We are deeply saddened to announce the peaceful passing of Elaine (Footlick) Paul , matriarch of our family, on Wednesday, October 10 , 2018 at the age of 90.
Elaine’s memory will be forever cherished by her children, Rory Paul and his partner Barbie Shukster, Andria and Greg Rodin, Carla Paul and Marcia Paul; grandchildren, Ryan and Amanda Paul, Alisha and Jon Dart, Jordana Etkin, Diandra Etkin, Dylan Coutts, Liam Coutts, Isaac Rodin and Lara Rodin; great-grandchildren, Roan, Asher, Emmy and Zev; her brother Jerry Footlick, brother and sister in law Ike and Kay Footlick, nieces, nephews and her many relatives and friends.
Elaine’s was a life exceedingly well lived. She lived life to the fullest and on her own terms, which for her meant actively, with positivity, dedication to family and compassionate activism for the benefit of others. She was a devoted, loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who took immense joy, delight and pride in her family.
Elaine was predeceased by the love of her life, childhood sweetheart, life partner and husband of 41 years, her beloved Leonard Paul who passed away 27 years ago. Elaine and Leonard’s love and devotion to each other and to their family was remarkable and truly inspirational. Theirs was a union meant to last an eternity and we have no doubt it will.
Elaine accomplished much for her community in her lifetime. She helped found the Bnay Abraham Synagogue and served on its executive board as President of the Sisterhood. She was an active, lifetime member and leader in community organizations including Hadassah, Massada chapter of Pioneer Women, ORT, Na’amat and B’nai Brith Women.
Elaine was co-founder of the Manitoba Association for Children With Learning Disabilities (MACLD) now known as Learning Disabilities Association of Manitoba (LDAM). She was a tenacious advocate for children with learning disabilities and was a pioneer in Manitoba in ensuring the school system recognized students with learning disabilities and educated them accordingly so that their full potential could be achieved.
Elaine was recognized by the Seven Oaks School Division as it longest serving volunteer. For over 43 years she taught elementary school students how to read.
A graveside funeral service took place on Friday, October 12, 2018 at Bnay Abraham Cemetary officiated by Cantor Tracy Kasner-Greaves. Pallbearers were Greg Rodin, Ryan Paul, Alisha Dart, Jordana Etkin, Diandra Etkin, Liam Coutts and Isaac Rodin.
Our love for and memories of Mom/Baba Elaine will never diminish and will always serve as a source of strength, comfort, guidance and inspiration.
If desired, tributes in Elaine’s memory may be made to Learning Disabilities Association of Manitoba (LDAM) (204) 774-1821 or CancerCare Manitoba Foundation (directed to pediatric cancer research) (204) 787-2197 or a charity of your choice.
