PHYLLIS SERKIN (ZAIDMAN)

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PHYLLIS SERKIN (nee ZAIDMAN) November 16, 1924 - April 21, 2004 It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Phyllis Serkin, peacefully in her apartment at the Rosh Pina Housing Co-op. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Jack and devoted daughter, Dale Rayter. Growing up in the north end of Winnipeg, Phyllis struggled through a colourful but impoverished childhood with five siblings, inspired by the resourceful courage of her grandmother Sarah and mother Goldie, who worked as caterers to feed the family. At 18, Phyllis married and later settled with her husband Jack and three children in West Kildonan. Phyllis was known for her big-hearted generosity. As a mom, she was fiercely protective. Direct and unwavering, particularly about the lessons hard earned in childhood, she was proud of her values and quick to express them, imparting her belief in equality, compassion, sharing. And share she did: laughter, food, and bouquets from her garden. It was not unusual for Belmont Avenue neighbours to congregate on Phils front steps, the fragrance of her bold fuchsia peonies wafting over them. Mom loved the soaps, Auntie Shirleys baking and bright flowers. After her children were grown, she enjoyed an early retirement with her husband in the garden city of Victoria, BC. Ultimately, she returned to her roots in Winnipeg, reacquainting herself with old friends and building new relationships. Gregarious and friendly, Phyllis rediscovered her life in Winnipeg and was a "driving force" as one neighbour remarked, in the social life of the co-op. Phyllis was also the local expert on "The Young and The Restless." She loved heroes and despised villains. And she had an uncompromising sense of fair play. Throwing all your chips off the card and shouting BINGO didnt mean you WON! And Phils movies were the best, because she picked them, "like it or lump it!" Movie Night and Bingo Night will never be the same. Phyllis will be missed by her children, Beryl and husband Paul Walsh, Howard Serkin and wife Tess, and son-in-law Ian Rayter, as well as her brother Ben and wife Nellie, brother Jack and wife Shirley, brother Paul, as well as grandchildren, Aaron and Jared, Katie, Dana, Nathan, Emelio and Zarah. The family would like to extend thanks to her many friends at the Rosh Pina Housing Co-op and Beverly Wolk for Wednesday "Fish and Chips". Also, nieces and nephews, particularly nephew Brian Zaidman and son Nathan for driving all the way from the U.S. of A. for Auntie Phyllis. Also much appreciation to her devoted brother Ben for his absolute love and support, and Ian Rayter and family for their exemplary kindness to Phyllis throughout the years. Phyllis Serkins funeral was held at Etz Chayim on Friday, April 23, 2004. Thank you to Rabbi Balcer and to niece Sandi Bloomfield for a very poignant eulogy. Donations may be made to the "Dale Rayter Nursing Education Trust Fund" at 787-1911 or a charity of ones choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 05, 2004