Elisa (Lisa) Cohen, nee Jankielewicz sadly passed away at Extendicare Bayview Nursing Home, at age 102 on Thursday, September 25, 2025.

She was born in Valenciennes, France on August 5, 1923 to parents Pesa and Icehok. Elisa was one of 5 children, Her siblings were Francine, Paulette, Annette and Albert. Sadly, she lost her father Icehok at the early age of twelve years old and went on to help her mom, Pesa raise the family.

She was a European World War II survivor and during that time, met her future husband, an American GI, Leon Cohen.After the war ended, Elisa emigrated to the U.S.A. and married Leon in Philadelphia, PA. Shortly thereafter, her and Leon moved to New York for a few years where they had their first-born child, Ira.

Once the rest of her family was settled in Toronto, Canada, Elisa wanted to be with her mom and siblings so once again she and Leon relocated and settled with them in Toronto where she eventually gave birth to her daughter Michele.

She built a life for herself in the fashion industry. Her quick eye for trends and fine taste eventually led to her becoming the manager of a high-end store and afforded her the opportunity to travel to Europe assisting the store owner as a buyer.

The most fulfilling aspect of Elisa’s life really was her closeness, devotion and love of her family – her children, Ira and Debbie, Michele and Elliot and her ever loving grandchildren, Celine, Martie, Corey, Jessica and Danielle.

Elisa’s social life revolved around her sisters and her dearest best friends, “The Girls “. To all that knew her, she was the epitome of grace and beauty and always had a smile on her face. Regardless of what life brought her way, she made the most out of every single day, had an undeniable inner strength and always had a positive outlook on life.

She was a devoted daughter, sister and grandmother but most of all she was an amazing mom. We were lucky to have you as our mother. You were the best and most caring. We love you and will forever miss you dearly.

We would like to sincerely thank the incredible staff at Extendicare Bayview for taking the best possible care of our mom.

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.