JEAN (SWARTZ) BLUMENTHAL -

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JEAN (SWARTZ) BLUMENTHAL 1906 - 2003 Peacefully, after a long and full life, Jean Blumenthal passed away on Monday, April 7, 2003, surrounded by her loving family. Jean was born in Quebec City in 1906, and, as an infant, moved to Fort William, ON (Thunder Bay), where she grew up surrounded by the love of her parents, Nathan and Victoria Swartz; her sister Yhetta; and brothers, Joe and Malley (Mel). After completing her education at Ottawa Normal School, Jean returned to Fort William where she taught at Francis Street School for many years. She adored teaching, and was known by colleagues and students as a committed, inspiring and meticulous mentor. Jean married Sam Blumenthal in August, 1942, and they spent 54 years together filled with affection, devotion, and love. When their daughter Marsha was born, she became the absolute apple of their eyes. The family extended when Jean moved her parents into her home to care for them in their latter years. Family and friends were constantly drawn into the warmth of their home. Jeans greatest joy in life was her family. Her mother and father, her sister and brothers and their families were central to her life; nieces and nephews and cousins were loved as her own children. In fact, her niece, Beverly-Ann, lived with her Aunt Jean and enjoyed her undivided love and attention through her school years. Tzeddakah (charity and giving of yourself) was intrinsic to Jeans nature. She was a member of the Shaarey Shomayim Synagogue, and an active member of the Jewish community in Fort William. Jean was predeceased by her parents, her sister Yhetta Lewis, sister-in-law Bertha Blumenthal, and, in 1996, by the love of her life, Sam. She is most lovingly remembered by her daughter and son, Marsha and Sid Schwartzman, grandson Neil and granddaughter Lisa; brother Joe Swartz; Mel and Ruby Swartz, and nieces and nephews Beverly Lewis-Harris (Peter), Jo Swartz (Richard), Mark Swartz (Helen, Sarah and Zack) and Jill Swartz; and also by many cousins. The last seven years of her life, Jean lived at The Sharon Home in Winnipeg, and was lovingly and tenderly cared for by Visminda Cariaga and Cecilia Caballero. Interment took place at The Shaarey Shomayim Cemetery in Thunder Bay. A special thank you to Sid Halter. All who knew Jean treasured her sparkle, her smile and laughter, her kindness, and her warm wonderful sense of humour.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 19, 2003