BERL GERSON

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BERL GERSON Peacefully, early Saturday morning September 23, 2000, with his family at his side, Berl Gerson passed away at Seven Oaks Hospital. He was predeceased by his wife Dina Gerson; he is survived by his children, Phil (Brenda) and Malka (Sam) grandchildren, David, Murray, Michael, Daniel and Rachel and sister Rose Unger and nephews, Abe and Phillip (Audrey). Berl was born on September 26, 1917 in Lodz, Poland, one of six children. After suffering unimaginable pain and hardship during the holocaust, (Auschwitz/Birkenau), he married and started a family with his wife Dina. He raised his two children in Israel and later moved his family to Winnipeg in 1959; where he worked as a painter/contractor. Berl always exhibited and expressed the value of hard work and individual initiative. He passed on these and numerous other values to what was the most important thing in his life, the love of his family. He did everything for his family and always motivated his children and grandchildren to reach their full potential. He felt tremendous nachas (pride) when talking about his children and grandchildren. His aura of warmth and joy came out in all undertakings, including, most notably, his singing. More than any other activity, Berl was most passionate about his davening/praying. He shared his beautiful voice with not only the Winnipeg Jewish Community, but as well with communities where he served as Cantor during the Jewish High Holidays. In addition, Berl enjoyed entertaining many different audiences in Winnipeg, Miami Beach and Israel, singing Yiddish songs and telling jokes. The passion that would radiate in his voice often brought his audience to tears. Perhaps more than anything, his lasting legacy is one of a man who always lived life to the fullest. His innate sense of optimism was paramount in him always being able to move forward, no matter what obstacles he had to confront. Berl enjoyed making people feel good and giving them the sense that he cared about them individually. We will always treasure our memories of Berl -- Abba, Grampa and special friend. We will always miss you and always have you in our hearts. "Rest in peace." Donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetic Association or March of the Living Program Jewish Federation of Winnipeg.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 13, 2000