ANNE BILLINKOFF

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ANNE BILLINKOFF With great sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Anne Billinkoff, aged 83, on August 10, 2005 at the Victoria General Hospital. Anne was born on June 12, 1922 in Winnipeg, the seventh and last child of Michael and Sarah Gobuty. Remaining to cherish her memory are her dedicated sons, David (Corinne) and Ron (Joyce); adoring grandchildren, Fern (Greg), Lee, Roz, Ben, Bryan and Matt; precious great-grandchildren, Danielle, Noa, Jamie and Jordan and numerous family members and friends. Her father died when she was only five years old, and a few years later she and her mother moved in with her oldest sister Molly and husband Percy and family. Life was difficult, but the family bond made life worthwhile. During the first year of her nursing training, she was introduced to the love of her life, Joe Billinkoff. Joe and Anne were married on November 21, 1943. During their 38 years together they had a home in Winnipeg, a cottage at West Hawk Lake and a condo in Palm Springs. They were well known for their hospitality and enduring friendships. After Joe's passing she continued to entertain, and became known as the Pearl Mesta of Palm Springs. Anne lived life to the fullest. She loved reading, playing bridge, golfing, travelling, antiquing and enjoying the arts. She touched many hearts and souls with her kindness, trustworthiness, honesty, compassion and love. She was a woman of 10,000 friends. She had great determination and drive, and always took the time to relish very special moments in life. Anne was a life member of Hadassah, National Council of Jewish Woman and ORT. Her many years volunteering at the Golden Age Club were a great joy to her. Anne and Joe were founding members of the former Rosh Pina Synagogue, where she was president of the sisterhood for several years and instrumental in raising the funds for the new kitchen. The love she had for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren is the legacy she leaves behind. Funeral services were held at Congregation Etz Chayim (Rosh Pina) on Sunday, August 14, and she was laid to rest beside her beloved Joe in the Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. The eulogy was given by her granddaughter, Fern Frank (Billinkoff). Pallbearers were her grandsons Ben, Bryan and Matt, Michael Averbach, Marshall Freed and Bernie Lofchick. Honorary pallbearers were grandson Lee and Curtis Cove. Anne's family would like to express sincere thanks to the wonderful staff at both the Rosewood Village (Briarwood House) and the Victoria General Hospital, 5th floor. Your attentiveness and compassion will always be remembered. A special thank you is extended to Margeurita Pontes, Anne's companion, who gave heart to her care and made every Wednesday special. To all her faithful family and friends: You will never know how much your phone calls, visits and outings brightened her days. A heartfelt thanks to everyone who gave their support during this time of sorrow. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Joe and Anne Billinkoff Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba or to a charity of your choice. Her spirit lives on and her love is with us now and forever

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 31, 2005