Ruth Kroeker |
Ending a courageous fight with cancer and surrounded by family, Ruth (Hiebert) Kroeker, 81, passed away at home Feb. 21, on the 57th anniversary of her marriage to her husband, Peter, who was at her side to the end. She and Peter served with Mennonite Brethren Mission and Service International (MBMSI) in DR Congo, travelled extensively, and developed projects around the world in their efforts to make a difference in the lives of others. Their passion was the promotion of education in Congo and India. A celebration of her life was held Mar. 1 at the River East MB Church, Winnipeg.
Ruth Kroeker was born December 6, 1923, in Hepburn, Saskatchewan, and lived in Winnipeg during her childhood. Her family then moved to Kansas where she completed high school and received a nursing degree. Ruth met Peter in Winnipeg when she returned there to practice nursing. Their preparation for overseas mission service included studies in Kansas and French language training in Belgium. They served in Congo as missionaries with MBMS International from 1971–1976. Ruth volunteered in a medical clinic and provided hospitality for countless guests.
Ruth will be remembered for the many gifts she brought to the lives of those around her. Her gift of hospitality brought many guests to her home, all of them welcomed with gracious warmth. Her sense of humour brought fun and laughter to many settings. Her sense of justice led her to seek to bring dignity to the powerless and marginalized, both in personal relationships and in support of causes around the world.
When they returned to Canada, her compassion for others showed in her work with mentally challenged children. She was also a deaconess in her church, taught toddlers’ Sunday school, and served on the church food committee for many years. She volunteered at the mission office and at the MCC Thrift Store.
Nzash Lumeya, Regional Director for Africa, writes, “Ruth Kroeker was a compassionate mentor for me. I met Ruth and Peter for the first time in the 70s. They were in DR Congo equipping Congolese. One day Ruth and Peter invited me over for fellowship. At their home, I was encouraged to pursue higher education. I have met them on other occasions for encouragement and fellowship. She and Peter have taught me what quiet, sacrificial, unselfish mature Christian love means in cross-cultural relationships. I cherish this lesson and want to practice it. I praise the Lord for my sister Ruth Kroeker.”
—MBMSI release
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