AL BLOOMFIELD

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AL BLOOMFIELD Al Bloomfield, beloved husband of Faye (née Dashevsky), father of Lynn Stoffman (Hymie Fox), Kerry Bloomfield (Gail), and grandfather of Hart Stoffman, Evan and Rory Bloomfield, died peacefully on September 17, 2011, with his family at his side. Al was born in Winnipeg on September 11, 1923, and had just celebrated his 88th birthday. He grew up in a busy household as the oldest in a family of six children. After graduating from St. John's Tech at the age of fifteen, he was too young to be accepted to university, and began working in the family wholesale business, Eastern Smallware and Stationery. He eventually took over from his father, Sam, and was later joined by his son, Kerry. Al spent his entire career in this business, with the exception of the two years while stationed in Halifax as a member of the Army Signal Corps during the Second World War. In 1945 Al married the love of his life, Faye, and they spent many wonderful years together; Al and Faye were married for almost 66 years. The family always enjoyed leisurely meals at home, and for years, Sundays were spent with Al's parents, alternating with Faye's in Brunkild. Throughout his life he enjoyed listening to music, and was partial to the violin, having excelled while playing violin as a child. Al and Faye often attended opera and other musical productions together. They played Bridge with friends for over 60 years. They tended to their vegetable garden, and Al took many walks to favorite spots within Assiniboine Park. In addition to his annual buying trips in Canada and the U.S., which later extended to the Orient, Al and Faye travelled to many distant places, eventually spending winters in Florida. He will be remembered as a man of his word. His demeanor was unassuming, kind, soft-spoken, and calm. He often had a twinkle in his eyes and a smile on his face. He treated everyone he encountered with respect, and people felt comfortable in his presence. Al was always available to his family, and a very good listener. He loved his family unconditionally, and routinely put the family before himself. Al faced his illness with the utmost dignity, never complaining but rather appreciating the support of family. While his body failed him, his inner essence prevailed to his last day. Also surviving are his sisters and brother: Lil Burke, Ann Morantz, Norman Bloomfield, and Tammy Purkin. As well, he had several brothers and sisters-in-law, and numerous nephews and nieces, who were all special to him. He was predeceased by his parents, Bessie and Sam Bloomfield, his brother, Coleman Bloomfield, and brother-in-law Bernie Lehrer. The family would like to offer sincere appreciation to all who assisted with Al's care, including: Beth, Victor, Dennis and Marc. Special thanks to L. Schroeder and Home Care staff, and the staff of the Simkin Centre. Al received exemplary care from: Dr. J. Werier, Dr. D. Hobson and the staff of the Movement Disorder Clinic, Dr. D. Goldenberg, Dr. R. Corrin, as well as the staff in Emergency at the Victoria Hospital, in his final hours. Funeral services were held on September 20 at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, with Rabbi Green officiating. Pallbearers were: Evan and Rory Bloomfield, Mort Adler, Stanley Dashevsky, Hymie Fox, Bob Kesselman; honorary pallbearers were Jack Corrin and Hart Stoffman. If you so wish, donations can be made to the Jewish Foundation, or to a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 22, 2011