Obituaries
MINNIE BELL
It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Minnie Bell on June 8, 2025, at the age of 92. She is survived by her loving husband of almost 70 years, Dick Bell; her children, Joady Bell (Larry Bloom), David Bell, Karyn Burleigh (Paul), and Debby Brown (Bob); grandchildren Cory, Breanne, Jenna (Adam) Jordan (Kady), Jason, Jonah (Danielle), and Justin; and great grand-children Charlize, Zack, and Mimi.
Minnie was predeceased by her parents Freda and Abraham Bay; sisters and brothers- in-law, Jen and Alec Goldman, and Dorys and Morris Silver. She was Aunty Minnie to nieces and nephews; Tannis and Sheldon Mindell, Glenda and David Segal, Les and Andi Silver, Fern and Narvey Goldman, and Andi Bell.
Minnie was born in Winnipeg on September 11, 1932 and grew up in the city’s North End. She attended William Whyte School for grades 1 through 9 and graduated from St John’s Tech.
Minnie and Dick initially met at a YMHA dance. They were later reacquainted in Winnipeg Beach, which was when their love story began. They were married October 10, 1955 at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue.
The Bell family was a very busy household. Minnie had her hands full with four active children, especially while Dick travelled for business for over half the year. Minnie volunteered for several organizations including Hadassah and Shaarey Zedek Sisterhood. She chaired and canvassed for CJA Campaigns and Men’s Youth Aliyah.
Minnie and Dick were always strong supporters of the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Holocaust Museum, the Combined Jewish Appeal, and the State of Israel. They had a mutual love of music and international travel. They also shared a love of cruising and embarked on over 30 cruises before slowing down and spending their winters in Palm Desert.
Dick had quintuple heart bypass surgery at the Cleveland Clinic in 1986 when he was just 58 years old. Minnie made it her life’s mission to advocate for Dick’s every medical and emotional need from that time forward. Thanks to Minnie’s tremendous efforts on Dick’s behalf, and to Dick’s own commitment to daily walks and a heart-healthy diet, he is still alive today at the age of 97.
Minnie always took great pride in her appearance – her hair, makeup, lipstick and perfectly manicured almond shaped nails were all of utmost importance to her. She was also known for her beautiful heels – Naturalizers or Clark’s were never an option! Minnie especially loved her off the shoulder sweaters and blouses. She also loved hats and typically donned a selection from her extensive collection for synagogue services.
The family wants to especially acknowledge a number of individuals for their exemplary love, care and devotion to Minnie- Dr. Cynthia Sawatzky and Dr. Keevin Bernstein; Dr. Harvey Chochinov; the staff of the outstanding Simkin Centre and, particularly, the staff on Weinberg 1.
Minnie and Dick’s caregivers and companions, namely, Mae, Sandra, Nettie, Estella, Amanda, Cora, and Tammy were all of invaluable assistance in caring for both of them over the past few months. They truly became a part of our family and we thank them all from the bottom of our hearts
For those who wish, donations in Minnie’s memory may be made to the Saul & Claribel Simkin Centre or the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue Choir and Music Fund.
Obituaries
ISADORE (IZZY)MINUK (Z”L) JULY 5, 1927 – DECEMBER 30, 2025
With great sadness, we announce the passing of Isadore (Izzy) Minuk, on December
30, 2025, at the age of 98.
Izzy was born on July 5, 1927, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the third of five boys born to Tibel and Ben Minuk. Izzy was predeceased by his beloved wife Merle Minuk and his
cherished son Morley Minuk.
Izzy leaves to mourn his children Martin Minuk (Stephanie), Linda Rabkin (Jack), Jeffrey Minuk (Lora) and Cheryl Bokhaut (Bradley), thirteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Our father was a man of great wisdom, kindness, strength and resilience. He was
fiercely devoted to his family. He was committed to his health and well-being and a longtime member of the Rady JCC.
Izzy spent his last years at the Simkin Centre. Our family would like to express its appreciation and thanks to the Staff and Administration of the Simkin Centre for their attentive care.
Donations in Izzy’s honour may be made to the Merle and Isadore (Izzy) Memorial Fund
at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Simkin Centre or the Rady JCC.
Daddy will always be our sweetheart
Obituaries
GERTRUDE “GERTIE”NEPON (NEE PIERCE) JUNE 1, 1926 – DECEMBER 26, 2025
Gertrude “Gertie” Nepon (née Pierce), aged 99, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025. She was a devoted wife, mother, Baba, sister, and friend, whose love, warmth, and strength touched all who knew her.
She is survived by her loving children Allan (Reeva), Mark (Leslie), and Jack (Carla) and her cherished grandchildren Jordan, Hillary (Ariel), Joshua, Hayley (Richard), Taryn and David. Born on June 1, 1926, in Winnipeg, Gertie was the daughter of Esther and Benjamin Pierce. She was predeceased by the love of her life, David Harry Nepon, with whom she shared nearly 40 years of marriage. Their enduring bond was an inspiration to family and friends alike. David passed away in 1988 and losing him left a void in her heart that never truly healed. They are now reunited in peace.
Gertie was also predeceased by her beloved siblings – brothers Moe, Max, Fred, and Jack Pierce, and by her sister Patty. She is survived by her sister Brownie Fleishman, and by many loving nieces and nephews.
Gertie was known for her ever-present smile—even during life’s most difficult moments. Her family and friends were always her greatest priority. She was a homemaker, often volunteering in schools where she tested the hearing of nursery and kindergarten children. She was known for her organization and meticulous nature, keeping her home in perfect order, with everything in its place. She enjoyed playing bridge and mahjong and sharing lunches with her many friends, well into her 90’s. Even in her final year at the Simkin Centre Nursing Home, at age 99, she retained that magical smile—a smile that could light up any room and stood as a testament to her resilience, positivity, and love of life.
Gertie’s funeral was held on Monday, December 29, at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, with Cantor Leslie Emery officiating. Pallbearers were Allan, Mark, Jack, Jordan, David Nepon, and Ellen Fleishman. The family extends a special thank you to the staff of Weinberg 2 at the Simkin Centre for their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion.
Donations may be made to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba or to a charity of your choice.
Obituaries
SONYA KAMINSKY MAY 24, 1925 – JUNE 12, 2025
Beloved mother and Bubbi passed away peacefully at 100 years old.
Sonya is survived by her children Brenda (Marvin) Kass and Sheldon Kaminsky, her grandchildren Josh (Samantha) Hartley (Erin), Jordan (Jenn), Nikki (Patrick) as well as eight great-grandchildren and cherished nieces and nephews.
Sonya was predeceased by her parents, sister and beloved husband Bill.
Sonya married the love of her life Bill and they spent 53 wonderful years together, Theirs was a true love story filled with laughter and many wondrous moments and grounded by devotion, respect and unconditional love for each other, Their home was always open to family and friends and at the center of it all was Sunny ( lovingly named for her for her sunny disposition). Sunny loved entertaining. She was a great hostess and enjoyed cooking and baking for her family whether it was Friday night dinners -holiday gatherings or birthday celebrations.
Sunny enjoyed 10 pin bowling and volunteer work with Bnai Brith Women.
However at the centre of her life was always her Family and her role as BUBBI filled her heart and kept her strong.
She was the best – MOM- Bubbi – Aunt – always there for everyone to listen , guide, advise, and support and always with unconditional Love. She adored each of her great grandchildren and imply could not get enough of them….they were her pride and joy!
We all feel so blessed to have her share our lives.
MOM you were our Rock and you will always be our “Sunshine.”
SUNNY will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her family as well as all those whose lives she touched.
Our gratitude to Simkin center and especially to Moms caregivers Marianne, Odette, Marinel and Mina.
Special thanks to Rabbi Matthew Leibl for his ongoing support.
Our Heartfelt thanks for the donations, meals, love and support extended to our family.