Cyril Leonoff facts for kids

Leonoff in the 1970s

Cyril Edel Leonoff (born February 22, 1925 – died April 17, 2016) was a talented Canadian civil engineer, historian, and author. He is especially remembered for being the first president of the Jewish Historical Society of British Columbia. Cyril Leonoff was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

He passed away peacefully in Vancouver, British Columbia, on April 17, 2016, at the age of 91.

Cyril Leonoff's Life and Work

Cyril Leonoff led a long and interesting life. He was a professional civil engineer, which means he designed and built things like roads, bridges, and buildings. But he was also very passionate about history, especially the history of Jewish communities in Canada.

Founding a Historical Society

One of his most important contributions was helping to create the Jewish Historical Society of British Columbia. This society works to collect, preserve, and share the history of Jewish people in British Columbia and the Yukon. As its first president, Leonoff played a key role in making sure these important stories were not forgotten.

His Books and Writings

Cyril Leonoff was also a dedicated author. He wrote several books and articles that explored the history of Jewish communities and important figures in Canadian history. His writings often included old photographs, bringing the past to life for readers.

Here are some of his notable works:

• Bridges of Light: Otto Landauer of Leonard Frank Photos, 1945-1980 (published in Vancouver, 1997)
• A Dedicated Team: Klohn Leonoff Consulting Engineers 1951-1991 (published in Richmond, 1994)
• An Enterprising Life: Leonard Frank Photographs 1895-1944 (published in Vancouver, 1990)
• "The Sylvesters of British Columbia", found in The Scribe Volume 4 (published by The Jewish Historical Society of BC, Vancouver, 1980)
• Pioneers, Pedlars and Prayer Shawls: The Jewish Communities in British Columbia and the Yukon (published in Victoria, 1978)

Images for kids

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  Public Notice announcing proposed renovations in the Jewish section of Mountain View Cemetery, April 8, 1971.