SAM MUCHNIK

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SAM MUCHNIK (z l) B.A., D.D.S. January 31, 1932 - April 16, 2010 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Dr. Sam Muchnik on Friday, April 16, 2010. Sam was born in Winnipeg, a son to Leah (Coodin) z l and William Muchnik z l and little brother to Marion Baird of Silver Spring, Maryland. Sam attended Argyle and Machray schools and graduated from St. John's High in 1950. He went on to enjoy a balanced life of education, work and play; graduating with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Manitoba in 1953 and from Dentistry at the University of Toronto in 1957. Despite the hard work to earn his tuition each summer, Sam cherished his memories as a road construction worker, building Winnipeg sidewalks and especially his Western-Canadian adventures as a Sleeping-car Porter. Sam Muchnik was a great friend to all. Known as the life of the party at the Sammie's house (Life member of Sigma Alpha Mu) and active member of Alpha Omega while a dental student up to and including today, as a member of the Executive for over 50 years. His devotion to charity work and community remained steadfast throughout his days. Sam was a participant in the Hebrew Fraternal lodge and long-time member of the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue and he was bestowed an Honorary Life membership of the Manitoba Dental Association and the Winnipeg Dental Association. In May 1961, Sam met his lifelong love and companion Rose (Stitz). They were married on December 31, 1961. They both dreamed of a warm, haymishe home bursting with children and grandchildren and together, that is what they created. And so, a lifetime of beautiful memories, of the most devoted father and grandfather, will be cherished forever by Sam's beloved wife Rose and his children and grandchildren; Paul and Marcy Muchnik of Toronto and their children: Lindsay and Jake, Rhonda and David Sacks of Vancouver and their daughters Rebecca, Isabel, Alison, Jessica and Annie. In Winnipeg, Saralyn Mehta and her son Max and from Chicago, Davina and Michael Golden and their daughters Sophie and Marlee. Until the day he passed, Sam's dental practice at Main and Jefferson brought him deep fulfillment and joy. Sam was a partner in the West Kildonan Dental group for over 53 years. His partners, assistants and his patients were his family. For over 30 years, Sam's friendly spirit and sense of humour touched the lives of countless people whose paths he crossed at the Kinsmen Reh-fit Centre. His devotion to personal health and fitness through exercise should be an inspiration to all. And Sam loved everything Cultural; Music, Symphony, Ballet, Opera, Theatre, Sam was a life-long season ticket holder. He was a voracious reader and was well-travelled but despite his exposure to everything worldly, Sam's needs were extremely simple; his eternal wish in life was to shower his loved ones with comfort and joy and bring happiness to the world around him... and so he did. Sam was laid to rest on April 19 at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. Pallbearers were Dean Baird (nephew), Carey Boroditsky (Dentistry Partner), Michael Golden (son-in-law), Alan Rosenberg (nephew), David Sacks (son-in-law) and Martin Vine (Dentistry Partner). Honorary Pallbearers were Sam Roitman (cousin), Oscar Antel (cousin) and Arnold Medved (brother-in-law). The world has lost a true Mensch, a good man with a giant heart, who will live forever in the hearts he left behind. May his memory be a blessing. Those wishing to do so may make a donation to the Heart Stroke Foundation or charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 23, 2010