Obituaries
DINA GRANOVE (née WEISZNER) April 26, 1952 – January 1, 2023
Dina passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully on January 1st, 2023, at the age of 70 with her beloved Bruce by her side. In a moment, she was gone.
Dina is survived by her loving husband Bruce, her daughter Morissa (Laurie McCreery), and her cherished Ssister Mimi (Earl Singer). Dina also leaves behind her auntie Tova, cousins, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, friends, colleagues, students, and countless loved ones that will all miss her warm smile and extra-special hugs.
Dina was born in Israel on April 26th, 1952 to Moishe and Etta Weiszner (nee Kahan). Moishe and Etta knew each other from before the war, reconnected in Oradea after the liberation of the Holocaust, and on July 14, 1946 they were married. They welcomed their first daughter together, Mimi (Frieda) on June 25, 1947 before emigrating from Romania to seek a better life in Israel in August of 1950. Life there was not easy in those early years of Israel’s independence, but they had their faith and their freedom, and on April 26, 1952 in Haifa, their second daughter, Dina was born. Moishe, Etta, Mimi, and Dina immigrated to Canada on November 24, 1952 and settled in Winnipeg where they began their life anew. Although they began with practically no monetary treasures, they were very rich with priceless treasures: their freedom, their deep connection to the Jewish faith, their religion and traditions, their love and devotion to each other and their family, their skills, ambition, and the determination to make a good life.
Moishe and Etta succeeded and exceeded their goals. They made a great home, family, friends, and life which could be felt in the respect flowing out to and in from everyone they encountered. Dina was a testament to their love and devotion, and that same love and devotion continues to ripple out through each of us who knew her and loved her. We are better for having known her. The world is better, simply because she was.
Dina and her sister Mimi were steeped in rich traditions and meaningful practices that continue to be passed down from generation to generation to this day. Her love of family and appreciation for life made Dina a beacon of light to all she encountered. Whether you were looking to share a laugh or simply needed a little extra love, she was unconditionally there. To see ourselves through Dina’s eyes was one of the greatest gifts that life could offer. She saw the best in us, and she believed in us wholeheartedly – even when we struggled to do the same for ourselves.
Here are a few words that her beloved friend and mentor, Cantor Tracy Kasner, lovingly wrote in Dina’s eulogy, just as Dina’d requested – “for some day”:
Dina appreciated how things looked without being vain. She valued her surroundings without being materialistic. Most of all, and above anything else, she embraced thoughts and people with tenacity, wonder, and pure love. She could bounce around an idea for hours and analyze. Most fascinating was how she would hold on to an idea and let it grow, and she wanted to inspire others to do the same… to want to also make the world better, even if only to improve one thing. Her persistence was sometimes exhausting, until you realized you were in the embrace of a woman who felt that (true to her Hebrew name, Dina, translating to mean “judgement”) critical thinking and evaluation were the ultimate ways to show our appreciation of life. Every moment mattered to her, from the way a synagogue ebulletin looked, to major social justice scenarios.
Nothing was mundane – and especially not anything to do with the goings on of Bruce, Morissa, and Laurie. After 48 years of marriage to Bruce (following a marriage proposal that began with “Hey Dina. Take a look in the glove box.” because he thought it was so romantic) I am flooded by the memory of her words that she “knows how lucky she is to have such a good one in Bruce”, and then the ultimate gift: “A teacher for the teacher” – her daughter Morissa, about whom she would say, gave her the most profound lessons in life… perhaps unknowingly as a child, and in her adult life, knowingly – as her best friend. And Dina’s love continued to grow as she got to know her daughter-in-law Laurie, whom she and Bruce consider another daughter in every way. Laurie’s love for, and devotion to Morissa was amongst the greatest gifts and joys of Dina’s life. Their birthdays being only two days apart, Dina and Laurie shared an extra-special bond and many Taurus traits that they loved to joke about together. Their love transcended bloodlines and embodied the true meaning of family.
I am sure that many of you have a Dina story that reflects what it felt like to be welcomed by her… embraced by her. Like family, you belonged with her. This all makes me think of our sanctuary here at Etz Chayim Synagogue where Dina was a fixture in both her presence and her leadership. She was in synagogue often, and in this regard, she was a woman of predictability. She had her favorite spots and her famous facial expressions: The face that came with the pure joy of t’fillah and learning, and then the one for mindless chatter (or any noise whatsoever), other than the words of Rabbi Kliel or the sound of prayer. She had been synagogue President, was a devoted fellow congregant, a friend, and family to anyone finding themselves alone and without a place of belonging. Whether in life or at the high holidays, she and Bruce welcomed people into their world and home, openly, and without question. A great example of this could be found in recent years as they shared their home with “Cousin Arnie,” which continues to be a blessing in disguise to this very day. Dina didn’t just love sharing her home (and kitchen) with Arnie, she insisted he give at least six months’ notice should he ever decide to move out. He and his loved ones were a welcome addition to daily life. Once again, with Dina, everyone simply belonged without question.
Even before she retired and found herself embedded into the fabric of her synagogue, the magic of Dina was a gift to her students and peers in Adult Education. As a teacher she worked to bring out the love of learning in everyone around her. She taught so much more than math and focused on what is necessary to succeed. As Department Head she worked to make the quality of education more important than the politics of our education system. The relationships she forged and maintained with her colleagues, and even some students, lived on until the day of her sudden passing.
Dina had a great appreciation for anyone with a flair for artistic expression, mathematics, a good Yiddish curse, or a great pair of glasses. These all got an extra-special endorsement from Dina. She saw what people were capable of, and she valued people reaching for their potential in every way. All you had to do was ask and she was there in support. Whether with money, time, or her energy, she helped with editing, or cooking, or baking, and just generally showing up in any way that was required. She loved to find ways to connect and be helpful, which was most evident in her beloved role as “Auntie Dina” over the years. This was clearest in her greatest routine joy of picking up her Great-Nephew Ethan and Great-Niece Annie from school each week, simply to hang out, catch up, and help with their homework if needed.
Everyone and everything mattered to her. I wish for all of us that this could be the lesson we take from her life as a bold response to her leaving this world – in our minds: too soon, too quickly. I imagine she would still reflect on her days and tell you how lucky she was to have known you and to have spent any time in this world – and I think that is her greatest lesson. Tishi nishmatah tsrurah btzur Chayim – may her soul be bound up in the bond of life, may she forever rest in peace, and we can all say, amen.]
Thank you, Tracy, for capturing my Mom’s life and spirit so beautifully. Thank you for the connection you shared, and for helping us all to reflect on her life and remember her true essence.
Dina
literally left us all a final message the day before her passing – a mass email sent December 31st, 2022 that simply stated: “We feel so blessed that you are in our lives…. Love, Dina and Bruce.” – along with an attached image that said: “Enjoy the next chapter. May you be proud of the work you have done, the person you are, and the difference you have made.”
In lieu of flowers and gifts, we ask you to please consider a donation to support the Etz Chayim Synagogue. Dina was deeply invested in the preservation and growth of Jewish Living and in the opportunity for every one of every faith to have a safe space of belonging, always. This synagogue and community have served as a healing home away from home for her and our family in every way. She was so excited for the future of the new Etz Chayim, and in light of the exciting plans for a new location that were recently announced, donations for Dina will be used to help fund a special legacy project to support the continued growth of her beloved sanctuary in her absence.
Donations can be made online at
https://www.congregationetzchayim.ca/ or by calling the synagogue office at (204) 589-6305.
In closing, we would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for the incredible outpouring of support in the form of donations, meals, and love that have already been received over the past month in honor of Dina. We are deeply grateful.
Surrounded by his loving family, Mojluf Muyal z”l passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on Sunday, July 9th, 2023 (20th day of Tammuz, 5783) at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg. Mojluf is predeceased by his parents, Yamin Muyal and Rachma (Bensoussan) and his sisters Esther Levy and Mary Benarroch. Mojluf is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years Mary Muyal, son Yamin (Karla), siblings Anita Muyal (Mojluf z”l), Moses Muyal (Darcy z”l), and grandchildren Josh and Hannah.
Mojluf was born July 29th, 1932 in Casablanca, Morocco. Mojluf & his family eventually moved to Tangier where he grew up. Mojluf left high school early in order to work and help support his family. In 1957, at age 25, Mojluf decided he and his family deserved better, and alone, set sail on a long, strenuous trip to Canada, arriving many days later in the town of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Once in Halifax, Mojluf eventually made his way to Winnipeg where he began working as a long haul truck driver, in order to save money to bring the rest of his family over from Morocco. After a few years of saving up, he sent for his sisters and parents to come to Canada.
While driving truck was paying the bills, Mojluf had higher ambitions in life and eventually discovered his love for electronics. Mojluf decided to become a licensed electrician and opened up his own TV & radio repair shop called Yuma Television on Maryland St, eventually moving the business into the basement of his home on Inkster Blvd.
In 1967 while attending “Festival 67” in Montreal, Mojluf met a beautiful young Moroccan girl named Mary who happened to be from the same town he was born in. It was truly love at first sight and Mojluf knew right then and there that Mary was going to be his wife. Within a matter of weeks, the two were married.
Mary eventually left Montreal and moved to Winnipeg with her now husband Mojluf where they had a son, Yamin, in 1970. Mojluf and Mary raised their son Yamin in an orthodox Jewish household, sending him to the private Jewish school Mary happened to teach at, Talmud Torah.
As time went on, and Yamin got older, Mojluf got to welcome a daughter in-law Karla, and two grandchildren, Josh and Hannah. Mojluf absolutely adored his grandchildren, and loved being their Abuelo. Whether it was taking Josh fishing at the Selkirk docks, or making Hannah’s favourite pancakes, Mojluf dedicated the last 20+ years of his life to his family. Hosting many Shabbat dinners, taking the grandkids to Talmud Torah synagogue and just spending time with his family.
As time went on, and Mojluf and Mary got older, they sold their home on Inkster Blvd after 60+ amazing years. Mary moved into the Simkin Centre where she could receive extra care, and Mojluf moved into his son Yamin’s home. During the last few years of Mojluf’s life, he went daily across the city, to sit and be with his wife, Mary, at Simkin. Nothing was more important to him at this time, than being with and spending all the time he could with the love of his life.
In mid June of 2023, Mojluf went into the Grace Hospital for a hip replacement, but quickly endured some medical complications, and passed away peacefully in the ICU with his family by his side.
Mojluf’s family would like to take a moment to thank the amazing staff at Grace Hospital, especially nurse Marie, who went above and beyond in Abuelo’s care (or as he was known on the ICU ward, “Mo”) We are eternally grateful to all of you.
Abuelo. The path that you paved for your family, is one we are proud to take with your memory in mind. Thank you for everything you’ve done for us, we love you so much. May your Neshama have an Aliyah.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made in Mojluf’s memory to your local synagogue.
It is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of Rita Shreiber (z’l), beloved Mother, Baba, Sister, Aunty, and friend. Born in Winnipeg Mb to Mendal and Rose Warkov (z’l), Rita grew up on Inkster Blvd in a home filled with love. Rita met the love of her life on a blind date while in university. They married and had two children, Daniel and Deborah. In 1966, along with 10 other parents, Sidney and Rita founded the Mb Assoc. for Children with Learning Disabilities, now known as Learning Disabilities Assoc. of Mb. At 40, she went from homemaker to student and ultimately, Library Manager of the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba.
Rita loved adventure and travel. She travelled to Israel, UK, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, Morocco, Russia (at 79) along with Canada and the USA. She loved books, lively conversations, music, art, culture, yoga, dance and her many good friends. Rita was an intelligent, elegant, warm, and wise person. She loved her children and grandchildren with all of her heart. She took great pride in all their achievments and continuously supported them. She ensured that family traditions were carried on by hosting family dinners for the holidays each year and teaching her granddaughters their Jewish heritage.
Rita was predeceased by her parents, husband Sidney, brother Saul, brother in law and sister in law, Hye and Betty Elfenbaum. She will be profoundly missed by her son and daughter in law, Daniel and Irene Shreiber; her daughter and son in law, Deborah and Stephen Smith; granddaughters Sydney Shreiber (Quinn) and Erin Shreiber (Phil), brother Sim Warkov (Gretta), niece and nephew Gail Mattuck and Mardy Elfenbaum, many more nieces, nephews, cousins, good friends and all those that loved her.
Funeral was held at the Shaarey Zedek cemetary on September 1, 2023. Rabbi Benarroch officiated. Tzedakah can be made to the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg or Jewish Child and Family Service.
It is with profound sadness we announce that Gloria Kohm passed away on July 17, 2023, 84 years old, surrounded by family and friends, at the Victoria General Hospital. She was at peace.
Gloria had a beautiful soul. She was loving, courageous, strong, wise, determined, hard working with an adventurous spirit. She was a very warm, caring, passionate “full of life” person with a tremendous sense of humour. She always tried her best – never giving up, despite whatever challenges she faced.
Gloria was born in Winnipeg and grew on Matheson Street. She had an idyllic life, much loved by her parents Max and Gertrude Tessler, her brother Ivan and extended family. She was raised in a home filled with yiddishkeit, family and friends. She attended Luxton School and St. John’s School, cheder and the YMHA. The family attended the local synagogue where Max was a chazzan.
Max and Gertie left no stone unturned to locate any survivors of Max’s family from the Shoah– the Tesslers – and bring them to Winnipeg.
Gloria’s maternal grandparents, Isaac and Annie Altman lived nearby and ran a dry good store. Mom also brought much joy to them. She was a loving and beautiful child, with flaxen hair and blue eyes, who modeled in her youth.
Gloria enjoyed summers at their cottage on Pine at Winnipeg Beach.
Gloria loved regularly going with her father Max to his store, Academy Hardware. It was their special time together. Gloria watched her father act with integrity in business, and learned how to be a great salesperson. Max passed away in 1966.
Mom was an accomplished pianist. She was trained classically. She also had the voice of an angel. She loved to play and sing Yiddish pieces. She would often bring emotions to the surface of her audience.
Gloria attended the University of Winnipeg, beginning at age 16. She married at 18 and had three children (Nada, Lynne and Stuart). She often said that the greatest joy of her life was having children, and grandchildren. She loved us deeply. Sadly, Nada and Stuart passed away in 2018 and 2021 respectively. Her brother Ivan passed away in 2014.
Growing up, mom was the best. She cherished, supported and encouraged us. Nothing was too much for her kids. She was always organizing and finding ways to enrich our lives. Our home was open to neighbours and our friends. Friends enjoyed coming to our home as it was warm, welcoming, full of treats and mom’s amazing cooking! Gloria treated everyone with kindness and friends have commented through the years how mom helped them and positively impacted their lives.
Gloria attended night courses at the University of Winnipeg for years, as her children were growing up, to complete her Bachelor of Arts. Education was very important to mom and she instilled this value in her children. Her mother Gertie had attended University when it was not common for women to do so. Mom stressed the need to “get a profession so that you can always support yourself… you can do anything you desire.”
Once her kids were young adults, Gloria attended Social Work at the University of Manitoba and graduated with honors. At first, she worked with CFS in Winnipeg, but had a great adventure by moving at age 47 to the Northwest Territories to accept a job as the Area Superintendent of Social Services. She lived in Coppermine which is above the Arctic Circle, and did ground breaking work. She traveled by dog sled to remote areas, flew in small planes, went by boat, and skidoo as needed. She had a range of experiences including running the court, and arctic char fishing! Once she organized a charter flight for her and a few colleagues to fly to Greenland for the long weekend!
As her mother Gertie’s health was failing in 1988, Gloria returned to Winnipeg. After that, Gloria worked in sales – her forte. She was a great sales person who acted with integrity in all of her dealings with many satisfied customers through the years.
Gloria related to people in a very special way. She enjoyed people. She loved their stories, their history. She would talk to people wherever she went. She would connect with people and put a smile on their faces. People were drawn to her.
Gloria was compassionate. She would tell us to treat people well, “Be kind; if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all; Treat people how you want to be treated; Do not judge others.”
Mom also had other sayings that guided how we lived (as did her mother) such as “It’s better than a kick in the pants” (meaning be grateful); There is a lid for every pot (meaning there is a partner for everyone, so don’t give up hope); You have to accept the things you cannot change.” (meaning do not give up, persevere, and make the best of a situation).
Gloria was always up for a good adventure. She would spontaneously try new things without hesitation. She was a lot of fun. She had a good sense of humor!
Gloria was very well read and curious. Mom was interested in politics, history, geography, science, anthropology – everything really. She was dubbed the “Queen of Crosswords” and “Queen of Trivia”. As her vision was failing, mom would blurt out answers before we finished reading the question to her! It was amazing to watch her in action. She took the ritual bow and smile for each game played and won!
Mom loved to travel and would have wonderful stories and adventures she would regale us with for years. She also enjoyed Mah-jong, mysteries, movies and bowling.
Mom believed in giving back and among other things, was on the board of National Council of Jewish Women, president of Kiwanis ladies, a board member of the International Centre, and volunteer with United Way, Cancer Society and Women’s Health clinic.
Despite facing challenges, Gloria never gave up. She was strong. She was courageous. She did not falter. She was determined and pragmatic. She dealt with each blow with courage, optimism and dignity, setting an example to all who knew her.
A funeral service, officiated by Rabbi Matthew Leibl was held on July 20, 2023, at Chesed Shel Emes with interment at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery.
Gloria was grateful to G-d for her blessed life. She was grateful for her family – her children, her grandchildren, Daniel and Ashley, her son-in-law Michael, her extended family and dear friends – especially her beloved friend Elizabeth. Her love was endless. The values and love she imparted earned her the love and respect of those who knew her. Although mom will be deeply missed, her life was an inspiration to us and her legacy will live on forever.
Donations may be made to the Jewish National Fund of Canada (204-947-0207).
