BENJAMIN KARASICK

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BENJAMIN KARASICK June 29, 1921 February 25, 2008 Peacefully on Monday, February 25, 2008, Ben Karasick passed away, age 86, at the Seven Oaks Hospital in Winnipeg. Ben will be missed greatly by his wife Lil, six children from his first wife Irene, two step children, nineteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents Bessie and Edel, sister Ann, brothers-in-law Mickey and Nathan and daughter-in-law Frances. Ben is survived by his brother Abbott (Ruth) Karasick and sisters Eva Bermack and Rebecca Dobbs and brother-in-law Cecil Yutman. To Lil, he was the love of her life and best friend for over twenty years. To his children Ken (Ramona), Verne (Debby), Vivian (Ken), Clifford (Sarah), Lyle (June) and Haderra (Mark) and step-children Todd (Elaine) and Marla (Leigh), he was someone they could look up to for his many great lifetime contributions and achievements. Born and raised in Winnipeg, Ben enjoyed good fortune through hard work in his professional life, rewarding experiences through his community involvement, and the comfort and joy derived from his family, friends and lifelong hobby of stamp collecting. After serving as an air mechanic during the Second World War, Ben's entrepreneurial spirit led him to open and operate a successful heating business for 18 years. He was an innovator in this industry. Looking for a new challenge, Ben elected to pursue a career in hotel development. The hotel business gave Ben the opportunity to get involved in the larger Winnipeg community which he loved. For 35 years he was a member and former master of Masonic Sinai Lodge #143. He was also a member of the General Monash branch of the Canadian Legion and was involved in many other organizations in the community. As well, Ben was a member of the Rosh Pina Synagogue for more than 45 years. Ben supported many charitable organizations including donating blood over 50 times. The real joy in Ben's life was his family and friends. Although his professional commitments prevented him from spending the quality time he would have liked with them, he was very proud of and loved all his children, stepchildren, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will always be remembered by all who knew him as an honest, gentle, well respected and righteous man. His life, his values, his beliefs will continue to live and influence those who were touched by him for years to come. The family would like to thank Ben's lifelong friend Morley Golden, for all his help and support. If desired donations may be made to: The Canadian Museum of Human Rights (204) 944 2476 or the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba (204) 477 7525

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 08, 2008