JOSEPH CHARLAT

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JOSEPH CHARLAT It is with sadness that we announce the quiet passing of Joseph Charlat at the Simkin Center on Friday, November 13, 2009, at the age of 103. Joseph was born March 15,1906 in the tiny shtetl of Jeziernica, Poland, near the city of Slonim. He came to Winnipeg in 1929, leaving his parents and siblings who perished in the Holocaust. Waiting for him in Winnipeg was his beloved Clara Levene. They married in 1930, and were together for 66 wonderful years, until her passing in 1996. Joseph was a gentle man, who was respected by all who knew him. Because of his devotion to tradition, the Chevra Mishnayes Synagogue on Robinson Street and Stella Avenue became his chosen house of worship. Upon his retirement from the ladies garment industry, he dedicated himself to the synagogue. Along with Cantor Gerry Daien, he would chant daily services, singing the melodies he learned from his father and teachers in his shtetl. The family would like to thank Cantor Daien for his years of respect and devotion to dad. Joseph was an active member of the B'Nai Brith Yiddish speaking lodge, and a staunch supporter of the State of Israel. He was a role model to his family, and he taught them the value of tradition, charity and community involvement. Joseph was a devoted father and father-in-law of Harold and Elaine Charlat and Beaty and Howard Solomon. Adored grandfather of Martin and Rosalie Charlat, Cara-Lee and Ron Lubarsky, Joshua and Rhonda Charlat, Roxie and Mike Greenberg, Karen and Jason Sussman, Jorde and Helene Nathan, and loved by sixteen great-grandchildren. Services were officiated by Rabbi Neal Rose and Cantor Gerry Daien at the Chevra Mishnayes Synagogue on Sunday, November 15, 2009. The family would like to thank his devoted companion Helen Sledz, frequent visitor Janice Siewert, and the nurses and staff of the second floor Simkin Center. If so desired, donations may be made to the Chevra Mishnayes Synagogue, the Simkin Center or a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 05, 2009