MERLAN CHATTERTON (SHAPIRO)

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MERLAN CHATTERTON (nee SHAPIRO) After a lengthy battle with cancer, Merlan passed away peacefully on November 17, 1999, at the age of 56. Merlan will be lovingly remembered by her husband Winston; her two sons, Evan and Jason Tapper, and by her brother Arnold and her sister-in-law Carol. She was predeceased by her parents Estelle and Earl Shapiro. Merlan was born and raised in Winnipeg, MB. Merlan studied at the University of Manitoba, receiving a Bachelors in Psychology and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours in painting. She had an insatiable desire for new knowledge and experience. For Merlan, life was an endless succession of opportunities for adventure. Merlan became an expert in the history of art and film. When she recently visited her son Evan in Pittsburgh, she participated avidly and competently in his graduate seminars on film. With Winston, her husband, at her side she began to appreciate the beauty of nature and outdoor experiences. Merlan also became quite an expert in gardening, especially in the art of growing flowers and spices. Merlan was a gifted artist and art teacher. Besides teaching art to children and adults, she mounted frequent exhibitions of her work throughout the city. Beth Israel is a beneficiary of one very special piece of art. A memorial in honour of the past presidents of Beth Israel Synagogue and Sisterhood. This work exhibits the same depth, detail, and symbolism that is found in all of Merlans creations. Merlan was a kind and gentle soul who always put the happiness and well-being of others before her own. Throughout her life, her greatest joy was sharing in the accomplishments of her husband Winston and her two sons, Evan and Jason. Merlan maintained her remarkable sense of humour throughout the many months of her illness. Regardless of how much pain or discomfort she experienced Merlan was somehow able to keep laughing. Services were held at Beth Israel Synagogue with interment at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery on November 19, 1999. In Merlans memory, donations may be made to the Cancer Research Foundation or to a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 11, 1999