It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Clara, “Queen of the Mayers,” at the age of 87, in Winnipeg.
Beloved by her children Faye Kozuska, Norm (Debra) and Sam Mayer, grandchildren Rachel, David (Mia), Matthew (Jacqueline), Jesse (Katrina), Seth, Marlee (Bryce), Danielle and great-grandchildren, Drake, Terek, Calista, Oliver and Sofia, and many nieces and nephews. Clara is survived by her sister Mina and brother in law Eli, in Israel; and was predeceased by Rubin, her loving husband of 66 years, her parents, Miriam and Leib Haim, her sisters, Paula, Silvi, Adela, Sara and son-in-law Garry Kozuska.
Clara lived a life of quiet courage. Born in Iasi, Romania she survived the Holocaust and as a teen, left to become a member of Kibbutz Ramat HaKovesh. She witnessed the birth of Israel, reunited with her family and married Rubin. In 1960 they immigrated to Canada to offer their children a safer life, but Clara never forgot her love of Israel.
Clara was a wonderful cook and baker, with many Israeli and Romanian specialties. She worked at Rubin’s side in various grocery and restaurant ventures. Always stylishly dressed, she enjoyed card games and large dinner parties for family and friends, regular trips back to Israel, and other travel. But more than anything, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren filled her heart with joy (and she always took their sides no matter what). She lit Sabbath candles up until the final weeks of her life.
The family appreciates the loyal care provided by her son Sam, Jewish Child and Family Services (JCFS), Dr. S. Choy, and staff of the Grace Hospital 3rd floor. Internment was April 6, 2020 at the Bnay Abraham Cemetery. Her grandchildren Rachel, David, Matthew, Jesse, Danielle and daughter-in-law Debra honoured her as pallbearers. If desired, donations in Clara’s memory may be made to JCFS.
