To see more funerals go to https://chesedshelemes.org/records-of-the-deceased/

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dick Daniel Bell on July 19, 2026, at the age of 98. Although our hearts are filled with sadness, we find comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his beloved wife of nearly seventy years, Minnie Bell (née Bay), who predeceased him on June 8, 2025. Their love story was one of unwavering devotion, quiet partnership, and unconditional love—a love that shaped generations of their family.
Dick’s greatest joy was always his family. He leaves behind his loving children: Joady Bell (Larry Bloom); David Bell; Karyn Burleigh (Paul); and Debby Brown (Bobby). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Cory; Breanne; Jenna (Adam); Jordan (Kady); Jason; Jonah (Danielle); and Justin. In addition he leaves his precious great-grandchildren: Charlize; Zack; Mimi and Eva. Each carries forward the love, kindness, and values he instilled in them throughout his life.
He was predeceased by his parents, Helen and David Bell, and his siblings, Morley and Lucille. He was affectionately known as “Zadie” by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren—a title he wore with immense pride. He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Tannis Mindell (Sheldon); Glenda Segal (David); Les Silver (Andi); Fern Goldman; Narvey Goldman (Mara); and Andi Bell.
Born in Winnipeg on December 28, 1927, Dick attended Luxton School and St. John’s Tech, graduating in 1945. He celebrated his Bar Mitzvah at the Jewish Orphanage Synagogue in 1941. Dick developed a passion for music at the age of nine when he first sat down at a piano. Music became the soundtrack of his life. By seventeen he was performing professionally, and while attending the University of Manitoba he formed his own orchestra, entertaining audiences throughout Winnipeg and beyond. Even in his later years, the familiar sound of his beloved Chickering Louis XV baby grand piano, one of his most treasured possessions, filled his home with warmth, laughter, and memories. Family members could always count on hearing a few favourite tunes, especially the Bugs Bunny melodies, which always brought smiles.
Dick’s professional life reflected the same qualities that defined him personally—hard work, integrity, and kindness. In 1948, Dick joined the family business, Western Smallware and Stationery Co. Ltd. After joining Western Smallware, he met the woman who would forever change his life. Minnie became not only his wife, but his partner in every sense of the word. Together they created a home filled with warmth, generosity, and unconditional love. In 1979, Dick founded Dick Bell Agencies and began representing toy manufacturers throughout Canada. Years later, with great pleasure, he welcomed his youngest daughter, Debby, into the business and proudly shared that chapter of his life with her.
Above all else, Dick was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, a proud father, an adoring grandfather and great-grandfather, and a loyal friend. His gentle spirit, generous heart, quiet wisdom, and wonderful sense of humour made everyone around him feel welcome and loved. He delighted in telling corny jokes that, invariably, brought much laughter to family gatherings.
Dick and Minnie embraced life together. They traveled the world on more than thirty cruises, creating adventures and memories that they treasured. Yet for Dick, no trip ever compared to the joy he derived from simply being surrounded by his family. Whether celebrating holidays, birthdays, or ordinary Sunday afternoons, he was happiest when with those he loved. Camera in hand, he faithfully preserved countless family moments – not because they were extraordinary, but because he believed every moment together was worth remembering.

Dick and Minnie were devoted members of Shaarey Zedek Synagogue throughout their married life and generously supported many causes close to their hearts, including the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Combined Jewish Appeal, and the State of Israel. Their faith was reflected not only in what they believed, but in how they lived—with generosity, humility, compassion, and gratitude.
At the age of 58, Dick underwent quintuple bypass surgery—a life-changing event for both him and Minnie. From that day forward, Minnie devoted herself to his health and well-being, carefully managing his heart-healthy lifestyle and encouraging his daily walks. Her unwavering love and care, combined with Dick’s determination, helped him enjoy many more years of good health and precious time with his family.
One of Dick’s final gifts to his family was the autobiography he wrote, preserving the remarkable story of his life for generations to come. But those who knew him understand that his true legacy cannot be contained within the pages of a book. It lives in every lesson he quietly taught, every family tradition he helped create, every melody played on the piano, every photograph he carefully took, every joke lovingly repeated, and every life he touched with his kindness.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dick’s compassionate caregivers, Mae, Emmanda, Tammy, Sandra , Estela and Nette for the loving care they provided both at home and when Minnie and Dick transitioned to the Simkin Centre.
The family wants to especially acknowledge a number of individuals for their exemplary care and devotion to Dick – Dr.John Rabson, Dr. Grant Goldberg ,Dr. Marni Wiseman and Dr. Wayne Manishen. We are also deeply grateful to the dedicated staff of the Simkin Centre.
Dick lived a remarkable life, but those who loved him will remember something even more remarkable: the way he made each person feel valued, welcomed, and loved. His gentle presence was a blessing to all who knew him, and his love will continue to live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all whose lives he enriched.
We will miss him beyond words, love him always, and carry his memory with us forever.
For those who wish, donations in Dick’s memory may be made to the Saul & Claribel Simkin Centre, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, or the Congregation Shaarey Zedek, Choir and Music Fund.

(nee SELLERS)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Reesa Nerman on July 18th, 2026.

Reesa will be lovingly remembered by her son Seth (Patricia) Nerman; grandchildren Maja and Isla Nerman; sister Michelle (Harvey) Chochinov; brothers-in-law David (Pat) Nerman, Howie (Marla) Nerman, and Gary (Mary-Ann) Nerman; sister-in-law Lisa (Allan) Gold; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. She is predeceased by her parents, Sam and Sheila Sellers; and her husband, Shep Nerman.

Reesa was born on May 30th, 1954, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She grew up in West Kildonan and graduated from Garden City Collegiate in 1972. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Manitoba and spent over 30 years working for the Child Guidance Clinic as a school social worker. Some of her happiest professional years were spent at Robert H. Smith School, where she found not only meaningful work but also an exceptional team of colleagues who became cherished friends. Her dedication, competence, and compassion were remarkable. In the years following retirement, Reesa was often approached by families she’d helped, who shared their deep gratitude for her guidance, caring, and the impact she made on their lives.

She was strong, even when life tested her. After becoming a widow at the age of 38, she made it her priority to provide the best possible life for her son, Seth. She was courageous and resilient in the face of adversity, finding joy in Seth’s achievements and celebrating every milestone. They shared an unbreakable bond. When Patricia came into Seth’s life, she was comforted to know that he now had a family of his own.

Perhaps her most cherished role in life was Baba. The sun rose and set with Maja and Isla. She was a constant in their lives from day one: having sleepovers, driving to and from daycare, attending dance recitals, and providing a constant supply of Baba’s cheese kugel and coffee loaf.

Reesa made a home that was always filled with friends and family. Her generosity and hospitality were boundless. She had a way of making people feel welcome; whether by offering food, or offering her time, her love, or thoughtful advice.

Thank you to all those who cared for Reesa during her brief illness, driving her to and from appointments, providing meals, and keeping her company so she wouldn’t feel alone. For that we are so grateful.

Thank you, as well, to the physicians and nurses who cared for her. We are especially grateful to the staff of Riverview Health Centre Palliative Care Unit for their exceptional kindness, compassion, and care.

To her friends and family, she was a constant source of encouragement and support. Her love was genuine and a gift we will always cherish. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.

Donations in Reesa’s memory may be made to the Riverview Health Centre Palliative Care Unit.

We deeply mourn our cherished mother, baba and great-baba Betty Brina Simon who passed away May 15, 2026 at age 90.
Betty was predeceased by her beloved husband, Monte Simon; her parents, Eddie and Ethel Helfgott; her in-laws, Alex and Rose Simon; sister-in-law Libby Simon and many relatives and friends.
She is survived by her younger sister Shirlee Doupe (Keith Schroeder) in Australia and brother-in-law Harold Simon; her daughters and sons-in-law Anna-Gail and Henry Goldfeld, Sherrill and Christopher Best, Deborah Simon and Marc-Antoine Richer, and Ilana Simon and Ari Marantz; her grandchildren, Alexandra and Mike, Jesse and Lauren, Marlee and David, Evan and Maddy, Jeremy, Ruby, Ariella and Brendan, and Benjamin; and her great-grandchildren, Jack and Brandon- all of whom gave her much nachus.
Betty was born on July 27, 1935, in Portage la Prairie to a family rooted in Judaism, Yiddishkeit and community. In the 1950s, Betty bravely travelled to Chicago to study nursing at Mount Sinai Hospital where she found her true calling as a nurse. She embodied compassion, patience, strength and service of others both in her work and in her personal life.
Once back in Winnipeg, Betty met Monte and they married at Herzliya Synagogue on January 18, 1959, beginning a partnership that would span nearly half a century. Together they built not only a home but rich family traditions centred on Jewish community life from Peretz Shul to Beth Israel Synagogue and a busy social life with friends and family in the city, at the family cottage in Winnipeg Beach, and at their condo in Deerfield Beach.
Betty was an exceptional role model to her daughters – handling a demanding profession as well as keeping up home responsibilities and Jewish traditions.
Betty’s final nursing position was as head nurse at Fred Douglas Lodge. She remained vibrant and engaged in retirement. At Century Village in Florida, she embraced 3-D art, Yiddish lessons and world politics classes.
Betty lived independently at River Ridge for nearly four years until she took ill in late March.
She loved Mahjong, Scrabble and was overjoyed to celebrate her 90th birthday party last summer with all her children and grandchildren. We loved her with all our hearts and miss her every day.
Thank you to Rabbi Kliel Rose for the beautiful service and eulogy, part of which is repeated here. Pallbearers were grandchildren Alexandra Goldfeld, Jesse Marantz, Marlee Goldfeld, Evan Marantz, Jeremy Boulard, Ruby Boulard and Ariella Goldfeld.
If so desired, donations in Betty’s memory may be directed to the Eddie Helfgott Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Estelle (Tzivie) Meyers, who passed away on July 10, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born on October 26, 1941, in Winnipeg, Canada, Tzivie lived a life defined by love, strength, and devotion to her family and community.

Tzivie dedicated her life to education, beginning at an early age at Herzlia Academy and continuing throughout her career in early childhood education within the public school system. In her later years, she found great joy in teaching adults. Her generosity and commitment to learning touched the lives of many over several decades. She was widely respected for her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. She also found joy in music, gardening, and volunteer work, especially with the Winnipeg Humane Society.

Tzivie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose love and guidance will remain a lasting legacy to all those she leaves behind.

Tzivie passed away on what would have been her 66th wedding anniversary with her beloved husband, Ron Meyers. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Jeffrey (Lori), Brian (Fatuma), and Adrienne (Anibal); her grandchildren, Jeremy, Ethan, Amira (Ziyad), Halima, Sara, and Ronen; her great-granddaughter, Bushra; and her siblings, Harvey (Pat) and Karin. She was predeceased by her husband, Ron.

Her legacy of love, resilience, and generosity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Funeral services were held on July 13, 2026, at Congregation Shaarey Zedek and were officiated by her dear friend and clergy member, Cantor Leslie Emery. The family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Pat Harris and the team at Palliative Care Manitoba for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, Magen David Adom, or Palliative Care Manitoba – causes that were close to her heart.

Though she is no longer with us, her love, wisdom, and spirit will remain with all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

October 6, 1936 – July 28, 2026

Sheldon Berney has died peacefully at his home in Palm Beach at the age of 89, with his wife, Florence Metzger-Berney, by his side, leaving behind a legacy of family and friends, hard work, and philanthropy.

Born to Ada (Loban) (z”l) and Martin Berney (z”l) Sheldon lived an extraordinary life in Winnipeg before retiring to Florida.

Sheldon is predeceased by his first wife, Carole Berney (z”l). He is survived by his wife, Florence Metzger-Berney; his daughters, Dawn and Nancy Berney (Julius Erdstein); his seven grandchildren, Martina Erdstein (Simon Garfinkel), Molly Erdstein, Eli Erdstein, Calvin Erdstein, Tanya Geggie, Simone Geggie, and Cleo Geggie (and their father, Christopher Geggie); and his siblings, Cynthia Wine (Philip Slayton), Naomi Horodezky (Sandy Horodezky), and Carl Berney (Gaynor Berney).

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

The funeral will take place on Wednesday, August 5th 10:00 am at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery (235 Armstrong Ave), reception to follow: Shaarey Zedek Synagogue. Shiva will be held at the Fort Garry Hotel – Thursday (10:00 am -12:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm) and Friday (10:00 am -12:00pm).

Arthur Arkin, born May 22, 1927, died June 24, 2026. He is survived by his beloved wife of 77 years Evelyn and their children, Gary Arkin (Diane), Kathi Spencer, Nancy Arkin, adored grandchildren, Ben Arkin (Adrienne Anderson), Aaron Sodomsky (Kirsten Marquardson), Andrew Spencer–Malhotra (Pranika), Roxanne Arkin (Colin Zinck) and cherished great- grandchildren, Asher, Olivia, Hank, Molly and Lylah.

Arthur received his BA from the University of Manitoba. After working for the family business and a string of his own businesses, he found his niche at age 53 when he established Maxim Software Systems which produced the highly successful dental management system, Maxident. He retired at the age of 90 but never stopped being curious.

It was love at first sight when Dad met Mom and he never stopped loving or adoring her – or depending on her. He believed that his life truly began only when they met and married and he fought valiantly to stay with Mom for as long as possible. He was with her until the very end.

We would like to thank Alvin, Baby, Norma and Jane for their outstanding care as well as Dr. Armstrong and the nurses and staff at Seven Oaks Hospital Dialysis Unit. Donations to remember Arthur can be made to the Evelyn and Arthur Arkin Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, Harvest Manitoba or Seven Oaks Hospital Dialysis Unit.

It is with profound sadness, and immense gratitude for a life so richly lived, that we announce the passing of Dr. Neil Margolis on July 1, 2026, just weeks shy of his 90th birthday.
Neil was born July 29, 1936 in Winnipeg to Doris and Hymie Margolis. Raised with his beloved sisters, Shirley and Liba, he spent his early years in Transcona before the family moved to Winnipeg’s North End, where he forged lifelong friendships and developed a deep connection to the Jewish community.
One summer at Winnipeg Beach, Neil met the love of his life, Elaine. Their romance began with handwritten notes passed by his sister Liba and a first date to the movies, where Elaine was captivated by Neil’s blue suede shoes—and the man wearing them. They married in 1959 and shared nearly 67 years of unwavering love, partnership, laughter, and devotion. Together they raised three sons and built a home filled with warmth, generosity, humour, and countless celebrations.
Neil graduated from St. John’s High School before attending the University of Winnipeg and the University of Manitoba Faculty of Medicine. He completed his pediatric specialty training in Winnipeg and Cleveland, returning home to begin what became an extraordinary career spanning more than four decades.
Affectionately known to many as “Dr. Marvelous,” Neil devoted his life to caring for children and their families. He practised pediatrics throughout Winnipeg, served for many years at the School for the Deaf, travelled to remote northern communities including Berens River, taught generations of medical students and residents, and helped develop the pediatric component of Manitoba’s Physician Assistant Program. His compassion, kindness, and exceptional memory left a lasting impression on thousands of families. Even years after his retirement, former patients would stop him to say hello, and he often remembered not only their names but those of their siblings and parents as well.
Neil was deeply committed to public service. He served on numerous professional and community boards, including the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, the Manitoba Medical College Foundation, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Talmud Torah, Rosh Pina Synagogue, Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, and later assisted Manitoba Public Insurance in assessing medical claims.
Beyond medicine, Neil embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He loved music, art, sports, travelling with Elaine, collecting sports cards and antiques.
Neil possessed a remarkable sense of humour and a generous spirit. He believed life should be celebrated, especially birthdays, which he marked with unforgettable parties, abundant laughter, and more than a few creative ways to ensure he received the most birthday cards.
Above all else, Neil treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, cherished brother, uncle, and loyal friend.
Neil was predeceased by his parents, Doris and Hymie Margolis; sister Shirley and brother-in-law David Permack.
He leaves to mourn his beloved wife, Elaine; his three sons, Moish (Jodi), Aubrey (Kim), Evan (Elaine); his cherished grandchildren Lindy, Kelsea (Brando), Shelby (Noah), Jessie, Isaac (Kristin), Lexi (Drew), Ezi; his sister, Liba (Tom); along with nieces and nephews, countless friends, colleagues, and generations of grateful patients whose lives were enriched by his care and compassion.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Neil’s healthcare teams, whose compassion and extraordinary care meant so much to him and to all of us.
Donations in Neil’s honour can be made to Elaine & Neil Margolis Family Endowment Fund at the Children’s Hospital Foundation, Elaine & Neil Margolis Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba or a charity of your choice.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

MAY 31, 1930 – MAY 13, 2026

Basia Bayla Fliegel passed away unexpectedly on May 13, 2026 at 95 years of age, just 18 days before her 96th birthday. She was born in Kalisz Poland, an only child. She remembers having fun, dancing and helping her parents. Life was happy and normal until 1939.
She, my grandmother and grandfather were on the run for about 3 months crossing in and out of Russia and Poland. During this time, her father was taken by the Germans to a work camp and never seen again. Basia froze her hands and feet badly during their final crossing into Russia, and she and her mother spent three months in hospital healing. Basia and her mother spent the rest of the war in work camps in Siberia and Uzbekistan. Conditions were harsh. They worked logging, picking cotton and fruit and Basia suffered from typhus, malaria and hunger.
When the war ended they returned to Poland but there was nothing there for them. Polish people had occupied their apartment and with no documents and no rights they left. They went to a displaced persons camp in Rosenheim, Germany. Basia’s mother remarried and set up a small kiosk selling beer and apples.
Our mother worked part time at the kiosk and learnt dress making at an ORT school. It was at the kiosk where she first met my father, Lazar, who liked the ‘apples’ in her rosy cheeks.
In 1948, Basia went to Haifa and lived with her Baba and Zaida. She worked in a dress shop on Herzl Street. One day while walking with friends, she bumped into Lazar and their relationship renewed. They were married on a rooftop on April 17, 1950. The heat did not agree with Lazar so along with my aunt they emigrated to Winnipeg. They arrived on a Friday and by Monday Basia was working piece work in a sewing factory. She worked until a week or so before her first child was born and then stayed at home taking care of her children. But, Basia didn’t just cook and clean. When Lazar started a family business providing cabinetry and construction services for residential homes and commercial ventures my mother worked alongside him. She answered the phone, paid bills, did banking and made sure all the paperwork was in order. She ran errands for their business and also helped in the workshop, holding plywood and lending a hand withwhatever was necessary. My parents considered themselves equal partners which was something Basia was very proud of.
And, Basia had a well-run household. Everything was organized and she was always prepared and on time. Basia valued good food and hospitality. She cooked wonderful meals, and always had cake and cookies for people dropping by. My mother’s closest friend stopped by every day after work to have coffee and cake. The two of them would visit, and simultaneously, mom would ensure dinner was ready. My grandmother dropped by almost daily and so did other friends as they knew they would be welcome. It was fun having a welcoming home and visiting with family friends.
My parents had a large circle of ‘greener’ or greenhorn friends, all of them immigrants escaping and recovering from the Shoah. They knew how to live. They worked hard and played hard. Every Saturday night there were card games at someone’s home. They served tons of food, and played poker and kaluki for money, until three or four in the morning. When it was New Year’s Eve, they dressed up in costumes, went to the synagogue dancing and celebrating until the wee hours. As teenagers their children never had curfews because the parents were always out later than them.
Basia sewed clothes for the family, knitted sweaters, hats and scarves for everyone. She loved doing big jigsaw puzzles with her children. Her hands were always busy. She loved music, particularly klezmer, and when tapes were still around had them in her car.
She was a caring and conscientious parent always making sure her children were well fed, safe, did their school work and lots of chores, had annual check-ups and a bed to sleep in. She was always there for us no matter how big or small our problems were. We knew we could call and she would help. She worked hard in her home, and in the family business. We always felt safe, loved and cared for.
Basia and Lazar started with absolutely nothing. Basia came here with virtually no education, no possessions and couldn’t speak the language. With hard work and incredible foresight, she and her husband accomplished their dreams of having a loving family and home. They always contributed to society and were never takers.
The last few years of Basia’s life were hampered by a progressing dementia and physical disability that slowly compromised her. But, her final few years didn’t define her life of success and achievement. She’ll be remembered for how much she accomplished and as the warm and devoted mother and wife she was.
Basia is survived by her children Miriam (Ron), Larry (Ann) grandchildren Sarah, Alex (Stefanie) and Danny and her greatgrandchildren Mia, Jake, Ava and James and sister-in-law Bella.
We would like to express our thanks to Helma, Herminie and Marilyn from the WRHA for their kindness and caring toward Basia. We would also like to express our thanks to the pallbearers, Barry, Bernie, Larry, Sarah, Alex and Ron.
Donations in Basia’s name can be made to the JNF, Alzheimer’s Society or charity of your choice.

APRIL 24, 1940 – MAY 30, 2026

Cecile passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026 at Deer Lodge Centre after living several years with dementia. She was 91.
She is lovingly remembered by her devoted children: Pamela (Gary Brooker), Paul (DD), Feryn, Sheri (Robbie Weisz); her grandchildren: Alana (Matthew Joudrey), Ivy, Rachel, Sarah (Roman Dascal), Lainey, Nayce and Sienna; sister-in-law Lynn Pollock and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of almost 68 years, Monte Kowall, parents Sam and Sluva
Pollock, and older siblings Myra (Hy) Kravetsky, Mischa, Gordon (Mimi) and Harvey (Sylvia) Pollock, brother-in-law and sister-inl-aw Bernard and Louise Kowall.
Cecile was born in Winnipeg but lived in Bethany, MB until she was nine. Her family then moved back to Winnipeg where she attended Machray School, St. John’s Tech and United College. She met our dad in 1954 and they married in 1956. They had a very close and loving relationship until Dad passed in 2024.
After they were married, Mom and Dad lived in Boston while Dad was doing his fellowship in pediatrics. After two years they moved back to Winnipeg and settled in River Heights. In later years Mom and Dad also lived in Winnipeg Beach and Margate, FL. Once their health started to decline they moved back to Winnipeg so they could be closer to family. During the last several years of her life Mom developed dementia and eventually could not be cared for at home.
Mom was strong, kind, caring and nurturing. She was a great wife, mother and grandmother. Family was very important to her. She was well respected and loved by all of her extended family and anyone who knew her.
She excelled at everything she did. It was said she could make “a silk purse out of a sow’s ear”. She was a multitalented woman. She loved surrounding herself in nature, berry picking, sewing, baking (especially pies), volunteering and travelling. She and Dad had many friends and loved to entertain. Once the children were in school, she worked in retail sales at The Bay, Shirley K Maternity and World Adventure Tours, among others.
Mom was deeply involved in the Jewish community and was an active participant on the Herzlia Synagogue Board and PTA in its early years.
We would like to thank the staff on T3W and T3N at the Deer Lodge Centre for caring for Mom with dignity and respect over the last two years and two months.
Funeral services were held on June 7, 2026 at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery.
Donations in Cecile’s memory may be made to the Monte and Cecile Kowall Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba or to a charity of your choice.