Obituaries
JOHN STATHAM
Embraced in the love of his partner and children, John Statham passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at the age of 71. He had received a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer on July 7, 2021 and died naturally of his illness at the home of his partner Richard, where he had lived since beginning treatment in August, 2021. His life ended as he had lived it, with calm and dignity.
John was the cherished partner of Richard Yaffe for over twenty-two years, the much loved father of Anthony Statham (Alaina) and Alexandra Bolton, and the adored and adoring grandpa of Oliver Statham and Theo Statham. He is also survived by his sisters Margaret Stewart, Frances Statham (Esther Phillips) and Claire LeBane (Jeff), his brother Robert Statham, his nieces and nephews, and his children’s mother Anne Bolton. He was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Judith Statham.
John Arthur Michael Statham was born in Longueuil, Quebec on October 14, 1950. Following the untimely death of his father when John was 8 years old, the family moved to Winnipeg in 1959. John graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) in 1975. While living in London, England and Pau, France with his wife Anne from 1977 to 1980, he attended the City of London Polytechnic and The City Literary Institute (London) where he studied French language and literature, and then Université de Pau et des Pays de l’Adour from which he received a diploma following studies in French language and literature, history and translation. After returning to Winnipeg, he served as the Interpretation Section Head of Translation Services for the Province of Manitoba for over 27 years, earning a reputation among the judiciary, lawyers and members of the legislature for his work ethic and for his diligence and precision in French/English interpretation and translation.
It was his art, though, that gave true meaning to John’s life. His remarkable talent in painting and drawing was evident at an early age, and was recognized by mentors who guided him and facilitated his admission to the School of Art at the University of Manitoba and then his life as a visual artist. He maintained studios both in his home and downtown in the Exchange District, and more recently at the Clearwater Bay cottage he shared with Richard. John had the ability to decipher beauty and significance in the ordinary and even the mundane, and with great sensitivity and meticulous technique he created paintings and drawings, often based on the simplest subject matter, that uncovered hidden radiance and revealed concealed harmony. He believed in the purity of art as an expression of beauty.
John had been considering conversion to Judaism for many years. He identified with Jewish values and the Jewish approach to ethics. It was the concept of tikkun olam in particular that resonated, and its goal of repairing the world through the pursuit of social justice with acts of kindness, particularly for the benefit of those without a voice. Under the guidance of Rabbi Anibal Mass, John completed his conversion to Judaism eight weeks before his death. He had the privilege of choosing his Jewish name and decided on the name Yochanan Uri, which connotes grace and light – both integral to the man he was. John and Richard had planned to be married following his conversion to Judaism, but sadly the progression of his illness precluded that.
John’s life was defined by kindness, generosity and authenticity. He was a quiet, keen listener and when he spoke he did so with measured and thoughtful consideration. Although introspective and a deep thinker, he was possessed of a lovable, dry wit. He was an avid reader in both English and French, and a perceptive observer of people and the human condition. While self-promotion was abhorrent to him, he was an ardent supporter of those he loved and in whom he believed. He was a loyal friend, and those in John’s inner circle were the fortunate recipients not only of his wise counsel but also of his masterful baking.
John’s funeral service was held at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue at 12:00 noon on Friday, February 4, 2022, officiated by Rabbi Anibal Mass. Eulogies were delivered by John’s children, his partner, and his friend Tom Lovatt. Pallbearers were Clifford Yaffe, Mariam Bernstein, Sarah Kredentser, Saul Simmonds, Eric Vickar and Shawn Yaffe. Honorary pallbearers were James Anning, Donald Pearen, Tom Lovatt and Bette Woodland. John was laid to rest at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. The funeral service may be viewed on YouTube (SZ Winnipeg).
We wish to express our gratitude to Drs. Benjamin Goldenberg and Paul Daeninck and their nurses Cindy and Melanie, and to the chemotherapy nurses at CancerCare (MacCharles), all of whom treated John with the kindness and respect he deserved.
We are deeply grateful for the many cards and donations already received in tribute to John. Those still desiring to honour John’s memory may wish to consider a donation to a fund being established in John’s and Richard’s names at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, or a charity of choice.
Obituaries
LILLIAN R. MOSTOW (NEE HALPARIN) AUGUST 31, 1926 – JANUARY 18, 2026
Our beloved matriarch, Lillian Mostow, passed away peacefully at 99 years of age at the Simkin Centre, where she had received exemplary care for more than six years.
Lillian was quite the character. She said what she meant, without filters; she was strong, opinionated, and fiercely protective of those she loved. You always knew exactly where you stood with her.
The youngest of five, Lillian grew up on Dufferin Ave. in north-end Winnipeg, next door to her father’s sweater factory, Standard Knitting. Clever and artistic, she studied interior design at the University of Manitoba before marrying Harold Mostow in 1947. They had a wonderful life together. They loved to throw parties for their family and friends at their home on Brock St. and Lillian’s Sunday pancake brunch was a cherished tradition. To escape Winnipeg’s brutal winters, they vacationed first in Mexico and later in Maui, where they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary as a joint simcha with the marriage of her daughter, Morri Mostow, to Douglas Long. After their children left home, Lillian accompanied Harold on his business trips to Asia, where she bought beads and semi-precious stones for the necklaces she designed for her home-based business, My Place. In 2005, two years after being widowed, she moved with her daughter and son-in-law to Gabriola Island, BC, where they happily shared a home for 14 years. Despite being a city girl all her life, she adapted seamlessly to country living. She soon had bridge partners and friends and began volunteering. Fiercely independent, she drove around the island in her red PT Cruiser, going to the library, attending events and taking the ferry to Nanaimo’s aquatic centre to swim a few times a week.
In 2019, failing mobility and cognition necessitated a move back to Winnipeg, to the Simkin Centre, where she spent her final years. At 99, she was still going to concerts, synagogue services and exercise classes.
Lillian was predeceased by her parents, Moses/Moishe and Clara/Chaika Halparin, her siblings, William/Bill Halparin, Norman Halparin, Archie Halparin and Freda Fox, and by Harold Mostow, her husband of 56 years. She is mourned by her children, Morri Mostow (Douglas Long), Michael Mostow and Sydney Mostow; by her grandchildren, Cassandre Aras, Clotilde Aras (Nicolas Gautier), Kyle Mostow (Rachel Minuk) and Mauro Mostow Palmer; by her great-grandchildren, Emily Mostow, Léonard, Céleste and Lilas Gauthier; by her many nieces, nephews and cousins; and by all those whose lives she touched.
Grateful thanks to the extraordinary staff at the Simkin Centre who took such good care of Lillian. Also to Rabbi Carnie Rose, who officiated her funeral with great warmth and compassion at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue on January 22, 2026.
Eulogies and more about Lillian’s life can be found on morrimostow.com. Donations in Lillian’s memory can be made to the Saul and Claribel Simkin Centre.
Obituaries
JEAN SHIRLEY KOPSTEIN FEBRUARY 14, 1934 – JANUARY 11, 2026
Jean Shirley Kopstein passed away peacefully, a month shy of her 92nd birthday, with her three devoted children by her side.
Known to her family as Shaney, Jean will be deeply missed by her children, Ivy (Murray), Ruth, and Alan; her grandchildren, Louis, Minnie (Patrick), Leo (Ashley), and Max (Brynne); her great-grandchild, Margot; her brothers, Martin (Grace) and Gary; as well as her nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Jean was born on Valentine’s Day in 1934 in Montreal. In 1939, her family returned to Winnipeg, where they settled in the city’s North End. During her second year at the University of Manitoba, Jean met Bobby Kopstein, the light of her life. They married on June 23, 1954. That same year, Jean graduated as a teacher and taught for three years before choosing to stay home to raise their family.
Later in life, Jean embarked on a meaningful professional career and left her mark on every organization she served. She worked as a counsellor at the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba, became a specialist in adult education and went on to become Director of Staff Development and Training for the provincial Department of Corrections. During that time, she was also seconded by the government to establish the Manitoba Women’s Directorate. She was often described as an inspiration – a wonderful colleague, a thoughtful leader, and a great friend.
Jean had many passions and immersed herself fully in all of them. She loved travelling with Bob and had a deep appreciation for film, music, art, design, fashion, and food from many cultures – always in search of the perfect muffin! She formed deep bonds with family and friends, with constant concern for the well-being of those she loved. Jean and Bob were humanists who led by example, instilling strong values in their family. Jean had a unique and engaging presence. She was outgoing, vivacious, curious, and intelligent. She lit up a room with her energy and her beautiful, warm smile.
Diagnosed with glaucoma in her 60s, Jean began a long and challenging period in her life. After the loss of Bob in 2014, she faced further health difficulties. Despite these challenges, her desire to live fully never waned. She remained interested in the world around her and took great joy in family dinners, trips to Winnipeg Beach, and spending time with family and friends. The family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in Jean’s care over the many years, especially those who went above and beyond. They are deeply grateful to Shaftesbury Park for its support, and in particular to Jean’s caregivers for their outstanding care, compassion, and kindness. The family would also like to express appreciation to the clergy and staff of the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue for their kindness and support. Donations in Jean’s memory may be made to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba or to a charity of your choice.
Obituaries
CATHY NORAH ITSCOVICH MAY 28, 1958 – FEBRUARY 7, 2026
Cathy passed away quietly on February 7th surrounded by family after fighting an admirable fight. She is survived by her husband Sheldon, daughters Cheryl (Mike), Jennifer (Craig) and stepson Brian (Cara) and her grandchildren Leland, Hayden, Daylea and Xander. Siblings, Reay (Corey), Joan (Ron), Janet (Dwight) and Fred (Attiya).
She will be greatly missed by family and the many friends she made along her journey. Cathy was born in Winnipeg and had the opportunity to span Manitoba with family while growing up. Her home towns included: Dauphin, Brandon, Thompson, where she graduated from R.D. Parker in 1975. Finally setting back in Winnipeg in 1983 to soon start as a dedicated MTS employee through more than 30 years of service, following in her father’s footsteps. After retirement, her faith and community at Etz Chayim Synagogue not only kept her busy, but brought countless deep friendships and connections that filled her with love. A thank you to Rabbi Kliel Rose for his guidance and unwavering support.
Cathy enjoyed spending her days quilting, gardening, joining “the ladies” to play Mah-jong, or nickels. She believed strongly in giving to charity and volunteered for numerous organizations like, Winnipeg Humane Society and Winnipeg Harvest being among her favourites.
Her love of every animal she encountered, family, friends, flowers, her Jeopardy sharp intelligence, and all the little joys she found in life will never be forgotten.
In lieu of flower, please consider donating to one of Cathy’s favourite charities in her name. Wild Life Haven Animal Rescue or Winnipeg Harvest.