DR. JERRY LITMAN

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DR. JERRY LITMAN
July 17, 1928 - July 22, 2020

Survived by daughter Shelley (Dennis) and son Stephen, brother Larry (Faye and family) and numerous dear cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Lily and Joe, sister Beverly and his beloved wife Reva.
Born into a loving and hard working family in Winnipeg, Jerry had very close relationships with his siblings and many cousins throughout his entire life. He graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1950 with a BSc. He worked multiple jobs to help support his family and to put himself through Loyola University Dental School in Chicago, graduating in 1954. He was the only Canadian and youngest member of his graduating class. Jerry's experiences in Chicago provided fond memories and lively stories for the rest of his life.
Jerry went to Kenora to cover for a summer dental leave in 1955 and fell in love with the community and the Lake of the Woods. He also fell in love with Reva Standil and they were married in Winnipeg, January 1956. They bought Dr. Art Schwartz's dental practice and stayed in Kenora for the next 25 years, embracing the community and all it had to offer. Stephen was born in 1958 and Shelley in 1961.
Jerry was involved in Kinsmen, Rotary, Kenora Board of Education, and was ap-pointed to the Ontario Arts Council amongst many other activities. He enjoyed being on the lake and bought the family camp on Leisure Island, where they enjoyed many summers.
In 1979 Reva and Jerry decided to move back to Winnipeg where most of their family was located. Jerry reestablished his dental practice at the Redwood Dental Centre, working until 1993 when he had to retire for health reasons. His waiting room was a colourful mosaic of Winnipeggers and patients who had followed him from Kenora. The walls and shelves of his office were filled with mementos given by patients over the years and every patient got a toy or a sticker regardless of their age.
During his last few years of practice, Jerry was fortunate to be able to travel to many Arctic communities to provide dental treatment. His love of the people and culture lead to new friendships and additional pieces for his treasured Inuit art collection.
Jerry's love of music and a promise to his dear Scots landlady in 1954 led him to work very hard to become an accomplished bagpipe player. He had many wonderful years playing within the Winnipeg bagpipe community including the annual summer parade in Gimli and several overseas trips to pipe for the World Curling Championships. Jerry was incredibly honoured that his fellow pipers Mark, Pam, Doug and Keith, piped for him during his stay at Riverview, as well as having two 'practices' outside Jerry's window at Grace Hospice. Jerry played along on his chanter from his room.
Jerry collected many interesting things and had a lot of hobbies, all of which he did very well. His workshop and garage are a tribute to his creative mind and busy hands. Jerry loved dogs, photography, horticulture, aboriginal art, fishing, magic tricks, lapidary work, wood carving and learning about everything. He also loved his motorcycle and his truck.
He loved his home and his neighbours. Jerry and Reva, and their dogs were fixtures on Waterloo Street for almost 40 years. After Reva passed away in 2013, there was no question Jerry wanted to maintain his independence at home. We were blessed for 'the ladies' who became like family in caring for Jerry and his dog Cassie in their home. Jerry loved each of you like his own.
Health issues this spring led to the decision to gratefully accept placement for Jerry at Riverview Health Centre for care, under Covid-19 precautions. He was transferred to Grace Hospice for the final weeks of his life, and it was wonderful for Jerry to finally be able to have daily visits in person with his daughter Shelley. They were able to celebrate his 92nd birthday with his favourite 'mom's cheesecake' and balloons. Jerry passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of July 22.
A family graveside service was held July 24 at B'nay Abraham. We celebrate a long life well lived. Jerry was always engaged with life and people. He set high goals and had a natural curiosity about the world. He had a gentle, humble spirit and strong, lifelong values. He still felt that he had a lot to accomplish in this life and even left his Costco shopping list on a notepad for Shelley. Jerry was surrounded by a huge circle of love and respect from so many people - please know that he felt the same way about you.
We would like to thank the ladies, the medical community including Dr. Ruth Simkin, Dr. James Tam and special nurse Caitlin from the Access Clinic. Thanks also to the wonderful staff at Riverview (3E) and the compassionate staff at Grace Hospice. Thank you to family, friends, and the Waterloo/ Niagara Street neighbours for all of their support.
If desired, donations may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, Riverview Health Centre or the Grace Hospital Foundation.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 22, 2020