RIVIAN LILLIAN RUSKIN (CHMELNITSKY)

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RIVIAN LILLIAN RUSKIN (nee CHMELNITSKY) November 23, 1938 - June 14, 2015 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Rivian Ruskin, on June 14, 2015, at St. Boniface Hospital, at the age of 76, after a courageous battle with cancer. Left to cherish her memory are loving daughters, Kayla (Neil) Dawson and Eileen Ruskin; and grandsons, Cole and Blair Dawson, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Rivian was predeceased by her loving husband of 53 years, Robert, in August 2012; mother Katie; and siblings, Esther, Sylvia, Abe, Blanche, Harry, Gertie and Jack. Rivian was born in Winnipeg and had a career as a legal secretary for nearly 50 years, working for her brother Jack and longtime friend Al McGregor. A true matriarch, Rivian loved spending time with family and friends and making memories; that was most important to her. Funeral services were held graveside on June 16 at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. Pallbearers were Neil Dawson, Cole Dawson, Blair Dawson, Arthur Chapman, Marshall Ruskin and Larry Ruskin. The family thanks Dr. Dawn-Lynn McTaggart, CancerCare Manitoba and staff of the St. Boniface Palliative Care Unit for the excellent care Rivian received. Donations can be made in Rivian's memory to the St. Boniface Palliative Care Ward, CancerCare Manitoba or the charity of your choice. Rivie will be deeply missed and remembered with love by her family and friends.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 20, 2015