Peacefully, in the early morning hours of October 13, 2022, Elsie Weinshenker passed away at the Saul and Claribel Simkin Centre at the age of 96.
Elsie was predeceased by her parents, Alfred and Sol Hazan, and her husband, Isaac (Izzy), in 2004. She is survived by her three sons: Brian (Vivian) of Charlottesville, Virginia; Harold (Renee), of Winnipeg; and Allan, of Winnipeg. She was blessed with six grandchildren: Elliott, Daniel (Shivaun), Colin, Nathan, Laura (James) and Adam (Jayme-Lyn). She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren: Maya and Chloe. She also leaves nieces and other relatives in the U.S. and Israel.
Elsie was born in Winnipeg, the only child of Sephardic Jewish parents. She maintained contact with the Jewish community through music; she played violin in the Jewish Orchestra of Winnipeg that thrived during the post war era and also sang in the Jewish Choir. It was through the violin that she met her husband, Izzy, who also played violin. They married in 1954 and raised three sons in the Garden City area. Elsie worked for the Winnipeg School Division, first in the Science Center and later in the payroll division. She was a wonderful mother and excellent role model for her children, all of whom completed 12 grade Jewish education and attained university degrees.
Elsie was always of sharp mind and offered thoughtful advice and encouragement to each member of the family.
In later years Elsie faced some health challenges that forced early retirement.
After the passing of her husband, Elsie was active at the Gwen Secter Creative Living Centre where she enjoyed social outings and reconnected with an old acquaintance, Sam Deshell, with whom she found companionship for several years prior to his passing. Sam’s son, Murray, continued a close connection with Elsie until her passing.
Her final year of life was spent in the Simkin Centre. Her family was devoted to her throughout her stay, visiting often. She also had the benefit of visits from a special devoted friend, Jacque Sourkes, who filled Elsie’s final months with conversation and stories. Her involvement had a special place in Elsie’s life.
The funeral was held graveside on October 14, 2022 with interment at Bnay Abraham Cemetery. Pallbearers were: Brian Weinshenker, Laura Cowtun, Jeff Beyer, Liat Vendrasco, Yehuda Tcherni and Gord Steindel. Donations can be made in Elsie’s name to the Gwen Secter Creative Living Centre, Winnipeg.
May Elsie’s Memory Be a Blessing.
