CELIA KARP (SNAPPER)

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CELIA KARP (nee SNAPPER) 1918 - 2001 Peacefully, on November 17, 2001, with family at her side, Celia Karp passed away. She is survived by her husband Harry; her sister Tunia; her sons, Morris and Carl, their wives, Marcia and Charlotte; and her five grandchildren, Colin, Liam, Evan, Molly, and Lucy. Celia was born in Ostrug, Poland, in what is now the Ukraine. Her parents, Moishe and Ester Laya, had five children. After the outbreak of the Second World War, Celia and her sister, Tunia, fled their village. For the next four years, they encountered hunger, illness and countless unwelcome adventures. Tragically, of their family, only Celia and Tunia were alive by the end of the war. In Germany in the Spring of 1946, Celia met Harry Karp. They married in the fall. From Germany they moved to Israel where their son Morris was born in 1949. In 1951 Celia and her family immigrated to Winnipeg. Her sister, and her husband Max Mayers, had already moved there, and they had two sons, Morris and Irvin. Harrys two brothers, Noah and Motel and their families would arrive soon after. Celias second son, Carl, was born in 1954. Celia devoted her life to her family. She was a loving wife and she showered her children with gentle love and kindness. She enjoyed a large circle of friends, many of whom shed see at her regular Saturday night card games. Celia also loved making new friends. After her children started school, she became a manicurist, not so much for the monetary rewards, but for the fringe benefits: conversation and a captive audience. Celia was a gifted storyteller and her tales were filled with passion and drama. But mostly, they were filled with laughter, because Celia discovered joy where others might have found tears. During the last five years, when her health began to deteriorate, Celias greatest nachas came from her grandchildren, They brought her joy and laughter. A graveside service was held Sunday, November 18 at the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. The family would like to thank friends who offered their love and support during these difficult days. Its appreciation is also extended to Rabbi Neal Rose for his warmth and insights, and the staff of Ward 5E of the St. Boniface Hospital for the comfort they afforded Celia during her last days. In lieu of flowers, mourners may choose to make donations to the Respiratory Education and Research Fund at the St. Boniface Hospital, account #8692.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 20, 2001