MANUEL LECKER

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MANUEL LECKER January 3, 1913 - June 19, 2007 Dr. Manuel Norman Lecker passed away peacefully on June 19, 2007, at the age of 94. Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Marie; loving wife Esther; sisters, Cynthia and Tamara; and brother Sydney. He is survived by his children, Joanne Rothberg (Dick), Robert (Norma) and Brian (Barbara); grandchildren, Jodi Hyman, Andrew (Jodi), Lindsay (Josh), Mira and Adam Lecker; brother Garson (Edith); along with many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Born in Winnipeg, he spent his early childhood in Taber, Alberta. At the age of 11, being the eldest of five children, he became the patriarch of his family following the tragic passing of his father. A good student and athlete, he received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Manitoba, followed by his Doctor of Optometry, in 1935, from Columbia University in New York City. He practiced his profession for 60 years, initially with his Uncle James Shaen, with a 20-year relationship with his son Robert prior to retiring. Active in his profession, he served a term as President of the Manitoba Association of Optometrists. A veteran, he served in both the Canadian Army (Militia) and Royal Canadian Air Force from October 1940 until October 26, 1944, receiving an honourable discharge with the rank of Sergeant. He married Esther Shuckett on December 2, 1944, and shared almost 62 years with the love of his life. Raising his family with Esther at 438 Montrose St., his special times were spent at Clear Lake; golfing at Glendale where he had three hole in ones; cheering the Winnipeg Blue Bombers; and travelling with Esther to various destinations such as Europe, Israel, Mexico, Florida, Hawaii, Las Vegas and numerous Caribbean cruises. His grandchildren were very dear to him, each having a special relationship with their Manny Papa. Above all else, our Dad and Papa was a very kind and good person, a true gentleman. A celebration of his life took place on Friday, June 22, 2007, at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery, officiated by Rabbi Alan Green, with special eulogies by his brother Garson and granddaughter Jodi. Pallbearers were Jodi Hyman, Lindsay, Mira and Adam Lecker, Jordan Farber and Arthur Blank. Following Esther's passing on October 24, 2006, he moved into the Sharon Home, Kanee Centre, where he received wonderful care from all of the staff on the 4th floor. Our sincere thanks go out to his caregivers Ruth, Myrna, Lydia, Edwin, Edna, Bella and Adelaide, along with Dr. Arthur Blank, for their special care and friendship. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the C.N.I.B. or the charity of one's choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 07, 2007