Deaths
Ivan Bruce LockhartIvan Bruce Lockhart died Mar. 14, 2008 at 100. He was born Oct. 27, 1907 in Proton Station, Ont. He attended Toronto Chiropractic College, then worked for the Ford Motor Factory in Detroit. Due to the Depression and resulting shortage of jobs, he travelled west, settling in Picture Butte, Alta., in 1933. Ivan enlisted in the Canadian Army Service Corp as a medical attendant in 1942. He married Margaret Franz in 1946 and they farmed in the Grande Prairie area. Predeceased by Margaret, 4 siblings; Ivan is mourned by daughters Marlene (Howard) Collins, Yvonne (Ken) Lissack; 6 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Mar. 18, 2008 at La Glace (Alta.) Bible Fellowship Church.
Elsie DriedgerElsie Driedger died Sept. 17, 2008. She was born Oct. 19, 1912 in Borden, Sask. Together with her husband Frank, she moved to Peace River country in 1952. They farmed in the LaGlace, Alta., area until retiring to Grande Prairie, Alta., in 1971. Frank and Elsie enjoyed travelling and visiting with friends. Elsie is mourned by children Ken (Lee), Bob (Cheryl), Joyce (Henry) Toews, Verna (Clarence) Haugan; 10 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren. The memorial service was Sept. 22 at LaGlace Bible Fellowship Church.
Elizabeth Marshall Elizabeth Marshall died Oct. 28. She was born Apr. 20, 1924 in Pascha Tschokmak, Ukraine to Jacob and Elizabeth Wall. The family came to Canada in 1929, settling in Sardis, B.C., then moving to a dairy farm in Matsqui, B.C., in 1945. Elizabeth joined the Matsqui MB church and served the church and community where she felt needed. She married David Teichrob in July 1947. They moved to Regina for two years, then to Chilliwack, B.C. David died of leukemia in 1950. Elizabeth gave her all in the role of a single parent to 2 children. In 1975, she moved to Victoria, B.C., to own and operate a successful fabric business. She retired to Abbotsford, B.C., in 1995 where she enjoyed making and selling crafts. Predeceased by David, her second husband Chester Marshall, 2 granddaughters, 2 brothers; Elizabeth is mourned by children Ron (Bev) Teichrob, Doreen (Brian) Knoll; 6 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 2 siblings. The memorial service was Nov. 3 at Central Heights Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Jacob Henry WallJacob Henry Wall died Nov. 6, 2008. He was born Oct. 25, 1912 in Orloff, Ukraine, to Heinrich and Elizabeth Wall. On Nov. 29, 1919, Jacob’s father, grandfather, and uncle were among the 58 people killed by bandits in the village. Jacob accepted Jesus Christ as Saviour at age 11, during special meetings at church. In 1926, he immigrated to Canada with his mother and 6 of 7 siblings. He attended Bible school in Coaldale, Alta., and Winkler, Man., then moved to Winnipeg where he met Mary Isaak. They married July 7, 1940. They moved to Aldergrove, B.C., in 1946. Mary died in 1989 after a battle with cancer. Jacob married Erika Voth in 1997. Predeceased by Mary, Jacob is mourned by Erika; children Linda (Arnie) Toews, Ernie (Donna), Louise (Rudy) Froese, Dan (Elaine), Ellie (John) Born, Dave (Rosie); 18 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; 1 brother. The memorial service was Nov. 14 at Clearbrook (B.C.) MB Church.
Agnes HildebrandtAgnes Hildebrandt died Nov. 9, 2008. She was born Apr. 21, 1911 in Russia to the Van Bergen family. In 1924, they immigrated to Canada, residing in Steinbach, Man., then Gem, Alta., where Agnes was baptized in 1931, and settling in Yarrow, B.C. Agnes met Daniel Hildebrandt while working on Vancouver Island and they married Aug. 4, 1940. After a time in Saskatchewan, they bought a farm in Sardis, B.C., in 1947. Agnes retired to Clearbrook, B.C., where she enjoyed making paper butterflies, crocheting snowflakes, going to church, and singing. Devotional reading and prayer were part of her daily life. Predeceased by Daniel, twin infant daughters Lilly Anne and Alice Lynne, 7 siblings; Agnes is mourned by daughter Mary Lue (Ben) Braun; 2 granddaughters; 4 great-grandchildren, 1 sister. The memorial service was Nov. 21 at Clearbrook MB Church.
John E. HildebrandJohn E. Hildebrand died Nov. 18, 2008. He was born Nov. 7, 1936 in Winkler, Man. to William and Elizabeth Hildebrand. He was baptized in May 1956. On July 13, 1958, John married Susan Schroeder. He became a member at Clearbrook MB Church in 2005. John is mourned by Susan; children Patti (Howard) Neufeld, Janette, Byron (Erin) Hildebrand; 3 grandsons; 4 siblings. Memorial services were Nov. 24 at Clearbrook (B.C.) MB Church, and Dec. 2 at Winkler (Man.) Bergthaler Church.
Agnes MattiesAgnes Matties died Nov. 26, 2008. She was born Dec. 21, 1922 in Tchernovski, Siberia to Wilhelm and Aganeta Matties. At 8 months, she contracted poliomyelitis, leaving her left leg paralyzed and shorter than the right one. The family left Russia in 1929, settling first near LaGlace, Alta., where Agnes was baptized and attended Bible school for two years. They later moved to Yarrow, B.C. At 21, Agnes had several operations to facilitate walking in a more upright posture, though she continued to need crutches to walk outside. She attended Bible school in Yarrow as well, taught Sunday school, was active in ladies group, and served as correspondent for the Mennonitische Rundschau. After her father’s death, Agnes cared for her mother at home as long as she was able. Agnes’s health was always a struggle, and in 2007, she was diagnosed with cancer of the throat and tongue. Predeceased by 1 sister, 2 brothers, and 2 cousins adopted into the family; Agnes is mourned by 3 sisters, 2 brothers; many nieces and nephews and their families. The memorial service was Dec. 5 at Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
John PennerJohn Penner died Dec. 5, 2008. He was born Apr. 30, 1933 at Crowfoot, Alta. John accepted Jesus as Saviour as a youth, was baptized and joined Gem (Alta.) MB Church in 1953. He married Martha Plett Nov. 11, 1960, and together they operated a farm. John worked hard but also made time for sports, violin lessons, and church choir. His family was a priority and his quiet integrity and love of people spoke volumes about his faith. Predeceased by 3 siblings; John is mourned by Martha; children Bev (Ron) Leonard, Kevin (Charmaine), Sharlene (Dave) McLaughlin; 8 grandchildren; 5 siblings. The funeral was Dec. 11 at Gem MB Church.
Arthur KliewerArthur Kliewer died Dec. 8, 2008. He was born Jan. 6, 1925 in Wymyschle, Poland. He immigrated to Canada where he met and married Katie Wiebe. Arthur worked for Manitoba Telecom Services for 36 years, retiring in 1985. He and Katie travelled often and spent many happy winters with friends in Palm Springs and summers with the family at the cottage. He was a devoted father, and a passionate fisherman and gardener. Predeceased by 9 siblings, Arthur is mourned by Katie; children Louise Enns, Lori Hildebrand, Richard (Debra Maruca), Ron; 5 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Dec. 15 at Elmwood MB Church, Winnipeg.
Mary Martha HammMary Hamm died Dec. 13, 2008. She was born Oct. 5, 1923 in Gnadenfeld, Ukraine to Jacob and Maria Krause. In 1924, she immigrated with her parents to Canada, where they settled first in Saskatchewan, then moved to Yarrow, B.C., in 1928. In 1944, she married Alfred Hamm. They settled in Chilliwack, B.C. Mary was active in Central Community Church, volunteering in a variety of services. She was an excellent homemaker, a wonderful cook, and an avid gardener. She also worked for Chilliwack Community Services as a home aide. In her latter years, Mary continued to be very involved with her family, and crocheted many blankets for the needy. Her faith sustained her. Predeceased by son Edwin, 1 brother; Mary is mourned by Alfred; children Alvin (Suzanne), Viola, Esther (Don), Sharon (Clive), Patricia; 8 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; 6 siblings.
David Peter FriesenDavid Peter Friesen died Dec. 14, 2008. He was born Sept. 25, 1936 in LaGlace, Alta. to Cornelius and Liese Friesen. While attending Gr. 13 at MEI in Clearbrook, B.C., he re-committed his life to the Lord, was baptized, then married Martha Spenst in 1957. Years of studies in Calgary and Edmonton, teaching in LaGlace, Duchess, and Gem, Alta., were followed by study at MB Bible College in Winnipeg, and 5 years in Kodaikanal, India where David taught and the couple served as houseparents. In 1972, David completed his MA in Eugene, Ore., then spent the next 25 years in Prince George, B.C., teaching, and being involved in church and community. David and Martha retired to Abbotsford, B.C. Dave was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2002. He often expressed his love and thanks to his wife for her caregiving. Predeceased by 2 brothers, David is mourned by Martha; children Ryan (Shelagh), Roy (Mae); 4 grandchildren. The funeral was Dec. 22 at Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford.
Louise HildebrandLouise Hildebrand died Dec. 14, 2008. She was born Aug. 31, 1926 in Hepburn, Sask. The family lived in Agassiz, B.C., from 1929 to 1936, when they returned to their Saskatchewan farm. Shortly after, Louise accepted Christ as Saviour. She joined the Hepburn MB Church in 1945. She was active in teaching Sunday school and singing in choirs. Louise attended Bethany Bible Institute. She worked in retail and won many awards for being top salesperson. Louise loved her job, and made many life-long friends. She enjoyed travelling, and made trips to the U.S. (especially Hawaii), Jamaica, and Africa. She was a favourite aunt and great-aunt. Louise is mourned by her sister Adina and brother Roland; 1 nephew, 3 nieces; great-nieces and nephews. The funeral was Dec. 20 at Hepburn MB Church.
David J. “Doc” PennerDavid J. “Doc” Penner died Dec. 14, 2008. David was born June 1, 1936 in Winkler, Man. to Peter and Katarina Penner. He graduated from the University of Manitoba with degrees in science and education. He taught in Deloraine, Pilot Mound, and Altona, Man., then at Vincent Massey High School, in Brandon, Man., starting in 1963. David was an amazing physics and science teacher who inspired many students to pursue further studies in science. He was a strong supporter of the science fair movement. He was chair of the host committee to bring the Canada-wide Science Fair to Brandon in 1976. In 1978, he was elected chairman of the Canada-wide Youth Science Foundation. He retired from Vincent Massey after 30 years as a dedicated educator who loved teaching and his students. David served the local MB church and provincial conference faithfully in a variety of leadership capacities. Music was one of David’s greatest passions. He sang in choirs, quartets, and played the guitar. After retirement, golfing became his favourite pastime. Predeceased by 2 brothers, David is mourned by Margaret, his wife of 48 years; children Vivian (Rod), Darryl (Colleen), Karen (Daryl), Phil (Missy); 10 grandchildren; 5 siblings. The funeral was Dec. 22 at Richmond Park MB Church, Brandon, Man.
Hulda KroekerHulda Kroeker died Dec. 16, 2008. She was born Oct. 22, 1923 in Landskrone, Ukraine to Cornelius and Sarah Kroeker. In 1925, the family immigrated to Canada, settling near Alexander, Man. Hulda’s parents took her to church and Sunday school, and in 1940, she was baptized and joined the MB church in Grisworld, Man. Hulda interrupted her high school education to work as a housemaid to help her parents pay the CPR travel debt. She joined her family, which had moved to Vancouver, and graduated from Royal Columbia Nursing School in 1959, having attended night school to complete high school. For 27 years, she worked at Vancouver General Hospital and Children’s Hospital. Hulda loved picnics, time with extended family, and travelling. She struggled with decreased mobility in her later years, but faced challenges with firm faith in Christ and the Bible as her guide. Predeceased by 1 brother and 1 sister; Hulda is mourned by 2 sisters, 1 brother, 2 sisters-in-law; 9 nieces and nephews; and their families. The funeral was Dec. 22 at Clearbrook (B.C.) MB Church.
Anthony Craig SuperAnthony (Tony) Craig Super died in an accident Dec. 23, 2008. He was born June 14, 1971 to Henry and Ann Super. Tony’s family and friends remember him for his humour, especially his “Dutch” accent, his generosity without fanfare, and his love of quadding. He was self-employed in finish carpentry and other areas of construction. Tony was a loving husband and a proud father. He is mourned by his wife Jodie; children Kyle, Emily, Nathan, Gavin; parents Henry and Ann Super; 3 siblings; Jodie’s parents, Bob and Coby Hellewell; Jodie’s siblings Lanny (Amanda), Jamie (April), Deanna, Rob, Chris, Darcy, Leanne; Jodie’s grandparents, Frank and Bea Hellewell; and many friends. The memorial service was Jan. 2 at Central Community Church, Chilliwack, B.C.
Anne Margaret ReimerAnne Reimer died Dec. 30, 2008. She was born Nov. 3, 1915 in Wiesenfeld, Russia to Jacob and Katherine Reimer. The village was founded by Anne’s great-grandfather, Jacob David Reimer, who was influential in spiritual renewal and the founding of the MB Church in 1860. The Reimer family migrated to Canada, arriving in Saskatchewan in October 1925. Anne placed her faith in Christ during revival meetings in Waldheim, Sask., in 1928. In 1936, the family moved to B.C., where she married George Reimer in 1938. George and Anne were lifelong members of the Greendale MB Church where they celebrated their 70th anniversary in July 2008. Anne lived a quiet life of exceptional service to family, church, and community. She was grateful to have missionaries among her children and grandchildren. Anne is mourned by George; children Reg, Jerry, Joan; 5 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 4 siblings. The memorial service was Jan. 3, 2009 at Greendale MB Church, Chilliwack, B.C.
Elfrieda Rose SchuenderElfrieda Rose Schuender died Dec. 30, 2008. She was born June 5, 1939 in Manitoba to Cornelius and Theresa Thiessen. The family moved to Chilliwack, B.C., where Elfrieda’s parents purchased a farm and hazelnut grove. Her mother passed away when Elfrieda was 14, so as the oldest of five siblings, the burden of housework and childcare fell to her. In 1955, Cornelius married Margaret Pauls, which allowed Elfrieda to attend Bible school for one winter before stepping into the workforce. She accepted the Lord as Saviour, and was baptized at East Chilliwack MB Church. In 1960, she volunteered as an MCC nurse’s aide in Manitoba before accepting a position at Bethesda Home near Vineland, Ont. She joined the Vineland MB Church, and married Diethard Schuender in 1961. The couple farmed in the area. The family attended St. Anns Community Church for 29 years. After the sale of the farm and Diethard’s retirement, the couple enjoyed a more leisurely life. Elfrieda enjoyed making blankets for MCC and her family. Predeceased by 1 brother; Elfrieda is mourned by Diethard; children Les (Suzanne), Karen (Werner) Unger, Holly (Dale) Killins; 9 grandchildren; 5 siblings. The funeral was Jan. 3, 2009 at Vineland (Ont.) MB Church.
Carin Louise Warkentin-MurrayCarin Louise Warkentin-Murray died Dec. 30, 2008. She was born May 29, 1975 to Hans and Elfrida Warkentin. Carin brought joy and pleasure to all who met her. Her bright brown eyes and welcoming smile lit up any room she entered. Weeks after Carin was baptized, she was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma. God brought a special person into Carin’s life during these years: Duane Murray, friend, husband, and one of her biggest supporters. Carin and Duane married July 22, 1995. Their years together were spent travelling, loving their pets, enjoying family, and loving people. They had an impact on many people. Carin attended Samuel’s Mantle, and was involved in Freshwind and the listening prayer community. She had a special ministry among people with disabilities at Freshwind. The memorial service was Jan. 7, 2009 at King Road MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Hans FroeseHans Froese died Dec. 31, 2008. He was born Aug. 19, 1925 in Chortitza, Ukraine to Johann and Susanna Froese. The family was sent to Siberia, but Susanna got permission to return home with the youngest 5 of her 9 children. In 1943, the family went to Germany along with the retreating German army. Hans and his mother immigrated to Canada, eventually settling in Ontario. He became reacquainted with Annie Paetkau, a schoolmate from Ukraine, and they married Aug. 24, 1963. In the early 1960s, Hans accepted Jesus Christ as his Saviour through the ministry of a tent crusade. He was baptized Aug. 8, 1965. Though a shy man, Hans shared his faith and his desire that others would know Jesus and see their lives transformed by faith. Predeceased by 6 siblings, son Johnny; Hans is mourned by Annie; daughter Susan (Kevin) Driedger; 2 grandchildren; 2 siblings. The funeral was Jan. 5 at Cornerstone Community Church, Virgil, Ont.
Frank JanzenFrank Janzen died Jan. 2, 2009. He was born Jan. 24, 1923 in Neu Halbstadt, Sagradovka, Ukraine. In 1949, he immigrated to Canada and made Winnipeg home. He was baptized at North Kildonan MB Church in 1950, and married Kathie the same year. The Janzens moved to Abbotsford, B.C. in 1965, and joined Clearbrook MB Church. Frank was a carpenter by trade and spent several years as custodian at MEI. After retirement, Frank enjoyed spending time with family, gardening, and walking. He will be remembered for his sense of humour, strong handshake, and ready smile and laughter. Frank is mourned by Kathie; children Anne (Eric) Schmidt, Hank (Shelley), John (Judi), Agnes (Tim) Notting; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; 1 sister, 1 brother. The memorial was Jan. 9 at Clearbrook (B.C.) MB Church.
Jakob DriedigerJakob Driediger died Jan. 5, 2009. He was born March 22, 1920. For most of his life, Jakob served as a missionary in West Africa. He preached, taught, but also did mechanical work, construction, agricultural projects, and administration. On retiring, Jakob remained active, working with wood and giving his creations to others. He was a dutiful husband and caregiver, generous and trustworthy friend, and respected and loving father and grandfather. Predeceased by 3 siblings; Jacob is mourned by children Mark, Ruth (David), Rachel (Alistair), Rebecca (Tim), David (Debbie); 8 grandchildren; 5 siblings. The memorial service was Jan. 10 at Bakerview MB Church.
Abram FastAbram Fast died Jan. 5, 2009. He was born Feb. 4, 1920 in Alexanderkron, Siberia to Abram and Susanna Fast. In 1930, his family left Russia through Moscow to Germany, and Argentina, settling in the Chaco, Paraguay. In 1937, his family moved to Friesland, Paraguay where he met Lena whom he married March 20, 1943. Abram worked as a carpenter, making musical instruments, wagons, furniture, and household items. In church, he served as a lay pastor, deacon, and Sunday school teacher. Every Saturday, he visited the sick and elderly people. In July 1978, Abram and Lena, along with their youngest three children, moved to Vancouver, where their other children had moved earlier. Abram worked as a finish carpenter until he retired at 70. Abram and Lena then moved to Abbotsford, B.C., where they became very involved with King Road MB Church. Abram enjoyed singing, playing musical instruments, and making furniture for family and friends. He loved having his family over. Predeceased by son Werner, 2 sisters; Abram is mourned by Lena; children Irene (Henry) Ediger, Alvina (Brian) Morris, Helmut (Dina), Erich (Rosemarie), Ed, Elsa (Werner) Siemens, Sieg (Lynda), 11 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren. The memorial service was Jan. 9 at King Road MB Church.
Debbie Marlene KlassenDebbie Klassen died Jan. 7, 2009 at 47. She was born to Abe and Frieda Hildebrand. Debbie touched many lives through her love for music and serving others through her church. She was an accomplished piano teacher, and thoroughly enjoyed God's creation by camping and hiking with her family. She is mourned by her husband Garth; sons Brendon, Jared, and Lucas; parents Abe and Frieda Hildebrand; brothers Irv and Gerald; Garth's parents John and Norma Klassen; Garth’s siblings Karen, Lori, and Larry and their families. The memorial service was Jan. 12 at South Abbotsford Church, B.C.
