IRVIN SERA

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IRVIN SERA March 9, 1927- October 18, 2015 It is with great sadness that the family of Irvin Sera announce his passing on Sunday, October 18, 2015. Irv was predeceased by his parents, Sam and Fanny Sera; his brothers Joseph and Raymond; and his wife of 60 years, Kay. He is survived by his children Hart (Donna Milovitch) and Fayth (Yale Shaffer) and his four grandchildren, Geoffrey, Seth, Lauren and Elizabeth. He is also survived by nieces, nephews and many close friends who will miss him dearly. Irv was an educator who spent more than 45 years in a profession which he pursued with passion. His first teaching post was in Crystal City, where he stoked the furnace with coal for the start of his students' day, and his last position was as an Assistant Superintendent in Winnipeg School Division. Over his lifetime, he was always encouraging young people to continue their pursuit of education and learning, offering advice and guidance. Many a time, he was sought out by former students, and current friends to seek his advice and knowledge. Irv was actively involved in many social organizations that were committed to helping those in need. He was president of Men's B'nai B'rith Organization Garden City Lodge, a board member of the B'nay Abraham Synagogue, a board member of the Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education, and a member of the original C for A Club. Irv was instrumental in OCOD, an educational organization responsible for providing professional development for teachers and administrators in the Caribbean Islands. He spent more than seven summers in the Caribbean, travelling, teaching and meeting with Education Ministers and administrators of the islands. After his retirement, he continued to be active in his chosen profession. He along with his partner and friend, Fred Smith, launched "Life-Long Learning" Adult educational programs for the City of Winnipeg. Irv, along with Kay enjoyed many activities; world traveling, bowling leagues, poker games, bingo and casino outings, Blue Bomber and Winnipeg Jet games, their summer cottage in Winnipeg Beach, and their winter home in Margate, Florida. Irv's favorite pastime, besides napping on the sofa, was spending time with friends, family and especially his grandchildren. He loved to debate societal issues, and have thought-provoking discussions with them, which occurred right up until his passing. He personified all the good qualities of a mensch, kindheartedness, compassion, sympathy, motivation and determination. He spent countless unselfish hours helping others and never asked for any rewards or recognition, for it was the work itself he found so fulfilling. The funeral was held on Tuesday October 20, 2015 at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue with burial at B'nai Abraham cemetery. Pallbearers were, Yale, Geoff and Seth Shaffer, Hart Sera, Rory Paul, and Gerald Namak. A very special thanks to the nurses and doctors at the Grace Hospital. Irv spent the last five years of his life, after Kay died, at the Shaftesbury. We would like to thank the homecare staff, and the Shaftesbury staff for the support and care of our father, that enabled him to live a full enriching life in his final years. He commented frequently, how much he enjoyed being at the Shaftesbury. The family will be establishing a scholarship in his name at Grant Park High School. Anyone wishing to make a donation, please make cheques payable to: Irv Sera Scholarship fund. Mail to, 528 Bower Blvd., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3P 0L8.
Publish Date: Nov 7, 2015

IRVIN SERA It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Irvin Sera on October 19, 2015. Services will be held on Tuesday, October 20 at 2:00 p.m. at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue. Longer obituary to follow.
Publish Date: Oct 20, 2015

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 07, 2015