Memorial Book for Donna Schechter
As you read these messages, may there be comfort in knowing that others are thinking of you.

The Benjamin Family



Kortney Shapiro January 19, 2026 02:59 PM
I just saw this today. I am so, so very sorry for your loss. To the Schechter family - Mrs. Schechter was my beloved grade 3 English teacher at USDS. Till this day, I have such fond memories of her - her grace, patience and warmth inspired me as a writer. As a lawyer and policy advisor today, I have been a journalist since 2007 and I am grateful to the educators, including your amazing mother, who helped guide me to be articulate, descriptive, and genuine in my writing. May her memory be a blessing.
Dan Murdoch January 15, 2026 01:59 AM
Barb, my condolences on the loss your mother.
Marsha Cohen January 14, 2026 06:29 PM
I am sending my sincerest condolences to the family on Donna’s passing. She was a priceless gift for her students as a teacher, as a wonderful colleague and as a genuine friend. There are so many amazing memories from our days at USDS but her infectious laughter made every day so special. Cherish all your memories. May her memory be a blessing. Marsha Cohen
Honey Miller January 13, 2026 07:39 PM
My condolences on Donna’s passing. We became friendly when our families lived around the corner from each other on Braeburn Avenue. Both personally and professionally, she was warm, kind and caring. And, according to my son, an amazing grade four teacher. May her memory be for a blessing.
Rona Ghanbari and Matthew McNish January 13, 2026 05:15 PM
Barb, sending so much love and our sincere condolences to you and your family. We are thinking of you during this difficult time and wishing you comfort. May you be surrounded by love and support in the days ahead.
Joe Bricker January 12, 2026 11:30 PM
Barb, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Wishing strength to you and your family.
Joyce Lambert January 12, 2026 11:01 PM
I was devastated to hear of Donna''s passing. I worked with Donna for so many years at USDS. She was a teacher par excellence. She dedicated her heart and soul to her students and she was always eager to help her colleagues. That smile in the picture is exactly as I remember her. Donna and I also shared many special moments at the gym. She often spoke about Winnipeg and her parents and she was so proud of her children''s accomplishments. But her favourite topic of conversation was about her grandchildren whom she simply cherished. Donna was such a kind and giving soul always putting others before herself. May her legacy live on through children and grandchildren. Baruch Dayen Emes.
Zale mednick January 12, 2026 10:53 PM
One of the most wonderful teachers I ever had . Her kindness and compassion in grade 5 have stuck with me for decades . Grateful to have had her in my life . A special person . Condolences to family
Jodi Goldstein January 12, 2026 09:37 PM
Dear Schechter Family, I want to express my sincere condolences. I had the pleasure of working with Donna at USDSRHA and she was one of those special educators who made every student feel special and shine. She also brought out the best in her colleagues and was an incredible mentor...and so incredibly organized! I was very fortunate to get to know her in my early years of teaching to learn from her. May your memories of good times bring some comfort during this difficult time.
Danny and Erin Goodman January 12, 2026 09:21 PM
Dear Barb, Robbie and your entire family. Please accept our condolences. We wish you comfort in all the wonderful memories you shared with your mom. Danny and Erin.
Jen Saunderd January 12, 2026 07:02 PM
Barb and family, Sending my deepest condolences and big hugs. Wishing you love and healing. Jen
Cynthia Gasner January 12, 2026 06:38 PM
The Donna''s family, please accept my sincere condolences on Donna''s passing. She was a lovely lady who I had the pleasure of working with and chatting with as well. I also saw her a few times at Baycrest. May you hold your memories close and may her memory be for a blessing.
Sheryl Baker January 12, 2026 06:09 PM
Aaron and Barb, Condolences to you and the family. The Baker family sends our Blessings during this difficult time. We have wonderful memories of your mom and her smiling face as she would walk pass on Brookshire.
Nancy & Irv Kumer January 12, 2026 05:42 PM
We were blessed to have Donna as our ‘machatutsi’! Donna’s quiet yet remarkable strength, selflessness and unending kindness and thoughtfulness not only embraced us and so, so many young people but has left its indelible mark on her delicious children, Barbara and Aaron. May Donna rest in peace and may her memory be a blessing. With love, Nancy & Irv.
Erin Holtzman January 12, 2026 04:50 PM
I was saddened to see the passing of such a kind hearted and sincere lady. I used to work at WFCC at the promenade where Donna was a member. Not only was she a member, but she brightened many people‘s days, extending advice, good cheer, and some laughs. She was definitely one of my favourite faces to see on the regular. If she had such an impact on someone like me, I can be assured that those close to her truly had a shining star. Donna, you will certainly be missed and your sweetness will always inspire me. Sending lots of love and comfort to her family and friends. Xoxo
Shawna Meyer January 12, 2026 04:06 PM
To Donna''s family, I want to share my sincere condolences. I met Donna when I was working at WFCC many years ago and she was a member there. Her warmth was so apparent, and her gentle but strong nature shone through. We had brief interactions but she was so sincere and I have never forgotten her. Her kindness was a beacon when I was going through a hard time. She also touched my heart when she was featured in the documentary. Please reach out if you''d like to hear more stories, I''m happy to share. I hope the memories of the good times will make you smile and warm your heart.
Maria Konyukhova January 12, 2026 03:54 PM
I am so sorry for your loss, Barb. Sending my deepest condolences and thoughts to you during this difficult time.
Karen David Tevi and Orly January 12, 2026 02:22 PM
Dear Barb, Rob, Charlie, Ozzie and Flo, We are so sorry to learn of the passing of your wonderful mom and grandmother, Donna. I remember her so fondly - her warm smile and loving manner - at many family events and simchas. May her memory be for a blessing. Sending you all of our love and heartfelt condolences.
Gayle Freedman January 12, 2026 01:47 PM
To Donna’s family. I was so saddened to learn about the passing of your beloved Donna. We worked together for many years at USDS. She was a wonderful colleague and we shared many resources together in our teaching . Her genuine interest and caring for the students she taught will always be remembered . My sincere condolences.
Zoe Kalmanson January 12, 2026 12:33 PM
Dear Barb, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and your family and sending my best wishes for healing and light. Warmly, Zoe.
Lillian Sversky January 12, 2026 12:15 PM
Barb and Robbie, Sending my warmest condolences. You and your family are in my thoughts, and hoping you are finding support and comfort from all the memories you shared with your mom. With love, Lillian
Kathy Friedman January 12, 2026 11:35 AM
Dear Family My name is Kathy Friedman and I worked with Donna for many years. Please accept my condolences on her passing. It is with deep sadness that I am writing this message. She was a truly generous, thoughtful and caring person who deeply affected all those who knew her. It was honour to work together. May her memory always live in your heart. With love Kathy
Donnie Friedman January 12, 2026 10:20 AM
My deepest sympathy on Donna''s passing. She clearly had a lasting impact on her students and USDS families. We were colleagues for a short time at Bathurst camus and I was very fond of her. May you be comforted by warm memories.
Elison Zasko January 12, 2026 09:21 AM
Dear Barb and family, I am sorry for your loss. Although I did not know her, her positive influence and light is evident in you.
Silvia Eilath January 12, 2026 09:08 AM
Dear Schechter family, My deepest condolences for the passing of your dear mom Donna. Donna was my son''s teacher at USDS and I had the privilege to work closely with her when I became principal of USDS RHA. Donna was an outstanding teacher; who cared about every single student. Donna was a wonderful colleague willing to help in every way she could. Donna will be greatly missed. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. May you know no more sorrow.
Raquel Black January 12, 2026 09:05 AM
I send condolences on the passing of Donna. While we were teaching buddies for many years , she also taught my own daughter to read. Donna was a wonderful teacher, demonstrating patience and kindness.
Jeremy Grafstein January 12, 2026 08:33 AM
Aaron, Barb and family, sorry for your loss. May her memory be a blessing.
Sara Zborovski January 12, 2026 05:38 AM
Barb and family, I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. Thinking of you all and sending love and strength. May her memory be a blessing.
Elana Caplan January 11, 2026 10:39 PM
Mrs. Schechter was my Grade 4 teacher at USDS in 1985. She was one of my favourite teachers in my entire academic career. Strict but always fair. Serious when necessary, but brought humour to the classroom every day. Patient, kind, and without question the best explainer of long division out of anyone out there. She touched the lives of countless students. I was so saddened to read of her passing. May her memory be for a blessing.
Alex Urbanski January 11, 2026 08:20 PM
Barb — I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and your family and sending you strength and love during this difficult time.
Adriana De Marco and Jerry Dalla Corte January 11, 2026 07:53 PM
Barb and family, We are so sorry for your loss. May the memories of your mom bring you peace during this difficult time. Thinking of you and sending you all so much love.
Arlyn & Danny Zimmerman January 11, 2026 05:38 PM
Donna was a wonderful teacher, full of patience and empathy. She taught our children at USDS with love and kindness. May her memory be for a blessing. Baruch Dayan Ha’emet.
Carolyn Grossman Flam January 11, 2026 05:19 PM
Barb- I’m so sorry to hear about your mom’s passing. I remember from many many years ago how sweet she was. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
Karen Jamey Ethan and Talia Gordon January 11, 2026 04:33 PM
Dear Schechter family Our deepest condolences on the loss of your mother and grandmother. May her memory be a blessing and may you have strength during this difficult time. Karen, Jamey, Ethan and Talia Gordon
Don and Sarah Borts January 11, 2026 03:49 PM
To Aaron and family. We are sorry to learn of the passing of your mother. Our siincerest condolences to you at this difficult time. Don and Sarah BortsH
ShawnJanet Ash and Lillian January 11, 2026 03:01 PM
We were so heart broken to hear of Donna''s passing. We wish we could be with you. A big hug from all of us in Vancouver.
Nanci Wax Pearl January 11, 2026 02:25 PM
To Donna''s family, My sincerest condolences on the passing of your beautiful Donna. We worked as partners, colleagues and friends at USDS Bayview Campus for many years. She loved her students and she loved teaching. I have many fond memories of our chats while waiting for the photo copy machines and over cups of tea while lesson planning. Her compassion and dedication always shone through. She adored her grandchildren whom she spoke of often . May her memory be a blessing and give you strength in the days ahead.
Brenda Caplan January 11, 2026 02:22 PM
My sincere condolences on the loss of your mother. Donna and I actually met many years ago at a weekly bowling league. We laughed about reconnecting again when we both worked at USDS Bayview and had wonderful conversations. May her memory be a blessing.
Jonathan Karr January 11, 2026 01:07 PM
I''m so sorry to hear about the loss of Ms. Schechter. I have great memories with her as my teacher at USDS Bayview, especially the many lunches she opened her classroom doors for her students to have a ''Lunch and Learn.'' She always created a welcoming space and truly cared for her students. May her memory be a blessing.
Judit and Gary Gladman January 11, 2026 12:49 PM
Barbara and Rob We send our sincere condolences on the loss of your Mother., As your nextdoor neighbour, do let us know if there is anything that we can do for you and your family.
Amanda Blitz January 11, 2026 11:39 AM
Barb and Aaron - Sending condolences, hugs and prayers. I’m so sorry for your loss. Your mom was always so sweet. May her memory be a blessing. Love from the whole Blitz family.
Annie Kammer January 11, 2026 11:17 AM
My condolence to your family on the loss of your mother. I also worked with Donna as a colleague at USDS Bayview and Bathurst. She always greeted everyone with a warm smile and showed compassion and dedication to her students. May the memories you have of her bring you comfort during this difficult time. May you be comforted among the mourners of zion.
Amy & Allan Levine January 11, 2026 11:06 AM
Aaron, Barb, and family. We are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of your mother. Our thoughts are with you and your families during this difficult time. May her memory be a blessing.
Gillian and Sheldon Glazer January 11, 2026 10:41 AM
Dear Aaron and Barbara, we were so sorry to hear about your mom. Although we have not seen her for many years, we have very fond memories of the times we spent together when you lived on Braeburn. May her memory be a blessing for both of you and your families.. Gillian and Sheldon Glazer
Barb and Steve Mallins January 11, 2026 09:54 AM
Dear Barb and family. Our sincere condolences on the passing of your Mom. The memories you made as a family will live on forever.
Barbara & Harvey Halperin January 11, 2026 01:26 AM
Donna was our Machetaneste. We remember her as so kind, sweet , warm and soft spoken. Whenever we visited from Vancouver we could see how loving she was as a mother and bubbie. We will always keep these wonderful images and memories of your beloved Donna in our hearts. May her memory be for a blessing. Sending lots of love.
Ali York January 10, 2026 11:49 PM
Sending my deepest condolences to the entire family. Donna was one of my first colleagues at USDS Bayview, and I treasured my years teaching with her. She always set the bar of excellence in all that she did, especially when it came to grace and style. May her memory be a blessing.
Maura and Harvey Cooperberg January 10, 2026 11:34 PM
Donna taught both our kids at USDS and we all loved her! She was warm, kind and full of compassion...best qualities for a great teacher! Our deepest condolences to her family. Hope good memories will help you during this very difficult time. Maura and Harvey Cooperberg
Antman Family January 10, 2026 11:18 PM
We are so sorry to have heard of the passing of Donna. She was a very devoted and great teacher. Our deepest condolences to her family.
Sol Maker January 10, 2026 10:50 PM
Aaron I am so sorry on hearing about the passing of your Mother. I am messaging to express my deepest condolences to you and your entire family and may the fond memories all of you have of your Mom help all of you through this very sad and difficult time. May your Mom REST IN PEACE.
Max Benitah January 10, 2026 10:39 PM
Ms. Schechter was an incredible person and teacher. She made every student feel welcome, confident, and capable. She had a lasting impact on me as a child and helped guide me toward success in school. Out of school, she was just as wonderful always offering support and inviting me and my siblings into her home to learn and talk about anything on our minds. Twenty years later, my entire family is deeply saddened by this loss. She was truly one of a kind and will be greatly missed. May she rest in peace.
Jamie Seidel January 10, 2026 10:35 PM
Barb and family, I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved mom. Sending lots of love and strength. May her memory be a blessing.
Sandy Berkal January 10, 2026 10:18 PM
My sincere condolences to Donna’s family. I remember her as a gifted teacher and treasured colleague. May her memory be a blessing.
Marla Kizner January 10, 2026 09:11 PM
To Donna’s family, my most sincere condolences. Donna and I worked together at USDS Bayview Campus for several years, and then at the RHA Bathurst Campus. I remember how Donna’s students loved to be with her. Her even temperament and soft spoken nature made you feel safe and welcome. May her memory be a blessing.
Lisa Glass January 10, 2026 09:10 PM
Dear Schechter Family, I was fortunate to have been a colleague of Donna’s at USDS and we had many lovely conversations over the years about family, life and of course education. She also taught my son who benefited from her organization, knowledge, and true passion for teaching. Her legacy will live on in all the students’ and families’ lives she touched. May your memories fuel you during the difficult days ahead.
Bonnie Mones January 10, 2026 08:56 PM
My deepest condolences to Donna’s family. Donna and I taught together for many years at USDS Bayview. She was an excellent teacher, patient, caring and devoted to her students. May her memory be a blessing.
Shawna Lovinsky January 10, 2026 08:40 PM
I extend my sincere condolences to Donna’s family. I was fortunate to have Donna as my mentor teacher at the Bayview campus. She was an excellent teacher, with a wealth of: knowledge, materials and experience. She willingly shared it all! She inspired students and staff alike. May your fond memories help carry you through the shiva period and beyond. המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שער אבלי ציון וירושלים
Melanie Komlos January 10, 2026 08:25 PM
Barb, my sincere condolences to and your family on the passing of your mom. May you be comforted by all the love and strength that surrounds you.
Elaine Steiner January 10, 2026 08:16 PM
To Donna''s family: I am so sorry for your loss. I send you my sincere condolences. I am adding to the comments by other USDS colleagues; I remember Donna being a wonderful teacher.
Lauren Snipelisky Damelin January 10, 2026 08:15 PM
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. I worked with Donna at USDS. She was an outstanding teacher, colleague and friend.
Debbi Silver January 10, 2026 07:44 PM
Dear family of Donna, I met Donna when I was doing Volunteering at Baycrest. She was such a nice lady and her artwork was amazing. I’m sorry for all of you. My sincere condolences. Debbi Silver
Arlene Anthony January 10, 2026 07:00 PM
So sad to see that “Mrs. Schechter” has passed away. She was my daughter’s teacher at USDS many years ago and still stands out as the best elementary school teacher I’ve met. She was able to see the students as individuals and really understood and cared about each one. Thirty-two years later we still think of her often. Sending sincere condolences to her whole family.
Richard and Maria Levine January 10, 2026 05:05 PM
Maria and I wish our condolences and offer our thoughts of peace and strength during this difficult time
Jodi Fenwick Yackness January 10, 2026 03:37 PM
Barb - I’m so sorry for your loss. Your mom was one of my favourite teachers at USDS and was a complete voice of reason when I would run to your house in high school. May you and your family be comforted by the many beautiful memories you shared with her. Sending you love, strength and huge hugs.
Rena January 10, 2026 03:19 PM
Sending love from Winnipeg.
Mark and Lauren Levine January 10, 2026 02:41 PM
Aaron, Barb, and families Our deepest condolences to you and your families on the loss of your mom. May her memory be for a blessing.
John J. Lennard January 10, 2026 02:08 PM
My deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time, Barbara. Wishing you peace and strength in the days ahead.
Adam and Sharon Gur January 10, 2026 01:07 PM
We are very sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and yours during this time.
Alex Hayward January 10, 2026 11:55 AM
Barb, my deepest condolences to you and your family. May the good memories you shared together help you get through this most difficult time. Alex Hayward
Doris Blinick January 10, 2026 11:52 AM
To Donna’s family, I was fortunate to meet Donna when she taught our son, and then years later we became colleagues. Her dedication to her students made her a wonderful partner in the classroom and it was always a pleasure to chat about our grandkids. I am so sorry for your loss; may your memories be a source of comfort.
Marsha Urowitz January 10, 2026 11:51 AM
Both my sons were fortunate enough to have Donna as their teacher at USDS, over 30 years ago. We remember her as a dedicated educator, with compassion and enthusiasm. May all your wonderful memories help to ease your pain at this difficult time.
Courtney & Aaron Fransen January 10, 2026 11:41 AM
Our thoughts are with you and your family. May the memories of your time together bring you comfort during this difficult time.
The Obee Tower Family January 10, 2026 11:20 AM
Barbara - we are all thinking of you and your family and sending love.
Jenn Wagman Radovitzky January 10, 2026 10:51 AM
I am so sorry to hear about your mom. She was my very first mentor at USDS and made sure I always felt confident in what I was doing. She was an amazing lady and an amazing teacher.
The McCurrie Family January 10, 2026 10:50 AM
Our hearts go out to you and your family as you mourn the passing of your mother. Wishing you strength, comfort, and peace in the days ahead.
Julia Spritzer January 10, 2026 10:25 AM
My children had the privilege of having Donna as a teacher at USDS. She will be remembered as being kind and fair. Condolences to her family. Baruch Dayan Ha''Emet.
Evan Marcus and Abi Schwartz January 10, 2026 10:14 AM
We are so sorry for your loss, Barb and family. Sending our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to you all during this difficult time.
Hilary Crangle & Max Sauder January 10, 2026 10:09 AM
We are so deeply sorry for your loss, Barb and family. We are thinking of you and sending so much love. May your memories of your mom bring you comfort and may her memory be a blessing.
Stacey and Amy Cohen January 10, 2026 10:05 AM
Very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all and sending strength at this difficult time. May her memory be a blessing.
The Ciardullo Family January 10, 2026 10:01 AM
Sending your family all our love and support at this difficult time. We know how much Donna was loved and send you our deepest and most sincere condolences for your profound loss.
Carole Traister January 10, 2026 12:16 AM
I send condolences on the passing of Donna. While we were teaching colleagues for many years, we were also gossip friends working out at the Women’sFitness Centre after school. Donna made those workouts speed by as we chatted about school and our personal lives. She was so proud of her children and shared family stories. Donna was a wonderful teacher, demonstrating patience and kindness.
Susan Fenwick January 10, 2026 12:03 AM
Barb- my sincerest condolences to you and your family, on the passing of your Mother. May your wonderful memories of her help in time to soften the sadness of your loss.
Karie and Bradley Silver January 09, 2026 11:30 PM
Barb Sending out condolences on the loss of your beloved mother . I know what an incredible daughter you have been . Sending love and strength to your family xo the Silvers
Rachel Schneiderman January 09, 2026 09:05 PM
Dear Joanna My deepest sympathy to you & family on the passing of Donna So nice you acknowledged the excellent care @ Sagecare .. I could not agree more… Rachel Schneiderman Regards, Rachel Schneiderman
Sharna January 09, 2026 08:22 PM
From my favourite all time teacher to my besties Mom. Donna memories will forever be in my mind and heart. Sending condolences and strength.
Jody Kimelman January 09, 2026 07:57 PM
Sending all our love and strength to Barb, Robbie and the entire family. Jody and Jason Kimelman
Ali and Jamie Spinner January 09, 2026 07:03 PM
Aaron and Barbara and families: we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with all of you at this time.
Rebecca and Joel Shaffer January 09, 2026 05:37 PM
I have warm memories of your mother from better times. Our thoughts are with you and your families. May her memory be a blessing.
Eli and Laura Palachi January 09, 2026 05:00 PM
We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences. May the good memories you shared together help you get through this most difficult time.