| Obituary |
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of David Rakita, at the age of 95. Beloved husband of the late Helen Bacher Rakita, and son of the late Rose and the late Sam Rakita. Loving and devoted father and father-in-law of Lou (Alex), Susan (Stephen), and Sam (Heather Ann). Treasured Zaida of Corey Padveen (Meeve), Jaimee Padveen (Jonny), Ellen, William, Nora and Rachel Rakita. Predeceased by all of his siblings, whom he adored, Sally and Sam Saskin, Louis and Tiny Rakita, and Mike and Evelyn Rakita. He will also be greatly missed by his nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. David was a well known and respected businessman in Montreal and was deeply devoted to the Jewish community. He will be warmly remembered for his kindness and his willingness to help anyone in need. His greatest love was the time he spent with his family and closest friends, especially at his country home in Trout Lake. He was an avid horseback rider, swimmer and a self-taught musician, playing piano, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, and strings. He also loved to sing, and was known for his deep, baritone voice. One of the things he loved most was to host giant jam sessions and corn roasts every weekend up north throughout the summer, inviting everyone around the lake to bring an instrument and enjoy – whether they knew him or not, and whether they knew how to play or not. He would stand on the balcony and play ‘Summertime’ on his clarinet and the people would just come. Most of all, he never missed an opportunity to say ‘I love you’ to those he cared for most. Special thanks to Dr. Michael Greenberg for his outstanding care and compassion, and the dedicated 3rd floor nurses and staff at Maimonides Geriatric Centre. A private graveside funeral service will take place on Sunday, January 3. Contributions in his memory may be made to the "David Rakita Memorial Fund" c/o the Jewish General Hospital Foundation, (514) 340-8251. |
