BEN ZION KATZ

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BEN ZION KATZ February 5, 1924 - January 17, 2007 It is with profound sadness and grief that we announce the passing of Ben Katz, beloved zaida, father, brother, uncle and friend. Ben passed away suddenly, in his home in Vancouver, on January 17, 2007, a few weeks short of his 83rd birthday. Ben was predeceased by his mother Leah; his father Moishe; his wife of 46 years, Avivah; his brother-in-law Jack, and too many dear friends. Our feelings of loss and sadness cannot be sufficiently expressed as Ben was a constant rock and a source of unconditional love and acceptance in the lives of so many. He will be deeply missed by his children, Roni (Reagan), David and Ilana (Tom); cherished granddaughters, Talia and Hannah; sisters, Bea Starkman and Malke Shore; sister-in-law Uni Susskind; niece Tsiporah (Jeffrey); nephews, Akivah (Cynthia), Gary (Melynnda) and Bernie, and all their children. Born in Poland and arrived in Winnipeg with his family in 1930, Benny often recalled, fondly, the years they spent living on Manitoba Avenue and he retained many close friendships from that time. Benny attended Aberdeen School, Talmud Torah night school and Isaac Newton High School. He served Canada during the Second World War through his enlistment and proud service in the Royal Canadian Air Force. Upon his return to Winnipeg in 1945, Benny continued to provide for his parents and was fortunate to be able to combine his creative passion for photography with his keen business sense and people skills. He worked in the photographic industry until his retirement, and even beyond, through his entrepreneurial nature. Ben was the person family and friends turned to for assistance with anything photographic and he continued to be an invaluable resource in this capacity all his life. Dad and Mom built a loving home on Vanier Drive and their commitment and loyalty to family was unprecedented. Dad stood by us through everything - he was always willing and able to support his children. He was nurturing and affectionate, a man of few words, but full with his actions and generous with his laughter. Ben had lifelong friendships and to list all the significant people would not be possible. He always had the time and energy for others and was an incredibly giving, generous and thoughtful person. He will be terribly missed by many dear friends and extended family members in Winnipeg, in the United States, in Israel and by his newer connections in Vancouver. Ben's commitment to his health and physical fitness was, as he described, a priority and allowed us extended, quality time with him. Zaida Ben had the courage to move from his hometown of 75 years to his family in Vancouver. Those few years with Zaida Ben living nearby were full of smiles and joy and we will treasure those memories forever. He was relaxed, happy and comfortable in his new home, involved and active with his granddaughters, and there was no shortage of laughter in our daily lives, right up until his passing. We, his family, cannot express what this amazing man meant to us, but we will carry his presence and his strength in our hearts forever. Funeral services took place at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue (Winnipeg) on January 21, 2007, with Bill Weissmann and Cantor Moss officiating, followed by interment at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. Pallbearers were Thomas Morstead, Bernie Shore, Gary Starkman, Akivah Starkman, Zvi Gordon and Chaim Raber. Honorary pallbearers were Laurie Mainster, Oscar Antel and Lou Cogan. If you wish, contributions may be made in memory of Ben to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to the charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 03, 2007