DR. NEIL MARGOLIS

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DR. NEIL MARGOLIS

It is with profound sadness, and immense gratitude for a life so richly lived, that we announce the passing of Dr. Neil Margolis on July 1, 2026, just weeks shy of his 90th birthday.

Neil was born July 29, 1936 in Winnipeg to Doris and Hymie Margolis. Raised with his beloved sisters, Shirley and Liba, he spent his early years in Transcona before the family moved to Winnipeg's North End, where he forged lifelong friendships and developed a deep connection to the Jewish community.

One summer at Winnipeg Beach, Neil met the love of his life, Elaine. Their romance began with handwritten notes passed by his sister Liba and a first date to the movies, where Elaine was captivated by Neil's blue suede shoes - and the man wearing them. They married in 1959 and shared nearly 67 years of unwavering love, partnership, laughter, and devotion. Together they raised three sons and built a home filled with warmth, generosity, humour, and countless celebrations.

Neil graduated from St. John's High School before attending the University of Winnipeg and the University of Manitoba Faculty of Medicine. He completed his pediatric specialty training in Winnipeg and Cleveland, returning home to begin what became an extraordinary career spanning more than four decades.

Affectionately known to many as "Dr. Marvelous", Neil devoted his life to caring for children and their families. He practised pediatrics throughout Winnipeg, served for many years at the School for the Deaf, travelled to remote northern communities including Berens River, taught generations of medical students and residents, and helped develop the pediatric component of Manitoba's Physician Assistant Program. His compassion, kindness, and exceptional memory left a lasting impression on thousands of families. Even years after his retirement, former patients would stop him to say hello, and he often remembered not only their names but those of their siblings and parents as well.

Neil was deeply committed to public service. He served on numerous professional and community boards, including the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, the Manitoba Medical College Foundation, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Talmud Torah, Rosh Pina Synagogue, Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, and later assisted Manitoba Public Insurance in assessing medical claims.

Beyond medicine, Neil embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He loved music, art, sports, travelling with Elaine, collecting sports cards and antiques.

Neil possessed a remarkable sense of humour and a generous spirit. He believed life should be celebrated, especially birthdays, which he marked with unforgettable parties, abundant laughter, and more than a few creative ways to ensure he received the most birthday cards.

Above all else, Neil treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, cherished brother, uncle, and loyal friend.

Neil was predeceased by his parents, Doris and Hymie Margolis; sister Shirley and brother-in-law David Permack.

He leaves to mourn his beloved wife, Elaine; his three sons, Moish (Jodi), Aubrey (Kim), Evan (Elaine); his cherished grandchildren, Lindy, Kelsea (Brando), Shelby (Noah), Jessie, Isaac (Kristin), Lexi (Drew), Ezi; his sister, Liba (Tom); along with nieces and nephews, countless friends, colleagues, and generations of grateful patients whose lives were enriched by his care and compassion.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Neil's healthcare teams, whose compassion and extraordinary care meant so much to him and to all of us.

Donations in Neil's honour can be made to Elaine and Neil Margolis Family Endowment Fund at the Children's Hospital Foundation, Elaine and Neil Margolis Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba or a charity of your choice.

He will be deeply missed

and forever remembered.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 11, 2026