Obituaries
RICHARD MICHAEL RICE February 8, 1947 – November 30, 2024
On Saturday, November 30, Richard Michael Rice, only son of Edward and Celia Rice passed away with his family by his side.
Dad leaves behind his best friend, the love of his life, and his wife of 55 years, Melissa (née Malchy). Richard and Melissa met as children, fell in love as teenagers, and spent every second since then deeply and madly in love.
Dad also leaves behind six children, the oldest three of whom he welcomed and loved as his own after the early passing of his sister and her husband, Glorianne and Gerald Robinovitch. Jennifer (David), Stephen (Rachel), and Hart (Ronee) Robinovitch; Danielle (Kevin), Aimee (Chris), and Brynn (Jordan) Rice idolized, looked up to him, and relied on his sage advice. Mostly though, we appreciated his wicked sense of humour, his gorgeously rich anecdotes, and the deep rumble of his voice during lullabies and bedtime stories.
Richard set high standards for himself, whether in work, education, his friendships, travel, or his many hobbies (from horseback riding to biking to golf to watching sports), which all in the family tried to emulate. All of his grandchildren (Molly, Edward, Leo, Celia, Jordan, Sydney, Gabrielle, Kaila, Sydney, Ari, Matthew, and Noah) looked up to him with love and respect and each seemed to bring out different sides of his playful nature, humour, curiosities, and strong mentoring abilities. Always interested in what each was accomplishing and personally passionate about, he gave endless support and let them know how much he truly cared about the unique paths they were taking. He was also extremely fond of the family’s English Springer Spaniels (Mac, Cooper, Maggie, Baxter, and Holly), providing endless opportunities for him to show his gentle love and leadership.
Dad was ridiculously proud of his children and their achievements, and being able to see his grandchildren grow up to engage with him in debates and bring him new ideas was a source of great joy. And the feeling is more than mutual. Dad has always provided us with a strong example of how to live a life well lived and often served as a guide as we faced challenges and decisions.
In addition to pursuing a PhD in Anthropology at Brown University, Dad was a successful and accomplished lawyer, but to him, that wasn’t as important as his role as head of the Rice family. He held deep regard for his relationships with his beloved sister Tama Werner and his sister-in- law, Naneve Hawke (Michael).
Despite 80-hour work weeks, dad always made time for family. From family dinners to coaching sports teams, to sharing videos he thought were funny, to watching movies, including one of his favourites, The Princess Bride, to taking us to Kelekis, dad was always present. Summers at the family cottage on Lake Winnipeg in Gimli provided the ideal setting for the family to spend time together and for him and Melissa totake the kids and grandchildren for long walks down the beach or to the pier for ice cream.
We – and dad- are grateful for the friends who continued to support him throughout his illness, to Rabbi Matthew Leibl for encouraging dad to reconnect with his faith, and to the entire care teams at Deer Lodge’s PRIME Program, Simkin Centre, and Victoria Hospital.
Dad always managed to find delight in every situation. Even the worst experience magically transformed through his voice into a humorous story. Dad would be laughing so hard at his own joke that we would have to wait for him to finish laughing before he could conclude his tale.
He would not want us to mourn. He would want us to hold our loved ones a little closer, find the joy and wonder in small things, and remember him with love and humour.
As you wish, dad. As you wish.
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.