BENNY ROITELMAN

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BENNY ROITELMAN Peacefully, on November 5, 2012, Benny Roitelman, at the age of eighty years, passed away at home, surrounded by his entire family. Benny was predeceased by his mother Rochel, sisters Reeva and Ronia, who perished in the Holocaust, his father David (1995), and stepmother Frances (2009). He is survived by his wife Audrey, daughter Renee, son Jerry (Karen), daughter Jana (Sean), brothers Barry (Clara), Martin (Marcia), sister Goldie (Mark), grandsons Gavriel, Rafael, Evan, Dustin, stepdaughters Nata (Brian), Kayla, Rena (Doug), stepgranddaughter Mahalia, nephews Robert, Brian, Michael, Jeffrey, and, of course, Mackie (Moishe) his four legged companion. Benny was born June 12, 1932, in Rokitno, Poland. After witnessing his mother and sisters murdered by the Nazis, he cared for his temporarily blinded father while hiding until the liberation in 1944. Soon after, Benny made his way to the soon to be established State of Israel where he fought in the War of Independence. After a brief stint playing professional soccer for Beitar Tel Aviv, Benny reunited with his father, stepmother and brothers in Winnipeg in 1953. He became an Electrician, working long hours and eventually branching out on his own, with his long term partner Irvin Karp, culminating in a successful career in business and finally retiring at the young age of 79. Benny spoke seven languages, was known for his witty sense of humour and, always engaged people in conversation wherever he went. Benny loved to travel and was very proud that he had travelled across Canada, all the USA, Cuba, Mexico, Alaska, Europe and Las Vegas which he loved. He and Audrey made three trips to Israel to visit with very close friends and family. Benny had a great love for Israel, and was extremely proud of his children Jerry and Renee serving in the IDF. He was devoted to Audrey, family and friends. He was a husband, a father, a grandfather, a brother, an uncle, and a friend, like no other, generous and supportive and always there when needed. His zest for life inspired others to appreciate the joys of life. Funeral services were held at the Etz Chayim Synagogue, on Wednesday, November 7, 2012, officiated by Rabbi Lander and Cantor Greaves. Internment was held at the Rosh Pina Cemetery. Pallbearers were Gavriel and Rafael Sierra, Evan Roitelman, Robert and Brian Shinewald, and Jeffrey Roy. Honorary pallbearers were Miriam Feierstein, Irvin Karp, Dustin Roitelman and the General Monash Legion Honor Guard, Branch 115. Donations in Benny's memory can be made to a charity of your choice. Audrey and family are very appreciative of the care and compassion provided by Dr. Z. Bshouty, Lynn Demke RN, Dr. A. Morris, Dr. N. Hechtenthal, the home care team and the palliative care team of the WRHA. Rest in peace Zaida Skittles
Publish Date: Nov 24, 2012

BENNY ROITELMAN Benny Roitelman, husband of Audrey, passed away November 5, 2012. Funeral services will be held at Etz Chayim Synagogue, 123 Matheson Ave., East on November 7 at 3:00 p.m. Longer obituary to follow.
Publish Date: Nov 7, 2012

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 24, 2012