MORRIE STEIMAN

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

MORRIE STEIMAN A half century of devotion to the growth of San Diego Morris I. Steiman, beloved husband, father, and grandfather of nine, and brother of Chana Maltin of Sarnia, ON, and Rose Pearlman of Toronto, ON, will be remembered lovingly by his family, extended family, friends and many members of this community where he lived for over 50 years. Morrie passed away August 7, 2002; he would have been 84 on September 26. A native of Winnipeg, MB, Canada, Mr. Steiman earned a bachelors degree in engineering at the University of Manitoba and a masters degree in applied science from the University of Toronto. He served as an officer in the Royal Canadian Engineering Corps in Europe during the Second World War and was a decorated hero for his service. He heroically opened portions of the dike in Holland, creating floods that prevented the invasion of the Nazis. In his 50 years as a building contractor he was influential in the development, design and direction of San Diego. His commitment to people, Jewish and secular causes and institutions of learning, as well as his extraordinary kindness, is legendary. He was a quiet benefactor whose charitable giving was unending. His generosity reached into the community often by helping people to help themselves. "He believed greatly in Jewish education and the sustenance of Jewish life," said Stephen Abramson, executive vice president of the United Jewish Federation in San Diego. "His philanthropy followed his heart and his Jewish values." In 1972, Morrie led construction of a new Beth Jacob synagogue on College Avenue to accommodate an expanding Jewish community. Beth Jacob, founded in 1939, had been based since 1950 in North Park. Through Morrie and Barbaras efforts, Chabad Lubavitch was established near San Diego State; and under the leadership of Rabbi Yankel Kranz, Chabad was able to reach out to a young population. Morrie Steiman also funded various schools and organizations worldwide. His philanthropy extended beyond Jewish causes as he supported many worthwhile projects in the greater San Diego community and beyond. Mr. Steiman will be deeply missed September 26, 1918 - August 7, 2002 Donations in memory of Morris Steiman may be made to any charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 17, 2002