Born: NOVEMBER 17, 1930 Passed away: DECEMBER 31, 2020
Following a brief illness, the family of David Rabb is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our loving husband, father, and zaida.
David leaves to mourn his adoring wife of 65 years, Sheila; his children, Jeff, Irene (Jack), Ian (Trevor); his grandchildren, Haley, Justin, Matthew and Emily; his beautiful sister, Merle, and sister-in-law, Zsipie, as well as many nieces, nephews, their spouses and children. David also left behind countless friends and their families who may have not been related by blood but were as close as family.
David was predeceased by his parents, Louis and Irene Rabinovitch; sisters, Rose (Abe), Ethel (Eph), brother-in-law, Earl Pitch, niece, Pamela Wolson, and nephew, Michael Hoffer.
David Rabb grew up in the south end of Winnipeg. He attended Queenston School, Robert H. Smith and Kelvin High School. He was always an avid learner, starting from a very young age. He was a frequent winner of spelling bee contests, dollars for scholars, and graduated winning the Governor General’s medal at Kelvin High School.
In high school David competed and excelled at basketball, bowling and curling. Later in life he discovered both tennis and golf, and pursued these activities for many years. He golfed every week, including this past summer.
David attended University of Manitoba, graduating with an honors degree in geography. His love of learning never ceased, and as a senior he audited classes with his friends at both the University of Winnipeg and College of the Desert in Palm Desert.
In 1954 David met the love of his life – Sheila Pitch, though his fraternity, Sigma Alpha Mu. Married in 1955, the fairytale love story lasted over 65 years. They shared a passion for their families, friends, traveling, winters in Palm Desert, playing cards, entertaining, and sports. David had season tickets for the Blue Bombers for 68 years.
David started his career with his dad and brother-in-law. They opened automatic car washes across Western Canada, followed by Washtronics Ltd., manufacturing equipment for lifting and washing various forms of transportation.
David retired in his mid 50s. Realizing that he still wanted to contribute, he got a real estate license and spent the next 30 years actively working in this market. He finally fully retired five years ago at the age of 85.
David was known to all for his incredible demeanor. He was honest, kind, genuine, reliable, and made a friend of everyone he met, whether it was for five minutes or 50 years.
It didn’t matter if it was business, charity or personal relationships. These qualities shined brightly always.
David never forgot the lessons he learned watching his parents and in-laws lead and teach by example. Throughout his life he gave generously to a number of causes – volunteering both time and money – the Jewish Foundation, JNF, B’nai Brith, and Chai Folk Ensemble to name a few. He sent a donation to any charity that ever asked.
The family would like to offer our since love and thanks to all the caregivers and doctors who supported us during his brief illness. We would like to thank Maria, Patty, and Cathy for the exceptional care and concern they extended to our family.
For many years Dr. Sheldon Permack and staff were always there when needed. We also want to thank Dr. Dan Chenier, who saw our dad regularly before he entered the hospital. Also, a special thank you to our dear friends, Dr. Leon Waye and Dr. Jeff Mottola, who helped us navigate throughout his short illness.
Finally, a huge thank you to Dr. Lamba, Rose and Jessie from the Health Sciences Centre for their role in his care.
We are so heartbroken over our loss. David never spoke an ill word of anyone. He had a colossal zest for life. His life was exemplary. He was righteous, a mensch of all menschen, a person of integrity and honour. His unconditional love and support of all his family and friends will sustain us forever.
In lieu of flowers tribute donations can be made in his honor to:
twotenrecovery
www.twotenrecovery.org
or
www.jewishfoundation.org
204-477-7525
