HEDI LEWIS (1926-2007)

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HEDI LEWIS (1926-2007) Adeline (Hedi) Lewis was born in Winnipeg in 1926 to George and Katherine Headree, the younger of two daughters. Unlike her sister Vera, Hedi had an aversion to schoolwork, often played hooky, and eventually quit school with her father's consent, the only condition being that she get a job. After working briefly as a dishwasher, she learned the hat making trade, worked as a salesclerk, and later as a receptionist where she met her husband Wally. Hedi often said that these early life experiences helped prepare her for the successful broadcasting career for which she is best known. Based on her experience with Streamliners, Hedi became a strong advocate for full-figured women in the fashion industry. After coordinating a number of fashion shows, she co-hosted a show on CJAY-TV and in 1969 was asked by CBC to do a national television program called Weight Watching with Hedi . After hosting CKY's Party Line for three years, Hedi was approached by Sears to do promotional work and was known for many years as the Voice of Sears and the Queen of Polo Park. Hedi found her real niche in 1976 when she signed on at CJOB as co-host of Problem Corner with George McLoy. The show ran for 14 years until Hedi's retirement and was one of the longest-running and most popular programs in CJOB's history. Hedi was proud of how Problem Corner had evolved from household hints to cover a wide range of consumer, legal, and medical issues. For her work on behalf of all Manitobans, Hedi was awarded the Manitoba Consumer Award in 1988. Hedi also wrote several books including In the Kitchen with Hedi, which was a best-seller. In addition to her media work, Hedi actively supported numerous charitable organizations including the Osteoporosis Society, Kidney Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and was the Honorary Chair of the Alzheimer's Society. She was also a tireless ambassador for both Winnipeg and Manitoba. When Hedi broke into broadcasting in the sixties, the field was largely male-dominated. Hedi was a pioneer who helped blaze a trail for women in the industry. From modest beginnings and with no formal training she achieved success and recognition for her professionalism and dedication to her craft. Hedi was devoted to her husband Wally, who predeceased her in 1996, her family, her friends, and her legions of listeners. Hedi Lewis passed away peacefully in Grace Hospital on November 14, 2007. She is survived by her sister Vera (Vicky) Kosakoski, her nephew Gordon Kosakoski, his wife Becky, their children Graham and Laura, extended family and dear friends. In compliance with Hedi's wishes, a private family interment will be held. Memorial donations may be made in Hedi's memory to Holy Family Nursing Home, 165 Aberdeen Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2W 1T9, or to the charity of your choice. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 20, 2007