Obituaries
KENNETH A. FILKOW, Q.C.
Kenneth A. Filkow QC, a prominent Manitoba lawyer, a leading member of the community and a devoted husband, father and grandfather passed away on Monday, October 27, 2014.
Over his 73 years of life, Ken touched so many people in meaningful ways.
Ken taught his children, Kevin, Shaun and Lainie, about the importance of living productive lives, about being caring individuals and about being aware of what’s happening in the world around them. He was always available and supportive and wise in his advice.
His grandchildren, Jesse and Ari Filkow in Vancouver, and Molly and Shae Borzykowski in Toronto thought he was a rock star. He was fun and creative; they loved his games and stories. He was a special father in law to Debbi-Jo Matias and to Bryan Borzykowski.
Ken was a loving and proud husband. For 44 years, he and Sharon were a great force. They created a life, rich with family, friends and experiences. Sadly, Sharon passed away in June 2008. Ken very much missed her.
Ken was an esteemed and highly sought-after lawyer. He had a distinguished legal career over 48 years. Without exception, his clients, and the lawyers and judges and others with whom he worked all had tremendous respect for him.
Ken had a brilliant legal and strategic mind, extraordinary communication skills and negotiating abilities. There are many reasons why Ken was exceptional legal counsel, but the main one was that he loved what he did. To Ken, law wasn’t a job – it was a calling. There was never a day in his life where he didn’t want to go to work, even when tackling very complicated cases. He took no shortcuts. He was a special mentor to many lawyers, junior and senior. Honesty and fairness were fundamental to his life and to his legal work.
Ken did so much more – he was the longest serving chairperson of the Manitoba Human Rights Commission; he ran Klondike Sterling Glove, the business his father, Alec and his mother, Evelyn started. He managed political campaigns and politicians at all levels would often call on him for advice.
Ken had a lot of friends. Every day he would go for breakfast and lunch with the widest range of people. No one wanted to end a conversation with Ken. He was interesting and he was funny and he listened. He knew so much about so much. Many people confided in Ken and he helped them.
As remarkable as Ken’s life was, it wasn’t always easy. He lost a son, he lost a wife and then became sick himself.
How he carried himself in the last few months speaks volumes about the kind of person Ken was. He continued working, he made time for his children and grandchildren and he fought as hard as he could to keep living his life.
Ken used to say that life is not for sissies, but while he recognized life was tough, he never complained. He loved life and he loved the people he met throughout it.
Ken was loved, admired and respected. He will be missed.
Donations can be made to the Ken and Sharon Filkow fund at Manitoba Cancer Care.
Obituaries
Bill Mahon
It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Bill Mahon, just three weeks after his 85th birthday. Bill was a devoted husband of 59 years to his sweetheart Judy, beloved father to Tracy (Jeff) and Dana (Marc), proud zaidy to Nathan and Jonah, and a loyal friend to countless members of the Winnipeg community, and well beyond.
To know Bill was to adore him. People of all ages and walks of life were touched by his unique sense of humour, his generosity, kindness, and his true zest for life. He was always the first one to say “sure”, “go for it”, and “let’s do it!”
Bill’s happy place was poolside in Puerto Vallarta with his “boat” aka pool floaty. He was famous for slurping the last drop of his chocolate milkshakes, driving around town in his red convertible, and sporting his various Tilley hats.
A true north end boy, Bill grew up on Cathedral Avenue where he and his buddies got into all sorts of trouble. Bill still had weekly dates with many of these same friends, where they’d sit for hours, passing the time telling jokes, sharing stories, and having meaningful conversations.
Bill changed jobs and careers many times over the years, eventually finding his calling as a successful financial planner.
For over 40 years Bill helped countless people, and remained devoted to them, even after he retired, well into his 80’s.
Bill was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends and was always the last to leave a gathering but not before confirming plans for the next.
In November 2024 Bill suffered a traumatic fall. At the time of his accident, he was doing what he loved, hosting friends at their bi-weekly poker game. Bill’s optimism, tenacity and resilience inspired everyone as he fought his hardest to recover. Even amid the most challenging time of his life he was able to shine his bright light and bring levity and joy to those around
ill lived every day with gratitude and appreciation. He was a man of honour, respect, and integrity. He always did the right thing and instilled this in the lives of his children, grandchildren and his community.
He will be forever remembered and profoundly missed.
Bill was predeceased by his parents Emerson and Fanny Mahon, his sister Ethel Planting, and his nephew Paul Planting.
The funeral took place at Etz Chaim Synagogue on Sunday March 16th, 2025.
Pallbearers were:Jeff Kowal, Nathan Kowal, Dana Mahon, Gary Margolis, Don Katz and Shira Tennehouse Honorary pallbearers: David Gruber, Allan Becker, Syd Cohen, Billy Kowall, Ray Leibl, Roberta McEachern, Tino Pissante, Norman Silverberg and Jonah Kowal.
With gratitude, donations can be made in Bill’s name to Spinal Cord Injury Manitoba or CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
Obituaries
Arnold Ludwick
Born in Winnipeg, Arnie lived a life filled with love, adventure, and purpose. Son of Rube and Gert Ludwick, and beloved brother to Lois (David Wolch), Arnie was a devoted husband to Erna Ludwick for 62 years. Together, they built a life rich in love and family, raising their three children, Heidi, Sheryl(Mitchell Stotland), and Louis (Erika Ludwick). His greatest joy was his family, and he cherished every moment with his grandchildren: Tyler (Aaron) Mikaela (Luca), Griffin, Julian, Jackson, Harper, and Mylie. And Lobo and Kiva.
Arnie’s remarkable career spanned decades of dedication and excellence. His work was not just a job—it was a testament to his passion, intellect, and unwavering commitment to making a difference through many different philanthropic endeavors. Yet, for all his professional achievements, his heart was always with his family. They were his proudest accomplishment, his deepest love, and his greatest legacy.
A true citizen of the world, Arnie was a passionate traveler, embracing new cultures, experiences, and perspectives with open arms. He found beauty in the smallest moments—watching birds in quiet admiration, taking in breathtaking sunsets, and celebrating the gift of life with those he loved. His warmth, wisdom, and boundless curiosity touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Arnie’s legacy of love, kindness, and adventure will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.
Deep gratitude to the Jewish General Hospital Palliative Care Unit, Soins Virtuelles nurses, and the incredible Dr.Chang and Dr.Shamy whose dedication and compassion is unparalleled. We are also grateful to his caregivers Raquel and Josie who supported Arnie with unwavering support and deep human kindness.
Donations can be directed to Jewish General Hospital – Dr.Chang Palliative Care Unit and/or Dr.Shamy Hematology Oncology Unit. Donations in Arnold’s memory may be made to the Palliative Care Unit (Dr. Chang) or the Hematology Oncology Unit (Dr. Shamy) ℅ the Jewish General Hospital Foundation, Montreal, Quebec : (514) 340-8251B
Obituaries
SHIRLEY SHINOFF (nee BLUMBERG)
With profound sadness, yet with hearts overflowing with cherished memories, we announce the peaceful passing of Shirley Shinoff, surrounded by the unwavering love of her family, on February 21st. A beacon of warmth and grace, Shirley departed this world after a life richly lived, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and unwavering devotion that will forever illuminate our lives. She was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Alvin Shinoff, her partner in life and love, with whom she shared a lifetime of treasured moments, building a foundation of enduring affection and mutual respect that stood as a testament to their deep bond.
Shirley was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, aunt and a true matriarch whose love knew no bounds. Born and raised in the vibrant community of Winnipeg, Shirley was a proud daughter of Millie and Jack Blumberg. Very proud and adoring sister of Idy, Heddy and Saul. She embodied the values instilled by her parents, demonstrating compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to her community. She carried forward the spirit of their upbringing, enriching the lives of those around her with her gentle spirit and unwavering support. Shirley was an integral part of the Winnipeg Jewish community, actively participating in its traditions and contributing to its vibrant tapestry, weaving connections that would last a lifetime.
Beyond her familial and communal roles, Shirley possessed a quiet strength and a gentle spirit that endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She found joy in the strategic intricacies of bridge, where she formed lasting friendships and honed her sharp mind, creating bonds of laughter and shared moments. Most of all, her heart overflowed with pride for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She never missed an opportunity to “kvell” about them, sharing their accomplishments and joys with anyone who would lend an ear, her eyes sparkling with love.
Shirley will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted children, Loree and Daniel, her cherished daughter-in-law Michelle, her adored grandchildren Anthony, William, Joshua, Aaron, and Jacob, and her precious great-grandchildren Wesley, Grayson, Millie, Adriana, Eva, and Lillian. Her beloved nieces and nephews and their children and her wide circle of friends will forever hold her gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, and enduring love close to their hearts.
Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and boundless love will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know her, a lasting testament to a life beautifully lived.
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