I was shocked and very saddened to learn of the
sudden passing of one my most distinguished constituents in District 2, Mayer Schondorf at the age of 81. Born in
Slovakia, Mayer was a Holocaust survivor
of Auschwitz and Buchenwald and he dedicated most of his life after escaping
death at he hands of the Nazis to educating youngsters about his experience and
those of others. He was a frequent visitor
to schools and worked closely with the Montreal Holocaust Memorial Centre.
Municipally, Mayer was in touch with me on a regular
basis – by telephone, email and in person. He and his wife Rena took long walks
in the neighbourhood, keeping up a pace those half their age would envy. 
many of these walks Mayer would contact me to report a problem he spotted, He
and Rena regularly attended my District meetings, which focus on very local
issues. Mayer is pictured at te very left with other residents in discussion with me at one of the meetings.
The Schondorf condo on Rembrandt Avenue
faces Rembrandt Park. We have made many improvements there the last few years,
but a major project is planned beginning
next summer which will see us add new tennis courts and remove the basketball
courts. Mayer was very eager to be consulted on this. When we last spoke just a
few weeks ago I promised him that there would be a meeting in the spring.
Mayer’s death is a tremendous loss to the Jewish community and society in
general. He affected so many lives, notably the thousands upon thousands of non-Jewish
students he spoke to over the years. For this is the best vehicle for combating
anti-Semitism. Get to the kids who have never seen or met a Jew. Provide them
with first-hand history. It leaves a tremendous impression upon them. I had the
privilege of watching Mayer work his magic. He was just so good at it because
what he said came from the heart.
Rest in peace Mayer. And to your family, my most sincere condolences.