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Chan KATZMAN Obituary
CHAN KATZMAN
February 22, 1922 – February 10, 2017
A warrior has fallen. One of the oldest surviving veterans of D-Day, Chan (Channan, Honya) was born to Labe and D'vorah Katzman in Belinitz, Belarus, Russia. Chan was predeceased by his infant brother, Velvel, and by his beloved wives, Wilma (Sarah) Katzman and Marguerite Cox. Chan's memory will forever be a blessing to his family: Faye (Adam, Jesse), Sid and Camie (Samaya and Gavin, Thomas), Randy and Shirley (Kyle and Amy, Jared), David and Susan (Miriam and Tom, Daniel and Stacey, Jonathan), SJ (Sheldon Jerry), and the Cox family who welcomed him into their lives. At age 10, Chan travelled solo from Belarus to Canada to reunite with his father and extended family in North Battleford. The Katzmans eventually settled in Prince Albert where Chan's superior athleticism (track and field, hockey, basketball, and football) and musical talents (clarinet) were recognized. At 17, he volunteered with D Company, Regina Rifles Regiment. He trained in Canada and the UK for four years before landing on Juno Beach during the Normandy Invasion. Although reported KIA (killed in action) on D-Day, June 6, 1944, Chan survived his serious wounds. In 2014 Rifleman Chan Katzman received an award from the Government of France: Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour. Chan developed a deep and lifelong commitment to the First Nations and Metis warriors with whom he served, and was an honorary member of the Saskatchewan First Nations Veterans' Association. He wholeheartedly participated in many grand entries and pipe ceremonies. After the war years, Chan met and married Wilma Irene Matthews. In order to provide Jewish education and community for their growing family, Chan and Wizzie moved from Wadena to Saskatoon where they cultivated lifelong friendships, played bridge, volunteered with several organizations, and danced many evenings away at the Legion. Shortly after Chan retired from selling cowboy boots and blue jeans at Chain Clothers on First Avenue South, he climbed on his bike (Trigger) and cycled to the U of S to attend language classes in Russian, Spanish and Cree to supplement his fluency in English, German and Yiddish. He loved his family above all else. He especially adored his grandchildren and often remarked he should have had them first. He delighted in his vegetable gardens and frequent garage sales. He will be remembered for many things: his resilience, his laughter, and his unending supply of colourful stories. Chan expressed often his sincere gratitude for his full, rich, adventurous, and love-filled life. Donations can be made to the Saskatchewan First Nations Veterans' Association or the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 362. Funeral Services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 13, 2017 at Agudas Israel Synagogue, 715 McKinnon Avenue with Interment at the Jewish Cemetery. The Meal of Condolence will follow at the Edwards Family Centre, 333 4th Ave N, Saskatoon. Condolences may be sent to [email protected]. Arrangements have been entrusted to Saskatoon Funeral Home.
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51 Entries
Lloyd Korzen
August 21, 2017
Chan was the Greatest! He always something funny to say and certainly always put a smile on my face and he did all others! His humour was contagious especially to his kids and is singly responsible for passing it on to me! I will always remember him as I will his wife Wizzy. He truly was the worlds fastest runner. He never lost a race at the Forestry farm get together. One day he told me why! When the Germans were shooting at you, you had to be fast. He also was quite a Barber in his time. He gave Sid his first reverse Mohawk haircut, a day Sid will certainly remember. He always paid Sid and I for each of his test haircuts in the form of a chocolate bar. I am pretty sure he was also the first Canadian/Russian Cowboy! Chan was a straight shooter. If he had something to say, he said it, like it or not! I also remember driving around Saskatoon with Chan and he would be waving at everyone on the street and I have no doubt they all knew who he was. All my memories of Chan will live with me forever and I am so sad I never had a last chance to sit with him and listen to some more of his stories! Chan will be missed! Love you Chan and thanks for everything!
Terry and Angie Williams
February 20, 2017
Condolences to you, David and Susan. You are in our thoughts.
Hugs to both...
The Nissen family
February 19, 2017
Dear Faye, Sid, David, Randy and all the Katzman family.
We were very saddened to read of the passing of Chan. The loss of your dear Father, Father-in-law and Grandfather is not easy. He led a most involved and interesting life as shared in the obituary.
We think back fondly of impromptu visits, which were always flavoured with Chan's wit and unique humour.
We are travelling now and are sorry we couldn't be with your family at your Dad'd celebration of life, on Monday.
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of loss.
Brenda, Lars and family
Rick and Rick
February 17, 2017
Faye, Adam Jesse and family we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of your extraordinary father and grandfather. I know he will be sorely missed.
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February 16, 2017
Heaven awaits you my friend.
Lyle & Patricia Chutskoff
February 15, 2017
A life well lived & a great legacy in his children & grandchildren.
Norm & Islay Meier
February 15, 2017
Randy and family we are so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. With deepest sympathy.
Robert Barsky
February 15, 2017
Remember being in Chain Clothers when Gordie Howe and Norm Ullman walked in, Chan was the highlight to them.
Rose Genesis
February 14, 2017
To my friends within the Katzman family, I feel for you at this time. It is hard to lose our parents, but you are a tight and faithful family whose numbers are growing. By the way, that photo of Chan in this guest book reminds me of the life spark that Chan passed on to his children. You all wear that little smile, that twinkle. Chan lived his life to the fullest, after he almost lost it. He was extraordinary, and fortunately that zest lives in the rest of you.
Rose Genesis
Brenda Baker
February 14, 2017
Faye, Randy, and all the Katzmans - I'm thinking of you and your beloved dad. I have fond memories of playing cards with him and hearing some of his great stories. I'm so sorry for your loss. You were fortunate to have him in your lives for as long as you did. Take care.
Julie Mitchell
February 14, 2017
Condolences for your loss of a very special man. My thoughts and prayers are with you Sid, Camie, Saymaya, Gavin and Thomas.
Leah Brisdon
February 14, 2017
So sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad, our condolences to Randy and family
Leah & Jaime
Shannon Armstrong
February 14, 2017
I met Chan for the first time when Marguerite moved to Stensrud Lodge and was table mate of my mother. Chan was a frequent visitor and I was so impressed by the gentle, loving manner in which he spoke with her. He was such an interesting man, and I only got a small sample of his stories.My condolences to you all, and I congratulate on choosing such a wonderful patriarch!!
February 14, 2017
My father in law talked of Chan many times as they were both with the Regina Rifles that landed on Juno beach on D-day.May he rest in peace!I'm sure he and my father in law are reuniting sharing stories :)
Pat Martin (Fisher)
February 14, 2017
On behalf of the Fisher family I would like to send my sincere condolences to the Katzman family. My family's friendship with your family goes back a very long way. On a personal note - when Andrea & I lived in Saskatoon Sid was a good friend & Chan & Wizzie always welcomed us in their home. They were a fabulous couple.
Don and Betty Klepp
February 14, 2017
We will all miss Chan, one of the finest people we've ever known. Brave, filled with zest for life, a splendid raconteur, and a man who kept his word, he remains a role model for us all. Our sincere condolences to the Katzman family.
Karen Heise
February 14, 2017
Chan was a very enthusiastic and colourful member of the Saskatoon Century Club. He always had the best stories to tell and was sure to,wear something that he could provide some interesting tidbits about to every event. In fact for the Halloween event last October, I asked him why he was earring half an orange hollowed out and on a strong around his neck. Chan's reply was in the invitation we sent out it said to dress up for Halloween or even wear something "orange" so he was wearing something orange. At the same time, he also had a necklace from his First Nations "brothers" and was always so appreciative all the friends and connections he had in so many different groups. In fact Chan made a deep impression on one young student at Mount Royal during that same October event. Chan will be deeply missed at our Century Club events as he always brought a smile and such warm greetings for all, plus being able to tell stories that engaged both young and old. Chan was an an amazing man who lived his life to the fullest and we know he would have passed some of that incredible spirit on to each of his family members so good to know his legacy lives on. I am in Victoria right now and not able to attend his celebration of life but know Century Club members will be thinking of all his family and many friends. Karen -Chair Saskatoon Century Club Committee
Arny Froese
February 13, 2017
Randy, sorry to hear about your dads passing. I knew Chan from the old days at Chain clothers.Randy I met you when we were doing a land deal from Hanley and thought you looked just like your dad....
Milo Spooner Craig
February 13, 2017
Sid, Cami, Samaya/Gavin, Thomas, Much love and hugs to you all. Great memories of a fine man with be yours forever and to share for generations. Doug and Milo
Jim & Deanna Kelley
February 13, 2017
Chan was one of the most authentic people we have ever enjoyed spending time with. His stories, laughter and genuine interest in everyone will be missed, a great man who fought for our country and freedom. Rest in Peace Chan
Wanda Bazinet
February 13, 2017
To the Katzman clan - I'm sure your father has found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow in the form of Wizzie. Bob and I are both proud to have known Chan, the hero in our midst, a man with a delightful sense of humor, a generous heart and great integrity. He has left a lasting legacy.
Much love,
Wanda & Bob
Pat Atkinson
February 13, 2017
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your Dad and Grandfather. Your Dad and I had some lively conversations over the years and it was always a given that he would be at Remembrance Day occasions. Your Dad was a very good man. Thinking of all of you.
Carl and Diane Glemser
February 13, 2017
The Katzman Families;
Our most sincere condolences to Chan's family. We were so sorry to hear of his passing. He was a very special man and lived life to the fullest. Cherish all of those special memories.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
February 13, 2017
Sid, Cami & Family,
Words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss. Robin Wolfe
Jan Coleman
February 13, 2017
Randy and Shirley and entire Katzman family,
Sounds like your dad was an amazing man Randy!
How wonderful your family enjoyed him into old age.
You'll cherish all the many memories of him.
Sending sympathy and love,
Jan Coleman
February 13, 2017
Kauai Hawaii
Never easy to lose a parent. Our condolances to the family
Elaine and Peter Zakreski
Nancy Lovell
February 13, 2017
To Chan's Children: Remembering all of you from Main Street. Mom was happy to have spoken with your dad this past year; he was a lovely man. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Clara Bayliss
February 13, 2017
Faye, thinking of you and your family at this time of sorrow.
Carla Brown
February 13, 2017
So sorry to hear of the passing of your father. Sounds like he was an amazing person. Condolences to you, Shirley and the boys
Don&Debbie Lewendon
February 13, 2017
Randy & Family
Sincere sympathy in the passing of your father. Though we didn't know Chan he sounds like he was a very remarkable man. May you find comfort in each other at this most difficult time.
Susan Livergant
February 13, 2017
Faye, Randy and Sid,
So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Such a great man! Wishing you and your families
loads of support and love to deal withswith such a great great void in your lives.
Susan Livergant
February 13, 2017
We are thinking of you and yours at this time of sorrow. Once the sorrow has passed the good times rise to the surface.
Gerry and Kae
Ruth, Kelly, and Todd Anear
February 13, 2017
We extend our sincere thoughts and prayers to you, the family, of our father's wonderful friend. Dad always looked forward to visits with Chan, whether in person or on the phone.
February 13, 2017
You the best neighbour and lifelong friend one could ever wish for.
There will only be one Chan as there was only one Wizzie.
You will always be in our hearts.
John , Cheryl , Sarah, Ben and Mat Chyzyk
Claudette Bridgeman
February 13, 2017
To the Katzman family - our deepest sympathy on the loss of your father and grandfather. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Claudette and Jim Bridgeman
Sherren Gillott
February 13, 2017
We hope it comforts you to know that your grief is shared by all who knew your dad. He was a wonderful man and he will be sorely missed. Your dad was such a great guy and we are so sorry about your loss. He had a great sense of humor and always seemed so happy and full of life. He will be missed very much by all of us who knew him.
Our thoughts are with you at this time, Stewart, Sherren, Mathew & Connor Gillott
Carla Scharback
February 13, 2017
To all of the Katzmans, I am so sorry for your loss. It was an honor to know Chan, his wit, kindness and encouragement meant so much to me. Blessings to all of you.
February 13, 2017
To the Katzman family: Chan was a good friend while we lived together at the Bently. He was always friendly and kind,I would visit with him after I had left and at times had me do some small job for him. May you rest in piece my friend. Delmar Rempel
Barry Coakwell
February 13, 2017
Randy and family, so sorry and God Bless
February 12, 2017
Loving memories of Chan.
The Chyzyk family, neighbors forever.
February 12, 2017
To The Katzman Family, we are so sorry to hear of your dads passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Wally, Kim, Brent & Bryan Matkowski
Marjorie Matheson
February 12, 2017
Our Condolences on the loss of your father. Chan had a long exciting and interesting life. We shopped at his store. Your parents stayed at RedDeer Motel that we owned, when they were attending bridge tournaments at Waskesiu. We enjoyed his visits and yard sales when we stayed with Scott and Tess' (Kirkpatrick) home, also when we and he lived at the Brentwood Condos. Sincerely Marj and Al Matheson, Saskatoon, SK
February 12, 2017
To the Katzman family,
Our sincere condolences are with you at this time. Although it is a difficult time, know that Chan is probably enjoying a shot of Calvados with the rest of the Rifles who had gone before him. May the memories never be forgotten. Lest we forget.
Liz, Tim, Darlene Settee & family.
Kathleen Gauley
February 12, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. I have wonderful memories of growing up just houses away from your family and your father played a great role in those memories. He was a dear man. My thoughts are with you all.
February 12, 2017
So sorry for your loss. May God's strength be with you.
Jane and Preston Smith
Dave Postnikoff
February 11, 2017
I was saddened to hear of Chan's passing. I'll always remember the zingers he'd come out with, whenever I talked with him, either at the house or at the store. I salute you, sir!
sincerely,
Dave Postnikoff
February 11, 2017
Randy and Family,
We are saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved father. Our dad's enjoyed many a conversation over the back alley fence (one can only imagine!). Celebrate his long and purposeful life, well lived. May your friends and family lift you up, and your memories carry you through.
Sincerely,
Greg and Camille Waters
sonia Cox
February 11, 2017
David and family,
Sorry to hear about Chan.He was a wonderful man and we will miss all his great stories.
Wayne,Sonia and Preston
Ted Merriman
February 11, 2017
To our friends the Katzmans our hearts are sadden my the passing of Chan , our friend and mentor. We cherished our time with him the joy he brought , even the stories we had heard many times still made us feel part of his family. Chan was a man who needs no introduction , every where we went with him he new more people than we did. A man who was so proud of his family especially his grandchildren , will be remembered as a remarkable human .
Loved him then and now. Ted Marie
Eugene Arcand
February 11, 2017
Farewell my friend. A brave soldier is now my guardian angel....
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338 4th Avenue North, Saskatoon, SK S7K 2L7
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