May 27, 1927 – October 31, 2017
With grieving hearts, we announce the passing of Sam.
Born in Bilcze Zlote, Borszczow, Galicia, Poland (now Ukraine), Sam survived the horrors of the Holocaust but lost his father and many extended family members.
Sam immigrated to Winnipeg in January 1949 and married his wife, Edith, on April 4, 1954.
Much of his working career was spent as a dedicated and skilled avionics technician in the airline industry. Sam was based in Winnipeg but frequently worked in northern locales such as Chesterfield Inlet, NU, Churchill, MB, and Red Lake, ON. Training courses took him to the USA and Japan.
Sam had many fine qualities such as integrity, resilience, modesty, wisdom, humour, and devotion to family. He was deeply proud of his accomplished sons and took pride in his grandsons.
Sam spoke seven languages, followed current events, loved to reminisce, and walked several miles daily. He loved the sun and enjoyed trips to places such as Florida, Hawaii, Cuba, and Vietnam. An avid gardener, Sam enjoyed many summer visits to the Winnipeg Beach cottage.
Living a traditional Jewish life was of the utmost importance to Sam. He was a faithful, long-time member of Chavurat Tefila Synagogue, and active participant of the Shaarey Zedek minyanaires.
Cherishing Sam’s memory is Edith, his wife of 63 years, sons Neal of Vietnam, Dr. Allen (Jay) of Winnipeg, Dr. Perry (Ruth) of Winnipeg, grandsons Elliot and Ari, nieces, nephews, and extended family in Montreal, New York, and Israel. Sam was predeceased by parents, Mendel Kimmelmann (1943) and Shaina (Sabina) Sternschuss (1976), and sisters Sarah Ross (2011) and Czarna Stermer (2008).
The funeral, officiated by Rabbi Yosef Benarroch, was held at Chesed Shel Emes on November 3, 2017. The meal of condolence was held at the Gwen Secter Centre. Interment was in the family plot at Bnay Abraham Cemetery. Honourary pallbearers were: Sam Bebchuk, David Diamond, and Irvin Labovitch. Active pallbearers were: Ruben Abecassis, Sam Kravtsov, Myron Love, Jerry Rubin, Bob Steele, and Morley Wiseman. Shiva was observed at home.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of love and support from our family and friends. We are eternally grateful to the ICU team, 5th floor, at the I.H. Asper Institute, for their compassionate and dedicated care.
Donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
