JACK WOLODARSKY

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JACK WOLODARSKY It is with deep sadness that the family of Jack Wolodarsky announces his passing on May 26, 2007 at Seven Oaks General Hospital. Jack is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Shirley; his children, Gary (Terri-Mae) Wolodarsky and Elaine (Neil) Swirsky; grandchildren, Joel Wolodarsky (Jennifer Teskey), Matthew (Jackie) Swirsky, Amy Swirsky (Michael Schacter), David Wolodarsky, and Jill (John) Cassano; his sisters, Doris Lacovetsky, Roz (Larry) Usiskin, Shirley (Dave) Chochinov, and Vity Bagel; brother Bill Wolodarsky (Ann-Maree Edwards), Martin and Faigie Levitt, and sister-in-law Anna Gordon. His passing is also mourned by numerous nieces and nephews and countless friends. Jack was predeceased by his sister Marilyn Levitt and brothers-in-law Fred Lacovetsky, Sidney Bagel, and Harry Gordon. Jack was born January 11, 1922 in Winnipeg to parents, Joseph and Florence (nee Litman) Wolodarsky. He grew up in the family home on Boyd Ave. in the north end of Winnipeg, attending Aberdeen, Strathcona, and Machray schools and graduating from St. John's High. After graduation, he followed in his father's footsteps, becoming an apprentice tinsmith until he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force in January 1943. While in the services, he continued to learn his trade. Shortly after his discharge from the Air Force, he married Shirley Goldenberg on October 7, 1945. He continued to practice his trade and ultimately started his own business, Standard Sheet Metal and Roofing Company Ltd. with his partner, friend, and brother-in-law Fred Lacovetsky. They remained in business together for more than 50 years and Jack continued to work on a part time basis with his associate and dear friend, Clarence Reimer, until a few weeks before his passing. Jack was a soft-spoken, modest man who strived to provide for his immediate and extended family. His family was central in his life. He was loving, hard working, loyal, creative, generous, ethical, had a keen sense of humor, and conducted himself, both in business and his personal life, with the utmost of integrity. He never hesitated to help family and friends who needed assistance and always did so in an unassuming way. He expected nothing in return, as helping out was its own reward. He had a deep social conscience, always being concerned about the disadvantaged. For many years, he served as a volunteer for the Hebrew Sick Benefit Association and the Beth Israel Synagogue. Jack had very few personal needs. Being in the company of family and friends was his greatest joy and he always considered himself to be the richest man in the world. He was the ultimate role model and taught us all, by his example, how to live our lives. Jack loved travel and had a great interest in economics and politics. He was the proud owner of a cottage in Winnipeg Beach, which, on summer weekends, was a beehive of activity for a large number of family and friends. He loved playing cards, especially cribbage, and was the inspiration for the annual family cribbage tournament that now involves three generations of players. The family would like to express their appreciation to Dr. Norman Hechtenthal and to all the physicians and staff involved in his care at Seven Oaks General Hospital. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 28 at 2:00 p.m. at Congregation Etz Chayim, 123 Matheson Ave. Pallbearers will be Bill Wolodarsky, Alan Lacovetsky, Joel Wolodarsky, Matthew Swirsky, David Wolodarsky, John Cassano, and Michael Schacter. Shiva will be held at 159 Ambassador Row until Thursday evening. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Seven Oaks General Hospital Foundation or the charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 28, 2007