| Obituary |
BERNSTEIN, Sydney (Canadian Artist - Sydney Berne) With sadness the family of Sydney Bernstein announces his passing on Tuesday, March 26, 2013 in his ninety-second year. Sydney was the much loved son of Michael and Fanny. He was a loving brother to his late sister Bertha and husband Max, and to his brother Jack and wife Florence. Predeceased by the love and center of his life; Tilly. He will remain in the hearts of his stepson Morty and wife Marianne Constantine; his granddaughters, Natalie, and Andrea; and his great-grandchildren Tyler, Jenna, and Tiffanie. Adored Uncle of Estelle, Tobi (Al), Lawrence (Marie-Louise) and Richard, and great-uncle of Michael (Jennifer, and their children Charlotte and Theo), Sarah, Julien, Bryna, Ira and Rebecca. Sydney was a true artist at heart. Born in Toronto, Sydney attended Central Tech where he studied Watercolours under Carl Shafer, an associate of the Group of Seven. He joined the Army in WWII, where his artistic ability was put to use illustrating training and field manuals. While overseas, he studied Abstract Expressionism under Andre Paul in Paris before returning home. In 1946 he settled in Montreal. It was in the Province of Quebec that Sydney found his inspiration in the picturesque Laurentian landscapes and Montreal street-scenes. His work is on display in many public buildings in Montreal and Toronto as well as in the hands of private collectors. He is prominently covered in books and articles covering Canadian Art. Sydney was a very sweet, gentle, kind and benevolent man. Ignited by the passing of his love Tilly, Sydney donated countless paintings to hospitals and charities in her name, including Toronto's Baycrest Hospital, and Montreal's Maimonides Geriatric Centre; raising tens of thousands of dollars. To know Syd was to love him. We will all truly miss him. Many thanks to the staff at his residence, Le Waldorf and, in his final moments, at St. Mary's Hospital for their excellent care. Funeral service from Paperman & Sons, 3888 Jean Talon St. W., on Thursday, March 28 at 1:00 p.m. Burial at the Shevat Achim Chaverim Kol Israel Congregation Cemetery, de la Savane. Contributions in his memory may be made to the charity of your choice. |
