Obituaries
MONTE BARRETT RABER April 30, 1935 – July 18, 2021
Monte Raber passed away suddenly at the age of 86 years on July 18, 2021, Tisha B’Av 5781. He lived a full life and had a tremendous positive impact on so many people, many he never even met.
Monte was a devoted and loving husband, father, Zaida and Great-Zaida, brother, son, uncle, and cousin. He was born to immigrant parents and lived his whole life in Winnipeg. As a child his parents, Aron (Harry) and Marcia worked tirelessly to make a better life for him, and instilled in him the importance of family, lessons he learned well, and passed on to his children and grandchildren.
He was a big brother to sisters, Leah and Carol (Arnold), and he remained very close with them and their families, as he was with his sister-in-law Ruth (Joe) and her family, being a favourite uncle to his many nieces and nephews.
Monte attended St. John’s High School where he earned the reputation of being a bit of a nerd who loved books, science, mathematics and photography. He excelled in school and earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering (1957) and Masters of Engineering (1966) degrees from the University of Manitoba, specializing in Electrical Engineering.
Being an Engineer defined Monte. It was not just his vocation, but his passion, his way of life, and it greatly influenced his way of thinking and problem solving every day. He was a perfectionist and it showed in everything he did.
Monte and Myrna (Golden) met as teenagers, had a courtship lasting through university and were married on June 9, 1957. Mom and dad just celebrated their 64th Wedding Anniversary.
Once Monte joined the Golden family, he always treated his in-laws, Fanny and Murray Golden, as he did his parents, Harry and Marcia, with the utmost respect and care.
Together mom and dad raised 3 strong independent children, Avis (Ari z”l), Eileen and Earl, with deep roots in Yiddishkeit and Jewish values, and the importance of family. Dad and Mom led by example how to raise our own children.
Dad leaves a large legacy with mom of 10 Grandchildren: Mark (Samantha), Daniel (Diana), Jonathan and Benjamin Lipson, Joshua, Rachel and Arielle Block, and Matthew, Megan and Mika Raber, and 3 great-grandchildren, Ethan, Jacob and Isaac Lipson. He had a special and unique relationship with every grandchild. He taught them all to drive and in their adult years they shared jokes and sought out his sage advice on life decisions.
Monte began his career at the Atomic Energy of Canada Nuclear Research Facility in Chalk River, Ontario. He was then recruited as one of the first Biomedical Engineers creating a state-of-the-art department at Winnipeg’s General Hospital, now the Health Science Centre (to Monte, always “The General”). Monte was a ground-breaking world renown pioneer and leader in the field of Biomedical Engineering and patient safety. He built and led the Biomedical Engineering department at “The General”, one of the first such dedicated departments in North America at the time, for over 20 years. He did cutting-edge original research, had over 40 publications and 4 patents, and helped design Intensive Care Units (ICUs).
Monte helped pioneer the art and science of electronic monitoring of patients, especially Respiratory and Cardiac patients, and also develop modular ICU monitoring which changed the way medicine was delivered. One of his particular areas of expertise was pacemakers, which were novel at that time. Monte was on-call working with physicians in the operating room setting up the pacemakers to ensure they paced the heart correctly. He worked tirelessly setting up new national and international multi-discipline committees to better understand the effects of pacemakers and to create standards for their production, use, and most importantly, safety.
In 1978 Monte was recruited to the business world by medical equipment maker Harco Electronics, where as Vice President, he helped develop innovative new equipment and modernize production techniques and increase sales.
In the mid-1980’s, at age 50, in typical Monte fashion, he took up new challenges, returning to teaching and then private consulting. First, he returned to the University of Manitoba, where he was Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine, and then Red River Community College where he created a new curriculum in BME (Biomedical Engineering) teaching a new generation of engineering students and technologists, which he loved and inspired him. Monte always had a special interest in patient and Medical Device Safety, and throughout his life he was one of the most dedicated and involved Life Members of the CSA, the Canadian Standards Association, with a special focus on electrical grounding and safety.
Monte’s engineering and problem-solving expertise was highly sought after by all levels of government in Canada, the United States and world-wide, by many varied businesses, including Mining companies, Aerospace and Defence Industries, as well as software companies. Monte continued his successful private consulting through his beloved company, Systems Electronics Ltd (SEL), until the day of his passing.
Dad and Mom travelled with his conferences to Israel, Europe, Asia, and South America. Over the past 10 years, they enjoyed wintering in Palm Springs, CA.
Throughout his life, Monte approached everything he did with quiet confidence and a positive outlook. He remained committed to continuous improvement, learning and research his whole life. He was just about to submit his most recent paper for publication at the time of his passing.
Monte’s “fix it” skills were legendary. He was a “Fixer Extraordinaire” of all things. He maintained an amazing workshop in the basement of his home, and his workbench was where MAGIC HAPPENED. It was where innovative projects were developed from ideas on his drafting table, to real life working prototypes. This was where things were created and fixed ranging from state-of-the-art lifesaving medical equipment to relatives’ and neighbours’ appliances, toys, musical instruments and even our Mom’s jewelry. If he didn’t know how to fix it (which was rare), he figured it out. Each project was treated with the same level of expert attention. We were all amazed at the breadth and depth of his knowledge.
At his workbench, Dad taught us how to complete an electrical circuit, the art of carpentry, science and medicine (‘measure twice… cut once’), all lessons which have served us well in our lives. He also had a deep love of the outdoors and camping, which he instilled in all of us.
He taught us critical life lessons by example: how to treat every single person with respect, the importance of hard work and perseverance, the satisfaction of a job well done, and how to be calm under pressure and in crisis.
Dad always enjoyed a good book, especially mysteries, reading late into the night and wee hours of the morning. And he always loved a good nap. He had a unique sense of humor. Sometimes only he understood his jokes, but that never stopped him from laughing at them. Dad had a discerning palate, but also had the ultimate child-like sweet tooth; all his grandchildren knew where he kept his candies, and he looked so forward to sharing with them.
Monte practiced Tikkun Olam… Repairing the World… every single day. He was honest to a fault, a man of impeccable character and integrity. His definition of success was never money or fame. He was not driven to ‘win’, or by monetary incentive, but to learn, to do kindness and to help others. “They will pay me when they can”, he would say. Mostly he took pride “in a job well done”. He would always try to do “the right thing, the right way”. He was never jealous or petty. He was confident in himself and his abilities, and this allowed him to always celebrate the success of others; a true sign of just how exceptional he was. He was gentle and patient, a wonderful mentor and skilled teacher. He was generous and caring, performed countless acts of random kindness for strangers; often donated more than he could afford, usually anonymously. He was erudite and was one of the smartest people we ever knew, being full of knowledge and wisdom, and was humble and soft-spoken. But he
also ‘suffered no fools’; He ‘called them, as he saw them’, and was brutally honest with everyone, especially those he cared most about, when we did something foolish.
Monte was courageous, was the forever optimist, and was always up to all challenges. Perseverance was his motto. He did not give up.
Above all, Monte Raber was a MENSCH. We don’t know anyone who met Monte who did not respect him. That was one of the most amazing things about him. Whomever he interacted with, personally or professionally, knew they were talking to a man of great intellect, quiet dignity and respect.
They say that in life, all you have is your name. And what a good name Monte had. To this day, strangers come up to us and ask: “Are you related to THE Monte Raber?”
Monte was the Patriarch of our family. He was our “FIXER”, of all things big and small.
He was our ROCK.
Monte’s sudden passing leaves a gaping hole in all our lives. We will never forget what you taught us about life, and how to live cup half-full. We will think of you always: your laugh, your smile, your insights and your logical solutions. We will miss your trademark phone answering salutation: “Raber Here”; and all the wise advice that followed. Monte, our eternal optimist, never said goodbye. Instead, he ended every conversation by saying: “KEEP SMILING!”. With love and broken hearts, this is how we will always remember you.
A graveside funeral service was held at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery July 21, 2021. Pall bearers were his grandchildren, Mark, Daniel, Jonathan, Benjamin, Rachel, and Matthew.
For all who provided messages of condolence, calls, meals and support to the family, we gratefully thank you.
To honor the memory and legacy of Monte Raber, a donation may be made to The Monte and Myrna Raber Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, where a Scholarship fund is being set up for an Electrical Engineering student at the University of Manitoba with a special interest in Biomedical Engineering. www.jewishfoundation.org (204) 477-7525.
Obituaries
ARTHUR WORTZMAN
Surrounded by his family Arthur Wortzman, lovingly known as Art, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025.
He is survived by his wife Adele Wortzman; his three children, Anita Wortzman (Ron Yurman), Susan Wortzman (Glenn Smith), Jason Wortzman (Teresa Rogers); his grandchildren, Lexie (Jacob), Haley, Liam, Hannah and Jack and his great-grandchildren, Shiloh and River.
Born in Winnipeg in 1929, Art grew up in the vibrant West End of Winnipeg as the youngest of three children. His upbringing was unique for the time, with his parents, Harry and Tillie, working together in their ladies’ clothing stores in Winnipeg and Vancouver. This partnership allowed for a bustling household, filled with the laughter of friends and family.
Art shared a close bond with his siblings, George and Eleanor, and their respective spouses Glory and Howie(Silver), as well as with his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Allan and Marsha Maslove. Art inherited many wonderful traits from his parents: from his father, he learned the importance of love and devotion to one’s spouse, and from his mother, he gained a sense of humor, fun, and adventure.
Art’s love for his wife was evident throughout their 66 years of marriage. Adele reciprocated his love and care, looking after him at home and then ensuring he was never alone during his stays at Shaftesbury and Victoria Hospital.
Art’s legacy extends beyond his family. He was a talented athlete, playing football for Gordon Bell High School and U of M Law. Art pursued law at the University of Manitoba and practiced law for over 50 years, known for his ethics, practicality, and dedication. Art’s sense of humor, wisdom, and kindness were well-known. He was a mentor and friend to many, offering wise counsel and support to many clients, friends and other lawyers.
Art’s adventurous spirit was evident throughout his life in Winnipeg, at Falcon Lake and travels to Mexico and Israel. He introduced his family to many activities, from snowmobiling to cross-country skiing, and completed a marathon at 52 years old. He was always game for fun, whether it was Lake Olympics or a historic bike ride on Pipeline Road. In his later years, Art continued to embrace new experiences, from ziplining across the Jordan River to making bread with his grandchildren. He was a talented craftsman, creating Adirondack chairs and vegetable gardens at the lake. Art’s love for learning inspired his family. His grandchildren, Lexie, Haley, Liam, Hannah, and Jack, shared countless adventures and cherished moments with their Zaida.
He was a talented card player, a voracious reader, and a lover of family dinners and games. Art’s legacy lives on in his children, Anita, Susan and Jason who have followed in his footsteps in various ways.
A special thank you to Juhn and Gerlie and several other dedicated caregivers who supported him like a family member. Thank you also to the wonderful staff at the Shaftesbury Park Retirement Residence and the Victoria Hospital.
Services were held on December 23, 2025, at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue. Please consider a donation to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, Art and Adele Wortzman Fund.
Art’s life was a testament to the values of love, family, friendship, and adventure. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Art, Dad and Zaida – you will be deeply missed, but your spirit will live on in each of us.
Obituaries
CARY RUBENFELD
Cary Rubenfeld, beloved husband, father, zaida, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend, passed away on December 4, 2025, at the age of 72. Cary lived a life defined by kindness, curiousity, humility, and a deep commitment to the people and communities he loved.
Above all, Cary was a family man. He was raised in a family shaped by Jewish resilience and history. He was born to George and Sally Rubenfeld in 1953. His father George and two aunts, Rachel and Regine, survived the Holocaust in France, and the legacy of that survival grounded Cary’s values throughout his life. He carried forward a strong Jewish identity through his early Judaic studies, and this continued to evolve in adulthood as he built a home alive with tradition and Jewish values.
For more than 40 years, Cary shared his life with his wife, Marion. Together they built a home, a business, and a relationship filled with warmth, humour, and unwavering devotion. They worked side by side in their wholesale garden supply and later an import business, travelled the world together, and supported one another with tenderness and resilience. Marion was Cary’s partner in every sense, and their devotion to each other was a foundation for the entire family.
As a father to Michael (Magda) and Sara (Rob), Cary was a steady and loving presence—gentle, attentive, and always remaining connected to their worlds. His kindness shaped them in ways that they will carry forward and aspire to in their lives. Later in life, he delighted in spending time with his grandchildren, Emry, Kian and Lev.
Cary was the cherished brother of Perry Rubenfeld, with whom he shared a lifelong bond of family, memory, and affection. Cary and Perry tragically lost their mother at a young age. Their close-knit family continued to support and raise them.
Professionally, Cary was known for his integrity. He believed that success in business meant acting fairly, ethically and with compassion. He built strong relationships across North America and Asia, earning respect not only for his expertise, but for his genuine interest in others. He was thoughtful, patient, and guided by a sense of moral clarity.
Outside of business, Cary cultivated passions that brought him community and purpose. His involvement in amateur radio—an interest that reawakened later in life—connected him to people around the world. A lifelong learner, he attended international conventions, helped newcomers enter the hobby, and even earned recognition as Canadian Amateur Radio Operator of the Year. Friends from across continents described him as humble, generous, and quietly inspiring—a man who motivated others not through ego, but through sincerity.
Cary was also a dedicated member of the Chavurat Tefilah – Talmud Torah congregation, where he served as treasurer and was instrumental in resurrecting regular Shabbat services in the synagogue after COVID. His love of Judaism deepened through study, particularly with a small Torah group he helped create—an intimate circle of friends who learned together each week, even across cities and time zones. His thirst for knowledge, especially when shared with others, was one of his defining traits.
Cary faced significant health challenges with remarkable courage. Diabetes, kidney disease, and heart complications never dimmed his optimism. He continued to travel, make plans, and pursue learning. He arranged dialysis across Canada, the United States, and even Poland so he could keep living life fully and on his own terms.
For those who wish to make a charitable donation in Cary’s memory, please consider providing a cheque to the Chavurat Tefilah – Talmud Torah Synagogue (459 Hartford Ave., Wpg, MB) or an e-transfer to chavuratt@gmail.com or donating to the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
Obituaries
NELLIE (NELL) LABOVITCH
Nellie (Nell) Labovitch passed away peacefully in her home on December 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Our hearts are grateful for the 103 years she blessed our lives.
Nell was predeceased by her beloved husband Morris of 56 years (2000), her eldest daughter Shelley Nimchonok (2019) and son-in-law Robert (Bob) Walker (2015). Nell will forever be missed by her children Connie (Darrel) Donen, Joy Walker (Bob), Sharon Elston, and son-in-law Meyer Nimchonok (Shelley) and her grandchildren Kevin (Mony) Nimchonok, Shauna (Aaron) Lindzon, Maury Donen (Jennifer Luong), Jason Donen (Kristin Macaraeg), Erin Walker, Adam (Samantha) Walker, Sean Walker (Lindsey Markusson), Chad (Sawako) Elston, Cori (Tonio) Ettienne and her great-grandchildren Jay, Eli, Jordan, Emily, Max, Carmen, Matteo, Logan, Dylan, Caleb, Hana, Jun, Prism and Onyx and her brothers, Sam (predeceased Rita) Bebchuk, Dr. William (Elaine) Bebchuk and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
Nell was predeceased by her parents, Ettie and Joseph Bebchuk, her sisters, Marian Margolis (Joe Berz), Bessie (Mitchell) Schachter and parents- in-law, Rachel, and Hymie Labovitch; brothers and sisters inlaw, Sam Labovitch, Dr. Bill Lyons, Jack Lyons; Brina Bressler, Lil Seigel, Rose Weiner, and Sylvia Fritz.
Nell and Morris were married within a short courtship of only three weeks as they knew immediately that they were for each other. The connection that they had was undeniable. They were renowned for their shared love of dancing and moving together with extraordinary elegance and effortless skill. They met life’s challenges with a united front, setting a beautiful example of their lifelong commitment.
Nell took pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and always made each one of them feel special. She enjoyed pampering everyone with their favourite dishes. Her life was filled with an abundance of family, laughter, love, and optimism.
Even in her later years Nell remained vigorous and active, powerwalking at her gym into her late 90’s. One had to stand in line for a chance to be one of her walking partners, even when she was walking with a walker. Her nightly ritual was to say special prayers not only for everyone who needed praying for, but also for those who were close to her. On special occasions it was a treat to receive her amazing poetry. Nell retained a remarkably keen mind and enjoyed tackling word games well into her 90’s.
In her later years, she was surrounded by a phenomenal team of caregivers who considered her as close as a grandmother. With special gratitude to Ruth, and Amandeep who were by her side until the end. With thanks also to Jenna and The Right At Home staff. She was truly an extraordinary soul, matriarch, and an inspiration to us all.
Nell’s joyful spirit is heartfelt and will forever be with us. We will all live by three words that she recited endlessly to everyone that she met – “Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy.”
Funeral Services were held on December 3, 2025, at a private graveside ceremony for immediate family members. Thank you to the Pallbearers: Maury Donen, Jason Donen, Adam Walker, Erin Walker, Chad Elston, and Tonio Ettienne.
If desired, donations may be made to a charity of your choice or plant a tree in Nell’s memory.