Oreck Family Philanthropic Fund

My mother was born in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Dad was born in Russia but escaped to Palestine where he worked in the fields with the future leaders of the State of Israel. He instilled his love of Israel and Zionism in his four children.

Sid and I were married in 1939. We lived in Winnipeg where we were both very involved in every aspect of Jewish communal life. One highlight was in 1949: Sid was responsible for bringing Eleanor Roosevelt to Winnipeg and Regina. It was important to both of us that we instill our Jewish values and sense of commitment to our children.

In 1971 we retired to Vancouver and have had the pleasure and nachas of seeing our son Peter and his wife Carol become leaders of this community. In Toronto, our children Karen and Paul are also extensively involved leaders.

We hope and pray that our grandchildren and great grandchildren will follow in their parents’ footsteps.

Sidney and Tabala Oreck