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David Arthur Poot
David Arthur Poot of Armstrong, B.C. passed away Mar. 18 of cancer. He was born Mar. 14, 1961 to Roelof and Shirley Poot in Newmarket, Ont. He attended Briercrest High School and Bible College in Caronport, Sask., where his mother worked. He married Francene Thiessen in 1986 in Armstrong. They later moved to Vanderhoof, B.C., where he worked in the sawmill. In September 2001, they moved back to Armstrong. His interests included his church family, his sons’ hockey, and camping and fishing as a family. He had a great sense of humour even during his year-and-a-half battle with cancer. He is mourned by Fran; children Nathan, Cheriene, Chantelle and Brenden; his parents; 1 brother and 3 sisters.
James Robert Froese
James Robert Froese passed away Mar. 5 in an auto accident in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. He was born May 22, 1955 to Jacob and Tina Froese in Niagara-on-the-Lake. He enjoyed fishing in the creek, riding horses and building forts. At 9, he accepted Christ at a Leighton Ford crusade. In grade 10, he was baptized at Niagara Fellowship Chapel. He was chair of the sports club and was on the wrestling, lacrosse and football teams at school and played junior B hockey. After high school, he joined his father and brother Dave in farming. He married Monica Goerz in October 1976. The family spent many weeks travelling to places like Florida, enjoying time off from farm work. Over the past 5 years especially, the family grew closer to each other and to God as he encouraged them to depend on God. He loved his community, invested time in people and spent many hours drinking coffee with friends and going on various camping and business trips. He was involved in the Tender Fruit Marketing Board, was a member of the St. David’s Produce Board of Directors, was a president of the Niagara Minor Hockey Association and was an active member of Orchard Park Bible Church. The past few years he coached minor hockey. His faith in the Lord carried him through both joyous and challenging times, including 2 hailstorms, 2 barn fires and the fulfillment of his dream to create Willow Lake Ventures, to grow ice wine grapes. He is mourned by Monica; children Jessica, Ben and Nicole; and his parents. The funeral was Mar. 8 in Orchard Park Bible Church, Niagara-on-the-Lake, with Ray Russell ministering.
Alvina Tina Janzen
Alvina Tina Janzen of Kelowna, B.C. passed away Mar. 30. She was born Apr. 4, 1907 to Henry and Tina Lepp in Dalmeny, Sask. She accepted Christ at 10 and was baptized and joined Dalmeny MB Church in her teens. She attended Lutheran College in Saskatoon and Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kan. She married Abraham Janzen March 8, 1928. In 1929 they moved to Dalhart, Tex. to farm 2100 acres with her parents and brother. Drought forced them to return to Dalmeny after 3 years. In 1935 they moved to Saskatoon, where the ran a small café called the Blue Goose; she was known for her delicious pies. They owned and operated Hi-Grade Furniture Co. 1946–57, then moved to Kelowna, where she became enthusiastically involved in direct sales for 15 years. Retiring in 1976, they enjoyed travelling and wintering in Mesa, Ariz. In 1993 Abraham became confined to a wheelchair and moved to an extended care facility. She visited him daily, bringing coffee and baked goods. She was an excellent pianist and accompanied her husband’s choirs in Saskatoon and Kelowna. They were involved with the Gideons for 25 years. After Abraham died Nov. 12, 1997, she continued to be active. She visited her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, joining them on toboggans and snowmobiles. She was a devoted letter writer and never missed sending cards for special occasions. She loved to socialize, played games and kept up with family news and world events. She was determined to make the best of every situation, knowing that God would never leave her. She remained independent and lived alone at Willow Park Terrace. Predeceased by Abraham, 3 brothers, 1 sister and 1 great-grandchild, she is mourned by her children Carol Jantzen of Kelowna, Henry of North Vancouver, B.C. and Doug of Kelowna; 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Apr. 5 in Willow Park Church, Kelowna, with Arnold Peters ministering.
Ben Heppner
Ben Heppner passed away Mar. 14. He was born July 12, 1917 to Bernhard and Sarah Heppner in Laird, Sask. He attended school to grade 9. He accepted Christ at 15. At 18 he recommitted his life to the Lord and attended Prairie Bible Institute for 1 year before returning to the family farm. He married Esther Nikkel Sept. 7, 1941. They farmed in Laird. He worked with youth, Sunday school and choir. He returned to Prairie Bible Institute, graduating in 1949. He later earned a B.Th. from the American Bible College. He pastored a church in Okotoks. In 1950 he joined West Indies Missions. On the island of Guadeloupe, he planted a church, pastored several churches, taught Bible school and helped build homes. While on furloughs, he pastored Laird MB Church for a year and Dalmeny (Sask.) MB Church for 2 years. He served 3 years as a missionary in Haiti. He pastored Chilliwack (B.C.) Central MB Church 1970–75 and Warman (Sask.) MB Church 1975–82. In retirement, he kept busy with speaking engagements, interim pastoral assignments (at Hope Fellowship in Saskatoon, at Foam Lake, Sask. and in Quebec), organizing 2 tours to Guadeloupe and serving on the Warman Housing Authority for 12 years. In 1990 they moved to West Portal Manor, Saskatoon. He then was interim pastor at College Drive Community Church in Lethbridge, Alta. for a year-and-a-half and pulpit pastor at Langham (Sask.) Bible Church for a year. He enjoyed camping, hunting, gardening, singing, playing guitar and, in later years, bowling, playing pool and games. He loved spending time with his daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His greatest passion was serving the Lord. Predeceased by son Tim in a car accident in the early 1970s, 2 sisters and 4 brothers, he is mourned by Esther, daughter Pat Wiebe; 3 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; 5 sisters and 1 brother.
Peter J. Reimer
Peter John Reimer of Killarney, Man. passed away Mar. 5 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born Oct. 8, 1922 to Johann and Katharina Reimer in Blumenort, Siberia. In 1926 the family immigrated to Boissevain, Man. He farmed with his father until 1956, when he bought his own farm. He continued to farm for another 23 years. He became adept in repairing and rebuilding vehicles and machines, completely restoring 2 John Deere tractors, and taught himself electrical wiring, plumbing and welding. He worked as a mechanic at Southern Motors in Boissevain and John Deere Farm Equipment in Killarney, Man. In 1981 he began his own small engine repair business. He accepted Christ as a young man, was baptized and joined Boissevain MB Church, later transferring to Killarney MB Church. He was an usher and served on church committees. He read his Bible faithfully each morning, reading it through several times. He married Kay Duerksen of Killarney Nov. 3, 1979. They enjoyed snowmobiling, bowling, golfing and travel to Europe, Hawaii, Mexico and Alaska. In retirement, they wintered in Texas for 9 years, making many friends here. He was a kind, gentle, quiet person who loved children and “adopted” the grandchildren of others. Predeceased by 2 brothers and a sister, he is mourned by Kay; 1 brother and 3 sisters. The funeral was Mar. 9 in Lakeview Community Church, Killarney, with Dan Stobbe and John Duerksen Jr. ministering.
Elisabeth Pauls
Elisabeth Pauls of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Mar. 3. She was born to Heinrich J. and Maria Janzen in Islutschistoje, Ukraine. She dreamed of becoming a doctor but was only able to go to school for 4 years before she had to work to help support the family. In 1939 her mother died, leaving her with responsibility to care for 5 younger siblings. When she was 20, she met Heinrich F. Pauls; they married June 20, 1943 in Kamenka. In 1943 they fled to Kruschwitz, Poland. Heinrich was conscripted into the German army Sept. 8, 1944. After a brief exchange of letters, they lost contact. She fled to East Germany in January 1945; their second child was born on the way. They fled further west in June, staying with an elderly couple in Friedland. After 4 years, she moved to the MCC refugee camp in Gronau. She immigrated to Canada, joining her father. She was baptized and joined Clearbrook MB Church. After 2 years, she moved to her own home. She worked at Fraser Valley Farms. She enjoyed the church sewing circle, preparing packages for MCC and mission projects; making blankets, quilting and preparing clothes with other church members was both a social and spiritual activity. She later worked as a cook at Clearbrook Community Centre. After a trip to Russia, she gave and raised money to establish a church in Bogdonovka (formerly Gnadenfeld), Russia. In 1956 she learned that Heinrich was living in eastern Siberia. They were finally reunited in 1965. Heinrich died of cancer in 1980. In 1984 cancer was found in her. After chemotherapy and radiation treatments, it went into remission. She travelled to Russia to see her brother and her husband’s long-time friend. In 1994 the cancer reappeared, and she suffered much in the following years. She moved to Hallmark Assisted Living Home for several months, then to Tabor Home. Predeceased by Heinrich, 2 brothers and 2 sisters, she is mourned by son Albert; daughter Anne de Andrade; 4 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and 3 brothers. The memorial service was Mar. 8 in Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford, with Jay Neufeld ministering.
Katherine Maria Regehr
Katherine Maria Regehr passed away Mar. 14 in Abbotsford, B.C. She was born Oct. 4, 1909 to David and Katharina Klassen in Kantemirowka, Russia. When she was 12, the family fled to the Kuban. Here she accepted Christ. The family immigrated to Hepburn, Sask. Within a year, they moved to Coaldale, Alta. She reluctantly gave up school to go to work to help support the family. She was baptized July 17, 1927, joining the MB Church. She married Cornie Regehr Apr. 20, 1940. They moved to Yarrow, B.C. and Vancouver, where Cornie worked in the shipyards. They soon returned to Yarrow. She raised a family and was active in school, church and the ladies aid. In 1956 they moved to a 7-acre berry farm. She taught Sunday school for students with disabilities and helped launch the MCC annual sale and MCC self-help stores. She had a love of books and learning. In the 1960s, she and Cornie completed grade 11 at night school. Cornie retired as a rural mailman in the early 1980s. They were active with church work and running the farm. After Christmas 1987, she suffered an aneurysm and was expected to die, but came out of a coma after a few days. Although she never regained full health, she was able to travel a little, go to church and keep her sense of humour. In 1993 they moved to a condo in Abbotsford. She crocheted for her daughters and granddaughters and read the Bible and other books. Predeceased by a sister, she is mourned by Cornie; children John, Hank, Corny Jr., and Margarete Friesen; 8 grandchildren; 2 sisters and 1 brother. The memorial service was Mar. 18 in Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford, with Heinz Ratzlaff and Jay Neufeld ministering.
Shirley Reid
Shriley Reid passed away Mar. 1 in Abbotsford, B.C. She was born Mar. 16, 1949 in New Westminster, B.C.; she was adopted by George and Vera Stanhill. She attended Sunday school at Otter Road Gospel Chapel, where Jay Neufeld was pastoring. She accepted the Lord and wanted to be baptized, but her parents were not in favour of this. After her parents died, she was alone. She married Robert John Reid Jr. May 4, 1973. When Robert died in 1999, she contacted Jay Neufeld, who was pastoring Clearbrook MB Church in Abbotsford, for help. She had been attending Northview Community Church and now began attending Clearbrook MB Church as well. She made angels for the bereaved, visited seniors’ homes, encouraged older folks and helped the ladies’ fellowship groups make blankets. She was baptized June 3, 2001, joining Clearbrook MB Church. She sang in the choir. She became ill in fall 2001. Surgery was done, but she seemed not to recover, and there were many setbacks during the fall and winter. She moved to Bevan Lodge. The memorial service was Mar. 6 in Clearbrook MB Church, with Jay Neufeld, Heinz Ratzlaff and Eldon DeFehr ministering.
Amalia Dick
Amalia Dick of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Mar. 21. She was born Dec. 23, 1925 to Peter and Maria Dick in Orloff, Sagradovka, Ukraine. When she was 4, the family was prevented from emigrating. When she was 14, her mother died. Her father remarried. When she was 17, the family began the wagon trek to Germany. When she was 19, the family was repatriated to Siberia. Her father died the next night. She worked very hard; her job was feeding the pigs. She gave her heart and life to Christ and was baptized. When her stepmother died, Amalia was sponsored by her sister Mary Warkentin to come to Canada, arriving in 1975. She worked in Tabor Home, Abbotsford, for a short time. She bought a house in Yarrow, B.C., where she enjoyed a little garden. She knitted and quilted for MCC. She had frequent health problems and moved to Tabor Manor, then Tabor Home. She is mourned by her sister Mary of Abbotsford and brother Adolf in Ontario. The funeral was Mar. 28 in Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford, with Jay Neufeld and Heinz Ratzlaff ministering.
Justina Wiebe
Justina Wiebe of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Mar. 21. She was born Mar. 6, 1912 to Abram and Katharina Konrad in Molotschna, Ukraine. Her father was killed by bandits. In 1926 the family immigrated to Canada, settling in southern Manitoba. She accepted Christ at an early age, was baptized and joined Manitou MB Church. She married David Jacob Wiebe. They farmed near La Riviere and Springstein, Man. They moved to British Columbia in 1946, and after a prosperous farming career retired to Abbotsford in 1959 and then to Clearbrook. She loved gardening and grew many flowers, fruits and vegetables. She believed that service to others was service to the Lord. She was devoted to her family, was concerned about the physical and spiritual well-being of each one and lived her faith. In 1997 she was diagnosed with cancer and moved to Tabor Home. She loved to sing, singing in several choirs at Clearbrook MB Church as long as health allowed. Predeceased by David Oct. 10, 1975 and a great-grandson, she is mourned by children Abe of Prince George, B.C., Walter of Victoria, Agnes of Prince George, Mary Derksen of Chilliwack, B.C. and Susan of Penticton, B.C.; 16 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren. The memorial service was Mar. 26 in Clearbrook MB Church, with Jay Neufeld and John B. Epp ministering.
John Janzen
John Janzen of Dunnville, Ont. passed away Mar. 10. He was born Nov. 27, 1926 to David and Helena Janzen in Ukraine. In his late teens, he was drafted into the German army, where he served unwillingly until his escape to Austria. Here he worked as a farmhand for 10 years. In 1953 he immigrated to Lacombe, Alta., where he worked for a farmer. The neighbours, who were Mennonites, put a notice in Die Mennonitische Rundschau, and he was reunited with his mother and brother in Beamsville, Ont. He worked on his uncle Henry Wiebe’s farm in Campden, Ont. He made a personal commitment to the Lord. He was baptized in Vineland (Ont.) MB Church. In 1954 he was hired at General Motors. He married Frieda Sawatzky in 1958 in Scott St. MB Church, St. Catharines, Ont. They lived in Beamsville for 21 years and in St. Catharines for 3 years. They attended the Vineland church. He took early retirement from General Motors in 1982, and they moved to a lakefront home in Dunnville. They enjoyed summers by the lake and spent 18 winters in Florida. He suffered from Parkinson’s, but enjoyed life to the fullest, worked hard at staying active and was willing to help others. He spent his last year in Dunnville Hospital and Grandview Nursing Home. He is mourned by Frieda; 1 sister and 1 brother. The funeral was Mar. 13 in Vineland MB Church, with Doug Schulz ministering.
Mary Wiebe
Mary Wiebe of St. Catharines, Ont. passed away Feb. 14. She was born June 2, 1899 to John and Agatha Unrau in south Russia. In 1918, during the Russian Revolution and famine, she put her faith in Christ; Genesis 19:22 spoke to her heart. From then on, her desire was to serve her Lord. Many family members, including her mother and grandmother, died. In 1921 she entered the registered nursing program at the College of Medicine in Marya. For part of her training, she worked in a psychiatric hospital in Bethania, Russia. There she met Henry P. Wiebe, who was taking a social worker’s course. They married in 1926. They immigrated to Kitchener, Ont. in 1927 and moved to Stratford, Ont. in 1932. In 1934 they opened their home to minister to the emotionally distressed. In 1937 they moved to Campden, Ont., where they bought a 100-acre farm in order to expand the ministry. The Ontario MB Conference assumed responsibility for this ministry in 1944, with Henry and Mary serving as houseparents of Bethesda Home until 1953. They moved to another farm in 1953, to Vineland, Ont. in 1965 and to Tabor Manor, St. Catharines, in 1977. Henry died in 1980. She prayed and sang for those who were ill. After she suffered a broken hip for the second time, in April 1995, she prayed that God would take her home. She prayed 3 times a day for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Predeceased by Henry, she is mourned by sons Edward and Henry; 7 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Feb. 18 in Vineland MB Church, with Doug Schulz and Henry Wiebe ministering.
Helen Andres
Helen Andres passed away Mar. 24. She was born Aug. 26, 1920 to Peter and Elizabeth Petkau in Kamenka, Orenburg, Russia, 1 of 7 children. Her mother died at age 36. Her father married Maria Block, who came with 4 children. The family immigrated to Halbstadt, Man. in 1926, moving to Oxbow, Sask. in 1928 and to Hepburn, Sask. in 1933. She attended Bible school for a year in 1937. The family moved to Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. She accepted Christ at a revival meeting in 1933 and was baptized in 1941. In 1941 she married Jacob Andres in the Mennonite church in Virgil, Ont. They lived in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Falls and St. Catharines. She was a quiet, steadfast and basic person who rarely showed her emotions; didn’t seek excitement, glamour or fame; was dedicated to raising a sound healthy family; kept a clean, safe and orderly home; did everything with care; was a good cook; and enjoyed sewing, making the finest clothes from scraps. She loved to help her children, listened to their tales of school and encouraged them. She tended her gardens and flowers. When her children were grown, she worked with Jacob and son Larry for a brief period, tending the books and keeping the accounts straight. Her greatest joy was seeing all her children and grandchildren come together every Christmas and summer. She trusted God to help her through the darkest hours. Predeceased by a great-granddaughter, she is mourned by children David, Dorothy, Larry, Gerald, and Susan; 11 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Mar. 27 in Vineland (Ont.) MB Church, with Doug Schulz and John Block ministering.
Anna Klassen
Anna Klassen of Steinbach, Man. passed away Apr. 13. She was born May 1, 1917 to Jakob and Justina Poetker in Terek, Steinthal, Russia. Her father died of typhus in 1918. The family moved to a sheepherder’s hut in Rueckenau, Russia. The family, except her sister Justina, immigrated to Manitoba. Her mother married Henry Wieler; they farmed near Steinbach. Anna was baptized in 1935. She married Peter Klassen Apr. 23, 1938. She enjoyed travelling, making 11 trips to Russia as well as Alaska, Israel and the US. Predeceased by Peter Jan. 15, 1987, daughter Frieda Apr. 24, 2000, 3 brothers and 2 sisters, she is mourned by 3 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; 1 sister; 1 brother and 1 half-sister. The funeral was Apr. 17 in Steinbach MB Church, with Abe Klassen and Neil Rempel ministering.
Lydia Sawatzky
Lydia Sawatzky of Tabor Manor, St. Catharines, Ont., passed away Dec. 14. She was born Oct. 11, 1912 to Peter and Maria Niessen in Aberdeen, Sask. As a teen, she would babysit her oldest sister’s children and entertain them with stories. She was a great storyteller and enjoyed a good joke. She taught Sunday school and Vacation Bible School and later served in the baby clinic in Virgil, Ont. She accepted Christ in her youth, was baptized and joined Aberdeen MB Church. She and other young people wanted to study God’s Word in a more structured way; they asked B.W. Sawatzky to teach them, starting a Bible school in his home. She married Cornelius Sawatzky Aug. 4, 1934. They moved to a farm in Coaldale, Alta. in 1947 and to Virgil in 1955. She enjoyed knitting, sewing and baking, and hummed as she worked in the kitchen. After Corny’s death in May 1974, she moved to St. Catharines. Predeceased by Corny, son Ted in March 2001, a grandson, 3 sisters and 4 brothers, she is mourned by daughters Marlene Quapp and Linda Copps, both of Calgary, Lois Berg of Fonthill, Ont., Nell Kroker of Kamloops, B.C. and Maggie Esau and Carol Nickel, both of St. Catharines; 21 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and 1 brother. The funeral was Dec. 18 in Grantham MB Church, St. Catharines, with John Wiebe ministering.
Clara Reimer
Clara Reimer of St. Catharines, Ont. passed away Mar. 17. She was born July 6, 1917 to Gerhard and Gertrude Reimer in Ufa, Russia. Her father was a pastor with the MB and Mennonite churches for 15 years. The family fled in 1917, returned to Molotschna, in 1921, immigrated to Winnipeg in 1926 and moved to Leamington, Ont. 4 years later. A year later, her father died. At 14, she was going to school, working on the farm, doing household chores and working at the Heinz plant to help pay off the travel debt. She accepted Christ and was baptized. In 1940 the family moved to Kitchener, Ont. She joined Kitchener MB Church. She attended Eden High School and Winkler (Man.) Bible School. In Kitchener, she worked for Dares Biscuit Company. She was a member of Tabea Women’s Circle, played piano, sang in the choir, small groups and the Philharmonic Choir, and sang solos. She loved her nieces and nephews and encouraged them to get a good education. She took care of her mother until she died in 1988. She visited her sister Gerda in the seniors’ home as often as she could. In 1994 she moved to Tabor Manor, St. Catharines. Gerda later moved there as well, sharing a room with her. She is mourned by her sister Gerda and brother Hardy. The memorial service was held at E.R. Good Funeral Home, with J. Wall ministering.
Tina Klassen
Tina Klassen of Richmond, B.C. passed away Feb. 9. She was born to Dietrich and Katharina Rempel in Mozdock, southern Russia. At 14, she accepted Christ, was baptized, together with her parents, in the Kuma River in Russia, and joined the MB church. The family immigrated to Manitoba in 1926 and moved to Yarrow, B.C. in 1930. On Feb. 25, 1945 she married Isaac J. Klassen, a widower with 5 children; she loved and accepted them as her own; 2 more sons were born. She enjoyed baking and cooking for her family, read the Bible storybook to the children and enjoyed playing piano. In 1957 they moved to Vancouver, joining Vancouver MB Church. She was involved in the ladies’ circle. After Isaac retired from Sauder Door, they moved to Abbotsford, B.C. Isaac died Oct. 5, 1988. She moved to Richmond, B.C. in 1989 and to Pinegrove Place Care Home in June 1990. She joined Fraserview MB Church. At Pinegrove, she enjoyed Sunday morning services and weekly Bible studies and had a desire to serve God. She read her Bible and prayed for her family. She had a thankful attitude. She was treated for pneumonia and leukemia and often talked about going home. Predeceased by Isaac, a grandson and all 6 siblings, she is mourned by children John, Kay Dyck, Dorothy Stephens, Herb, Vera, Aron and Dick; 17 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Feb. 16 in Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford, with Herb Brandt and Tom Gardener ministering.
Mary Guenther
Mary Guenther passed away Apr. 15. She was born Apr. 3, 1922 to Fredrick and Helen Mielke in Herbert, Sask. She completed grade 8 and attended Herbert Bible School for a short time until her mother got sick. She married John Guenther Nov. 2, 1941. They farmed near Beechy, Sask. with Mano and Tena Klassen (John’s sister). She and Tena became strong friends. She and John opened their home to many foster children. In 1966, they adopted 3 young siblings. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother who showed interest in every aspect of her family’s lives. She had a big garden, and cooked, canned, baked, milked cows, herded sheep, fed chickens, did the farm bookkeeping, knitted, quilted and played catch with the children. She was active in the ladies’ aid of Beechy MB Church and the Beechy Ladies Health Care Auxiliary for many years. They were members of the Foster Parents Association. For the last 9 years, she depended on oxygen full-time, but never complained and was thankful for life. John cared for her until his death in April 1999. She moved to Beechy Personal Care Home Nov. 27, 2001. Predeceased by John and 1 brother in childhood, she is mourned by her children Audrey Ford, Shirlee Hildebrandt and Ernie Hettinger; 8 grandchildren; 1 sister and 1 brother.
Sanford Elvin Abercrombie
Sanford (Sandy) Elvin Abercrombie passed away Mar. 25 in Abbotsford, B.C. He was born Jan. 3, 1910 to George and Mary Jane Abercrombie in Kamloops, B.C. In 1911 the family moved to Vancouver. His father and uncle John were carpenters. Sandy became a master carpenter. His brother Rusty and Sandy’s sons also entered the construction trade. The family built houses, bridges, hospitals, apartments and stores all over the Lower Mainland, the Queen Charlotte Islands and B.C.’s interior. Sandy met his future wife Helen when he was 17 and she 14. They did not meet again for a few years. They were married for 66 years; she died 4 years before Sandy. He was a long-time member of the International Union of Carpenters and Joiners and the Odd Fellows of Chilliwack, B.C. and also was a member of the Lions Club and the Chilliwack Lawn Bowling Club. He wanted to be out socializing every day. He was the patriarch of the family, proud of his family, family name and Scottish heritage. He accepted Christ about 3 years prior to his death. He attended Clearbrook MB Church in Abbotsford regularly. He asked to be baptized in the local indoor swimming pool, and the church complied. Predeceased by Helen, he is mourned by children Ted, Wayne and Sandra; 8 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and 1 sister. The funeral was Apr. 1 in Clearbrook MB Church, with Jay Neufeld and Eldon DeFehr ministering.
David Dyck
David Dyck of Winnipeg passed away Nov. 18. He was born Mar. 6, 1909 to Abram and Anna Dyck in Waselovka, Russia. At 16, he accepted Christ. In 1926 the family immigrated to Newton, Man. and bought a farm. He attended Winkler (Man.) Bible School 1931–35. He married Katie Toews June 17, 1934. They thrived on the farm, and he sought ways to wisely divide his time between his ministry, family and farming duties. He helped establish Newton MB Church in 1929, taught Sunday school and sang in the choir and quartets. He became Sunday school superintendent. He was ordained in 1943. He served as assistant church leader for 12 years and as pastor for 13 years. He worked to organize Daily Vacation Bible Schools in the area with help from the Canadian Sunday School Mission. He gave much of his time to teaching and mentoring young people who wanted to pursue a calling in ministry. After 37 years of farming, he and Katie retired to Winnipeg, joining Portage Ave. MB Church. He served as chaplain at Donwood Manor for the next 12 years. He was active in church and volunteered as a telephone counsellor for 100 Huntley Street. He was an avid scholar, taking many opportunities to further his education. To the end, he was strong in his faith, concerned for the spiritual well-being of others and content with the love of his family. Predeceased by Katie May 12, 2001 and all of his siblings, he is mourned by children Harold of Abbotsford, B.C., Arnold of Oakville, Man., Abe of Port Rowan, Ont., Frank of White Rock, B.C., Alice Epp of St. Norbert, Man. and Lois of Winkler; 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Nov. 21 in Portage Ave. MB Church, with Claude Pratte and John Klassen ministering.
Peter B. Funk
Peter B. Funk of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Mar. 20. He was born June 1, 1908 to Bernard and Katharina Funk in Main Centre, Sask. He only had a grade 3 education, but was successful. He loved the outdoors and became a hunter and trapper. He learned to be a blacksmith. When he was 21, his father sent him out to work. He worked on a ranch, then a hay camp. He married Sadie Braun Dec. 7, 1930. He farmed, worked as a blacksmith and horse trader and worked on a ranch. In 1938 they sold the farm and moved to B.C., eventually buying 10 acres in Abbotsford. He worked for a chicken farmer then took up chicken farming himself. He felt an emptiness. He and Sadie accepted Christ during evangelistic services at a nearby church; the evangelist was a man he had earlier partied with. They sold the chicken business and did house moving for 12 years. After the flood of 1948, they bought a dairy farm in Matsqui, B.C. Later they moved to Grassy Plains, B.C. for 3 1/2 years. He did contract work moving houses for Alcan. He bought a 5-acre lot on Ootsa Lake, later donating it for Ootsa Lake Bible Camp. They moved back to Abbotsford, where he did house moving, contracting and working for a ready mix company. He collected guns, but sold his collection and donated the proceeds to Shantymen International. Retired, they moved to Evergreen Apartments in Abbotsford. He was part of the Golden Age Society and helped repair wheelchairs for MCC. Sadie died in 1988. In 1989 he married Kay. He was an outgoing person, was willing to help wherever there was a need, was faithful to the Lord, was a good husband, father and grandfather, told his grandchildren about the good old times, and set a good example. Predeceased by Sadie, and daughter Olga in 1977, he is mourned by Kay; sons Harvey, Ben and Len; daughters Lena and Leona; 5 stepsons; 5 stepdaughters; 21 grandchildren; 56 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; 4 sisters and 1 brother. The memorial service was Mar. 27 in Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford, with Jay Neufeld and Jake Froese ministering.
Denise Gail Erickson
Denise Gail Erickson passed away Apr. 10 after a 7-month struggle with cancer. She was born June 23, 1965 to Hugo and Malinda Schmidt in Regina. Her thigh was broken during birth, and all her life she was called “Precious”. She had a gentle spirit, always ready to ask for forgiveness. She accepted Christ before kindergarten and was baptized Mar. 30, 1980, joining Richmond (B.C.) Bethel MB Church. She attended Seacliff Christian School to grade 10. She loved the Lord and witnessed to many verbally and by her life. After high school, she attended Capernwray Bible School in Carnforth, England, where she made many friends and began a deeper walk with Jesus. The failure of her first marriage left her with one son and a broken heart, but she became spiritually stronger and remarried. She was a gifted homemaker and decorator. She was a people person who freely shared her ideas and walk with Jesus. She had the gift of hospitality, inviting people for dinner or coffee at a moment’s notice. She suffered a fall Sept. 7, 2001 and was diagnosed with lymphoma 2 months later. Throughout her suffering, she did not complain; her favourite saying was, “God didn’t blink; He is in control.” She is mourned by husband Randy; sons Taylor and Silas; her parents; 1 sister and 1 brother. The funeral was in Kelowna, B.C., where they had lived the last 2 years.
Ralph Suderman
Ralph Suderman of Port Rowan, Ont. passed away Mar. 15 of a heart attack in Boynton Beach, Fla. He was born Apr. 28, 1927 to Alexander and Mary Suderman in Stouffville, Ont. In 1928 the family moved to a farm in Port Royal, Ont., where they grew vegetables. Ralph learned to work hard at an early age; he tried to instill that same drive in his children and grandchildren. He accepted Christ at 15 during an evangelistic crusade and was baptized Aug. 12, 1945. In 1949 he bought a farm and married Hilda Teigrob. They retired in 2000. He was a people person, made friends easily and entertained them with stories and jokes. He loved travelling with Hilda, camping in summer and wintering in Florida. He loved cars, especially Cadillacs, and music, especially bluegrass and southern gospel. He played harmonica and button accordion. On Sunday nights in Florida, he and Hilda gathered with friends to play and sing their favourite hymns and choruses. He enjoyed singing in the male choir. Predeceased by a sister and a grandson, he is mourned by Hilda; children Cheryll Clark and Dave, both of Port Rowan, and Catherine Dring of Caledonia, Ont.; 6 grandchildren; 2 brothers and 3 sisters. The funeral was Mar. 21 in Port Rowan MB Church, with Sandy Young ministering.
Maria Wall
Maria Wall passed away Apr. 13. She was born Apr. 14, 1903 to Jacob and Anna Sukkau in Sparrau, Molotschna, Ukraine. In 1922 she was baptized in Pordenauer Mennonite Church. She married Isaak Wall in 1924; 7 children were born. Daughter Anna died shortly after birth. In 1938 Isaak was taken away; he died the same year. Together with her sister, she was able to buy her parents’ house. She had little means of support. After 2 months youngest daughter Selma died. Maria was forced to dig trenches for the war. She was captured by the Germans but her children avoided being sent to Siberia, and they were reunited. The family fled to Poland in 1943, arriving at a refugee camp in Warthegau in 1944. They worked for a farmer. In 1945, while fleeing again, she was captured by the Russians and sent to Kazakhstan with her 3 sons. In 1956 she regained her freedom. In 1979 she joined her daughters in Canada, after having been separated for 35 years. She was in relatively good health during her 23 years in Canada. She lived in Sunny South Lodge for 7 years, then Coaldale (Alta.) Health Care Centre for her last 2 years. Predeceased by Isaak and children Anna, Selma, Jakob and Walter, she is mourned by children Johann of Germany, Mary Dick of Coaldale and Christine Pfeifer of Sidney, B.C.; 9 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; 1 brother and 1 sister. The funeral was Apr. 19 in Coaldale MB Church, with Lorne Willms and Rudy Heidebrecht ministering.
Sara Sukkau
Sara Sukkau passed away May 3. She was born Jan. 5, 1918 to Abram and Anna Janzen in Russia. In 1930 the family immigrated to Arnaud, Man. She attended Winkler (Man.) Bible School for a year and took sewing classes in Winkler. In 1938 she was baptized and joined Arnaud MB Church. She married Henry Sukkau June 8, 1947. They farmed near Arnaud. In the early 1950s they moved to Winnipeg. She joined Elmwood MB Church, where she taught Sunday school and daily vacation Bible school and was active in the ladies’ fellowship. In later years, she joined North Kildonan MB Church. She moved to her daughter’s home in Winkler following a stroke in 1996 and to Salem Home, Winkler, in 1998. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, gardening, baking, reading and spending time with friends in Florida. She had gifts of encouragement and hospitality, a servant’s heart and a humble spirit. She was deeply committed to her family, desiring them to follow the Lord. Predeceased by Henry in 1984, 2 sisters and stepdaughter Elly Fast, she is mourned by son Robert of Peru; daughters Linda Reimer of Winnipeg and Dorothy Neufeld of Winkler; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; stepsons Harry, Walter and John; 2 sisters and 2 brothers. The funeral was May 8 in North Kildonan MB Church.
Frank Bergen
Frank Bergen passed away Apr. 13. He was born Feb. 14, 1930 to Jacob and Margareta Bergen in Magrath, Alta. Two months later, the family moved to Rosemary, Alta. He graduated from Rosthern (Sask.) Junior College in 1948. In 1949–53, he played for the Rosemary Rockets hockey team. He was baptized in May 1953, joining Rosemary Mennonite Church. He married Anne Janzen Aug. 6, 1953. He farmed most of his life. In 1983 he joined Gem (Alta.) MB Church. They spent part of each winter travelling, and after retiring in 1995 travelled more extensively. They moved to Coaldale, Alta. in 1998 and joined Coaldale MB Church. He was a county councillor, was a member of the County of Newell School Board and the Bassano Hospital Board, coached minor hockey and was on various local church and denominational boards, including MCC. He had a zest for life; he loved hunting, camping, photography, sports, reading on a variety of subjects, and many hobbies. Predeceased by a sister and infant son Arthur, he is mourned by Anne; daughters Ruth Braun and Joanne Dyck, both of Rosemary, and Annette Diemert of Foremost, Alta.; son Bill of Calgary; 8 grandchildren; 2 brothers and 2 sisters. The funeral was Apr. 19 in Coaldale MB Church, with Lorne Willms and Rudy Heidebrecht ministering.
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Last modified July 12, 2002.
© 2002 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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