Obituaries
Joyce Meriam (Trepel) Lazer
Joyce Meriam (Trepel) Lazer of Boca Raton, Florida and East Lansing, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 19th at her Florida home, after a lengthy illness.
Joyce was born on September 15, 1932, to a musical family in Winnipeg, Canada. A gifted pianist, Joyce was the winner of many competitions, and she also excelled as a student, winning the prestigious Governor General’s Medal. Joyce gave up a promising piano career to study philosophy at the University of Manitoba, where she graduated with top honors and met her husband of 61 years, William, an Assistant Professor.
After relocating to East Lansing, Joyce became involved in a variety of artistic programs, with a special interest in classical music. As a volunteer, she mentored students and spouses, from many countries who were at Michigan State University, where Bill was a professor. Joyce served as an advisor to the Spartan Woman’s League, was a member of The Executive Board of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Lansing Symphony Association, and devoted time to her passion for investments.
However, the majority of Joyce’s time was devoted to her family, encouraging and supporting her son Randy, and daughter Simone in their creative endeavors, while inspiring Bill in his. Joyce was so actively involved in Bill’s global assignments that she was often referred to as a Goodwill Ambassador. They didn’t “retire” to Florida, instead, when the Governor requested that Bill accept an Eminent Scholar Chair at Florida Atlantic University, Joyce wasn’t necessarily opposed to the idea of an additional residence … in the winter time! She truly lived her philosophy — “try to do something nice for someone every day”.
Joyce was a loving wife, mother, sister, & friend, and leaves behind her beloved Bill, son Randy, daughter Simone, sister Shirley Senofsky, and extended family, along with so many who adored her. She was preceded in death by sisters Freda Kaufmann, & Anne Smithen, along with parents Leya & Elia Trepel.
Those who knew Joyce would not be surprised by her wishes for a private family service, (which will take place in Boca on April 28th ) and scattering at sea. Because Joyce was a most generous spirit, the family’s wishes are that donations made on Joyce’s behalf go to a charity of choice, or The Dr. William and Mrs. Joyce Lazer Endowed Fund, The School of Hospitality Business, Michigan State University, 654 North Shaw Lane, East Lansing, Michigan 48824. One can also donate by paying forward Joyce’s philosophy of doing something nice for someone daily.
Obituaries
Dr. VELIMIR KON B.Sc., B.Ed., M.Sc., Ph.D. September 18, 1950-June 27, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Velimir Kon, or Shlomo, beloved husband of Branka and father of Deborah and Lea. Velimir was an accomplished teacher and academic, and he was renowned for his intellectualism, humility and humanity.
A gentle soul who was always sociable and who genuinely loved people, Velimir was equally at home in the university classroom as a professor and as a secondary school Biology, Chemistry and Math teacher in Northern Ontario (Big Trout Lake) and Manitoba (God’s River, Berens River). Velimir made a difference to many First Nations students throughout a career that spanned decades. He was dedicated to his students, colleagues and family. An adept and talented pianist, Velimir enjoyed the arts and of course Jewish humour. He was an avid shul goer and supporter of Israel and enjoyed his duties in shul as a Kohayn. Velimir was a man of faith who was able to fuse his love of science and Judaism.
Born in Croatia, Europe (the former Yugoslavia) to Shoah survivors Rose (Rochel, ne Lederer) and Arnold Kon (Ariel), Velimir immigrated to Canada with his wife and girls in 1988, making many personal sacrifices along the way to ensure a peaceful and safe life for his family. Adaptability and optimism characterized Velimir. Known for his heart of gold, Velimir touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. A love of Jewish values, family values and life-long learning and education characterized Velimir. With his charming, outgoing and friendly personality, Velimir welcomed everyone into his life and into our home.
His kindness, humour, generosity and goodness will be deeply missed by his family and friends in Winnipeg, Victoria, B.C., Guelph, ON, Osijek, Croatia, Belgrade, Serbia, Los Angeles and Boston, U.S.A., and Israel, Jerusalem, Haifa and Karmiel. Baruch Dayan Haemet.
A traditional funeral was held on June 30, 2025 at the Hebrew Sick Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can still be made to Chabad Lubavitch of Winnipeg, B’nai Brith or the JNF.
Velimir will be forever missed and cherished by Branka, Deborah and Lea.
Obituaries
ELAINE BEVERLEY KAPLAN
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our sister and aunt, Elaine Kaplan. She died on June 24, just a month shy of her 69th birthday.
She was diagnosed with lung cancer 15 months ago, and was given about six months to live, which she was able to exceed with great courage and determination.
Elaine was predeceased by our father Phil Kaplan and mother Bess Kaplan. She is survived by her brothers Gerry (Nancy Hughes), Allan (Rennie) and Sheldon (Mona), along with her nieces and nephews.
Elaine was able to remain at home up until a few days prior to her passing at the St. Boniface Hospital, which was her wish. She was employed by the Canada Revenue Agency for the majority of her career. She loved nature and was devoted to feeding the neighbourhood squirrels and birds. She also adopted and cared for many rescue rabbits over the years. Her family was important to her, and she loved attending family weddings and barbecues.
Donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to a pet rescue of your choice.
Obituaries
ALAN KLUNER
Suddenly and unexpectedly, Alan Kluner passed away on July 11, 2025 at the young age of 66. Alan had a very good life despite some ongoing health challenges he met head on for the majority of his life. He loved family and was a very kind and loving son, brother and uncle.
Born in Winnipeg, Alan developed a small but close circle of friends he maintained for many years. His passions were following his sports teams (Jets, Vikings, Bombers) and attending numerous rock concerts.
Alan is survived by his oldest brother Martin (Reesa), his sister-in-law Hanna, his four nephews and nieces Mickey (Stephanie), Corey (Sean), Zev (Kristen), Elana (Danny), and his great-nephews and great-nieces Mason, Lucy, Nora, Remy and Enzo.
He was predeceased by his parents Bill and Phyllis, brother Kerry, and uncle Alvin Mantell.
Alan’s funeral service was graveside at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery on Tuesday July 15, officiated by Rabbi Matthew Leibl. Pallbearers were: Martin Kluner, Mickey Kluner, Corey Kluner, Elana Kluner, Henry Goldfeld, and Alan Levine. Honorary pallbearer was Albert Yanofsky.
For those who wish, donations in Alan’s memory may be made to Diabetes Canada or the charity of your choice.