REGINA EVELYN NOVEK

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REGINA EVELYN NOVEK After a long illness, Regina Evelyn Novek passed away peacefully at the Victoria General Hospital on October 29, 2011, surrounded by her family. She was 61 years old. She is deeply mourned by her husband, Joel; daughters, Mira (David) and Sheila; brothers, Daniel and Frederick; as well as many others. Regina was born in Boston, MA in 1950. After attending Tufts University and the University of Alberta, she moved to Winnipeg in 1974 to be with her future husband and the couple wed the next year. Mira was born in 1980 and Sheila in 1985. Regina found employment as a social worker at the Child Guidance Clinic. She decided to switch careers and entered the University of Manitoba Law School where she graduated with honours. In 1983, she was awarded the Israels prize for her outstanding performance as an articling student. She began her legal career at Buchwald Asper Henteleff. She moved to Hill and Abra, a firm specializing in litigation. Due to her expertise in questions of professional discipline, she was offered the position of counsel to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, a post she held with distinction until ill health forced her to retire in 2001. Regina had many interests beyond work. She was an avid cook, gardener, hostess, decorator and crafter. Her husband and daughters were the grateful beneficiaries of her domestic skills and often referred to her as Martha Stewart . For over 20 years, she participated enthusiastically in a women's book club in which she had many close companions. Regina always gave fully, generously and tirelessly to her family, friends and people who needed her help. She inspired love and devotion in those who knew her best. When her health declined, her family and friends responded and gave back to her some of the kindness they had received. She taught us to care for others, first by her example and then by her need. We will miss her but we will not forget her. Funeral services were held at Temple Shalom on October 31, 2011, with internment at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. The family thanks the staff at the Victoria General Hospital and the Sharon Home for the care they provided. Special thanks also to Elvira and Natividad, Regina's caregivers, for their gracious efforts on her behalf. Donations in Regina's honour may be made to the Canadian Dementia Action Network.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 14, 2011