Max Brendel Iland

(Seraing-le-Chateau, Belgium October 28, 1932 - Kitchener, ON August 26, 2022)

Max Iland passed away at the age of 89. He is lovingly remembered by his partner in his last few years, Elizabeth Christie, son Yaacov (Julia), grandson Ari and daughter Hannah (Nader), and survived by their mother, Rosanne Iland.

A Holocaust survivor, Max immigrated to Canada and found work as a logger before settling in Echo Bay. Max retired after 25 years of teaching high school French and special education in Sault Ste Marie. His summers were spent canoeing Canadian rivers, including the Nahanni and Mackenzie, and his winters on cross country ski trails. Over his lifetime, he planted nearly a hundred thousand trees and took immense pleasure in watching the forest grow.

Max led the fight against Sault Ste Marie’s English-only resolution and was a strong advocate for interfaith education and anti-racism. A long time member of Beth Jacob Synagogue, he served on the board for several years.

Max’s enthusiasm and energy spilled out of him in song, dance, debate and in his thirst for knowledge. He cherished his children and they were his greatest fulfillment.

Friends are invited to a graveside service at Greenwood Cemetery (meet at the corner of Fourth Line and Peoples Road for 11:45 am) on Monday, August 29, 2022 at 12:00 pm, Mr. Gil Cymbalist officiating. A visitation to follow at the Arthur Funeral Home-Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E. 705-759-2522) from 1:30 pm until 3:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Amnesty International.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Iland family.