Obituaries
SIDNEY FLEISHER July 2, 1928 – November 4, 2023
Dr. Sidney Fleisher died peacefully at his home on November 4th. He was a loving and adored husband, father, father-in-law, zaida, and great-zaida. He is missed and will always be remembered by his daughters and sons-in-law, Marcia and Kelly, Rhonda and Bob, Susan and Larry, and Sara and Benjamin. Also mourning Sidney are his sister, Arlene Rusk, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Larry and Faye Litman, and his grandchildren, Alexander, Georgia, Loren, Ethan, Lily, Mira, Leah, Jeremy, Alexa (Aaron), and Brendan, and great-grandson, Arthur. Sidney Fleisher was predeceased by Beverly, his loving wife of 53 years, his sisters, Bessie Zelickson and Miriam Fleisher, his brothers-in-law, Jerry Litman, Cyril Zelickson, and Michael Rusk, and his nephew, Kenny Zelickson.
Sidney was born in north end Winnipeg to Jewish immigrant parents on the eve of the Great Depression and grew to maturity during the Second World War. He was the eldest of four children and the only son. As a child he worked in the family grocery store early mornings before school and after school. In 1944, while still in grade 11, Sidney dropped out of school and joined the 2nd (R) Battalion of the Winnipeg Light Infantry while continuing to work with his father. He remained in the grocery business until his mid to late 20s. At that point he became a travelling salesman with Success Wax and excelled at this work. When a large international corporation purchased Success Wax, he was one of the few employees who were fired. And when he was subsequently refused employment at a job with another large company he learned (from a friend who worked there) that they simply did not hire Jews. He said that when he heard this he vowed that he would never again allow himself to be in a position where he could be fired – that he needed to be his own boss and he needed to work at something that would comfortably support his family. To fulfill this promise to himself, even though he was married with three children and 33 years old, he returned to high school (there was no Adult Education program at the time) with the intention of going on to dentistry.
In 1968, at age 40, Sidney had one of the proudest moments of his life when he graduated as a dentist. The quality of his work was recognized by his peers. Frequently, patients who had seen another dentist, upon their return to Sidney, would report that the other dentist had commented on the work being ‘beautiful’ and would ask who the dentist had been. He was a caring dentist who was moved and concerned by patients’ pain. He strove to relieve it, doing free dental work if patients could not afford to pay. In the latter part of his career he focussed on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. He became aware that there were large numbers of patients with unrecognized, untreated and/or poorly treated pain from TMJ disorder, many of whom had been suffering for years. With further study and practice in this field, Sidney developed such expertise that he was successful in relieving pain in patients who had been unsuccessfully treated by other health care professionals. Ultimately, he had patients who came from many other countries specifically to be treated for TMJ dysfunction.
The greatest passion of Sidney’s life was his wife Beverly, whom he met at a party in 1947 when he was 18 and she was 15 years old. Within a year they were engaged and were married two years later during the Red River flood of 1950. In spite of this inauspicious beginning, the stress of having a family while they were very young, financial worries, and the pressure of returning to school and studying dentistry and knowing that this was his ‘best last chance’ to give his Beverly and children the lives that he felt they deserved, he and Beverly maintained an unwavering passion for each other. His children cannot recall a single occasion when he was critical of Bev or when they argued. Every day upon his return from work they met at the door and (at times very embarrassingly for his children) would share a passionate kiss and embrace.
As a father he was loving and affectionate. He would involve his daughters and later his grandchildren in all sorts of projects. He took great pleasure in teaching them many practical life skills – how to polish shoes, how to mow a lawn – and, being perfectionistic, he taught them how to perform these skills in his special way. By the time he was a grandfather, he had more time, so the nature and breadth of the skills changed. He taught them the making and bottling of wine, how to polish a Mercedes (his first and most loved luxury car), and the care involved in storing, cutting, and enjoying a Cuban cigar. He was a wonderful grandfather and great-grandfather. His grandchildren, now scattered over the continent, took much comfort and delight in coming together at the time of his passing and sharing many anecdotes involving their time with Zaida Sid.
Sidney was a complex mixture of virtue and foibles and, very often, apparent contradictions. At his core there were two related but distinct forces driving much of what he did and he was at his best when these two forces worked together. The first was a compelling need to ‘make things better, to improve upon’ and the second was profound compassion for those who were disadvantaged in some way. The ‘improvements’ applied to both the trivial and the life-altering. For example, he excitedly added strawberry Jello powder to his rugalach recipe, thinking it would enhance both flavour and texture (hint: it wasn’t an improvement). And the same force was at play when he provided the necessary money for someone to improve their lives and/or the lives of their families by funding a new business, paying for years of university, or providing support for a family which allowed a parent to begin a new venture, etc. Sometimes he did this for family and at other times he did this for patients or even strangers. But they all became his friends. His generosity was untrumpeted; there is no building or faculty bearing his name. There are only people whose lives and whose children’s lives have been positively transformed as a result of knowing Sid.
Sidney had a ‘larger than life’ personality. He was a tall, attractive man with a ‘big’, positive energetic presence. He was extraordinarily extraverted and upbeat and he spoke boisterously and laughed frequently. Sidney had a terrific sense of humour and, most importantly, never took himself too seriously. He easily shared laughs at his own expense and, with his abundance of quirks, there were many such laughs. Sidney had an astounding amount of resilience and tenacity and an iron will, and this carried him through life’s difficult times. He did not have an easy early life and his return to school was very tough. But surely his most painful trials were the loss of his Beverly in 2004 and his lengthy final illness with its painfully slow series of cumulative losses. He faced all of this with ineffable good cheer and expressions of love for those who loved him. What a guy.
The family would like to thank Edna Johnson, Sidney’s dental assistant of 30 years, without whom he could not have practised dentistry well into his 80s. We also thank the marvellous caregivers who have felt like members of our extended family – some for over ten years. These remarkable people treated Sidney lovingly, gently, and with great care and enabled him to remain at home until the end. They are: Eliny Santiago, Theresita Barillos, Gizelle Arevelo, Eduardo Arevelo, Connie Agbayani, Ruth Sunico, and Anita Obfintuyi.
Sidney received superb medical care from his rheumatologist, Dr. Carol Hitchon, and his family physician, Dr. Grant Goldberg. Both of these doctors provided care that reflected that rare combination of medical excellence and genuine compassion, respect, and concern. Even when leaving his home was a struggle, an appointment with Dr. Hitchon brightened Sidney’s day. And we cannot count the number of times Dr. Goldberg called us to check on Sidney’s health during what were supposed to be his ‘off hours’. We also want to thank the nurses at the Rheumatology Clinic, Tom Hartlieb and Laurie Radke. Dr. Goldberg’s physician assistant, Matthew Christian, was knowledgeable and very helpful on countless occasions, as were the wonderful nurses at Fort Garry Access. Finally, thank you to the Palliative Care Team, who were incredibly helpful, a pleasure to deal with, and were always available when we needed them. We just couldn’t have asked for more.
Sidney’s funeral was held at the Chesed Shel Emes. Interment took place at the Bnay Abraham Cemetery on November 7th. Pallbearers were: Alexander MacDonald, Ethan Landy, Loren MacDonald, Jeremy Hecht, Leah Cornblum, and Brendan Hecht. The family wishes to thank Cantor Tracy Kasner, who performed an absolutely beautiful service. A gathering to remember and honour Sidney will take place at a later date.
People who wish to make a donation may donate to The Beverly and Sidney Fleisher Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba (204) 477 7520, the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre (204) 878 3740, or a charity of your choice.
Obituaries
CARY RUBENFELD
Cary Rubenfeld, beloved husband, father, zaida, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend, passed away on December 4, 2025, at the age of 72. Cary lived a life defined by kindness, curiousity, humility, and a deep commitment to the people and communities he loved.
Above all, Cary was a family man. He was raised in a family shaped by Jewish resilience and history. He was born to George and Sally Rubenfeld in 1953. His father George and two aunts, Rachel and Regine, survived the Holocaust in France, and the legacy of that survival grounded Cary’s values throughout his life. He carried forward a strong Jewish identity through his early Judaic studies, and this continued to evolve in adulthood as he built a home alive with tradition and Jewish values.
For more than 40 years, Cary shared his life with his wife, Marion. Together they built a home, a business, and a relationship filled with warmth, humour, and unwavering devotion. They worked side by side in their wholesale garden supply and later an import business, travelled the world together, and supported one another with tenderness and resilience. Marion was Cary’s partner in every sense, and their devotion to each other was a foundation for the entire family.
As a father to Michael (Magda) and Sara (Rob), Cary was a steady and loving presence—gentle, attentive, and always remaining connected to their worlds. His kindness shaped them in ways that they will carry forward and aspire to in their lives. Later in life, he delighted in spending time with his grandchildren, Emry, Kian and Lev.
Cary was the cherished brother of Perry Rubenfeld, with whom he shared a lifelong bond of family, memory, and affection. Cary and Perry tragically lost their mother at a young age. Their close-knit family continued to support and raise them.
Professionally, Cary was known for his integrity. He believed that success in business meant acting fairly, ethically and with compassion. He built strong relationships across North America and Asia, earning respect not only for his expertise, but for his genuine interest in others. He was thoughtful, patient, and guided by a sense of moral clarity.
Outside of business, Cary cultivated passions that brought him community and purpose. His involvement in amateur radio—an interest that reawakened later in life—connected him to people around the world. A lifelong learner, he attended international conventions, helped newcomers enter the hobby, and even earned recognition as Canadian Amateur Radio Operator of the Year. Friends from across continents described him as humble, generous, and quietly inspiring—a man who motivated others not through ego, but through sincerity.
Cary was also a dedicated member of the Chavurat Tefilah – Talmud Torah congregation, where he served as treasurer and was instrumental in resurrecting regular Shabbat services in the synagogue after COVID. His love of Judaism deepened through study, particularly with a small Torah group he helped create—an intimate circle of friends who learned together each week, even across cities and time zones. His thirst for knowledge, especially when shared with others, was one of his defining traits.
Cary faced significant health challenges with remarkable courage. Diabetes, kidney disease, and heart complications never dimmed his optimism. He continued to travel, make plans, and pursue learning. He arranged dialysis across Canada, the United States, and even Poland so he could keep living life fully and on his own terms.
For those who wish to make a charitable donation in Cary’s memory, please consider providing a cheque to the Chavurat Tefilah – Talmud Torah Synagogue (459 Hartford Ave., Wpg, MB) or an e-transfer to chavuratt@gmail.com or donating to the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
Obituaries
NELLIE (NELL) LABOVITCH
Nellie (Nell) Labovitch passed away peacefully in her home on December 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Our hearts are grateful for the 103 years she blessed our lives.
Nell was predeceased by her beloved husband Morris of 56 years (2000), her eldest daughter Shelley Nimchonok (2019) and son-in-law Robert (Bob) Walker (2015). Nell will forever be missed by her children Connie (Darrel) Donen, Joy Walker (Bob), Sharon Elston, and son-in-law Meyer Nimchonok (Shelley) and her grandchildren Kevin (Mony) Nimchonok, Shauna (Aaron) Lindzon, Maury Donen (Jennifer Luong), Jason Donen (Kristin Macaraeg), Erin Walker, Adam (Samantha) Walker, Sean Walker (Lindsey Markusson), Chad (Sawako) Elston, Cori (Tonio) Ettienne and her great-grandchildren Jay, Eli, Jordan, Emily, Max, Carmen, Matteo, Logan, Dylan, Caleb, Hana, Jun, Prism and Onyx and her brothers, Sam (predeceased Rita) Bebchuk, Dr. William (Elaine) Bebchuk and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
Nell was predeceased by her parents, Ettie and Joseph Bebchuk, her sisters, Marian Margolis (Joe Berz), Bessie (Mitchell) Schachter and parents- in-law, Rachel, and Hymie Labovitch; brothers and sisters inlaw, Sam Labovitch, Dr. Bill Lyons, Jack Lyons; Brina Bressler, Lil Seigel, Rose Weiner, and Sylvia Fritz.
Nell and Morris were married within a short courtship of only three weeks as they knew immediately that they were for each other. The connection that they had was undeniable. They were renowned for their shared love of dancing and moving together with extraordinary elegance and effortless skill. They met life’s challenges with a united front, setting a beautiful example of their lifelong commitment.
Nell took pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and always made each one of them feel special. She enjoyed pampering everyone with their favourite dishes. Her life was filled with an abundance of family, laughter, love, and optimism.
Even in her later years Nell remained vigorous and active, powerwalking at her gym into her late 90’s. One had to stand in line for a chance to be one of her walking partners, even when she was walking with a walker. Her nightly ritual was to say special prayers not only for everyone who needed praying for, but also for those who were close to her. On special occasions it was a treat to receive her amazing poetry. Nell retained a remarkably keen mind and enjoyed tackling word games well into her 90’s.
In her later years, she was surrounded by a phenomenal team of caregivers who considered her as close as a grandmother. With special gratitude to Ruth, and Amandeep who were by her side until the end. With thanks also to Jenna and The Right At Home staff. She was truly an extraordinary soul, matriarch, and an inspiration to us all.
Nell’s joyful spirit is heartfelt and will forever be with us. We will all live by three words that she recited endlessly to everyone that she met – “Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy.”
Funeral Services were held on December 3, 2025, at a private graveside ceremony for immediate family members. Thank you to the Pallbearers: Maury Donen, Jason Donen, Adam Walker, Erin Walker, Chad Elston, and Tonio Ettienne.
If desired, donations may be made to a charity of your choice or plant a tree in Nell’s memory.
Obituaries
FAYE VICKAR LAZER November 18, 1950 – December 3, 2025
It is with deep sadness we announce Faye Vickar Lazer passed away on December 3, 2025 at the age of 75. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, patience, and quiet strength.
She will be greatly missed by her husband Joel Lazer; son Lawrence Cohen and daughter-in-law Szandra Temesvari; daughter Jilda Lazer, son-in-law Cameron Quinn and grandchildren, Noa and Eli; daughter Sara Lazer, son-in-law Christopher Maissan and grandchildren, Elliot, Simone and Lila; twin sister Reva Micflicker and brother-in-law Allan; brother Larry Vickar and sister-in-law Tova; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Norman and Florence Vickar.
Faye grew up in Melfort, SK and lived there until she moved to Winnipeg to attend the University of Manitoba. First studying nursing, she quickly changed her focus to education. She taught for 34 years in the Winnipeg School Division, teaching nursery and kindergarten at Victoria-Albert, River Elm, King Edward, and Glenelm. She was her students’ first, and often favourite, teacher and over the years, fostered a love of learning and reading in hundreds of kids.
Faye and Joel were married in 1987 at Birch Island Resort in Minaki, Ontario, where family and friends were invited to celebrate their love and share in their love of fishing. Since then, they have spent their summers in the area fishing for pickerel, enjoying shore lunches of fish and fries, and in more recent years, spending time on the lake with their grandchildren.
Faye spent the last part of her life living at the Simkin Centre. When asked about it she would tell people happily “if you have to be in a place like this, this is the best place to be!” The family would like to thank the administration and management at the Simkin Centre and especially the team in Simkin 2 for their attentive care. The family is also grateful to the team of caregivers – Lovely, Luisa and Maria – who helped keep Faye happy and healthy for so long.
Funeral services were held at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue on December 5, 2025. Pallbearers were Elliot Lazer-Maissan, Noa Lazer Quinn, Sam Vickar, Stephen Vickar, Heather Micflikier and Liam Gutkin. Donations can be made to the Simkin Centre Foundation in Faye’s memory at https://www.simkincentre.ca/giving/.