GERALD KALEF

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GERALD KALEF

Gerald Kalef passed away on August 1, 2026 at the age of 98. He is survived by his beloved wife Penny, daughter and son-in-law Susan and Eric, granddaughters, Michaela, Chloe and Emily, sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Cheryl Kalef, Susan Wall, Reisa Libling, Tannis and Marshall Peikoff and many cousins, nephews and nieces.

Gerry was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Anne, sister Myrle, brothers, Lawrence and Harvey, and daughter Marni.

Born in Regina, Saskatchewan on June 24, 1928, Gerry’s formative years were spent in Regina, Toronto and Winnipeg. Following his graduation as a chartered accountant from the University of Manitoba in 1955, Gerry served as managing partner of Tadman, Hornstein, Kalef. He was appointed the honoured designation F.C.A., Fellow Chartered Accountant, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to his profession. Gerry’s integrity, acumen, and mentorship to his colleagues was legendary. At the age of 60, Gerry established and led a new partnership through which he would ultimately build and operate Riverwood Square, an Assisted Living and Supportive Housing Facility in Fort Garry. His vision was to provide a home for seniors with dignity, where exemplary care is fundamental. Gerry proudly served as managing partner of Riverwood Square until his 95th year.

Gerry’s volunteer work was extensive, spanning many decades. He served numerous non-profit and charitable organizations including the Combined Jewish Appeal, Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, National Council of Jewish Women, the Jewish Historical Society, the Sharon Home/Saul and Claribel Simkin Centre, Ramah Hebrew School, Mount Carmel Clinic, Skills Unlimited/Steps2work, the Institute of Chartered Accountants Foundation, the Estate Planning Council of Winnipeg, and the Long Term and Continuing Care Association of Manitoba. Gerry was a past president of Glendale Golf and Country Club.

Relationship was of central importance to Gerry. He cherished his family and thoughtfully maintained connection with his relatives, friends and professional and business associates throughout his life.

The family is greatly appreciative for the wonderful care given by his exceptional caregivers and Drs. Slutchuk, Edward, Hayes, Manusow, Aguayo, Sheps and Stillwater.

We are deeply saddened by his passing and immensely grateful for a life well-lived. Donations in Gerry’s memory may be made to Chesed Shel Emes, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba or a charity of choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 22, 2026