ARTHUR KUSHNER

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

ARTHUR KUSHNER It is with great regret that we must inform our dear relatives and friends of the passing of Arthur Kushner (Uncle Arthur) on May 16, 2004. Arthur was the sixth child, born into a family of nine, to Ralph and Yetta Kushner, on July 18, 1918. Both of Arthurs parents passed away within a few months of each other, Yetta during the polio epidemic, and Ralph from injuries sustained while serving during the First World War. At the tender age of eight, Arthur, along with four younger siblings, entered the Jewish Orphanage. There he became part of a family of over 100 children. It was here that he learned the art of getting along with others, sharing, and being able to look after himself while looking after his younger brothers and sisters. At the age of sixteen he joined the work force and was employed for a number of years at the Western Glove Works. When the Second World War broke out, he heeded his countrys call and joined the Royal Canadian Air Force as a part of the Air Sea Rescue Unit. He remained in England for a year after the war ended to help in the rehabilitation of allied prisoners of war. On his return to Canada, he became a professional photographer, a career which he pursued until age 75, at which time Parkinsons Disease stepped in and forced him to put down his cameras. He was well known and highly respected in his profession, always striving to do his very best for his customers. After retiring, he and his wife Ethel travelled throughout the continent, even embarking on a trip to Alaska to take in the beautiful vistas which he so loved and appreciated. Arthur was always a considerate and generous man, wanting to help others attain their goals in life. He strived to practice the Golden Rule of treating others as he himself would like to have been treated. He loved life, and one of his favourite expressions was "Every day is special". He loved to build and fix things, and his home was a testament to this pursuit with tools, fasteners, and makeshift devices all meticulously organized throughout the house. Arthur loved classical music, and accumulated a collection of older and newer records, and more recently, CDs. He was a proponent of healthy living, exercise, and careful diet, and spent much time working out in his basement which he had turned into an exercise room, replete with too many makeshift exercise devices to count. Tragically, he became unable to use the devices of his imaginative handiwork as Parkinsons Disease steadily eroded his strength and coordination. He passed away peacefully with family by his side. Arthur leaves to mourn his beloved wife and soul-mate of 45 years, Ethel; his sister Annis (Dan) Baskind of Cleveland; "chosen" family Brian and Lillian Brooker and daughters Melanie and Samantha; and numerous nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by all his friends and by all who were touched in one way or another by this remarkable, kind, and gentle man. Many thanks to Dr. M. Burke and the many kind and dedicated caregivers at Tuxedo Villa who helped Arthur live his final years in comfort and dignity. Funeral services are to be held at 12:00 oclock noon on Tuesday, May 18, 2004, at Congregation Etz Chayim located at 123 Matheson Ave. Meal of condolence to follow. Shiva will be observed at 756 Borebank St., between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. and between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Parkinson Society of Manitoba, 302-171 Donald St., Winnipeg MB, R3C 1M4. "We will never forget your kindness and generosity which helped make the world a better place."

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 17, 2004