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MORRIS KAUFMAN
Born: Nov 14, 1940
Date of Passing: Oct 02, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryMORRIS KAUFMAN
The Honourable Morris (Moishe) Kaufman, who lived a full and vibrant life, died peacefully on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at the age of 84 surrounded by family.
Born in Tel Aviv on November 14, 1940, Moishe moved to Winnipeg with his family at the age of 12 where he learned English. At 15 he was invited to attend the Chicago Jewish Academy. Upon graduating, he studied Talmud at the Hebrew Theological College. After a year at Roosevelt University on scholarship, he returned home to Winnipeg. Moishe earned a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Manitoba. He was called to the Manitoba Bar in 1968. Moishe’s early law practice included working at Legal Aid and culminated with the establishment of the firm Kaufman, Cassidy, Ramsay. On October 7, 1998, he was appointed to the Court of Queen’s Bench of Manitoba, where he served until his retirement. He was known for his fairness, humility, and reasoned decisions.
Moishe’s commitment to public service extended well beyond the courtroom. He served on Winnipeg City Council from 1971 to 1977, bringing to civic life the same clarity, empathy, and common sense that marked his legal career. He was actively involved with the Liberal Party of Manitoba and Canada, contributing his thoughtful counsel and deep belief in public service to the political arena. Moishe served on a number of boards including Rossbrook House, Shaarey Zedek Synagogue and Via Rail Canada.
Moishe was genuine, loving, charismatic and at the same time, erudite and witty. He loved all music, playing guitar, basketball, swimming, reading extensively, horse racing, carpentry at the cottage, a heated discussion and playing poker with his grandchildren. Moishe was a mensch who will be remembered for his gentle strength, his keen mind, and his deep commitment to family, friends and the communities that he was a part of. His legacy of justice, kindness, and devotion will live on through his family and the many lives he touched.
Moishe was predeceased by his parents, Shlomo and Clara Kaufman. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Maxine (née Gussin). Together they built a life full of love, respect, and partnership. He was the proud and loving father of three daughters and their spouses: Juliet, Brent, Shelley, Geof, Dunniela (Dunnzy) and Jeff. Moishe adored his six grandchildren, Jennifer, Jacob, Cierra, Daniel, Jack and Charlie, each of whom brought him great joy and each of whom had an individual and special relationship with their Saba. He leaves his sister and brother-in-law Miriam and Ralph Kuropatwa, his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Phyllis and Herbie Goldberg, and an extended network of family and friends.
Moishe and family are very grateful to all the dedicated homecare staff and caregivers and appreciate their exceptional care, kindness, compassion and conversation. They are equally grateful for the medical care and guidance that he received throughout his illnesses.
Services were held on Sunday, October 4, 2025 at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue in Winnipeg.
In Moishe’s memory, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
Publish Date: Oct 18, 2025
MORRIS KAUFMAN
The Honourable Morris Kaufman passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the age of 84. Funeral services will be held at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, Winnipeg on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.. Obituary to follow.
Publish Date: Oct 4, 2025
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 04, 2025, Oct 18, 2025
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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Maxime, my condolences to you and your family on your loss. I always enjoyed my conversations with you and Mo at the lake and I truly believe that Grassy Lake which you called a "spiritual lake" was that to many. - Posted by: Grant & Joan Mohr (lake friend) on: Oct 21, 2025
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My late husband, Ojibway Elder Art C. Shofley, always remembered the man he called Mo Kaufman as the Winnipeg City Councillor who, offered to ,"see you in Court" if the other members of the then-Council remained adamantly inclined to block the establishment of an indigenous-focused addictions treatment center in the North End in late '70s-80s.. Mo and Art, as an indigenous board member of the proposed project, both knew the law and the bylaws regarding such an application, but more than that, they both had the heart and the commitment to justice and healing that such a such a centre could provide. And when Mo stood up in Council later that night, the opposition dissolved. Art was forever grateful to this Jewish leader who came to the aid of the indigenous community in those early steps to healing and reconciliation in the city they shared and loved. Miigwetch Mr. Kaufman on my and Art's behalf. All My Relations - Posted by: Laura Steiman Shofley (Admirer) on: Oct 18, 2025
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We were so saddened to hear of Moishe’s passing. We have fond memories of time at Grassy Lake. Mark always enjoyed his conversations with Moishe, appreciated his knowledge and wit. Maxine, our thoughts are with you and the whole family. May loving memories sustain you through the journey. - Posted by: Mark and Marlene Hird (Friend) on: Oct 18, 2025
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My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Maxime. - Posted by: Linda Asper (Former neighbour) on: Oct 06, 2025