Obituaries
PHILIP BARNES MD FRCPC April 28, 1929 – April 18, 2023
Sadly, but peacefully, we have lost a lion of a man. Philip, age 93, passed at Simkin Centre, 10 days short of his 94th birthday, after a full and remarkable life.
Philip leaves behind daughter Enid (Art Macaw), son Ian (Sandra), grandsons, Stephen Nap (Star), Alex (Roma), and Matthew, step-grandsons, Matthew Wiewel (Jennifer) and Donavin Grouette, great-grandsons, Rafael, Santiago, and Sebastian, sister Carol Fehr, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Merle (1994), parents, Shirley and Fred, brother Sidney, and sister Donna. He also leaves his partner Marta Faludi in Palm Springs.
“Dr Phil” was a prominent Winnipeg Obstetrician/Gynecologist, joining the Mall Medical Group in the 1960s, and brought four generations of miracles into the world. He was beloved by his patients, highly respected by his colleagues, and a mentor and teacher to many medical students. As his children, we heard countless stories of gratitude told fondly by his patients, and from his colleagues, accounts of his clinical expertise, dedication, and skill. We recall his 2, 3, and 4:00 a.m. rushes to deliveries, often in blizzard conditions, as he did not want anyone else to attend to “his” patients. Philip’s specialty was in the care of birth mothers who were gestational diabetics, with research published and awards received. He was passionate about life, and a consummate, devoted caregiver to his family, friends, and patients. There were no half-measures with him; Philip was equal parts tenacious, determined, and obstinate as the day is long. To debate or argue wth him was at your own risk or peril. Each person he encountered was given a place of importance, no matter their station in life. He could not tolerate an injustice, and was a tireless advocate for those he saw as needing attention or vulnerable. Philip’s ferocity was tempered by his unwavering capacity for compassion for all. We would be remiss if we did not mention Philip’s legendary passion for food. Along with his scalpel, his fork was his trusty companion, and a Chinese food buffet was life. Although a force of nature, much revered, often feared, if he loved you, you knew it, as he would never hesitate to tell you so. If you were his friend, you had his loyalty forever.
“Philly” was proud of his humble beginnings and North End roots. He came from a loud, loving, colourful family, and from age nine, had jobs to help support them. Dreaming of becoming a doctor from a young age, he never let anyone forget that he was accepted into the Faculty of Medicine, at age 17, at a time when the University of Manitoba had a quota on their acceptance of Jewish medical students. Prior to his specialty of obs/gyne, he spent four years in Bienfait, SK, doing a general practice locum, with many a story he loved to tell of his time as town doctor, mayor, and plumber! As accomplished as Philip was, he was plain-spoken, called a spade a shovel, and was never afraid to do any kind of physical labour or get his hands dirty. He took our chiding about his mispronunciations like a trooper.
Above all else, Philip loved his family fiercely. We always knew we came first. As intimidating as he could be, he wore his generous heart on his sleeve. His devotion to his beloved Merle, who we lost much too soon, was a testament to heartbreak and recovery. His delight and pride in being a Zaida to his grandsons and great-grandsons knew no bounds, with complete spoiling rights. We are so fortunate to have had him in our lives and as a father.
We would like to thank the Simkin Centre for their exemplary care, who treated our father with dignity, respect, and love. We know he felt at home. We would also like to thank our family and friends for their outpouring of support and shared memories of Phil. They have been an immense source of comfort.
Funeral service was officiated by Rabbi Matthew Leibl at Rosh Pina Memorial Park. Pallbearers were Dan Blankstein, Rob Berkowits, John Diamond, Norm Mayer, Stephen Rosenfield, and Randy Wolfe. Thank you all for honouring our father and our family.
Donations may be made to the Barnes Family Fund, Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, or an organization of your choice.
Dad, your memory will always be a blessing. Your legacy will be kept alive throughout, by your family, and all those who love you. “Everything’s under control.”
You are with mother now.
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.