Aviva Ravel (née Borenstein)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Aviva, on June 24, 2026, in her 99th year. She was a Canadian playwright, author, educator, and the matriarch of a large, devoted family.

Beloved wife of the late Nahum Ravel, and the late Al Fleitman, and beloved mother and mother-in-law of Uri and Ilana, Edeet, Sara and Uzi, and Heather.  She was the cherished grandmother and great-grandmother of Jonah and Deandra (parents of Aidan), Larissa and Luke (parents of Ivy and Rosie), Leora and Jordan (parents of Ethan, Zoe, and Lia), Dalia and Daniel (parents of Romy and Maya), Daniel, and Josh.

Throughout her life, Aviva was strongly connected to her Judaism. As a young woman, she lived in Israel where she helped found a kibbutz.  Upon returning to Montreal, she became deeply involved with the city’s first Reconstructionist synagogue during its foundational years, drawn to the movement’s progressive, inclusive, and egalitarian views.

A passionate storyteller and dedicated educator, her intellect, creativity, and impact on the Montreal and Jewish community art scene will be fondly remembered. Her memory will live on through her words, her work on the stage, and the generations of family she loved so dearly.

Funeral service from Paperman and Sons, 3888 Jean-Talon St. W., on Thursday, June 25 at 2:00 p.m.  Burial at the Farband Labour Zionist Organization Section, Kehal Israel Cemetery, D.D.O. Shiva at her daughter Sara’s home. Donations in Aviva’s memory may be made to Congregation Dorshei Emet at (514) 486-9400 or click here.