ALBERT BENJAMIN BOXER

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ALBERT BENJAMIN BOXER Albert Benjamin Boxer passed away at Grace Hospital on March 8, 2005. Albert was 87. He had been ill for some time. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 58 years, Phyllis; his daughter Irene and son-in-law David Meyrowitz and his grandchildren, Jody Boxer-Leslie, Elana Boxer-Meyrowitz and Jesse Boxer-Meyrowitz. He was predeceased by his parents, Esther and Issy Boxer, his sister Marjorie and his daughter Jacqueline. Words were art for him, as his love of books so clearly demonstrated. He was an extraordinarily interesting person, with a vibrant mind that was always in motion. Age did not diminish his sense of humour. He held firm to his beliefs and ideals. He was not swayed by popular opinion. Albert's dedication to his family was outstanding. He was always there, day in and day out, when he was needed. His shoes will be very difficult to fill. He will be missed every day by those who love him. Albert was legendary in the Winnipeg chess community for half a century, as a leader, a player, a coach, and a fundraiser. He was President of the Winnipeg Jewish Chess Club from 1952 until 1994. His true chess player's soul was honoured when the Albert Boxer Classic tournament was named after him, in 1997. His spirit, his sense of humour, his leadership and loyal friendship - all of these attributes were part of his character and will be sorely missed by family and friends. Albert was a veteran from The Second World War. He served with distinction in the RCAF in England, North Africa and Italy. His dedication, humility, bravery and commitment to his country and to the ideals of freedom will always be remembered. The family would like to thank the medical staff of the 3rd and 5th floors, the ER and ICU of Grace Hospital, for the special care they showed to Albert during his illness. Their kindness meant a lot to him and to us. A special thanks to Dr. Dominique Haiart. We are immensely grateful to the pallbearers, Jeff Babb, Keith Czarny, Jesse Meyrowitz, Karl Nelson, Cecil Rosner, Jon Waldman and Dr. David Wiseman. Donations can be made to Jewish Child and Family Service, Grace Hospital Foundation and (cheques payable to) Chess Federation of Canada, in care of Manitoba Chess Association, 76 Newcroft Rd., Winnipeg, MB R2J 3M8.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 16, 2005