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In this section:
Jacob J. Riediger 
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Jacob J. Riediger died June 28. He was born Nov. 16, 1918 in Millerowa, Russia. He came to Canada at an early age, settling in Morden, Man., where he grew to be a respected man in the community. He began his working life with J.P. Riediger & Sons, but always said his best years were spent as treasurer of the Canadian and General (North American) Conferences of Mennonite Brethren Churches in Winnipeg. Jacob retired after 22 years with the conference, and quickly took up gardening, woodworking, golfing, and puttering around. Always energetic, Jake was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Predeceased by 2 brothers; twin sister Helen; he is mourned by Mary, his wife of 65 years; daughters Elizabeth (Richard) Krohn, Helen Stefanishyn, Mary Anne (Leonard) Fast, Evelyn (John) Buller, and Joyce (Neil) Buller; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 1 sister; 1 brother. The celebration of life service was July 4 at Fort Garry MB Church, Winnipeg.
Jacob J. Dyck 
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Jacob J. Dyck died July 16 at age 94. At 6, Jacob knew God was calling him to serve as a missionary in India. As a teenager in Main Centre, Sask., and then as a young adult attending Prairie Bible Institute, he never lost sight of God’s calling. Jacob met Helena at a summer songfest and their love was confirmed when Helena shared that she, too, was called to serve in India. Jacob left for India during WWII, with Helena following a year later. After a 7-year engagement, they married Dec. 1945. Jacob and Helena enjoyed working in medical outreach, church planting, and sending Bible correspondence courses into Nepal. In 1966, the family returned to Canada, where Jacob worked as an orderly in Menno Hospital, pastored at Brookswood MB Church, Langley, B.C., managed a senior’s home in Herbert, Sask., served as chaplain at Tabor Manor in Clearbrook, B.C., and retired in his early seventies. Until recent years, he was an active member of Central Heights Church, Abbotsford. Jacob was known for his focus, devotion to God, and physical strength. Predeceased by Helena; daughter Lois; grandson Nathaniel; 1 son-in-law; 2 siblings; he is mourned by daughters Sharon (Donald) Fry and Adeline (Hans) Fast; son Paul (Carol); 16 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; 1 sister. The memorial service was July 19.
Anna Loewen 
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Anna Loewen died July 1. She was born Nov. 20, 1911 in Siberia, Russia to Johann and Helena Klippenstein. Anna had a happy childhood surrounded by a caring community. When she was young, Anna’s father died of typhus fever and her mother remarried, bringing together two families. To escape persecution in Russia, the family fled their home when Anna was 17. Upon arrival at a German refugee camp, Anna discovered that her sister had immigrated to Canada. Anna followed, travelling alone and settling in Winnipeg, where she worked as a domestic and nanny. While visiting her sister in Glenbush, Sask., Anna met David Loewen. They were married Nov. 8, 1934. Anna and David moved to a farm and became actively involved in their church community. Their early pioneer days were physically and emotionally difficult, as they grieved the separation from family. Anna and David were grateful to God, however, for peace and a home. In 1970, they moved to Saskatoon, where they were involved at Central MB Church. Anna’s faith in Jesus Christ began at age 14 in Russia. She was baptized and joined the MB church in Winnipeg. Her faith gave her strength and hope for her journey. Predeceased by David in 1997; 1 grandson; she is mourned by children Helga, Irma, Merv (Joan), Vern (Sandra), Lenora (Art) Andres, and Dennis (Diane); 11 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; 1 half-sister.
Florence Wiebe
Florence Wiebe died July 19. She was born Dec. 15, 1933 in Regina, Sask. and was adopted by Sam and Susie Thiessen. Florence accepted Jesus as Saviour at an early age. Piano lessons, voice lessons, and a love for God and music fuelled her life’s mission – to brighten others’ hearts and souls with song. On August 7, 1954, Florence married Henry Wiebe. She cared lovingly for their children as Henry taught school. Once the children were in school, Florence worked at University Hospital as a ward aid in the surgery unit and cancer wing. At Bethany Manor in Saskatoon, Florence enjoyed being part of the mixed choir, ladies choir, and a group called “The Gospel Singers.” Her passions included family, music, knitting, talking, and being with people. Each day she enjoyed the company of her husband and spent time with her mother. Florence is mourned by Henry; 6 children and their spouses; 18 grandchildren; mother Susie. The memorial service was July 22 at Bethany Manor.
Sara Dueck 
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Sara Dueck died June 28 at age 97. She was born Nov. 5, 1909 in Wiesenfeld, Russia to Johann and Sara Janzen. In 1925 the family immigrated to Canada, settling in Altona, Man. They later moved to Lena, Man., where Sara married Jacob Wiebe in 1932. They farmed in the area until Jacob died in a farming accident in 1939. In 1940, Sara married Henry Dueck and moved to Newton, Man., where they farmed for 33 years. They retired to Winnipeg in 1973. Sara moved into Donwood Manor personal care home in 2005, where she spent her last years. Sara became a Christian at 18 and was baptized, joining Lena MB Church. Worship, prayer, and Bible reading were important to her. Sara modelled a spirit of gratitude and contentment, and she had the gift of hospitality. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, and knitting. Predeceased by first husband Jacob; second husband Henry in 1999; son William; grandson Josh; 1 sister; 2 brothers; she is mourned by children Sadie (Peter) Klassen; Elfrieda (James) Nikkel, Jake (Eleanor), Esther (Jake) Durksen, and Mary (Ted) Goossen; 1 daughter-in-law; 20 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren. The memorial service was July 5 at Portage Avenue MB Church, Winnipeg.
Henry H. Willms 
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Henry H. Willms died peacefully Apr. 12. He was born Dec. 17, 1909 in Muntau, Ukraine to Heinrich and Susanne Willms. In the early years, the family enjoyed prosperity. Then came WWI and the Russian Revolution, bringing an extended period of civil unrest, drought, and famine. The family immigrated to Canada in 1928. After a year in Alberta, they moved to B.C., where Henry worked as a farm hand, giving all his money to help pay the family’s travel debt (Reiseschuld). In 1932, upon confession of his faith, Henry was baptized and accepted into membership at South Abbotsford MB Church. Henry married Irma Rempel Oct. 25, 1936. They moved onto a farm, where they lived for 61 years, clearing the land, planting strawberries and raspberries, and keeping dairy cows and chickens. Henry enjoyed reading, carpet bowling, and spending time with family. He read though the Bible many times during his life. Henry often said the older he became, the more precious Jesus was to him. Predeceased by Irma in 2003, he is mourned by children Walter (Ann), Selma (Alan Turner), Erika LeClair, Rudy (Christine), Marie Anne (Jake Dick), John (Mandy), Victor (Dorothy), and Rick (Amy); 23 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; 3 siblings; 1 sister-in-law.
Sue Friesen 
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Sue Friesen died July 11. She was born March 23, 1928 in Winkler, Man.to Herman and Helena Klassen. When she was 1, Sue’s parents bought a farm in Clair, Sask. There, Sue spent a happy childhood and attended a one-room school. She accepted Christ as Saviour and Lord as a young child. At 9, Susie was diagnosed with polio. She recovered, but had a pronounced limp for the rest of her life. In 1942, the family moved to Abbotsford, B.C. Sue was baptized July 16, 1944, joining Clearbrook MB Church. She attended Bible school for several years, singing in trios and the choir. In 1956 she met Jack Friesen. They were married June 30, 1957. Jack and Sue purchased a home in Sardis, B.C., where they joined Greendale MB Church and raised 2 children, Alan and Iris. In 1968, Jack and Sue moved to Clearbrook, B.C., joining Bakerview MB Church. Sue loved her church and made every effort to serve. She enjoyed singing in choirs and did so for many years. The funeral was July 18 at Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
(Tina) Kay Peters 
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(Tina) Kay Peters died peacefully July 27. She was born May 4, 1927 in Burwalde, Man. to John and Sara Penner. At 17, Kay became a Christian at a revival meeting and was baptized later that year. After completing grade 10, she worked in Winnipeg and then returned to Winkler. She married Peter Peters on June 23, 1946. They spent 18 years in Winnipeg, where Kay worked as a housekeeper. They attended Elmwood MB Church, where Kay taught Sunday school, worked on the food committee, and participated in Ladies Aide. In 1967, Kay and Peter moved to Abbotsford, where Kay worked at Tabor Home. She enjoyed her work and retired after 25 years. In Abbotsford, Kay and Peter became members of Bakerview MB Church, where Kay taught Sunday school and served on the food committee. In retirement, Kay enjoyed walking, reading, visiting with friends and family, and volunteering at MCC and the Golden Age Society. Four years ago, Kay began losing her ability to walk. She was eventually confined to a wheelchair and bed. Predeceased by Peter; 2 brothers; 1 sister; she is mourned by her 4 children and their spouses; 9 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; siblings. The funeral was at Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Susanne Nickel 
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Susanne Nickel died Aug. 2 after a brief battle with cancer. She was born Nov. 19, 1926, in Felsenbach, Russia. Along with her parents and older brother, Sue immigrated to Canada in 1927. The family farmed in Saskatchewan until moving to B.C. in 1933. Sue married Abe Nickel in August 1947. The couple started a family and moved to Vancouver. Sue spent many happy years raising her children and caring for her home with superlative organizational skills and panache. When the children grew, Sue used her skills in business. She first worked as a restaurant manager, and then, in the early 1980s, she and Abe managed a motel in Chetwynd, B.C. They returned to Vancouver to manage an apartment complex, and then, in retirement, moved to Abbotsford. Sue was always active in her church community. She delighted in gardening, songbirds, travelling, singing in church choirs, reading, and fussing over her grandchildren. Sue had a sparkling personality and was always cheerful. Predeceased by 6 siblings, she is mourned by Abe; sons Tom (Margo), Mark (Irene), Howard, and Stan (Kathy); daughter Joyce (Fabrizio); 12 grandchildren; 5 siblings. The funeral was Aug. 7 at Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Abram Hyde 
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Abram Hyde died Aug. 3 at age 98. He was born Feb. 28, 1909 in Kronsgart, Man. to Susan and Abram Heide. He became a Christian at age 8 during evangelistic meetings. Abram rededicated his life to Christ at 12 and was baptized in 1925. He married Tina Born July 10, 1932. Abram attended Winkler Bible School and was ordained to the ministry in 1944. He also farmed for a living. In 1973, Abram and Tina sold the farm and moved to Winkler, Man. Abram continued to serve the church and community in many different capacities: as school bus driver, at a ceramics shop, vacuuming Sunday school rooms, teaching Sunday school classes and Bible studies, and helping at a children’s summer Bible camp. Abram and Tina moved into Crocus Village in Winkler in 1997. He was taken to hospital and diagnosed with bone cancer Feb. 11, 2007. Predeceased by 1 brother; 1 sister; 1 grandson in infancy; he is mourned by Tina, his wife of 75 years; daughters Clara, Pat, and Esther; sons Ken and Bill; 12 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaughter. The funeral was Aug. 9 at the EMMC church in Winkler.
Susie Karoline Driediger
Susie Karoline Driediger died June 26 at age 88. She was born Oct. 4, 1918 in Ukraine to George and Susannah Dyck. The family immigrated to Canada in 1924, settling near Winkler, Man. At 12, Susie committed her life to Christ after hearing a missionary from China preach. She was baptized in 1934, joining the MB church in Gnadenthal, Man. Susie attended Winkler Bible School and then worked as a practical nurse in Winnipeg’s Concordia Hospital. She married William Driediger May 1941 and they established a home in Oak Lake, Man. In 1948, Susie and William moved to the Fraser Valley, B.C. After several years of farming, they established Garden Chapel Funeral Homes. In 1970 they retired and fulfilled their dream of travelling and experiencing God’s wonderful creation. Predeceased by Willie in 1990, she is mourned by children Alvera (Harry) Dyck, Wil (Irm), Erv (Beryl), Ed (Karen), Dorothy (Rick) Friesen, Robert, and Lynda (John) Mann; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 1 brother. The memorial service was July 3 at Woodlawn Funeral Home, Abbotsford, B.C.
Tina Dyck
Tina Dyck died May 30. She was born Dec. 25, 1939 in Glenbush, Sask. to Gerhard and Suse Bargen. Tina received her teacher’s certificate in 1962 and taught in rural Saskatchewan for 6 years, at which time she married Henry Dyck. Tina taught for 2 more years until starting a family. Henry and Tina lived in Glenbush for 37 years, where Tina was involved in the community and Hoffnungsfelder Church. She opened her heart and home to foster children. In 2001, Tina and Henry retired to Saskatoon, where they served at West Portal Church. Tina taught Sunday school, and volunteered at Western Tract Mission and the Village Green Store. She enjoyed friends, family, gardening, children, and bowling. Tina was a caring mother, grandmother, and friend. She is mourned by Henry; children Ralph (Brenda) and Roxanne (Lloyd) Penner; 4 grandchildren; 5 sisters; 3 brothers. The funeral was June 2 at West Portal Church.
Hedy Durksen 
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Hedy Durksen died suddenly June 25. She was born Nov. 9, 1922 in Halbstadt, Ukraine to Gerhard and Agatha Enns. Hedy came to Canada at a young age, settling first in Ontario and then in southern Manitoba. She attended schools in Winnipeg and Oakville and worked in an office until marrying David Durksen in 1948 and embracing her role as wife and mother. Throughout her life Hedy taught Sunday school, led community Bible studies, sponsored youth groups, and travelled extensively around the world. Hedy was a successful writer, authoring a book entitled Along Highways and Hedges, as well as regular columns for the Mennonite Reporter, “Just Around the House” (1961–67), and the MB Herald, “Wayside Inn” (1967–75). She was the first woman ever invited to speak at a Mennonite World Conference, in Amsterdam in 1967. A talented watercolour artist, Hedy was also an avid reader and daily crossword puzzle solver. Predeceased by David, her husband of 46 years; 1 sister; she is mourned by children Joanne (Marv) Thiessen, Paul (Cheryl) Durksen, Virginia (Tony Warren) Durksen, and Lois (Brian) McNaughton; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters. The funeral was at Westwood Community Church, Winnipeg.
Helen Kliewer
Helen Kliewer died peacefully July 23. She was born Aug. 22, 1928 in Blumenort, Sask. to Abram and Elizabeth Dyck. At 15, Helen gave her life to Jesus and allowed the Spirit of God to live in her and transform her. In 1945, she graduated from Yarrow (B.C.) Bible school, was baptized, and received into Yarrow MB Church. In 1955, she married Henry Kliewer. The family moved to Ontario in 1958. Helen dearly loved her 5 grandsons, who always enjoyed their time together. Helen was blessed with an eagerness to learn and a gentle spirit. Predeceased by 2 brothers; 1 sister; she is mourned by Henry; sons Bryan (Lynda Allan) and David (Tricia Hermann); daughters Wendy (Jon Hughes) and Carolyn (Peter Arbour); 5 grandsons; 4 sisters; 4 brothers. The funeral was at First Alliance Church, Toronto.
James Allen Holditch
James Allen Holditch died peacefully July 22. He was born June 4, 1935 near Boissevain, Man. to Reginald and Lois Holditch. James attended Briercrest Bible Institute for 3 years and earned a BSc from Le Tourneau College, Texas, and a BPd from the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg. He taught school in several locations before going to Kenya with Africa Inland Mission in 1970. He taught there for 15 years, and then went to Zimbabwe with the World University Service of Canada. Failing health forced James to return to Canada in December 1995. He entered Westview Lodge June 2003 and moved to Evergreen Place 3 years later. Predeceased by 3 brothers; 1 sister; 3 nieces; 1 nephew; 2 brothers-in-law; 1 sister-in-law; he is mourned by sister Alice Henneberg; sister-in-law Lois Holditch; 6 nephews; 3 nieces. The funeral was July 26 at Boissevain MB Church.
David Peter Klassen
David Peter Klassen died peacefully July 20 at age 96. He was born July 5, 1911 in Steinfeld, Russia to Peter and Susanna Klassen. The family immigrated to Canada in 1923. David spent his teenage years in southern Saskatchewan and later moved to Alberta, where he married Katherine Braun on Dec. 17, 1942. They farmed in Gem, Alta. and then moved to Calgary in 1967, becoming members of Highland MB Church. David worked until age 75 at various places, including the Calgary Golf and Country Club and Mount Royal College where his farming and mechanical skills were put to good use. Predeceased by Katherine in 2003, he is mourned by children David (Vicky), Garry (Lynn), Ralph (Lois), and Susan (Rudy) Neufeld; 7 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 3 brothers; 2 sisters. The celebration of life service was July 26 at Highland MB Church, Calgary.
John Herman Nickel 
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John Herman Nickel died Aug. 10. He was born Mar. 26, 1919. As a teenager, John made a decision to follow Christ and was baptized upon his confession of faith. On October 26, 1943 he married Elsie Andres. They farmed in Hepburn for two years. In 1945, they moved to Vineland, Ont. and later to Virgil, Ont., where they bought a farm. John worked in a paper mill for 34 years. In 1999, John and Elsie moved to St. Catharines. John enjoyed doing things for his children, such as building an ice rink and buying a pony. He loved music, especially quartets, and played violin and guitar. John also enjoyed collecting antique cars and travelling. John and Elsie frequented Tim Horton’s, where John was known as the “Chicken Noodle Man.” He would encourage and talk with everyone. John trusted God and understood the importance of prayer. Predeceased by 2 sisters, he is mourned by Elsie; children Dennis (Carol), Ray (Heidi), Al (Fran), John (Carol), Arnie (Linda), and Dorothy (Wieland) Hamm; 15 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; 7 siblings; 1 brother-in-law. The funeral was Aug. 14 at Orchard Park Bible Church, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont.
Marlene Martens 
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Marlene Martens died July 11. She was born Jan. 17, 1938 in Winkler, Man. to Julius and Elizabeth Klassen. She accepted the Lord as Saviour at an early age and was baptized and accepted into the MB church. A highlight of her life was attending Winkler Bible School for 4 years. There she met Harry Martens and they were married July 21, 1962. Marlene cherished her role as a homemaker. She enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, travelling, cake decorating, volunteering at Congregate Meals, photography, curling, and golf. Church involvement was important to Marlene; she taught Sunday school, worked with girls’ clubs and the food committee, and served as a deacon. After defeating breast cancer in 1990 and skin cancer in 1992, Marlene was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2004. She accepted it well and fought it bravely. Predeceased by 2 brothers; 1 sister; 1 sister-in-law; she is mourned by Harry, children Wes, Alvin (Charlene), Marv (Monique), and Carla (Gord); 6 grandchildren; 4 brothers; 2 sisters; 1 sister-in-law.
Ben Epp 
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Ben Epp died Aug. 11. He was born July 4, 1928 near Swift Current, Sask. to Henry and Maria Epp. When he was 14, Ben’s family moved to Abbotsford, B.C. Ben pursued various careers, such as truck driving and custodial work. In 1973, while working as a custodian at Central Heights Church in Abbotsford, Ben became aware of his need for Christ in his life and accepted Jesus as Saviour. He was baptized a year later, joining Central Heights Church. In summer 1983, he met Margaret Elizabeth Peters and they were married Nov. 5, 1983. They lived in Yarrow, B.C. and attended Yarrow MB Church. In 1985, they moved to Abbotsford and joined Bakerview MB Church. In 1987, Ben and Margaret accepted the custodial work at Bakerview. After retirement 3 years later, they travelled. Ben enjoyed going for coffee, taking daily walks, and doing devotions. In Oct. 2006, Ben began experiencing health problems and was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. Predeceased by 6 siblings in infancy and 2 brothers, he is mourned by Margaret; brothers Henry (Elsie), Frank (Ann), and Jake (Olga); sisters Mary Stobbe, Elizabeth (Henry) Lepp, Ann (Al) Penner and Helen (Walter) Nickel. The funeral was Aug. 17 at Bakerview MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C.
Henry Peter Schroeder
Henry Peter Schroeder of Abbotsford, B.C. died Aug. 8 at age 93. He is mourned by daughter Anita (David); granddaughter Kristin; grandson Kelly (Denni); great-granddaughter Madison. The celebration of life service was Aug. 15 at Bakerview MB Church.
Sarah Martens 
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Sarah Martens died peacefully June 22. She was born Apr. 22, 1914 in Arkadak, Russia to Heinrich and Sarah Neufeld. Life became difficult in Russia, so the family decided to immigrate to Canada. They went first to Germany, where the government provided them with food and lodging for 6 months, and then to Canada, arriving in Holmfield, Man. in 1930. Sarah and her sisters worked as maids in the community. They then moved to Winnipeg, where Sarah was baptized upon the confession of her faith at North End MB Church. She attended Winkler Bible School for 2 years. Sarah married Gerhard Martens June 15, 1944. They settled near Lena, Man., where they operated a grain and livestock farm for 32 years. They were active members of Lena MB Church. In 1975, they retired to Morden, Man., where they joined Morden MB Church. Sarah enjoyed gardening, reading, knitting, crocheting, quilting blankets for MCC, and hosting company. She prayed daily for her family and faced challenges bravely. Predeceased by Gerhard in 1998; 2 children in infancy; she is mourned by children Esther (Alfred) Penner, David (Aggie), and Margaret; 4 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; 1 sister; 3 brothers. The celebration of life service was June 27 at Wiebe Funeral Home Chapel, Morden, Man.
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