Florence Vigod

Judy, Raphi, Jay and families, I was so sorry to hear of Florence’s passing. What a long life she led! I didn’t know her well - but when I did see her - and was fortunate to hear her piano playing - well into her 100’s.....well - quite amazing!! What a lifetime of memories! Please accept my sincere condolences at this sad time. I know she will be missed by all who knew her. With love, Barbara Himel

My condolences to Judith, the Vigod family, and friends on the passing of the very wonderful, lady, Florence Vigod. I had the pleasure, privilege, and honor to have worked at Cedarhurst for a few years and got to know this amazing lady. Florence was so talented on the piano and with her singing and she blessed everyone, residents, staff and visitors with her finesse. She was a career woman when not too many women were in her generation. She always made me laugh. I feel so privileged to have helped celebrate her 100th and 101st Birthday. She was very intelligent and always loved to do crosswords and puzzles. She came to almost every activity that was on at Cedarhurst. I have told many of my friends and family about her and they marveled at the stories. I really thought she may live till 110 and more! She was healthy more than some people in their 50's and 60's! I will miss her greatly, but I have many cherished memories. She will be missed by so many. Coffee and cookies were her favorite and I have not doubt she will enjoy a rich supply in Heaven and probably she serenade many up there too. Florence I love you and will miss you God Bless the family! Love Marian (Former Activationist at Cedarhurst Home

Judy, Raphi and Jill Helene and I are so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She not only brought joy through her music but bequeathed the gift to two of her children who continue her legacy and tradition.

Judy, Raphi and families. A good friend just told me today about the passing of another Florence Vigod. My mom died on the same day as yours (April 23), though in 2007. What an amazing life. Condolences to you all.

Judy, Raphi and families, my condolences of course. I was truly amazed to find this clip on YouTube! I am Dave and Rochel Ross's son, from Winnipeg days. My first summer job was at Sam's factory (Cohen's) near what is now the Disraeli Bridge in Winnipeg. In those days our parents were close, and remained in touch over their lifetimes. Their copy of Bernie's book "Quebec Before Duplessis" is on my bookshelf. I now live in the UK, and used to listen to Raphi's voice reading the CBC news over short wave before the internet made listening so much easier. I can even remember my parents congratulating Judy by letter on her marriage in the 1960's. I have made my living as a musician, and appreciate the deep resonance created by melody and rhythm, and its ability to reach long forgotten feelings of joy and sadness despite the passage of time. Perhaps music was our parents' bond as well.

I showed a video of Florence playing the piano to my 4th grade music class. We were studying ragtime piano music and she was a great example of how music can be a powerful influence in someone's life. The students were amazed at her smile, her memory of the songs she learned, and the fact that she didn't take any medications.