SAM MINUK

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SAM MINUK A nice guy; this was how Judge Sam Minuk always wanted to be remembered. Judge Sam Minuk passed away on August 13, 2015 with his devoted wife, May, of 39 years by his side. Sam was ever the entertainer, and like Abbott and Costello, he was the comedian and she was the straight man. She played that role stoically throughout their marriage. Also left to remember Sam are the numerous nieces and nephews, each of them having their own special, and probably, humourous memory of him. Sam came from very humble beginnings as the youngest child of Simma and Fishel Minuk. During his lifetime, he never forgot how hard his father worked to support his five siblings; Freda Domi, Bell Meyers, Doris Ostrove, Harry Minuk and Max Minuk. He had an exceptional relationship with his oldest sister, Freda, who was very influential in his upbringing as he was the youngest in the family. Out of that circumstance came a young man of integrity, cheerful confidence and honesty that life would hopefully bring good things. As well, Freda's children and grandchildren felt the same unconditional love, and considered him their role model. Sam believed that a gentleman always does the kindest thing, and that people were basically good. He gave many who appeared before him a second, and sometimes even a third chance. He was a gentle and considerate man, never known to intentionally slight or embarrass others. Sam was always thoughtful, and a firm believer in acknowledging any occasion by giving a card that he personally chose. He often spoke about his reverence for Jewish music, and about his absolute love for his precious dog, Honey. He excelled in baseball and tennis, and enjoyed attending many hockey and football games. His first short term job was as a policeman, followed by a career in law. He actually attempted medicine at his mother's request, but this was not his calling! Sam graduated from law school in 1955, and was asked to speak to his graduating class. He was so entertaining, that he was asked to return as a guest speaker at many future functions. Sam articled with the late L. D. Moroznick before entering into a partnership with Morris Erin. From 1962 to 1971, Sam partnered with Leon Mitchell and Sydney Green under the firm name of Mitchell, Green and Minuk. His proudest day was August 22, 1972 when Sam was sworn in as a Provincial Court Judge. In recognition of his community service, he received the Queen Elizabeth Golden Jubilee medal in 2002. Sam was a very generous man, and two of his most dear recipients were the Shalom Home, and the Ashkenazi Synagogue. His life was rich with many friendships, and he was held in the highest esteem by his numerous colleagues as a humanitarian, and advocate for animal rights. No lawyer wanted to come before Judge Sam if it involved cruelty to animals! The funeral was held at the Chesed Shel Emes on August 14, 2015. The pallbearers were Shelley, Matthew and Zachary Ostrove, Jason and Jered Merrick and Brian Kaplan. Special thanks to Sam's nephew, Shelley Ostrove, niece Sandi Sherebrin, and great-nephews, Jason and Jared Merrick who attended to Sam and May's needs during this trying time. The family would also like to thank the staff at the Seven Oaks Hospital for their care, as well as Dr. Finlayson for his guidance and concern. Sam's wonderful sense of humour and storytelling will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, nice guy!

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 12, 2015