Harvey Levine
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Harvey Levine on Saturday, May 22nd, 2021 in his seventy-second year, after a courageous battle fought with courage and dignity and the love and support of his beloved wife and best friend Doreen Zrill for 50 years.
Cherished father and father-in-law of Zena Levine and Steven Clark, and Selena Levine and Noel Gonthier. Dearly loved brother and brother-in-law of Gloria and Harry Freedman and Allan J. and Rhoda Levine;brother-in-law of Livia and Larry Woloshin and Arthur Zrill. Harvey is predeceased by his parents the late Sol and the late Gilda Levine, and son-in-law of the late Sam and the late Zelda Zrill. Harvey will be greatly missed by his aunts, nieces and nephews, cousins, friends and colleagues.
From the earliest age Harvey Levine was an exceptionally creative and talented individual. He began his career in graphic design and with boundless optimism, passion and vision went on to distinguish himself in the Canadian pharmaceutical industry and then in a second career in community service. As a professional he always endeavoured to help people achieve a better quality of life – whether it was connected to introducing a new therapeutic option for an unmet medical need, or to help improve the lives of those in need in our community. A tireless volunteer for B’nai Brith Canada for more than four decades, Harvey’s most meaningful role as a professional was as Quebec Regional Director of B’nai Brith Canada where he was a fierce advocate and spokesperson against anti-Semitism and all forms of hate and intolerance. He also played an important role in the construction and realization of Chateau B’nai Brith, a subsidized residence for seniors.
Recently he was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the City of Cote St. Luc, an honour that meant a great deal to him. This was one of many accolades including being inducted into the Canadian Healthcare Marketing Hall of Fame, past president and honourary life member of the Pharmaceutical Marketing Club of Quebec (PMCQ), past president of the Canadian Association of Medical Publishers, past vice-chair of the Marketing Section of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Canada, and past-president, advisor and trustee of the Maple Leaf Lodge of B’nai Brith.
Despite his health challenges Harvey continued his tradition of chairing the annual Chanukah candle lighting program at the Jewish General Hospital, bringing the spirit of the holiday to hospitalized patients, and often dragging his friends in to assist.
Of all of Harvey’s interests none took precedence over his love and devotion to his family. Doreen was his sun, moon and stars, and he wore their public displays of affection proudly. When it came to his girls Zena and Selena, no father could take more delight or pride in their many accomplishments, or be more supportive of their choices. Steve and Noel were considered and treated as sons.
Harvey was an avid golfer. The “Hawk” as he named himself, always looked forward to an annual Hamburger Match with his buddies. From his love of rock and roll, to dressing up in a spiderman costume, his love of dogs, great wines and good food or assuming the persona of being a “wild and crazy guy,” Harvey will forever be remembered as a smart, fun, kind and gentle man. He was an amazing husband, father and treasured friend. We will miss him terribly. A private graveside will take place
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Montreal CVS www.bnaibrith.ca would be appreciated.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Harvey Levine 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Montreal, Province: Quebec
I was very saddened to hear of Harvey’s passing. Although I hadn’t seen him in over 40 years, I remember him fondly from our early days at Charles E. Frost. Harvey was always there do give me good advice whenever the need would arise and I used to enjoy my discussions with him. Whenever I would see him on TV,Bi would think to call him just to say hello. It is now too late. Harvey was a good man and my prayers are for him and his family. May he forever rest in peace. Sent with my deepest condolences, Diane Meet, Kirkland, Quebec