Obituaries
BETTY ANN SEARLE (nee PRESSMAN)
Born – April 16, 1937 Passed Away – April 14, 2024
With broken hearts, we share the news of the unexpected, but peaceful, death of our dear mother, Betty Ann Searle, on April 14, 2024, just shy of her 87th birthday.
Betty is survived by her beloved husband of over 66 years, Samuel (Sam); children Sharna, Lorne (Barbara) and Beverlee (Barry); grandchildren Evan, Aaron, Jamie and Matthew; brother-in-law Garry Shapera; sister-in-law Eve Blank. Many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends will also dearly miss her.
Betty was predeceased by her parents Jack and Sally Pressman, and her only sibling, younger sister and close confidante, Doreen Shapera, as well as by other cherished family members including her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.
Born in Brandon, Manitoba, Betty lived in small Manitoba towns, moving to Weyburn, Saskatchewan, in 1948, where her father established Pressman’s Style Shop, a boys’ and men’s clothing store. Possessing evident early charm and people skills, Betty would bring a daily hot lunch to her father and mind the store while he ate. Later, she became her high school’s first female student council president.
Betty moved to Winnipeg in 1955 and soon met Sam at the Good Earth Restaurant, a popular hangout for young Jewish adults. They married in 1957 and a few years later settled into the house designed by Sam in Winnipeg’s North End. When the kids were a little older, Betty obtained an Early Childhood Education certificate from Red River Community College, worked at Peretz and Ramah schools, and became an active community volunteer. Among several positions, she served as Winnipeg Section president of the National Council of Jewish Women of Canada and manager of Art Rental and Sales at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. In later years, she remained peripherally involved with NCJWC and sat on the WAG’s advisory and foundation committees. In 1985, Betty graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a degree in economics and art history, landing a job as an account executive immediately thereafter.
Betty transformed the beautiful house Sam designed for them into a warm and welcoming home. With impeccable taste and a flair for fashion, mom, the quintessential hostess, entertained friends and family with style and good humour year-round. Betty also loved exploring the world. Her travels with Sam, and often with the whole family, included North American camping trips and ski holidays, adventures in Europe, China, Cuba, Israel, the Caribbean and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, the latter becoming “home base” for several weeks every winter for 20 years. Closer to home, mom loved residing at the family cottage in Loni Beach (Gimli), MB, for July and August each year.
Betty and Sam shared a rich, cultural life in Winnipeg. They had season tickets to “everything”: symphony, opera, chamber music, theatre, ballet, jazz. Also passionate about family, mom keenly understood the importance of staying connected and taking the time to celebrate as many simchas together as possible, crisscrossing Canada and the United States to enjoy myriad milestone occasions with extended family. The same can be said regarding Betty’s lifelong friends.
Mom’s ultimate delight was the unbridled joy she experienced being with her grandchildren. Bobbie Betty couldn’t get enough of them and spared no expense to see them as often as possible. Toronto became a regular destination and the Gimli cottage became “grandchildren central” for several weeks each summer. She was an involved, interested Bobbie, and her grandchildren loved sharing the special times in their lives with her.
Betty passed away peacefully at the Seven Oaks General Hospital. We are grateful for the kindness and dignity with which the staff treated her. A heartfelt thank you, as well, to Sam’s wonderful care team at the house – Sharon, Violeta, Naomi, Jamie, Cheryl – for providing loving support to both dad and mom.
The graveside funeral service was held on April 17, 2024, at the Rosh Pina Memorial Park, warmly officiated by Rabbi Kliel Rose. The pallbearers were grandsons Evan Searle and Matthew Pearl, son-in-law Barry Pearl, cousin Selma Gilfix, great-niece Amy Braunstein and devoted nephew David Shapera.
Donations may be made to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba’s “Betty Ann Searle Memorial Fund” or to a charitable organization supporting Winnipeg’s arts community.
Obituaries
Bill Mahon
It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Bill Mahon, just three weeks after his 85th birthday. Bill was a devoted husband of 59 years to his sweetheart Judy, beloved father to Tracy (Jeff) and Dana (Marc), proud zaidy to Nathan and Jonah, and a loyal friend to countless members of the Winnipeg community, and well beyond.
To know Bill was to adore him. People of all ages and walks of life were touched by his unique sense of humour, his generosity, kindness, and his true zest for life. He was always the first one to say “sure”, “go for it”, and “let’s do it!”
Bill’s happy place was poolside in Puerto Vallarta with his “boat” aka pool floaty. He was famous for slurping the last drop of his chocolate milkshakes, driving around town in his red convertible, and sporting his various Tilley hats.
A true north end boy, Bill grew up on Cathedral Avenue where he and his buddies got into all sorts of trouble. Bill still had weekly dates with many of these same friends, where they’d sit for hours, passing the time telling jokes, sharing stories, and having meaningful conversations.
Bill changed jobs and careers many times over the years, eventually finding his calling as a successful financial planner.
For over 40 years Bill helped countless people, and remained devoted to them, even after he retired, well into his 80’s.
Bill was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends and was always the last to leave a gathering but not before confirming plans for the next.
In November 2024 Bill suffered a traumatic fall. At the time of his accident, he was doing what he loved, hosting friends at their bi-weekly poker game. Bill’s optimism, tenacity and resilience inspired everyone as he fought his hardest to recover. Even amid the most challenging time of his life he was able to shine his bright light and bring levity and joy to those around
ill lived every day with gratitude and appreciation. He was a man of honour, respect, and integrity. He always did the right thing and instilled this in the lives of his children, grandchildren and his community.
He will be forever remembered and profoundly missed.
Bill was predeceased by his parents Emerson and Fanny Mahon, his sister Ethel Planting, and his nephew Paul Planting.
The funeral took place at Etz Chaim Synagogue on Sunday March 16th, 2025.
Pallbearers were:Jeff Kowal, Nathan Kowal, Dana Mahon, Gary Margolis, Don Katz and Shira Tennehouse Honorary pallbearers: David Gruber, Allan Becker, Syd Cohen, Billy Kowall, Ray Leibl, Roberta McEachern, Tino Pissante, Norman Silverberg and Jonah Kowal.
With gratitude, donations can be made in Bill’s name to Spinal Cord Injury Manitoba or CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
Obituaries
Arnold Ludwick
Born in Winnipeg, Arnie lived a life filled with love, adventure, and purpose. Son of Rube and Gert Ludwick, and beloved brother to Lois (David Wolch), Arnie was a devoted husband to Erna Ludwick for 62 years. Together, they built a life rich in love and family, raising their three children, Heidi, Sheryl(Mitchell Stotland), and Louis (Erika Ludwick). His greatest joy was his family, and he cherished every moment with his grandchildren: Tyler (Aaron) Mikaela (Luca), Griffin, Julian, Jackson, Harper, and Mylie. And Lobo and Kiva.
Arnie’s remarkable career spanned decades of dedication and excellence. His work was not just a job—it was a testament to his passion, intellect, and unwavering commitment to making a difference through many different philanthropic endeavors. Yet, for all his professional achievements, his heart was always with his family. They were his proudest accomplishment, his deepest love, and his greatest legacy.
A true citizen of the world, Arnie was a passionate traveler, embracing new cultures, experiences, and perspectives with open arms. He found beauty in the smallest moments—watching birds in quiet admiration, taking in breathtaking sunsets, and celebrating the gift of life with those he loved. His warmth, wisdom, and boundless curiosity touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Arnie’s legacy of love, kindness, and adventure will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.
Deep gratitude to the Jewish General Hospital Palliative Care Unit, Soins Virtuelles nurses, and the incredible Dr.Chang and Dr.Shamy whose dedication and compassion is unparalleled. We are also grateful to his caregivers Raquel and Josie who supported Arnie with unwavering support and deep human kindness.
Donations can be directed to Jewish General Hospital – Dr.Chang Palliative Care Unit and/or Dr.Shamy Hematology Oncology Unit. Donations in Arnold’s memory may be made to the Palliative Care Unit (Dr. Chang) or the Hematology Oncology Unit (Dr. Shamy) ℅ the Jewish General Hospital Foundation, Montreal, Quebec : (514) 340-8251B
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.
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