ISRAEL SIMCHA FRIEDMAN

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ISRAEL SIMCHA FRIEDMAN It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Israel Simcha Friedman on November 6, 2009. Issy is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sarah, his children David (Lillian), Brian (Judy) and Helen (Daniel) and his grandchildren Abby, Alanna, Melanie, Tamara, Joshua and Spencer. He is also survived by his niece Marilyn (Brian) and nephews Bobby (Debbie) and Bruce (Cheryl) and their families. Issy was born in Kamien, Poland in 1923. He lost his parents and six siblings in the Holocaust; he and his brother Joseph were the only two surviving members of his family. He came to Canada in 1949 unable to speak English and without financial resources. He worked hard to create a new life for himself. In 1953 Issy married Sarah whom he adored. They had a wonderful marriage and together raised three children. Issy started his career as a cattle dealer but to be closer to his family he entered the auto body business as half-owner of Boyd Autobody. He and his business partner operated Boyd for 35 years until his retirement. Issy was also involved in many other ventures in his successful career. Issy also became involved in charitable work, always believing that his success came with the obligation to give back to others. True to his nature, he gladly devoted himself and his time to this work and shunned any acknowledgement of his efforts. At home, Issy was a devoted husband and father who always ensured his family was cared for. He had time and attention for all of us. He was an avid sports fan and became engrossed in virtually any sporting event on the television. In that case, his attention was occasionally delayed. His greatest success came from the respect and admiration he garnered from those he came in contact with throughout his life. In his later years, suffering ill health, he was still constantly approached by those who remembered him as a keen, honest businessman and often asked for his advice. He was remembered for his kindness and for the respect he paid others. Those who met him often said they were proud to know him. We would like to extend thanks to Issy's caregivers, Tessie and John, as well as Remy for all his help. Issy will be remembered as a loving, devoted and generous grandfather, father and husband. He will be greatly missed.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 21, 2009