronto. Their engagement was met with widespread support, as many admired Rabbi Dee’s ability to find happiness again after such profound loss. The couple married in August 2025 in Efrat, Israel, and soon planned a significant trip to Canada, which they humorously dubbed their “workingmoon,” as it involved both personal visits and public speaking engagements.

The couple’s trip to Canada was postponed due to escalating tensions with Iran. However, they finally arrived, eager to share their story with Jewish communities and beyond. Rabbi Dee aims to inspire others through his experiences and the lessons he outlines in his new book, The Seven Facets of Healing, which delves into his personal journey of overcoming grief.

In a recent appearance on The CJN’s North Star podcast, Rabbi Dee reflected on the transformative nature of his experiences. He noted that healing is not simply about moving past tragedy but involves integrating sorrow and joy in a balanced manner. He expressed gratitude for the support from both his community and Aliza, stating that their relationship has brought a renewed sense of purpose to his life.

During their stay, Rabbi Dee and Aliza addressed recent political developments, particularly Canada’s unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Rabbi Dee voiced strong criticism of this decision, arguing that it undermines Israel’s security and supports a government that he views as complicit in terrorism. He has been vocal about the implications of such policies, emphasizing the importance of standing against terrorism in all its forms.

Rabbi Dee’s advocacy extends beyond his personal tragedy. Following the deaths of his family, he has taken legal action against the Palestinian Authority for compensating the families of terrorists responsible for attacks against Israelis. His efforts reflect a broader commitment to justice and accountability, highlighting the complex political landscape in which he operates.

As Rabbi Dee and Aliza continue their journey, they remain focused on spreading a message of hope and resilience. They seek to connect with communities across Canada, sharing insights from their experiences and encouraging dialogue around healing after loss. Rabbi Dee’s story serves as a testament to the power of faith, community support, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable challenges.