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LOUIS BILLINKOFF
It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of Louis Billinkoff at the age of 99. Lou was born in 1923, the son of immigrant parents who moved to Winnipeg from Rzhyschiv, near Kiev. He married Ruth (Lentz) in 1951 and had two sons, Lorne (Marilyn) and Errol (Nicole Smith). Lou and Ruth were married for 71 years and they were looking forward to celebrating Lou’s 100th birthday in June. They had a long, wonderful life together, building two houses, traveling, and raising a family.
Lou was a devoted family man and enjoyed spending time with his sons, and later his four grandchildren, Alix (Natan Cramer) and Mitchell. Jordan, Asher, (and their mother Susan) whom he loved to play hide and seek with in the basement of their Elm Street home after family dinners. He also had three great grandchildren, Shalev, Boaz, and Nava.
Lou went to school in the North End and later went to the University of Manitoba, graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1945. He was hired by City Hydro, later Winnipeg Hydro, and was employed there for forty years, working his way up to Assistant Chief Engineer. It was his mission to rid Winnipeg of its overhead wiring.
Lou gained notoriety later in life as a runner. After surviving a heart attack at the age of 89, he started exercising, and then running. He set Canadian records for the 50 and 100 meter runs in his age class, and a World record at the age of 95. His story was covered nationally by many news outlets.
Lou passed away on March 14, 2023, at the St. Boniface Hospital. His funeral was held at the Chesed Shel Emes Funeral Home on March 19. Pallbearers were Mitch Billinkoff, Jordan Billinkoff, Asher Billinkoff, Donald Billinkoff, Martin Billinkoff, and Josh Fineblit.
The family would like to thank the staff at the St. Boniface Hospital for their care of Lou. The family would also like to thank Lou’s neighbour Doug and all-round support person Maria for their care and dedication, and the staff at the Reh-Fit Centre for their support.
Donations can be made to the Louis and Ruth Billinkoff Fund at the Jewish Federation of Manitoba or the charity of your choice.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 08, 2023
Condolences & Memories (3 entries)
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I first met Lou at the Remis Speakers Group at the Glendale Country Club. Also, we both attended the RehFit Centre, where would occasionally race around the track; could never beat him! We were both jazz fans and Lou used to make CDs for me of some of his favourite musicians. Great memories! - Posted by: Bob Shawcross (Friend) on: Jan 23, 2024
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Errol so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Beverly Burton (Colleague ) on: Apr 20, 2023
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I remember Louis, not because I knew him personally but rather because I was the (former) secretary of (one of) the cardiologist(s) who cared for him. I remember being so very impressed with his world records in sprinting. Dr. K had me print the picture up for a few meetings. My heartfelt condolences to his entire family. Mr. Billinkoff was definitely larger than life. - Posted by: Judi (Acquaintance ) on: Apr 08, 2023