Obituary of Rael Wienburg

In Loving Memory of Rael Wienburg
 July 20, 1946 – July 15, 2026 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rael Wienburg, who died peacefully on July 15, 2026, at Parkwood Palliative Care in London, Ontario, just days before his 80th birthday. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, Rael was the second of three sons. He and his brothers, Arnold and Jeff, lost their mother at a very young age, an experience that shaped them deeply. Despite this early loss, Rael grew up surrounded by family and friendships that fostered the kindness, resilience, and strong family values that defined his life. In 1968, Rael met Margaret “Margie” Levitt, the love of his life. They married in 1970 and shared 56 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, mutual respect, and devotion to family. Their twin sons, Robert and Steven, were born in 1974. In 1977, Rael and Margie immigrated to Canada seeking new opportunities for their family, first settling in Toronto before moving to London, Ontario, where their daughter Kate was born in 1980. Rael began his career as a quantity surveyor in the construction industry before combining his entrepreneurial spirit with his passion for photography and videography to found Raemar Video. He successfully operated the company for the remainder of his working life. A committed community leader, Rael was the Founding President of Temple Israel, helping establish a congregation that continues to thrive today. The community he helped build remains a lasting legacy of his vision, leadership, and dedication. Rael embraced life with curiosity, creativity, and adventure. A passionate amateur astronomer, he loved photographing the night sky, including full moons, meteor showers, eclipses, and the aurora borealis. He was especially proud of designing and building what was believed to be one of the world’s smallest pinhole cameras. Rael's wit was one of his defining qualities. Whether it was a clever remark, a classic dad joke, or a playful tease, he had a way of making those around him smile and laugh, even in the simplest moments. His adventurous spirit remained strong throughout his life, and in his seventies he fulfilled a dream by skydiving. He was also a lifelong sports enthusiast who proudly supported his beloved Springbok rugby team. An accomplished golfer, he enjoyed many hours on the course with friends and family. Later in life, he developed a passion for taekwondo, achieving remarkable proficiency in his 60s and 70s through discipline and determination. Rael’s creativity extended to the kitchen, where he delighted family and friends with a few special items, including his incredible challah, Sunday morning French toast and famous chopped liver, which became cherished traditions. Above all, Rael was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His six grandchildren brought him immense joy, and he treasured time spent with them, including memorable trips to Noosa, Australia, and Fernie, British Columbia, to visit his youngest grandchildren. His family was always at the centre of his life. Rael faced his final years with extraordinary courage. Despite battling cancer and resulting organ failure, he met each challenge with dignity, determination, and resilience. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by the compassionate care of the staff at Parkwood Palliative Care. Rael is lovingly remembered by his wife, Margie; his children, Rob, Steve (Leyna), and Kate (Nathan); his brother Arnold; his six cherished grandchildren (Anna, Julia, Claire, Monique, Fletcher and Lola); and the many relatives and friends whose lives were enriched by his warmth, generosity, and gentle spirit. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the community he helped build, the memories he created, and the many lives he touched. May his dear soul rest in peace. Donations can be made in Rael's honour to the Canadian Cancer Society by copying and pasting the following link into your internet browser: https://cancer.ca/en/ways-to-give/personal-donation