Deaths
Martha Plett
Martha Plett died Mar. 25, 2011. She was born Mar. 25, 1924 in Kuban, Russia to Johann and Louise Derksen. That year, Martha’s family immigrated to Canada, settling in Yarrow, B.C. Martha took piano lessons and became pianist for the Yarrow church choir. In 1947, Martha married John Plett, and they moved to Vancouver. She continued to teach piano. Martha and John enjoyed travelling and developed a fondness for Asia. They sponsored the Yeh family to come to Canada, cherishing them as extended family for 25 years. Martha was a member of Killarney Park MB Church, Vancouver. She was proud of her job as greeter; Martha listened to visitors’ stories, invited them to lunch, and included them in her prayers. Martha was quick to forgive and find the good in people. Passionate about sewing, she collected beautiful fabrics from around the world. Martha will be remembered for her warmth, ability to befriend newcomers, honest opinions, and unwavering faith. The way she laughed at herself gave others permission to laugh at themselves too. Predeceased by John, grandson Charlie; Martha is mourned by children Sylvia, Sandy (Doug), Randy (Connie), James (Brenda); 10 grandchildren.
Erna Dyck
Erna Dyck died May 8, 2011 at 91. She was born July 10, 1919 in Schoeneberg, Ukraine to Johann and Anna Froese. When Erna was 8 months, her mother died, and a year later, her father married Sara Bueckert. In 1930, the family immigrated to Canada, settling in Rosetown, Man. Erna moved to the Winnipeg Maedchenheim to work as a housekeeper. In her teens, Erna accepted Jesus as Saviour and was baptized into First Mennonite Church. Erna married Bernard A. Dyck in 1941. They lived in Newton, Man., where they became active in Newton Siding MB Church (now Community Fellowship). In semi-retirement, Erna and Bernie returned to Winnipeg and became members of Portage Avenue (MB) Church. Erna was passionate about helping others by baking, cooking, sewing, quilting, and gardening. She raised her children with a love for missions. After Bernie died Aug. 29, 1981, Erna worked in homecare. In 2001, she suffered a major stroke and moved to Donwood Manor. Predeceased by Bernie, 8 siblings; Erna is mourned by children Elsie (Jake) Hamm, John (Helen), Lynn (Henry) Boschman, Victor (Lydia), Allen (Gerry), Shirley (Abe) Banman, Alvin (Anita); 19 grandchildren and their spouses; 33 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; 3 sisters.
Margaret Dyck Krahn
Margaret Dyck Krahn died July 1, 2011 at 93. She was born Mar. 30, 1918 in Burwalde, Man. to John and Agatha Dyck. When Margaret was 7, her family moved to Osterwick, Man. At 17, when Margaret was baptized, H.S. Voth prayed for God to use her. That year, the family moved to Enderby, B.C., where they met 2 missionaries who sent Margaret to Prairie Bible Institute. After 5 years there, Margaret attended linguistic school at Briercrest College and Missionary Medical School in Toronto. In 1947, Margaret worked in the dispensary and taught students age 6–26 in Matende, Congo, with MB Missions/Services. After leading a dying patient to Jesus, Margaret found new hope for Congo. Margaret’s second term, at the MB mission station in Kafumba, Congo, she became director of an elementary school. In the Bible Institute, she taught students from 10 different tribes in the Kituba language and helped with literature preparation. In the July 1960 rebel attack, she escaped to Canada via Angola. When she returned to Congo, she taught high school students in French and taught Congolese people to prepare literature. Upon retiring in 1987, Margaret became a deaconess in Winkler MB Church and volunteered as a palliative care provider. July 3, 1992, at 74, she married Peter Krahn. Margaret and Peter visited residents at Salem Home and opened their condo to neighbours. December 2008, failing health resulted in a move to Donwood Manor in Winnipeg, where Margaret and Peter became members at North Kildonan MB Church. Predeceased by 11 siblings, Margaret is mourned by Peter; 5 stepdaughters; 5 stepsons; 1 brother; nieces and nephews.
Hermann Duerrstein
Hermann Duerrstein died July 3, 2011. He was born Feb. 22, 1935 in Trappstadt, Germany. In 1951, the family immigrated to Winnipeg, where Hermann accepted Christ as Saviour. Hermann was baptized into Kitchener (Ont.) MB Church. In 1956, he met Mary Klassen at the church’s Bible school. They were married in Scott Street MB Church, June 28, 1958. They worked together at Grace Orphanage, Henderson, Neb., then moved to Vancouver where Hermann completed his high school diploma. He started ARC Industries in Brampton, Ont. In 1975, they moved to Chatham, Ont., to manage another ARC Industries. In 1977, Hermann managed the Bethesda workshop in St. Catharines, Ont., and from 1980–2000, he was assistant administrator at Tabor Manor. He was also involved with Gideons International. After retiring, he took up golf and bowling. Hermann was a member of Grantham MB Church, where he served on the board and as treasurer. Predeceased by 3 brothers, Hermann is mourned by Mary; children Dan (Mary Anne), Roselynn (Greg) Reed; 6 grandchildren.
Malinda Schmidt
Malinda Mary Schmidt died Sept. 23, 2011. She was born Nov. 12, 1932 in Main Centre, Sask. to Abraham and Justina Janz. At 11, Malinda was baptized into Main Center MB Church. She was always ready to testify to her life in Christ. After her father died, she moved to Saskatoon, where in 1956, she attended normal school and met Hugo Schmidt. They were married in 1957. Predeceased by daughter Denise in 2002, Malinda is mourned by Hugo; children Betty Lou Godard (Wendell), Roger (Wendy); son-in-law Randy Erickson; 9 grandchildren. The memorial was at Northview Community Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Micah James Reimer
Micah James Reimer was born Oct. 15, 2011 in Steinbach, Man. to Owen and Stephanie Reimer. He weighed 3 lbs. 7 oz. and died within the hour. Micah’s parents, brother Ethan, and family were so grateful to be able to hold him. The funeral was at Steinbach MB Church. The family is comforted by Isaiah 43:1. Predeceased by brother Kieran Owen in infancy, Micah is mourned by his parents; brother Ethan; grandparents Ron and Helen Falk, Heinz and Elsie Reimer; great-grandparents Abe and Maria Plett, Jessie Falk, David and Emma Reimer; extended family. So short a life; so great the love.
Mary Stobbe
Mary Stobbe died Sept. 27, 2011 at 91. She was born May 16, 1920 in Sagradovka, Ukriane to Peter and Helena Dueck. The family immigrated to Canada in 1926, settling near Oak Bluff, Man. They moved to Winnipeg in 1943. Mary married Jake Stobbe in 1946. They lived in Brandon, Man., then moved to Greendale, B.C., to start a dairy farm. Before the first milk cheque arrived, the floods came, but God and the Red Cross took care of them. Jake and Mary were members of Greendale MB Church. After Jake’s fall from a roof, they sold the farm and moved to Abbotsford, B.C. They became members of Bakerview Church and joined the fellowship choir. Mary loved to crochet afghans. Every child, grandchild, and great-grandchild received one. Her bread was hard to resist. Predeceased by all her siblings, great-granddaughter Leah Stobbe; Mary is mourned by Jake; children Bob (Lynda), Jim (Carol), Ed (Rita), Irene (Vic) Abrahams, Shirley (Lorne) Redekop, Al (Kora Lee); 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren.
Phil Wiebe
Phil Wiebe died Oct. 18, 2011. He was born Nov. 13, 1951 in Saskatoon to Frank and Agnes Wiebe. Phil married Lois Klassen from Elm Creek, Man., Feb. 7, 1976. He was baptized into Brooklands Community Church, Winnipeg, Mar. 13, 1977. Phil’s eyes sparkled when he talked about his grandchildren. He was always ready to help family, friends, and strangers. Phil worked as a mechanic at MTS, beginning in 1985. He loved trucking occasionally on weekends. He was a Mr. Fix-it. His sense of humour carried him and others along. Phil and Lois loved to travel, appreciating God’s creation. Phil had a deep faith in God and spent much time studying Scripture. His favourite verse was Isaiah 41:10. September 2010, Phil and Lois moved to Niverville, Man., in anticipation of retirement. Nov. 15, Phil was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumour. His motto “faith, family, and friends” took on new meaning, as each became so valued through his cancer journey. Phil is mourned by Lois; children Cindy (Keith) Feldbusch, Pam (Shane) Hartry; 5 grandchildren.
Bernhard Doerksen
Bernhard (Ben) Doerksen died Oct. 20, 2011. He was born Feb. 8, 1933 in Coaldale, Alta. to Bernhard and Elizabeth Doerksen. He attended Bible school in Coaldale; Prairie Bible Institute, Three Hills, Alta.; and MB Bible College, Winnipeg, where he met and married Agnes Kopp. Ben taught 26 years at Bethany Bible College, Hepburn, Sask. He was actively involved in leadership with the MB conference. Ben was a caring husband and father who modelled integrity, honesty, determination, and courage. Predeceased by 1 brother in infancy, 3 sisters; Ben is mourned by Agnes; children Richard and Dori, Robert and Melinda, Wes and Beth Penner; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 7 siblings. The funeral was at Highland MB Church, Calgary.
Walter Toews
Walter Harold Toews died Oct. 30, 2011. He was born Aug 21, 1925 in Ste. Anne, Man. to Henry G. and Anna Toews. The family moved to Sunnyslope, Alta., in 1929. Walter loved baseball and hockey. He worked for Canadian Pacific Railroad, and the Sunnyslope and Linden cheese factories. Katharina Klassen, living near the Linden factory, noticed Walter, and delivered pastry for coffee break so she could meet him. They were married July 30, 1955. In 1957, Walter and Katy purchased their home in Sunnyslope. Walter began a 14-year career at Linden Machine Works as a fitter for the manufacture of hydraulic post pounders and truck hoists. Walter and Katy took on custodial duties at Dr. Elliott School and Linden MB Church, where they were members. Walter was Linden town foreman for 12 years. In 1984, Walter was named citizen of the year. He loved to take pictures and care for flowers. Walter had a soft heart and a dry sense of humour. Walter is mourned by Katy; son John (Janet); 3 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 3 siblings.
David Martens
David Jacob Martens died Nov. 11, 2011. He was born Aug. 13, 1928 in Alexander, Man. to Jacob and Louise Martens. He attended Winkler (Man.) Bible School where he met and married Marguerite Stobbe in 1959. They lived on a cattle and grain farm until 1967. They moved to Oak Bluff, Man., and started a chicken and grain farm. He would often ask people he met, “Are you saved yet?” and pray for them. Everything he did was to the glory of God with praise and thanksgiving. He often gave of himself and his finances. In 1990, David and Marguerite moved to Kelowna, B.C. In retirement, David volunteered on the condo board, and for various charities, his church, and missions in Kelowna. His last year, David was diagnosed with pneumonia, then cancer, but he continued to place others before himself. Caring for Marguerite was his top priority. In his last days, he was still praying for his caregivers’ salvation. David was a member of Willow Park Church, Kelowna. David is mourned by Marguerite; children Kurt (Marie), Reid (Debbie), Jeff (Jackie), Sandra (Jerry).
Jacob Penner
Jacob Penner died Oct. 20, 2011. He was born June 9, 1928 in Killarney, Man. to Jacob and Liese Penner. He attended Winkler (Man.) Bible School. Jacob was baptized into Lena (Man.) MB Church in 1952. He married Anna Rempel May 24, 1953. They farmed near Killarney until their retirement in 1982. Jacob enjoyed working the land, carving, travelling, and spending time with family. He was a member of Lakeview Community Church, Killarney. Jacob was diagnosed with cancer in January 2011. Predeceased by Anna, 1 son-in-law; Jacob is mourned by children Linda (Jake) Waldner, Marlene (Paul) Harris, Dan (Hertha), Karen (Wes) Goertzen; 14 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; 6 siblings.
Jacob J. Thiessen
Jacob J. Thiessen died Nov. 5, 2011. He was born Feb. 28, 1924 in Kleefeld, Russia. When Jacob was 1, the family immigrated to Canada, settling in Arnaud, Man. When his father died, Jacob had to leave school to help run the farm. Jacob married Sarah Wiebe Oct. 16, 1949. They farmed near Steinbach, Man., and joined Steinbach MB Church, where Jacob was active, singing in the choir and a male quartet. He also sang for 13 years with a quartet at Overstone Church. Jacob loved watching his grandchildren perform in sporting events, school plays, and music festivals. His faith was unwavering even when his health failed. Jacob lived with no regrets. Predeceased by son Gerald in 2007, great-granddaughter Addison in 2009, 2 sisters; Jacob is mourned by Sarah; children Don (Wendy), Dennis (Emily), Eleanor (Cliff); 6 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren.
Wesley Schapansky
Wesley Schapansky died Nov. 23, 2011. He was born Aug. 16, 1934 in Glen Kerr, Sask. to Peter and Elizabeth Schapansky. Wes married Margaret Penner July 14, 1957. He worked as a mechanic in Swift Current and Morse district, Sask., and later as a shop foreman. Wes achieved his journeyman ticket in mechanics and ended his working years at Dura Products as a machinist. Wes’s hobby was making 1/12 scale threshing machines and tractors. Wes could create or repair almost anything. He loved camping with his family. He enjoyed fishing, golf, and hockey. Wes devoted his life to caring for his family. Wes was a member of Bridgeway Community Church, Swift Current. His relationship with his Lord and Saviour was the most important thing. Wes and Margaret memorized Scripture together. Wes prayed for his family, his greatest wish being that they all have a personal relationship with Jesus. His life, example, and smile spoke volumes. Wes is mourned by Margaret; children Kelvin (Arlene), Connie (Bill) Schlamp, Maurice (Elaine); 6 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 7 siblings.
Martha Plett died Mar. 25, 2011. She was born Mar. 25, 1924 in Kuban, Russia to Johann and Louise Derksen. That year, Martha’s family immigrated to Canada, settling in Yarrow, B.C. Martha took piano lessons and became pianist for the Yarrow church choir. In 1947, Martha married John Plett, and they moved to Vancouver. She continued to teach piano. Martha and John enjoyed travelling and developed a fondness for Asia. They sponsored the Yeh family to come to Canada, cherishing them as extended family for 25 years. Martha was a member of Killarney Park MB Church, Vancouver. She was proud of her job as greeter; Martha listened to visitors’ stories, invited them to lunch, and included them in her prayers. Martha was quick to forgive and find the good in people. Passionate about sewing, she collected beautiful fabrics from around the world. Martha will be remembered for her warmth, ability to befriend newcomers, honest opinions, and unwavering faith. The way she laughed at herself gave others permission to laugh at themselves too. Predeceased by John, grandson Charlie; Martha is mourned by children Sylvia, Sandy (Doug), Randy (Connie), James (Brenda); 10 grandchildren.
Erna DyckErna Dyck died May 8, 2011 at 91. She was born July 10, 1919 in Schoeneberg, Ukraine to Johann and Anna Froese. When Erna was 8 months, her mother died, and a year later, her father married Sara Bueckert. In 1930, the family immigrated to Canada, settling in Rosetown, Man. Erna moved to the Winnipeg Maedchenheim to work as a housekeeper. In her teens, Erna accepted Jesus as Saviour and was baptized into First Mennonite Church. Erna married Bernard A. Dyck in 1941. They lived in Newton, Man., where they became active in Newton Siding MB Church (now Community Fellowship). In semi-retirement, Erna and Bernie returned to Winnipeg and became members of Portage Avenue (MB) Church. Erna was passionate about helping others by baking, cooking, sewing, quilting, and gardening. She raised her children with a love for missions. After Bernie died Aug. 29, 1981, Erna worked in homecare. In 2001, she suffered a major stroke and moved to Donwood Manor. Predeceased by Bernie, 8 siblings; Erna is mourned by children Elsie (Jake) Hamm, John (Helen), Lynn (Henry) Boschman, Victor (Lydia), Allen (Gerry), Shirley (Abe) Banman, Alvin (Anita); 19 grandchildren and their spouses; 33 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; 3 sisters.
Margaret Dyck KrahnMargaret Dyck Krahn died July 1, 2011 at 93. She was born Mar. 30, 1918 in Burwalde, Man. to John and Agatha Dyck. When Margaret was 7, her family moved to Osterwick, Man. At 17, when Margaret was baptized, H.S. Voth prayed for God to use her. That year, the family moved to Enderby, B.C., where they met 2 missionaries who sent Margaret to Prairie Bible Institute. After 5 years there, Margaret attended linguistic school at Briercrest College and Missionary Medical School in Toronto. In 1947, Margaret worked in the dispensary and taught students age 6–26 in Matende, Congo, with MB Missions/Services. After leading a dying patient to Jesus, Margaret found new hope for Congo. Margaret’s second term, at the MB mission station in Kafumba, Congo, she became director of an elementary school. In the Bible Institute, she taught students from 10 different tribes in the Kituba language and helped with literature preparation. In the July 1960 rebel attack, she escaped to Canada via Angola. When she returned to Congo, she taught high school students in French and taught Congolese people to prepare literature. Upon retiring in 1987, Margaret became a deaconess in Winkler MB Church and volunteered as a palliative care provider. July 3, 1992, at 74, she married Peter Krahn. Margaret and Peter visited residents at Salem Home and opened their condo to neighbours. December 2008, failing health resulted in a move to Donwood Manor in Winnipeg, where Margaret and Peter became members at North Kildonan MB Church. Predeceased by 11 siblings, Margaret is mourned by Peter; 5 stepdaughters; 5 stepsons; 1 brother; nieces and nephews.
Hermann DuerrsteinHermann Duerrstein died July 3, 2011. He was born Feb. 22, 1935 in Trappstadt, Germany. In 1951, the family immigrated to Winnipeg, where Hermann accepted Christ as Saviour. Hermann was baptized into Kitchener (Ont.) MB Church. In 1956, he met Mary Klassen at the church’s Bible school. They were married in Scott Street MB Church, June 28, 1958. They worked together at Grace Orphanage, Henderson, Neb., then moved to Vancouver where Hermann completed his high school diploma. He started ARC Industries in Brampton, Ont. In 1975, they moved to Chatham, Ont., to manage another ARC Industries. In 1977, Hermann managed the Bethesda workshop in St. Catharines, Ont., and from 1980–2000, he was assistant administrator at Tabor Manor. He was also involved with Gideons International. After retiring, he took up golf and bowling. Hermann was a member of Grantham MB Church, where he served on the board and as treasurer. Predeceased by 3 brothers, Hermann is mourned by Mary; children Dan (Mary Anne), Roselynn (Greg) Reed; 6 grandchildren.
Malinda SchmidtMalinda Mary Schmidt died Sept. 23, 2011. She was born Nov. 12, 1932 in Main Centre, Sask. to Abraham and Justina Janz. At 11, Malinda was baptized into Main Center MB Church. She was always ready to testify to her life in Christ. After her father died, she moved to Saskatoon, where in 1956, she attended normal school and met Hugo Schmidt. They were married in 1957. Predeceased by daughter Denise in 2002, Malinda is mourned by Hugo; children Betty Lou Godard (Wendell), Roger (Wendy); son-in-law Randy Erickson; 9 grandchildren. The memorial was at Northview Community Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Micah James Reimer
Micah James Reimer was born Oct. 15, 2011 in Steinbach, Man. to Owen and Stephanie Reimer. He weighed 3 lbs. 7 oz. and died within the hour. Micah’s parents, brother Ethan, and family were so grateful to be able to hold him. The funeral was at Steinbach MB Church. The family is comforted by Isaiah 43:1. Predeceased by brother Kieran Owen in infancy, Micah is mourned by his parents; brother Ethan; grandparents Ron and Helen Falk, Heinz and Elsie Reimer; great-grandparents Abe and Maria Plett, Jessie Falk, David and Emma Reimer; extended family. So short a life; so great the love.
Mary Stobbe Mary Stobbe died Sept. 27, 2011 at 91. She was born May 16, 1920 in Sagradovka, Ukriane to Peter and Helena Dueck. The family immigrated to Canada in 1926, settling near Oak Bluff, Man. They moved to Winnipeg in 1943. Mary married Jake Stobbe in 1946. They lived in Brandon, Man., then moved to Greendale, B.C., to start a dairy farm. Before the first milk cheque arrived, the floods came, but God and the Red Cross took care of them. Jake and Mary were members of Greendale MB Church. After Jake’s fall from a roof, they sold the farm and moved to Abbotsford, B.C. They became members of Bakerview Church and joined the fellowship choir. Mary loved to crochet afghans. Every child, grandchild, and great-grandchild received one. Her bread was hard to resist. Predeceased by all her siblings, great-granddaughter Leah Stobbe; Mary is mourned by Jake; children Bob (Lynda), Jim (Carol), Ed (Rita), Irene (Vic) Abrahams, Shirley (Lorne) Redekop, Al (Kora Lee); 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren.
Phil Wiebe Phil Wiebe died Oct. 18, 2011. He was born Nov. 13, 1951 in Saskatoon to Frank and Agnes Wiebe. Phil married Lois Klassen from Elm Creek, Man., Feb. 7, 1976. He was baptized into Brooklands Community Church, Winnipeg, Mar. 13, 1977. Phil’s eyes sparkled when he talked about his grandchildren. He was always ready to help family, friends, and strangers. Phil worked as a mechanic at MTS, beginning in 1985. He loved trucking occasionally on weekends. He was a Mr. Fix-it. His sense of humour carried him and others along. Phil and Lois loved to travel, appreciating God’s creation. Phil had a deep faith in God and spent much time studying Scripture. His favourite verse was Isaiah 41:10. September 2010, Phil and Lois moved to Niverville, Man., in anticipation of retirement. Nov. 15, Phil was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumour. His motto “faith, family, and friends” took on new meaning, as each became so valued through his cancer journey. Phil is mourned by Lois; children Cindy (Keith) Feldbusch, Pam (Shane) Hartry; 5 grandchildren.
Bernhard DoerksenBernhard (Ben) Doerksen died Oct. 20, 2011. He was born Feb. 8, 1933 in Coaldale, Alta. to Bernhard and Elizabeth Doerksen. He attended Bible school in Coaldale; Prairie Bible Institute, Three Hills, Alta.; and MB Bible College, Winnipeg, where he met and married Agnes Kopp. Ben taught 26 years at Bethany Bible College, Hepburn, Sask. He was actively involved in leadership with the MB conference. Ben was a caring husband and father who modelled integrity, honesty, determination, and courage. Predeceased by 1 brother in infancy, 3 sisters; Ben is mourned by Agnes; children Richard and Dori, Robert and Melinda, Wes and Beth Penner; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 7 siblings. The funeral was at Highland MB Church, Calgary.
Walter ToewsWalter Harold Toews died Oct. 30, 2011. He was born Aug 21, 1925 in Ste. Anne, Man. to Henry G. and Anna Toews. The family moved to Sunnyslope, Alta., in 1929. Walter loved baseball and hockey. He worked for Canadian Pacific Railroad, and the Sunnyslope and Linden cheese factories. Katharina Klassen, living near the Linden factory, noticed Walter, and delivered pastry for coffee break so she could meet him. They were married July 30, 1955. In 1957, Walter and Katy purchased their home in Sunnyslope. Walter began a 14-year career at Linden Machine Works as a fitter for the manufacture of hydraulic post pounders and truck hoists. Walter and Katy took on custodial duties at Dr. Elliott School and Linden MB Church, where they were members. Walter was Linden town foreman for 12 years. In 1984, Walter was named citizen of the year. He loved to take pictures and care for flowers. Walter had a soft heart and a dry sense of humour. Walter is mourned by Katy; son John (Janet); 3 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 3 siblings.
David MartensDavid Jacob Martens died Nov. 11, 2011. He was born Aug. 13, 1928 in Alexander, Man. to Jacob and Louise Martens. He attended Winkler (Man.) Bible School where he met and married Marguerite Stobbe in 1959. They lived on a cattle and grain farm until 1967. They moved to Oak Bluff, Man., and started a chicken and grain farm. He would often ask people he met, “Are you saved yet?” and pray for them. Everything he did was to the glory of God with praise and thanksgiving. He often gave of himself and his finances. In 1990, David and Marguerite moved to Kelowna, B.C. In retirement, David volunteered on the condo board, and for various charities, his church, and missions in Kelowna. His last year, David was diagnosed with pneumonia, then cancer, but he continued to place others before himself. Caring for Marguerite was his top priority. In his last days, he was still praying for his caregivers’ salvation. David was a member of Willow Park Church, Kelowna. David is mourned by Marguerite; children Kurt (Marie), Reid (Debbie), Jeff (Jackie), Sandra (Jerry).
Jacob PennerJacob Penner died Oct. 20, 2011. He was born June 9, 1928 in Killarney, Man. to Jacob and Liese Penner. He attended Winkler (Man.) Bible School. Jacob was baptized into Lena (Man.) MB Church in 1952. He married Anna Rempel May 24, 1953. They farmed near Killarney until their retirement in 1982. Jacob enjoyed working the land, carving, travelling, and spending time with family. He was a member of Lakeview Community Church, Killarney. Jacob was diagnosed with cancer in January 2011. Predeceased by Anna, 1 son-in-law; Jacob is mourned by children Linda (Jake) Waldner, Marlene (Paul) Harris, Dan (Hertha), Karen (Wes) Goertzen; 14 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; 6 siblings.
Jacob J. ThiessenJacob J. Thiessen died Nov. 5, 2011. He was born Feb. 28, 1924 in Kleefeld, Russia. When Jacob was 1, the family immigrated to Canada, settling in Arnaud, Man. When his father died, Jacob had to leave school to help run the farm. Jacob married Sarah Wiebe Oct. 16, 1949. They farmed near Steinbach, Man., and joined Steinbach MB Church, where Jacob was active, singing in the choir and a male quartet. He also sang for 13 years with a quartet at Overstone Church. Jacob loved watching his grandchildren perform in sporting events, school plays, and music festivals. His faith was unwavering even when his health failed. Jacob lived with no regrets. Predeceased by son Gerald in 2007, great-granddaughter Addison in 2009, 2 sisters; Jacob is mourned by Sarah; children Don (Wendy), Dennis (Emily), Eleanor (Cliff); 6 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren.
Wesley SchapanskyWesley Schapansky died Nov. 23, 2011. He was born Aug. 16, 1934 in Glen Kerr, Sask. to Peter and Elizabeth Schapansky. Wes married Margaret Penner July 14, 1957. He worked as a mechanic in Swift Current and Morse district, Sask., and later as a shop foreman. Wes achieved his journeyman ticket in mechanics and ended his working years at Dura Products as a machinist. Wes’s hobby was making 1/12 scale threshing machines and tractors. Wes could create or repair almost anything. He loved camping with his family. He enjoyed fishing, golf, and hockey. Wes devoted his life to caring for his family. Wes was a member of Bridgeway Community Church, Swift Current. His relationship with his Lord and Saviour was the most important thing. Wes and Margaret memorized Scripture together. Wes prayed for his family, his greatest wish being that they all have a personal relationship with Jesus. His life, example, and smile spoke volumes. Wes is mourned by Margaret; children Kelvin (Arlene), Connie (Bill) Schlamp, Maurice (Elaine); 6 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 7 siblings.
