ZITA BERNSTEIN

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ZITA BERNSTEIN Zita Bernstein, born June 27, 1927 in Melville, SK, died July 6, 2010 in Winnipeg, age 83. Beloved and devoted wife of Mark Bernstein, whom she married in 1952. Loving mother of Sandra, Tamara and Mariam (Darrell Baran); adoring Baba of Miranda and Hannah Baran. Zita obtained degrees from the University of Manitoba and the University of Toronto School of Library Science, as well as her Associateship in piano. She had a lengthy career as a librarian, latterly as Assistant to the Director of the Elizabeth Dafoe Library at the University of Manitoba until her retirement some years ago. She was also, along with her husband, involved in forming the Friends of the Library group that successfully pressured for the creation of three new branches in the Winnipeg Public Library system, including the River Heights Library. A passionate, witty and optimistic woman, Zita's lively spirit was embraced by all who met her. Her life was enriched by a love of music, theatre and art. She took great pleasure in travelling to Europe with Mark and spending time in the Whiteshell with her family. Zita is also survived by her sister, Lucy Lewis, her sister-in-law Ruth (Babs) Asper, and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins, whom she loved dearly. Those who live in Winnipeg will cherish fond memories of her Chanukah parties and other family occasions. She embraced her husband's large extended family as her own. After a moving funeral service, interment was at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. Pallbearers were Daniel Asper, David Asper, Lee Asper, Leonard Asper, Sam Brask and Michael Nathanson. Honorary pallbearers were Darrell Baran, Per Brask, Murray Palay and Michael Paterson. Memorial donations may be sent to the Zita Bernstein Prize at the Faculty of Music, University of Manitoba, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba or the charity of your choice. The family wishes to thank the staff of the Emergency and Palliative Care Wards of St. Boniface General Hospital for their deep compassion and superlative care at a difficult time.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 17, 2010