Obituaries
PHILIP BARNES MD FRCPC April 28, 1929 – April 18, 2023
Sadly, but peacefully, we have lost a lion of a man. Philip, age 93, passed at Simkin Centre, 10 days short of his 94th birthday, after a full and remarkable life.
Philip leaves behind daughter Enid (Art Macaw), son Ian (Sandra), grandsons, Stephen Nap (Star), Alex (Roma), and Matthew, step-grandsons, Matthew Wiewel (Jennifer) and Donavin Grouette, great-grandsons, Rafael, Santiago, and Sebastian, sister Carol Fehr, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Merle (1994), parents, Shirley and Fred, brother Sidney, and sister Donna. He also leaves his partner Marta Faludi in Palm Springs.
“Dr Phil” was a prominent Winnipeg Obstetrician/Gynecologist, joining the Mall Medical Group in the 1960s, and brought four generations of miracles into the world. He was beloved by his patients, highly respected by his colleagues, and a mentor and teacher to many medical students. As his children, we heard countless stories of gratitude told fondly by his patients, and from his colleagues, accounts of his clinical expertise, dedication, and skill. We recall his 2, 3, and 4:00 a.m. rushes to deliveries, often in blizzard conditions, as he did not want anyone else to attend to “his” patients. Philip’s specialty was in the care of birth mothers who were gestational diabetics, with research published and awards received. He was passionate about life, and a consummate, devoted caregiver to his family, friends, and patients. There were no half-measures with him; Philip was equal parts tenacious, determined, and obstinate as the day is long. To debate or argue wth him was at your own risk or peril. Each person he encountered was given a place of importance, no matter their station in life. He could not tolerate an injustice, and was a tireless advocate for those he saw as needing attention or vulnerable. Philip’s ferocity was tempered by his unwavering capacity for compassion for all. We would be remiss if we did not mention Philip’s legendary passion for food. Along with his scalpel, his fork was his trusty companion, and a Chinese food buffet was life. Although a force of nature, much revered, often feared, if he loved you, you knew it, as he would never hesitate to tell you so. If you were his friend, you had his loyalty forever.
“Philly” was proud of his humble beginnings and North End roots. He came from a loud, loving, colourful family, and from age nine, had jobs to help support them. Dreaming of becoming a doctor from a young age, he never let anyone forget that he was accepted into the Faculty of Medicine, at age 17, at a time when the University of Manitoba had a quota on their acceptance of Jewish medical students. Prior to his specialty of obs/gyne, he spent four years in Bienfait, SK, doing a general practice locum, with many a story he loved to tell of his time as town doctor, mayor, and plumber! As accomplished as Philip was, he was plain-spoken, called a spade a shovel, and was never afraid to do any kind of physical labour or get his hands dirty. He took our chiding about his mispronunciations like a trooper.
Above all else, Philip loved his family fiercely. We always knew we came first. As intimidating as he could be, he wore his generous heart on his sleeve. His devotion to his beloved Merle, who we lost much too soon, was a testament to heartbreak and recovery. His delight and pride in being a Zaida to his grandsons and great-grandsons knew no bounds, with complete spoiling rights. We are so fortunate to have had him in our lives and as a father.
We would like to thank the Simkin Centre for their exemplary care, who treated our father with dignity, respect, and love. We know he felt at home. We would also like to thank our family and friends for their outpouring of support and shared memories of Phil. They have been an immense source of comfort.
Funeral service was officiated by Rabbi Matthew Leibl at Rosh Pina Memorial Park. Pallbearers were Dan Blankstein, Rob Berkowits, John Diamond, Norm Mayer, Stephen Rosenfield, and Randy Wolfe. Thank you all for honouring our father and our family.
Donations may be made to the Barnes Family Fund, Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, or an organization of your choice.
Dad, your memory will always be a blessing. Your legacy will be kept alive throughout, by your family, and all those who love you. “Everything’s under control.”
You are with mother now.
Obituaries
ISADORE (IZZY)MINUK (Z”L) JULY 5, 1927 – DECEMBER 30, 2025
With great sadness, we announce the passing of Isadore (Izzy) Minuk, on December
30, 2025, at the age of 98.
Izzy was born on July 5, 1927, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the third of five boys born to Tibel and Ben Minuk. Izzy was predeceased by his beloved wife Merle Minuk and his
cherished son Morley Minuk.
Izzy leaves to mourn his children Martin Minuk (Stephanie), Linda Rabkin (Jack), Jeffrey Minuk (Lora) and Cheryl Bokhaut (Bradley), thirteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Our father was a man of great wisdom, kindness, strength and resilience. He was
fiercely devoted to his family. He was committed to his health and well-being and a longtime member of the Rady JCC.
Izzy spent his last years at the Simkin Centre. Our family would like to express its appreciation and thanks to the Staff and Administration of the Simkin Centre for their attentive care.
Donations in Izzy’s honour may be made to the Merle and Isadore (Izzy) Memorial Fund
at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Simkin Centre or the Rady JCC.
Daddy will always be our sweetheart
Obituaries
GERTRUDE “GERTIE”NEPON (NEE PIERCE) JUNE 1, 1926 – DECEMBER 26, 2025
Gertrude “Gertie” Nepon (née Pierce), aged 99, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025. She was a devoted wife, mother, Baba, sister, and friend, whose love, warmth, and strength touched all who knew her.
She is survived by her loving children Allan (Reeva), Mark (Leslie), and Jack (Carla) and her cherished grandchildren Jordan, Hillary (Ariel), Joshua, Hayley (Richard), Taryn and David. Born on June 1, 1926, in Winnipeg, Gertie was the daughter of Esther and Benjamin Pierce. She was predeceased by the love of her life, David Harry Nepon, with whom she shared nearly 40 years of marriage. Their enduring bond was an inspiration to family and friends alike. David passed away in 1988 and losing him left a void in her heart that never truly healed. They are now reunited in peace.
Gertie was also predeceased by her beloved siblings – brothers Moe, Max, Fred, and Jack Pierce, and by her sister Patty. She is survived by her sister Brownie Fleishman, and by many loving nieces and nephews.
Gertie was known for her ever-present smile—even during life’s most difficult moments. Her family and friends were always her greatest priority. She was a homemaker, often volunteering in schools where she tested the hearing of nursery and kindergarten children. She was known for her organization and meticulous nature, keeping her home in perfect order, with everything in its place. She enjoyed playing bridge and mahjong and sharing lunches with her many friends, well into her 90’s. Even in her final year at the Simkin Centre Nursing Home, at age 99, she retained that magical smile—a smile that could light up any room and stood as a testament to her resilience, positivity, and love of life.
Gertie’s funeral was held on Monday, December 29, at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, with Cantor Leslie Emery officiating. Pallbearers were Allan, Mark, Jack, Jordan, David Nepon, and Ellen Fleishman. The family extends a special thank you to the staff of Weinberg 2 at the Simkin Centre for their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion.
Donations may be made to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba or to a charity of your choice.
Obituaries
SONYA KAMINSKY MAY 24, 1925 – JUNE 12, 2025
Beloved mother and Bubbi passed away peacefully at 100 years old.
Sonya is survived by her children Brenda (Marvin) Kass and Sheldon Kaminsky, her grandchildren Josh (Samantha) Hartley (Erin), Jordan (Jenn), Nikki (Patrick) as well as eight great-grandchildren and cherished nieces and nephews.
Sonya was predeceased by her parents, sister and beloved husband Bill.
Sonya married the love of her life Bill and they spent 53 wonderful years together, Theirs was a true love story filled with laughter and many wondrous moments and grounded by devotion, respect and unconditional love for each other, Their home was always open to family and friends and at the center of it all was Sunny ( lovingly named for her for her sunny disposition). Sunny loved entertaining. She was a great hostess and enjoyed cooking and baking for her family whether it was Friday night dinners -holiday gatherings or birthday celebrations.
Sunny enjoyed 10 pin bowling and volunteer work with Bnai Brith Women.
However at the centre of her life was always her Family and her role as BUBBI filled her heart and kept her strong.
She was the best – MOM- Bubbi – Aunt – always there for everyone to listen , guide, advise, and support and always with unconditional Love. She adored each of her great grandchildren and imply could not get enough of them….they were her pride and joy!
We all feel so blessed to have her share our lives.
MOM you were our Rock and you will always be our “Sunshine.”
SUNNY will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her family as well as all those whose lives she touched.
Our gratitude to Simkin center and especially to Moms caregivers Marianne, Odette, Marinel and Mina.
Special thanks to Rabbi Matthew Leibl for his ongoing support.
Our Heartfelt thanks for the donations, meals, love and support extended to our family.