Deaths
Maria (Mary) BraunMaria Braun died May 21, 2008. She was born Mar. 19, 1913 in Kakhovka, Russia to Peter and Agatha Koslowsky. Her family came to Canada when she was 13. In 1931, she married Isaak Braun. They farmed in Niverville, Man. until 1962, when they relocated to Winnipeg. Mary loved God and her church, and was involved in hospitality ministries. She was an amazing cook, seamstress, and always kept an organized household. In 1998, after Isaak’s death, Mary moved to Donwood Manor. While facing many challenges, Mary was always grateful for God’s faithfulness. Predeceased by Isaak, son John, 1 grandson; Mary is mourned by children Connie (Ken) Epp, Irmgard (Bill) Baerg, Eleanor Steiner, Peter (Hildi), Irene (Jake) Enns; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren. A celebration of her life was held at Donwood Manor and Portage Avenue Church, Winnipeg.
Elizabeth RegehrElizabeth Regehr died June 17, 2008. She was born May 30, 1920 in Orenburg, Russia to Henry and Aganeta Brucks. The family immigrated to Canada in 1926 and settled in Coaldale, Alta. After accepting Christ as her Saviour, Elizabeth was baptized and joined Coaldale MB Church. In 1939, she moved with her family to Yarrow, B.C., where she attended Yarrow Bible School. Elizabeth also attended Prairie Bible School, where she met her husband, David Wipf. Elizabeth taught Sunday School and VBS for many years, and sang in trios and church choirs. Her life was characterized by generosity. On the death of her husband in 2004, Elizabeth moved to Abbotsford, B.C. and joined Clearbrook MB Church. There, she married Cornelius Regehr, and continued to be active in church with volunteer and evangelism activities. In the last months of her life, Elizabeth frequently quoted Philippians 1:21: “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” She is mourned by Cornelius, and sisters Sarah and Frieda. The memorial was June 23 at Clearbrook MB Church.
Werner H. DickWerner H. Dick died June 22, 2008. He was born May 1, 1939 in Calgary. Shortly after his birth, Werner was adopted by Peter and Lydia Dick of Coaldale, Alta. The family moved to Ontario in 1957 and attended Scott Street MB Church in St. Catharines. An evening of singing together with Irene Andres at church in 1960 led to a spring wedding on Apr. 22, 1961. In 1964, Werner and a small group of his peers became the first graduates of Waterloo University’s Engineering program. After some time living in New York state, Werner moved back to Ontario, where he was involved in the design and construction of Grantham MB Church’s new building in 1973. Through his work as an engineer, Werner was involved in constructing unique glass and metal structures all over North America, including work on the Biosphere II project in Arizona. During his entire adult life, Werner was devoted to the church. He employed the care and precision of an engineer in all he did, from conference work to teaching adult Sunday school. He is mourned by Irene; children Charles, Gordon, Lisa, and their spouses; 8 grandchildren. The funeral was June 26 at Grantham MB Church, St. Catharines, Ont.
Diedrick Dyck
Diedrick Dyck died July 3, 2008. He was born Jan. 25, 1926 northwest of Chortitz, Sask. He attended school to Grade 5, helped out on the farm, and did odd jobs. Diedrick began farming rented land in 1949 and purchased his own property in 1951. Diedrick married Irene Lang Aug. 31, 1951. Despite numerous early crop failures, Diedrick continued to farm until 1997 when he retired to Swift Current, Sask. He enjoyed working with livestock, fixing the “unfixable,” and going to auction sales. Diedrick and Irene took a mission trip to the Dominican Republic and Haiti, and sewed many quilt tops for Third World countries. Diedrick served on many boards and church committees, and was an usher at church. Predeceased by 3 brothers and 1 sister, he is mourned by Irene; children Lois (Gordon) Knelsen, Arverd (Roxy), Orville; 7 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters; 1 brother. The funeral was July 8 at Bridgeway Community Church, Swift Current, Sask.
Emma FastEmma Fast died June 29, 2008. She was born Mar. 22, 1928 in Atwater, Sask. to Fred and Nellie Kelln. She grew up in B.C., living in Yarrow, Abbotsford, Vancouver, and Richmond. Emma married Jake Fast on June 28, 1953. She was active in church activities, volunteer work, and greatly enjoyed bowling, curling, and golf. She is mourned by Jake; children Bonnie (Larry), Bryan (Joni); 3 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren. The memorial was July 4 at Fraserview MB Church, Richmond, B.C.
Clara PetersClara Peters died June 30, 2008. She was born May 26, 1924 in Neuendorf, Ukraine to Gerhard and Maria Ens. When she was 2, her family moved to the village of Chortiza. In 1938, her father was arrested and exiled to Siberia, never to be heard from again. After graduation, Clara moved to the city and worked as an interpreter. In May 1944, Clara was baptized and accepted into membership of the Mennonite Church. Clara, her son Peter, and her mother relocated to Canada in 1948, settling in Yarrow, B.C. She married Henry Peters on Nov. 12, 1949 and they settled on a small dairy farm in Chilliwack, B.C. Clara was rebaptized in 1956 on the confession of her faith, and accepted into membership at East Chilliwack MB Church. She was actively involved in various ministries of the church, and was a Sunday school teacher for many years. She volunteered at the local MCC store and enjoyed entertaining in her home. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, Clara trusted God to guide her and retained a cheerful spirit. Predeceased by 1 sister, she is mourned by Henry; children Peter (Susan), Leonard (Toby), Ronald (Betty), Marilyn (Lyle) Swanson; 12 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren. The funeral was July 5 at Yarrow MB Church.
Susan TeskeSusan Teske died July 2, 2008. She was born Mar. 1, 1932 in Glenbush, Sask. to David and Agnes Penner. The family moved to Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. in 1940. As a young teenager, Susan accepted Jesus as her Lord and Saviour. She later became a member and was baptized at Virgil MB Church. After marrying Peter Teske in 1952, Susan transferred her membership to Scott Street MB Church. Later, the couple became members of Grantham MB Church, serving avidly as kitchen stewards, and practicing hospitality in their home. Though saddened by the loss of her husband in 1999, Susan never lost sight of God. She moved into Jubilee Homes in 2000, then into Tabor Manor in Nov. 2007. Despite trials in her life, Susan held fast to God’s promises and gave a hard fight to the end. Predeceased by Peter; 1 sister; 1 grandchild; Susan is mourned by children Rudy (Gisela), Sharron O’Farrell, Carol (Harvey) Lautenbach; 6 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 6 siblings. The funeral was July 5 at Grantham MB Church, St. Catharines, Ont.
Goldie (Golda) Funk
Goldie (Golda) Emily Funk died July 5, 2008. She was born Mar. 22, 1923 in Beaver Flat, Sask. to Gerhard and Agatha Klassen. Goldie’s family read the Bible and prayed every evening after supper and made Turnhill MB Church a focal point of family life. Goldie sang in the church choir and memorized 500 verses from the Gospel of John. She accepted Christ as Saviour as a young girl and was baptized at Abe Wiebe’s dam. Goldie graduated from Millar Memorial Bible Institute, Pambrun, Sask., with a 3-year diploma in Bible. She was a teacher for Crusade for Christ and Canadian Sunday School Mission. She also worked as a cook. She married Chester Funk Aug. 3, 1947. Goldie and Chester farmed until 1974 when they moved to Swift Current, Sask. Goldie played many instruments, sewed and did handwork, and loved to garden and cook. Predeceased by Chester in 2001, Goldie is mourned by children Faith (Peter) Peters, Gilmour (Hannah), Phyllis (Leroy) Schmidt, Janice (Jeff) Fast, Cyndy (Phil) Willms; 9 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild. The funeral was July 9 at Bridgeway Community Church, Swift Current.
Henry KoopHenry Koop died suddenly at his home on July 11, 2008. He was born Aug. 15, 1918 in Ukraine to Peter and Anna Koop. After Peter was murdered by anarchists, times were difficult, and the family immigrated to Manitoba in 1928. Henry was baptized and joined the MB church near Sperling. In 1946, the family moved to Winnipeg, and in 1948, Henry married Helen Peters. After nearly 30 years of marriage, she died of cancer. In 1979, he married Agnes Huebert. Henry worked at Canada Post for 24 years, after which he and Agnes ran a florist shop. He was an avid golfer, a political activist, a staunch supporter of his family, and a strong believer in God. He was a member of McIvor Ave. MB Church, and often wrote letters to the MB Herald on church issues. Predeceased by Helen; 1 sister; 3 brothers; 1 granddaughter; he is mourned by Agnes; children Ruth (Tim) Klippenstein, David (Dolores), Wilmer (Elenore), Art (Christine); 9 grandchildren; 2 brothers. The funeral was July 18 at McIvor Ave. MB Church.
Margaret ToewsMargaret Toews died July 13, 2008. She was born July 24, 1926. Known as “Margie” to her close friends, Margaret will be remembered for the twinkle in her eye, and for her love of laughter. She stood steadfast by what she believed. Margaret was a gentle and caring woman of integrity and conviction. She loved new adventures and meeting new people. Her strength of character and belief in God gave her the ability to be a source of encouragement for many people. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her. The memorial was July 18 at Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Henry GraeweHenry Graewe died July 13, 2008. He was born May 9, 1925 in Friedensfeld, Ukraine to Isaak and Maria Graewe. In 1943, his family immigrated to Germany where Henry met Martha Zipper whom he married Oct. 23, 1949. Henry and Martha left Germany, arriving in Peace River, Alta. There he accepted Christ as Saviour and was baptized a short time later in Yarrow, B.C. In 1954, Henry and Martha moved to Vancouver, where Henry began his 28-year career at Weldwood Plywood Mill. He was active in Culloden MB Church for 20 years serving as boys club leader, DVBS and Sunday school teacher, and deacon. In 1992, Henry and Martha moved to Abbotsford, B.C., to retire. Henry enjoyed gardening, woodworking, and walking. His relationship with God was his highest priority. He spent every morning in God’s Word and was a prayer warrior. His family was of utmost importance and he spent as much time with them as possible. He is mourned by Martha; children Agnes (Ed), Henry (Nancy), Helmuth, Linda (Gary), Maryanne (Walter), Helen (Ernie); 18 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren. Henry’s life celebration was July 18 at King Road MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Elma KlassenElma Klassen died July 13, 2008. She was born Oct. 19, 1919 to Johann and Helena Hiebert. She grew up near Horndean, Man., where she joined Grossweide MB Church in her late teens. She married Abe C. Klassen on Sept. 27, 1942. They initially farmed near Lowe Farm, Man., but moved to Winkler to pursue educational opportunities for Abe and their 4 children. Abe and Elma ran Winkler Bible Bookshop from its inception in 1959 to their retirement in 1979. An avid reader and self-taught musician, Elma took comfort in Psalms 91 and 103 when limited eyesight curtailed her reading and sewing. Predeceased by 1 sister, she is mourned by Abe; children Doreen, Marilyn (Henry) Wiebe, Don (Kathy), Arnold (Penny); 5 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 2 brothers. The memorial was July 18 at Eastview Community Church, Winnipeg.
Frieda IsaacFrieda Isaac died July 14, 2008 at age 93. She was born in Ukraine to the Abram Brauer family. Frieda immigrated to central Alberta with her family at age 10. She married Frank Isaac in Swalwell, Alta., Mar. 22, 1936. In 1937, they moved to Coaldale. Frieda was a member of Coaldale MB Church. She enjoyed arranging and donating flowers from her garden for services and special occasions. When she was no longer able to attend services, Frieda devoted time and energy to making favours for seniors and small children. She will be remembered for her grateful heart, compassion, generosity, and joy. Frieda and Abram celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary with all their children in attendance in 1996 before Frank’s death in August 1996. Predeceased by her husband; daughter Marianne; 3 sisters; Frieda is mourned by children Georgina (Lynn) Moir, Frances Hadford, Frank (Mary-Ann); 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren. The memorial was July 19 at Coaldale MB Church.
Helen BergmannHelen Bergmann died July 17, 2008 at age 91. She was born June 10, 1917 in Rueckenau, Ukraine to Abram P. and Katherina Bergmann. The Bergmann family moved to Steinbach, Man. when Helen was 8, later settling near Ste. Anne. At 20, Helen was baptized on the confession of her faith, and joined Steinbach MB Church. She worked as a receptionist in Winnipeg for years, moving back to Steinbach on the death of her father in 1971 to care for her aging mother and older sister Mary. Family was important to her and she was a special aunt to many nieces and nephews. Helen was quick-witted and loved seeing God’s beauty in nature. Predeceased by 3 brothers; 2 sisters; 2 nephews; Helen is mourned by brother George (Esther), sisters Betty (John) Goertzen, Anne Froese; 29 nieces and nephews. The funeral was July 21 at Steinbach MB Church.
Isaak FunkIsaak Funk died July 17, 2008. He was born Apr. 27, 1927 in Katherinovka, Ukraine to Isaak J. and Katharina Funk. When he was 2, his family travelled to Moscow to obtain immigration papers to Canada, but his father was arrested and sent to Siberia. They never saw him again. In 1943, the Funk family left Ukraine for Germany, where Isaac was drafted into the German army. In early 1945, he was captured and spent time in an American PoW camp. He gave his life to God and was baptized in Gronau, Germany on Sept. 28, 1948. Isaak sailed for Paraguay in 1950, moved to Uruguay in 1955, and arrived in Canada in 1957. He worked in logging and carpentry. Isaak married Elizabeth Penner on July 13, 1963, settling in Vancouver. In 1969, Isaac and Elizabeth moved to Abbotsford to realize his dream of farming. They farmed strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for 39 years. Isaak never retired. He is mourned by Elizabeth; children Elizabeth (Fred), Isaak (Chrissy), Frieda (Todd), Susan (Alex), Lydia (Ron), David (Faith), Dan, John (Melanie), Phil (Silvia); 17 grandchildren; 1 brother. The memorial was July 25 at King Road MB Church, Abbotsford.
Erwin Goossen
Erwin Jakob Goossen died peacefully Aug. 8, 2008. He was born Dec. 15, 1930 in Fuerstenwerder, Ukraine to Jacob and Anna Goossen. His early years were peaceful until his dad was taken away by Soviet officials, never to be seen or heard from again. At 11, Erwin accepted Jesus Christ as Saviour. In 1948, Erwin and his 3 siblings left Germany for Paraguay to rejoin other relatives. Erwin’s love of learning from Scripture and singing in choirs was sparked by attending Bible school, where he also met and married Anna Klassen. Relatives in Canada helped the couple immigrate in 1955. Erwin and Anna settled in Vineland, Ont., where Erwin worked in construction, in the automotive industry, and as church custodian. Erwin sang in the choir, taught Sunday school, served in the deacon ministry, and gave spiritual leadership to a small group at Vineland MB Church. He always took time to help where needed, attended many games, concerts, graduations, baptisms, weddings and family gatherings. Erwin is mourned by Anna; children Esther (Frank) Giesbrecht, Annie (Doug) Schulz, Ruth (Richard) Wiebe, Martha (Andrew) Dyck, Ingrid (Ken) Heidebrecht, Laurena (Ralph) Tallman, Harvey (Paula), Carolyn Goossen; 26 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren. His life celebration was Aug. 12 at Vineland (Ont.) MB Church.
Margarete EwertMargarete Ewert died Aug. 16, 2008. She was born June 19, 1922 in Wohldemfuerst, Russia to Leonhard and Theresie Ewert. In 1934, the family fled to Germany to escape persecution. After the war, they immigrated to Canada where Margarete pursued a degree in teaching. She taught for 30 years, reluctantly retiring due to poor health. She was much loved her by students and their parents. Margarete moved to Kelowna in 1991 and was soon an active participant in Willow Park Church’s choir. She loved creative arts, particularly poetry and music. Margarete spent the last 3 years of her life at Golden Way House. Predeceased by 2 brothers, Willy and Rudy, Margarete is mourned by sisters Helen (Nick) and Therese; many nieces and nephews. The memorial was Aug. 21, 2008 at Springfield Funeral Home, Kelowna, B.C.
