SYDNEY DAVID PALAY

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SYDNEY DAVID PALAY 1920 - 2010 With great sadness we announce the passing of Sydney David Palay, after a lengthy illness on Saturday, December 18, 2010 at Victoria General Hospital. Syd is mourned by his devoted wife of 60 years, Pearl. He was a loving father to Linda (Norman), Murray (Ivy), Michael and Andie (Noel). He loved his grandchildren Ilana (Bram), Jennifer (Nathan), Matthew, Leo, Max, Josh, Zach, Sami, Rachel, Alexa and Eli and great-grandson, Brody. He was predeceased by daughter-in-law Elana. Syd was born 90 years ago in Winnipeg and was active in his business as a warehouse distributor, M M Distributors, proudly named for his two sons. After 25 years in business he retired and was able to enjoy his retirement with Pearl and his family. He always looked young and was very active until the last few years when his body was overtaken by illness. Syd loved sports, in his youth being a speed skater, coaching his sons baseball teams, enjoyed his many years of bowling and was a great football fan. He just recently watched the Grey Cup from his hospital bed, and although weak was glued to the television commenting on the plays. Syd was an artist who drew by hand incredible banners for all his grandchildren's birthdays and events. Syd will be remembered as a true gentleman, honest, sensitive, always caring about others first. He loved the outdoors and loved the fishing trips he would take in the Whiteshell in his earlier years. He looked out of his hospital room with longing to go to the home he loved, behind the wheel of his car. He missed his independence and ability to drive. Syd's mind was sharp until the end and he would greet his visitors and hospital staff with his wonderful smile and his jokes even through all of his suffering. Syd knew his days were numbered and he was saddened thinking that he was a burden to his family. This could not have been further from the truth. His wife was by his side at the hospital each day, as were his children, helping to feed him, listening to music and talking or reminiscing about his life and dreams. His passing has left a large void in our lives and Syd will be missed terribly. Syd was cared for with great attention and compassion at Victoria General Hospital. Special mention to Dr. Jason, Dr. Cavers, Dr. Munsamy, Dr. Maxwell, Dr. Turaska and the entire nursing staff and aides of the 5th floor. We would also like to thank Dad's family physician, Dr. Marvin Slutchik, who provided care during Dad's last years. Donations in Syd's memory can be made to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba to the Eli Solomon Special Needs Fund or the Elana (Dil) Palay Leave More Than Memories Fund or to CancerCare Manitoba.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 29, 2010