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HERSH AVRUM BINDER Obituary pic

HERSH AVRUM BINDER

Date of Passing: Feb 08, 2015

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HERSH AVRUM BINDER In the early morning hours of February 8, 2015 Hersh Binder of Winnipeg passed away in his sleep, unexpectedly but peacefully and at home at the age of 48. Hersh was deeply loved and his family and friends are profoundly saddened by his far too premature passing. He was predeceased by his father, Monty Binder and is survived by his wife Susan Helenchilde, his daughter Izzie Binder-Helenchilde, his mother Margie (Belansky) Binder, his brother Moish Binder (Rebecca) and his sister Arona Olfman (Shawn). Hersh was born on December 9, 1966 in Winnipeg. He attended Talmud Torah elementary school and graduated from Joseph Wolinsky Collegiate in 1984. As a child, he was a talented athlete and a cheerful friend who played football for the West Kildonan Cougars and spent many joyful summers at Camp Massad. Following high school, Hersh spent a formative summer travelling in Israel and Europe before returning to Winnipeg to study Economics at the University of Manitoba. While at the University of Manitoba, Hersh discovered his love of acting at the Black Hole Theatre. He appeared in numerous plays and films over the years including Guy Maddin's "Archangel" in 1990. After completing his studies, Hersh moved to British Columbia where he lived for more than 10 years. It was in Vancouver that Hersh embarked on a career in the non-profit sector that would lead to many years of service to causes that moved and inspired him both in British Columbia and in Manitoba. He worked with inner city and at risk youth, people with significant physical and cognitive challenges, women and children who were victims of domestic and sexual violence and in the local film industry. Fiercely proud of his Jewish heritage, Hersh also held program leadership positions at three Jewish summer camps, a synagogue and a Jewish community centre. Hersh met his wife, Susan Helenchilde, on a blind date in January of 1996. Inseparable from the day they met, Hersh and Susan were married on September 13, 1997. In 1998, they moved to the small northern BC town of Dawson Creek where, following in his father's footsteps, Hersh was initiated into Freemasonry. Hersh and Susan returned to Vancouver in 2000 to prepare for the birth of Isadora (Izzie) in 2001. Hersh was ecstatic about becoming a father and soon the family moved back to Winnipeg so that Izzie could be raised among family and close friends. Even beyond his work, Hersh was active in every community in which he lived. He was involved with a Vancouver based theatre company and performed in the Vancouver Fringe Festival; he spent countless hours volunteering at Folklorama's Celtic Irish Pavilion where he also beamed with pride at Izzie's dance performances. Deeply committed to social justice and community well being, Hersh volunteered as a telephone crisis counsellor, organized a White Ribbon campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence and was a regular Earth Day volunteer. Hersh liked to play guitar, loved blues, bluegrass and folk music and was a devoted fan of the Grateful Dead. He enthusiastically supported his favourite sports teams, the Winnipeg Jets and the Minnesota Vikings. Hersh was a kind, gentle and personable man who was always willing to do anything to help others. He was possessed of a sympathetic ear, a keen sense of humour and an incredibly infectious laugh. Described as a "bear made of cinnamon" by a very close friend, a "gentle giant of a man" by his mother-in-law and a "mensch" by everyone who knew him, Hersh had a rare gift for making everyone he met feel special. His generosity of spirit was remarkable and his sense of compassion for others extraordinary. He radiated warmth and laughter and brought happiness into every room he entered. Hersh Binder was fun, kindness and decency personified. Hersh had enduring respect and affection for his mother and family and had many close friends who were extremely important to him. For almost 20 years, he and Susan delighted in one another and remained deeply in love until his last day. Above all, he adored his daughter Izzie and treasured every moment they spent together. Funeral services were officiated by Cantor Anibal Mass at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue on February 11. Eulogies were delivered by Hersh's daughter Izzie, his wife Susan, his close friends Stu Slayen and Andrew Davidson and his brother Moish. Pallbearers were Charles Steele, Andrew Davidson, Danny Gunn, Stu Slayen, Dr. Garry Weinberg, Aliza Amihude, Evan Roitenberg, Sheldon Zipursky, Dr. Allan Boroditsky and Moish Binder. A recording of the service is available at: http://1drv.ms/1E4uALj Donations in Hersh's memory can be made to the Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF Canada) or any charity of choice.
Publish Date: Feb 21, 2015

HERSH AVRUM BINDER Hersh Binder passed away suddenly but peacefully early in the morning of Sunday, February 8, 2015. Funeral services will be held at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, 561 Wellington Crescent at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow service. Longer obituary to follow.
Publish Date: Feb 10, 2015

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 21, 2015

Condolences & Memories (40 entries)

  • Hersh was a golden figure from a golden period of my life. See you on the other side, good man. - Posted by: Guy Stewart () on: Jul 30, 2015

  • I first met Hersh when I was working at 24/7 Intouch in Winnipeg, MB. He was my night supervisor and I absolutely adored him. He was such an uplifting spirit... So charasmatic and genuinely a nice person. I give my condolences to his family / friends. We miss you Hersh and I will never forget you! - Posted by: Jason Clapper () on: Mar 08, 2015

  • My sincerest condolences to Susan, Izzie and to all of Hersh's family and friends. Hersh was an exceptionally happy, warm, loving, caring and upstanding man, who shared the joy of living with everyone with whom he came into contact. He will be very deeply missed but his impact on those around him will endure forever. - Posted by: Margo (Watts) Cochrane (friend to Susan and Hersh) on: Mar 08, 2015

  • I worked with Hersh when he was a Department Manager of service to women and children who experienced domestic violence in Dawson Creek, BC. I have fond memories of Hersh. He regularly brought fancy coffees to the staff. Hersh was always happy and friendly. I also worked with Sudan on a play that she wrote to be performed at our annual Take Back the Night. My condolences and prayers are with you in this sad time. - Posted by: Jane Harpet (Co-worker) on: Mar 03, 2015

  • Within my book of memories, Are special thoughts of you. And all the many nice things You often say and do - As I turn the pages, And recall each single thought, I realize the happiness That knowing you has brought. There are memories of the times we've shared Both bright and sunny days. There are memories of your kindness And your friendly thoughtful ways. There are memories of all those notes, we would write back and forth, When we would just get together, And talk of this or that. And when I recall these memories As I go along life's way, I find they grow more precious still With every passing day. - Posted by: Ivy Dusik (friend) on: Feb 26, 2015

  • I used to work with Hersh at a call center. He worked the midnight shift and always brought such life to his work despite his medical issues. He was a kind soul and you'll never meet another like him. - Posted by: Norm Keillor (Former coworker) on: Feb 26, 2015

  • I met Hersh at the Black Hole Theatre at the University of Manitoba where we performed in several productions. You could not be around Hersh and not laugh, joke or feel better about the world. He had the rare talent of making the people around him feel well just by sharing his company. I am terribly sad to hear about his untimely passing, especially as he was someone who radiated life spirit. I would like to send my condolences to his family and close friends who must be suffering a great loss. In reading his obituary, I am struck by his many accomplishments professionally, and his commitment to his community, what a wonderful man he was. Sincerely, Maria Lamont - Posted by: Maria Lamont (friend) on: Feb 26, 2015

  • I was saddened when I heard the news of Hersh's passing. I would like to give my condolences to his family. He was always very kind to me and always put a smile on my face when I was down. He will forever be missed. - Posted by: Sindusha Balakumar (former coworker ) on: Feb 25, 2015

  • Sincere condolences to Mrs Binder, Susan, Izzy, Arona and Moish. Very sad when I heard of Hersh's passing. He always had a smile and was a joy to talk with. May his memory be for a blessing! - Posted by: Fraser Aronovitch () on: Feb 22, 2015

  • Dear Susan and Izzy, I'm so saddened to hear of Hersh's passing. He was a great man, always warm, always hilarious, always thoughtful. The world would be much improved if everyone were a bit more like lovely Hersh. I'm proud to say I knew this wonderful person. Much love and sympathy, xoxo Guy - Posted by: Guy Maddin (friend) on: Feb 21, 2015

  • I am sorry for the family. I work with Hersh as my TL. He was funny, makes you laugh. If you were down, he always cheer up. He will be missed. - Posted by: Cathy Battaglia (Co-Worker ) on: Feb 20, 2015

  • Susan and Izzy, so very sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts are with you. Murray, Stacy, Elana, and Peggy - Posted by: Stacy () on: Feb 19, 2015

  • So sorry to hear about Hersh! Condolences to his family. He was my TL at work and he was a GREAT guy! Always has a smile. - Posted by: Tabitha Groening (Co worker) on: Feb 17, 2015

  • I am shocked and deeply saddened by the news of Hersh's passing. I had known Hersh since kindergarten and growing up one street apart. He was one of my closest friends all through childhood. While we lost touch for a while as adults, in more recent years we had reconnected and seeing Hersh was always one of the highlights of my visits back home. He was a real mentsch and had a brilliant wit and sense of humor. My deepest condolences to Hersh's family and many friends. May his memory be a blessing. - Posted by: Stacey Cherny (friend from childhood) on: Feb 17, 2015

  • Susan, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Izzy. Our deepest condolences for such a terrible loss. - Posted by: Anita and Sarando Matheos (friend) on: Feb 16, 2015

  • Susan, my deepest sympathy to you and your dear Izzy on the death of your husband. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. - Posted by: Margaret Forestell () on: Feb 16, 2015

  • I was a classmate of Hersh’s brother, Mark. I remember Hersh being a gentleman and a good person. He was always friendly towards me right from the early days of visiting the Binder home in West Kildonan. He will be missed, but his life will provide sweet memories and a legacy for many to cherish. Many walk a better path because of Hersh Binder. - Posted by: Alan Keith (Classmate of Hersh's brother, Mark. ) on: Feb 15, 2015

  • My deepest condolences to the Binder family. Even though our paths crossed briefly in the mid 80's, I'll never forget Hersh's kind and welcoming demeanor. He had a pure neshama, a wonderful sense of humor, and he was always fun to be around. May your family be spared further sorrow, and may Hersh rest in peace. - Posted by: Ron Saban (Old Friend) on: Feb 13, 2015

  • My deepest condolences to Hersh's family and friends — The loss of Hersh came as nothing short of a shock to me. We were childhood friends through all of our years at Hebrew School, growing up together tromping around Garden City, West Kildonan, and the rest of Winnipeg. I will remember always his warmth, sincerity, and the way he brought people together in joy and harmony. Zichrona l’vracha. - Posted by: Hartley Odwak (Friend) on: Feb 13, 2015

  • I'm so sorry for the loss of your best friend Susan. Words cannot convey the sorrow I feel for you and Izzy. My heart is broken for you both. This amazing man was needed elsewhere, and will now watch over you guys from above. - Posted by: Lisa buchanan (Co-worker/friend) on: Feb 12, 2015

  • Susan, I'm so very sorry to hear about the loss of your Hersh. My deepest condolences to Izzy and you. Love, Prestoni - Posted by: Sharon Preston () on: Feb 12, 2015

  • Susan and Izzy, I'm so very sorry for your loss. The few times I met Hersh I was struck by his kind and gracious manner, his good humour and his love for you both. I know he will be sorely missed. Much love from Aunt Liz - Posted by: Liz Forestell (family) on: Feb 12, 2015

  • Please accept my sincere condolences. - Posted by: Wanda Guenther () on: Feb 12, 2015

  • So sorry to hear of Hersh's passing. While it had been years & years since Hersh & I had seen each other, he was forever tucked in a little pocket in my heart. Blessings to all who loved him. xox - Posted by: paula luther (friend) on: Feb 12, 2015

  • So very sad and shocking to hear of Hersh's passing especially since he was so young. We are too limited to understand why G-d took him but we have to emunah (faith) that he is with his loving creator in a safe and peaceful place. Amen. My deepest condolences to Hersh's family and friends. Sincerely, Cindy Greenblat. - Posted by: Cindy Greenblat (old friend ) on: Feb 12, 2015

  • BIG HERSH.......was the best manager I ever worked with. God Bless! - Posted by: AJ Cool (Co-worker) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • I was very sorry to learn of Hersh's passing this week. I only worked with him for a couple of years. We used to butt heads from time to time, but he was always a kind, honest man. We knew there were times he was in much pain, but he never let it show. The one thing I know for sure, was that he loved his daughter very much. He spoke of you often. My condolences to the Binder family. - Posted by: Carole Osadchuk (coworker) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • I am so sorry for your loss Susan. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Posted by: Jackie Kettley (Aunt) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • My condolences to the Binder family. I had the pleasure of working with Hershey for 2 years at 24/7 and no one could ever match his wit. He will be missed dearly. The world has lost a great man! - Posted by: John Martens (former coworker) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • My condolences to the family on the passing of a great man. I worked with Hersh for 4 years. He made every day less mundane and was one of the few who listened intently to all my daily stories, sharing laughs and good jokes. One of the strongest and kindest people I have ever known. He always had a way of making you feel like you were important and that you mattered. The world may have lost a great man, but heaven gained an amazing spirit. I am so sorry. My thoughts are with all of you, especially Lizzy. - Posted by: Stephanie Reimer (Past Coworker of Hersh) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • I was saddened when I heard the news and would like to extend my condolences to Hersh's family. He was a very kind hearted man. Even though I have only worked with him for 2 years he has a special place in my heart. He was more than a collegue and mentor. He was more than a friend more so like a dad to me. I will forever miss you. - Posted by: val sison (former collegue and friend) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • Hersh was one of those people who made every moment around him that much more enjoyable just because he was there. He was a very funny man, always had great positive energy, and could provide laughs galore, no matter what place you were in before your encounter with him. I also fondly remember the days at University College, near the "rads", laughing, storytelling; Hersh was somehow the natural "fun" leader, no matter who else was there. I've been fortunate enough to continue to see and talk with him over the years, and the vibe never changed. So sad to see you go; you'll be missed. When I think of Hersh - I'll always smile, and laugh a little; that's the way he would have wanted it! Randy Guest - Posted by: Randy Guest (friend) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • My heartfelt condolences to the Binder family. I haven't seen Hersh in so many years but he had a presence and sense of humour that can never be forgotten. - Posted by: David Ostrinsky (Old Friend) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • Deepest condolences Susan, my thoughts are with you at this time. - Posted by: Peggy dillon (Review board member) on: Feb 10, 2015

  • I am so sorry for your loss Susan. - Posted by: Rhonda Robertson (Friend/Co-worker) on: Feb 10, 2015

  • Our sincere condolences in the sudden passing of dear Hersh! - Posted by: Lorraine & Jim Forestell (Relative) on: Feb 10, 2015

  • Hersh made University five times more fun than any other person. My fondest memory was the Hearts card games in the Arts building. Hersh was hilarious, social, and caring. Sad news, he was a lovely human being. - Posted by: Steve Gilmour (Friend) on: Feb 10, 2015

  • Deepest sympathy to all the Binder family on the untimely passing of your son, husband, father and brother. May his memory be for a blessing! Sadly, Esther Weinstein (friend of Margie) - Posted by: Esther Weinstein (Family Friend) on: Feb 10, 2015

  • We here at the Starbucks Academy store are so sorry to hear of Hersh passing. He was a lovely man, always with a smile on his face! He was really funny and we loved his wry wit! He will be missed! Our condolences to his family. - Posted by: Naomi Swan Lake (Served him coffee at Starbucks everyday) on: Feb 10, 2015

  • Our deepest heartfelt condolences on the loss of Hersh. Always enjoyed his humour and genuine kindness. - The Stokes family - Posted by: Gord Stokes (Friend) on: Feb 10, 2015

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