Obituaries
ALLAN JOSEPH SHNIER “ALLIE”
Born June 11, 1928 passed away Dec 4, 2020
It is with enormous sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Allie, loving father, grandfather and great grandfather.
He leaves to mourn, his adoring wife, Rhona of 73 years. Sons, Clifford (Ruth Anne), Sara (Jeffrey), Jordon, Gary (Roxan). Grandchildren Carrie, Tammy (Ilan), Kelly, Jared, Noah, Lily, Jacob, Andrew (Baillie), Zoe, Skyler, Bryn. Great grandchildren Zoey, Lexi, Ivory. Also leaves to mourn, his beautiful sister, Esther, sisters-in-law, Bert, Rae, Hannah as well as many nieces and nephews.
Allie was predeceased by his parents, Sarah and Moishe Shnier,
brothers George , Clifford, Irving (Eleanor), Bertha (Gordon) Cecil, Norman, Phillip (Shirley), Jack (Esther), Max, Charlotte (Mitchell) and brother-in-law Lanny.
We all have not only lost a father and “mensch” but we have almost bid farewell to a tribe of 12, children of Russian immigrants, the quintessential story of parents who fled pogroms and persecution, to give their offspring a life in a country in which freedom, justice and acceptance were valued. These children indeed suffered their own adversities, however strove to make ours even a better world by valuing education, family, and community. The generation may be almost gone, however, the memories will indelibly be engraved in our hearts.
They were the children who worked in the dry goods store, who did their homework in the Deli kitchens, they were the border guards, the soldiers, the navigators, the POW’S, the masters of the one liners, the Shriners, the salesmen, the drive in movie owners, the antique collectors, the neighbourhood plumber, the engineers, the bakers of cinnamon buns (recipes from the war with just the right amount of rationed sugar), the volunteers, the philanthropists, the feminists and the mavens of the floor covering industry…
“Allie” was the baby of 12, born in 1928 in Emerson, Manitoba. They were a close
knit family, the older kids raising the younger ones as the parents worked in the stores. They share so many memories together and spoke of a sprawling acreage in which to run free. A family so large and united that Mothers and daughters, aunts and nieces had babies close together. As adults, when we returned to the family “Plantation” we were shocked at just how small it was!
Throughout life Allie was always treasured and showered with love, which is most likely why he in turn was able to bestow that love to us and the world.
Our Dad was known as “Allie”. Not Mr. Shnier. Everyone in Winnipeg knew him as Allie.
Allie attended University of Manitoba, and then joined his Father Moishe in a small building on Ross street in Winnipeg. They carried small houseware items and established a presence. It was there Allie got his taste for business. During the following years his brothers in eastern Canada, who had the rights to lines such as BF Goodrich, introduced the factory to Allie and he eventually obtained distribution rights in the west. The company became Eagle Distributing Co. Years later all the brothers merged companies to form the national company known as G.E.Shnier and Gesco Industries Inc. These two companies eventually became the dominant National Floorcovering distribution company in Canada. After the mergers, Allie enjoyed working many years with his brothers George, Irving, Norman, Cecil & Phil. In addition to running G.E.Shnier in Western Canada, Allie was very active as the President of Metropolitan Equities, the extended family’s real estate investment company.
Whether it be the janitor or the president of a National Company, he gave everyone his undivided attention and the respect they deserved. No one was ever invisible to him and he made sure that when someone new came into the family, they were accepted with welcome arms. He had no dark side, he only saw the good in people.
That’s what made Allie so special.
He was an astute businessman. His polite manner and kind disposition made people feel respected and heard.
Our father was a “Quiet Philanthropist’. Should it be a religious cause, an employee, a family member or a charitable event. Wherever and whomever he rose to the occasion helping any in need. He got pleasure from helping others and often said it made him feel good. He was a modest man and could’ve taken credit for his contributions, instead he chose to give often and quietly. People knew they could always rely on Allie, but never took advantage of him. He was uncomfortable in the limelight, but warmth emanated from him when he stepped into a room.
He was the prince of paying it forward, never wanting the recognition or acknowledgement. Our dad reached out to many less fortunate. When he noticed suffering in society, he did all he could to make a difference. He was a fair and honest person, a man of integrity.
Food gave him a great source of enjoyment. When we all worried about his sugar intake, (he was diabetic), we would tell him, “now dad, you can’t eat anything white. Such as bread, rice or potatoes.” To which he responded, “now let me get this right dear, I can’t have vanilla ice cream, but I CAN have chocolate?”
Allie had a mantra. It was to tell everyone he came in touch with that he loved them, even the server at a restaurant or the technician drawing his blood.
His love for our mother was unimaginable. His happiness was gauged on hers and quite often had lipstick kisses on his shiny bald head. When he was hooked up to a heart monitor, he asked, “does this machine show how much I love my wife?” Our mother has dementia and when she spoke in an incomprehensible manner, dad would gaze lovingly into her eyes and would mouth, “I love you.”
Allie was a superb crossword master. He was confident enough to do them with his lucky red Rae & Jerry’s pen. Occasionally completing the Sunday New York Times puzzle.
The pride and joy of his life were his kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchilren. His generosity to them was beyond belief. Visits to Palm Springs in the winter, the cottage at the lake in the summer, family reunions or simply to celebrate special occasions, bonded us all over the years. This will leave us with memories which will endure permanently.
An essential visit to the hospital for a blood transfusion, ended in a serious fall. The ramifications of Covid 19 made for a cycle of frustrations for us, as we fought to make sense of it all. It gave us restricted access at a time when it was most needed.
Our parents had the privilege of aging at their familial home. The care, respect, and devotion which the caregivers bestowed upon our parent’s physical and mental wellbeing, is a cherished gift which we shall forever be indebted.
Special thanks to Dr. Simkin, Dr. Goldberg, Dr. Yang and Dr. Wilson. As well, the wonderful staff at Seven Oaks Hospital. We would also like to thank our cousin
Dr. Sarah Kredentser for her support and advice.
Immense thanks to caregivers Anna (Nikki),Clarisse,Richelle ,Dianne , Ernelle, Lorenza (Vina) , Fatima, former employees, Rachel and Fay
In lieu of flowers, tribute donations may be made to the Allan and Rhona Shnier Foundation of The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba or The Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.
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Obituaries
EDWARD (BARNEY) SEGAL
With great sadness, we announce the passing of Edward “Barney” Segal on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the age of 70.
Barney will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his sister, Elaine (Paul) Olin; his nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephew: Jason Olin, Carrie Shenkarow, Jessica and Shirley Ransby; Brenlee, David, Hayley, and Leah Selchen; and Daniel, Jordi, Poppy, and Skylar Olin; Shannon Chisick-Harman, Charlie Harman; and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his beloved parents, Sam Segal (1998) and Louise Segal (2006), and by his sister, Dolly Chisick (December 2025).
Barney was born on April 27, 1955, in Winnipeg, where he lived his entire life. He spent his formative years on Lansdowne Avenue, a place that remained close to his heart and was filled with many fond memories throughout his life. Barney was the youngest of four children, and from an early age, he was a spirited and energetic presence, full of personality and spark.
Barney carried that same determination and energy into his adult life. With an unwavering work ethic, he pursued a career in education while working full-time, earning his degree from the University of Manitoba. He went on to dedicate many years to teaching and supporting schools throughout Winnipeg. Barney took great pride in helping students grow, always striving to make a lasting impression on the young people whose lives he touched.
He was fiercely loyal to his family, his friends, and the communities he served. Barney found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments: cheering on the Chicago Bears, sharing vivid stories about his parents and days gone by, riding his motorcycle, and heading out on long road trips in his beloved Jeep, “Sparky,” always in search of the next good story.
Barney will be remembered for his strong spirit, his storytelling, his sense of humor, and the genuine care he showed to those around him. His presence filled a room, and his absence leaves a space that cannot be replaced. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Funeral services were held on Friday, March 6, at Chesed Shel Emes, officiated by Rabbi Matthew Leibl. Pallbearers were Daniel Olin, Jason Olin, Laurie Gorenstein, Jeff Brown, Gavin Rich, and Mark Lomow. Honorary pallbearers were Brenlee Selchen, David Selchen, Shannon Chisick-Harman, Charlie Harman, Jordi Olin, Carrie Shenkarow, Rick Lousier, Ben Szymkow, Ron Nelson, Leroy Fox, Robert Marvin, and Gerry Dudley.
In memory of Barney, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
Obituaries
BARBARA CONSTANCE SLUTCHUK (née Stratton) MAY 9, 1941 – MARCH 3, 2026
Barbara Constance Slutchuk passed away peacefully. She was born on May 9, 1941, in Carmen, Manitoba to Lena Galbraith and Arthur Stratton.
Barbara was the beloved wife of George Slutchuk, whom she married on March 28, 1971. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Rishona Hyman (Hartley Hyman) and Dama Slutchuk (Tom Aldridge), and by her cherished grandchildren, Gregory and Izzie Hyman. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
Barbara was predeceased by her parents; her second mother, Lyla “Winnie” Stratton; her sisters Mary Beighton (Ted) and Patricia Morton (Robert); and her brothers Keith Stratton, Grant Stratton, John Stratton, Bryan Smith (Eleanor), Lyle Smith, and David (Gail).
Barbara was a trailblazer in nursing. Over her long and dedicated career she managed an emergency department at St. Boniface Hospital, later oversaw the operating room at Seven Oaks Hospital. Eventually moved into Human Resources at Misericordia Hospital.
She had a deep passion for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and attended many games, events, and Grey Cups over the years. Barbara was an avid reader and bridge player. A proud Canadian, she loved football, hockey, curling, figure skating, the theatre, Rainbow Stage, rural Manitoba, and tending to her flower garden. She loved seeing the first robin and geese of the season.
Barbara had a special love for animals, both her own and those belonging to others. She rescued animals and people alike, always making room in both her home and her heart.
Barbara was a natural leader, a volunteer, and an organizer. Above all, her most important role was as a devoted mother and grandmother.
The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate and loving care provided by
Veronica and Lenora, as well as all of Barbara’s caregivers over the years.
A funeral service was held on March 5, 2026, at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue.
Donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice, Jewish Child and Family Service, or the Winnipeg Humane Society.
Obituaries
WILLIAM (BILL) MARANTZ SEPTEMBER 14, 1935 – NOVEMBER 15, 2025
Sadly, just after his 90th birthday, celebrated with four generations, Zaida Velvel passed away at Deer Lodge Centre following a brief illness.
He grew up in the storied North End mostly on Scotia Street, and it was there at Luxton School and St. John’s Tech that he made many of his lifelong friends.
But the shining star of his life was his beautiful Brenda, his loving wife and soulmate of over 65 years, who passed away in 2023. He was also pre-deceased by his parents Sophie and Frank, his brothers and sisters-in-law Cyril and Irene, Gary and Shirley-Anne, and his daughters-inlaw Andrea and Ruth.
He is survived by his children Josh, Ari (daughter-in-law Ilana), Allan (Jackie) and David; grandchildren Sarah (Chris), Noah (Nahla), Jesse (Lauren), Evan (Maddy), Dan (Tracy), Lauren (Kyle), Tamara (Robin), Ali (Wyatt), Neil; and great-grandchildren, Jack, Isaac, Sadie, Jack, Brandon and London; and nieces, nephews and cousins..
Bill graduated with his law degree from the University of Manitoba in 1960 and after articling, went into private practice.
Bill was a supportive and loving father who always came to watch the boys’ games and helped coach when needed. He and Brenda never tired of watching their sons play sports.
Bill’s eclectic career included time as a lawyer, part-time provincial court judge, movie critic, screenwriter, autobiographer, actor, Jewish Post columnist and novelist.
His most successful writing efforts were radio or screenplays, several of which were produced by CBC, and his self-published novel Christmas Eve Can Kill You.
After early retirement, he continued to write from home, the cottage and Palm Springs where he and Brenda drove to each winter for about 40 years.
Out of all his writing efforts, Bill was most proud of writing the memoir of a local Holocaust survivor.
He had another accomplishment for which he was also extremely proud. Just over three decades ago, Ari and Bill bought an old cottage at Winnipeg Beach and completely rebuilt it. This would become the new family summer home. He and Brenda lovedspending summers out at the beach with family.
For their 50th anniversary, it meant the world to them that all their sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren came in to celebrate at the cottage.
Winnipeg Beach was enjoyed for many, many summers until Brenda could no longer climb the front steps, shortly before becoming housebound. Bill took outstanding care of her as her health declined.
Bill was able to live independently and was driving until just a couple months before his passing. He loved spending time with family at dinners and Jewish holiday celebrations and adored his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren,especially.
He was buried next to his beloved Brenda at Beit Chayim Mikdash Shalom, the Temple Shalom cemetery, with son Allan officiating and grandchildren Noah, Jesse, Evan, Dan, Tamara and Neil serving as pallbearers.
If so desired, donations in Bill’s memory may be made to Camp Massad of Manitoba.