Obituaries
BARBARA LEVY 1955-2020
On November 1st, Barbara Levy passed away peacefully, but far too soon, with her family by her side.
There will never be another Barbara Levy. Anyone who had the good fortune to have spent time in her company could tell you the unmistakeable presence she had. Her every decision was dictated by her strong sense of self, governed by her passion, and guided by the boundless love she had for her family. Barbara was the very embodiment of unconditional love, her generosity of words and actions matched only by her sharp wit and sense of humour.
As a teenager, Barbara was an avid reader. Inspired by the great literary works, she became an English teacher and educated and inspired young minds during her long career. She was devoted to her students and imparted on them her fondness for Canadian literature by taking them on field trips to Margaret Laurence’s home in Neepawa.
Barbara met her husband Moses (Moe) at the age of 19. She was his confidant, best friend, and love for almost 46 years. She was the bedrock for her Moses throughout his career; a steadfast supporter of all his pursuits, she was exceptionally proud of all he had done to reshape his adopted city.
With Moses, Barbara had three children who were the light of her life: Adam, Sam, and Sarah. From an early age to adulthood Barbara instilled in her children the joy of imagination, the value of integrity, the virtue of duty, and the power of resilience. Nothing brought her greater joy than nurturing them into the caring, giving, and accomplished people they have become.
As the Levy family continued to expand, Barbara spread her wings to welcome beloved pets, Allie and MacDuff, the partners of her children, Tanya, Sandra, and Robin, and in recent years, her beautiful grandchildren, Benjamin and Maya. She could simply not help herself but to be a dedicated mother to them all, for her heart and soul has no limitations.
The dedication that Barbara showed to her husband and family was likewise present in her relationship with Judaism, embodying Jewish values and maintaining a Jewish family. Of the countless things she did to make simchas and observances celebratory and meaningful, Barbara’s embrace and assurance of the Shabbat will remain in the hearts of those around her. Each week, she created an island in time on Friday nights, filled with unforgettable food, songs, heated debate, and laughter.
Barbara demonstrated her characteristic tenacity and poise during her two-year battle with cancer, fiercely determined no matter how difficult the road was. Throughout her entire life, Barbara was the epitome of elegance and strength at once. That did not change when she became sick.
Barbara had an unmistakeable grace and class that elevated those around her, that made any moment spent with Barbara one worth living. She will be profoundly missed by her entire family: her husband Moses, her children Adam and his wife Tanya, her grandchildren Benjamin and Maya, Sam and his wife Sandra, Sarah and her partner Robin, her mother Inge and her sister Ursula, and all of her extended family. Barbara was predeceased by her father, Arthur.
The funeral was held at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery on November 4, 2020, and shiva was observed privately by the family. We wish to thank Rabbi Yosef Benarroch for officiating Barbara’s funeral, and honourary pallbearers Rabbi Shmuly Altein, Matthew Adelman, Michael Goldberg, David Lipnowsk and Jeff Morry. Minyan participants were Abe Anhang, Jack Craven, Hart Kaplan, Jeff Kliman and Shawn Wolk.
We also wish to thank Dr. Paul Daeninck, Shawna Castillo, and the entire team at the Victoria Hospital CancerCare for their support, attention, and care over the last year and a half.
Donations in Barbara’s honour can be directed to the Barbara Levy Scholarship Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.
Obituaries
SHIRLEY SHINOFF (nee BLUMBERG)
With profound sadness, yet with hearts overflowing with cherished memories, we announce the peaceful passing of Shirley Shinoff, surrounded by the unwavering love of her family, on February 21st. A beacon of warmth and grace, Shirley departed this world after a life richly lived, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and unwavering devotion that will forever illuminate our lives. She was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Alvin Shinoff, her partner in life and love, with whom she shared a lifetime of treasured moments, building a foundation of enduring affection and mutual respect that stood as a testament to their deep bond.
Shirley was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, aunt and a true matriarch whose love knew no bounds. Born and raised in the vibrant community of Winnipeg, Shirley was a proud daughter of Millie and Jack Blumberg. Very proud and adoring sister of Idy, Heddy and Saul. She embodied the values instilled by her parents, demonstrating compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to her community. She carried forward the spirit of their upbringing, enriching the lives of those around her with her gentle spirit and unwavering support. Shirley was an integral part of the Winnipeg Jewish community, actively participating in its traditions and contributing to its vibrant tapestry, weaving connections that would last a lifetime.
Beyond her familial and communal roles, Shirley possessed a quiet strength and a gentle spirit that endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She found joy in the strategic intricacies of bridge, where she formed lasting friendships and honed her sharp mind, creating bonds of laughter and shared moments. Most of all, her heart overflowed with pride for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She never missed an opportunity to “kvell” about them, sharing their accomplishments and joys with anyone who would lend an ear, her eyes sparkling with love.
Shirley will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted children, Loree and Daniel, her cherished daughter-in-law Michelle, her adored grandchildren Anthony, William, Joshua, Aaron, and Jacob, and her precious great-grandchildren Wesley, Grayson, Millie, Adriana, Eva, and Lillian. Her beloved nieces and nephews and their children and her wide circle of friends will forever hold her gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, and enduring love close to their hearts.
Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and boundless love will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know her, a lasting testament to a life beautifully lived.
Obituaries
ERROL TAPPER
February 8, 1944 – March 11, 2025
Errol Tapper passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025, at Health Sciences Centre at the age of 81 years.
He was predeceased by his parents, Lawrence and Lillian Tapper, and his beloved daughter Jody.
Errol is survived by his partner, Valerie, his daughter Jaime (Devin), brother Robert (Lesley) (nephew Elliot [Laura] and niece Meredith). He will be fondly remembered by neighbours and friends from River Heights, and summers spent at Winnipeg Beach, as well as colleagues from his equipment financing business.
A private cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
If friends so desire, donations may be made to Cystic Fibrosis Canada or the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.
Tribute Link: branchandpyre.com
Obituaries
BRIAN SHINEWALD
Born: Apr 17, 1984
Date of Passing: Jan 22, 2025
Suddenly and unexpectedly on January 22, 2025, our beloved son and brother, Brian Neil Shinewald, began the journey to his final frontier.
Brian leaves behind a multitude of family who came together on the days following to mourn: his parents, Goldie and Mark Shinewald and his best friend and brother, Robert and sister-in-law Jen; aunts and uncles: Rose and Stewart Shinewald, Terry and Jeff Hurtig, Barry and Clara Roy, Martin Roy and Audrey Roitelman; cousins: Andrew, Alexis, Spencer and Skylar Shinewald, Stacie Jaye and Shane Leppky, Marnie Hurtig, Elayna Hurtig, Jay and Charlie Macdonald, Jerry Roitelman, Karen Ackerman and Dustin Roitelman, Evan Ackerman-Roitelman and Carey Atkinson, Michael, Rachel and Frankie Roy, Jeffrey, Stephanie, Jonah and Lev Roy.
Brian’s presence in this plane touched the lives of many friends including Morgan Fiks, Michael Dudeck, Kathleen Chomynec, Karol Hutniak, Rick Lafleur, Eric Feuer, and too many more to name. We are grateful for all of the funny stories and fond memories shared.
We are going to miss our weekly Sunday night dinners, our 3:30 p.m. phone calls discussing daily events, bike rides through the area and especially the drop ins for a quiet conversation coupled with a latte or a dram of scotch. These little things will refresh and maintain our memories, never to be forgotten. Rest in peace Brian, you will always have a special place in our hearts.
We wish to send a special thanks to the firefighters, paramedics and staff at St. Boniface Hospital who attended Brian in his time of need.
Donations may be made in Brian’s name to the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention:
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