Israel Asper, 1932-2003

Philanthropist, committed Zionist, business titan, passionately involved Jew, Winnipeg icon, Canadian original, politician, publisher, parent, patriarch. These few words only begin to eulogize Israel Asper, who died suddenly on Tuesday.

Asper's impact on Canadian life was enormous. His business and philanthropic ventures changed this country very tangibly for the better. His involvement in media, which late in life made him arguably the most influential private citizen in Canada, will continue to be felt. His model of tikkun olam is entrenched in the Asper Foundation, which survives him.

Like all individuals in the public eye, Asper was not without controversy, a fact that will become more evident as obituaries and retrospectives of his life proliferate in coming days. Next week's Bulletin will remember Asper's life in greater depth.

In the meantime, we're thankful for the contributions Asper made, we offer condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, indeed to the entire Jewish and general community, for whom Asper's death is a cause for grief.