JOSEPH ZELCER

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JOSEPH (JOE) ZELCER It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Joseph (Joe) Zelcer on October 4, 2015 at the Victoria Hospital, surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He leaves behind his loving wife Ruth, of 57 years, his children Sharon Gilmore (Gary), Hartley Zelcer (Peppi) and Shelley Zelcer (Paul Jamieson), and his grandchildren, Michael, Rachel, Zachary, Laura, Eric, Brooke, and Hallie. Joseph Zelcer was born on October 3, 1930 in the small town of Oszmiana, Lithuania to his father Herschel, mother Zelda, and his older brother Al. In 1941, the Nazis invaded the town of Oszmiana where they immediately rounded up the Jewish men. Joseph was lucky enough to escape the instant death that his father was summoned to. Over the course of the next three years Joseph and his family moved to different forced labour camps throughout the region. In 1944, Joseph and his beloved Uncle Louie were separated from the women in their family and were deported to Dachau Concentration Camp. Although he was only a young teen, Joseph miraculously endured and survived the horrendous atrocities that occurred within daily life in Dachau. After a horrific year, Joseph and his Uncle Louie were liberated by the American Army. Over the course of the next three years, Joe began to rebuild and to give meaning to his survival. Joe was fortunate to find a German Dentist in Munich who took a particular interest in Joe's desire and pursuit in entering the field of dentistry. Joe was taught and trained in all facets of the field. It was here where he found his genuine passion in life. In 1948, Joseph was sponsored by the Jewish Congress Orphans Program to come to Winnipeg. He considered himself incredibly fortunate to arrive in Canada knowing that he would be able to live with freedom and security. Joseph continued to pursue his passion for dentistry in Winnipeg and worked for many dentists from 1948 and onward. However, in 1950 he opened a denture clinic on Selkirk Avenue. He enjoyed having the opportunity to work with many different ethnic groups. He spoke several languages with his patients which enabled better communication and resulted in comfort and trust between them. While building his business, he continued his education in a three year program at the University of Manitoba in the faculty of Dentistry and graduated with a Diploma. In 1970, Joseph played a vital role in bringing proper legislation to the field of Denturism and creating what is now the Denturist Association of Manitoba. All while building his career, Joseph met his wife Ruth. Joseph and Ruth were best friends, soulmates and partners in life. Together they had three beautiful children, and seven grandchildren. Joseph was a man that was truly one of a kind. His kind, selfless and generous demeanor made him a man that was loved by all. Joe always felt a deep connection and sense of pride to the country of Israel, which he visited numerous times with his wife and family. Joseph left his family and friends with a legacy of strength, wisdom, courage and love. He taught everyone that it is important to accept and understand others no matter their background or situation. We want to thank all of those who were an integral part in caring for Joseph in his last 17 months at the Simkin Centre. A very special thank you to the personal caregivers Anna, JR, Amor, and Leona. They gave him loving and tender care. Joseph will be forever loved, missed and remembered. Contributions can be made to honour his memory to the Alzheimer Society and the Jewish Federation.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 17, 2015