Obituaries

Neta Toews

Neta Toews passed away Dec. 30. She was born Aug. 22, 1905 to Jacob and Suzanna Klassen in Alexanderwohl, Ukraine. The family immigrated to Manitoba when she was 21. They began farming. She helped support the family by working as a maid in Winnipeg. She completed high school, then trained as a nurse at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg. She met Andrew Toews when he was in the hospital for an appendix operation. He went to visit her on the farm during Christmas holidays, but discovered that she had already returned to Winnipeg. He introduced himself to the family and explained his intentions. They were married the following summer. She created a rich home atmosphere, filling it with her singing. Their home in Terrace, B.C. was a refuge for missionaries and pastors and a haven for young people. She was a devoted mother and loving wife. She was a committed Christian, teaching Sunday school, taking leadership in the Gideon auxiliary and organizing a leprosy mission branch in Terrace. Her relationship with Jesus was a priority for her, and she served Him faithfully in her life. She is mourned by Andrew and children Jeannie, Peter and David. The funeral was Jan. 3 in Central Heights MB Church, Abbotsford, B.C., with Henry Wiebe ministering.

Mary Doerksen

Mary Doerksen passed away Aug. 18. She was born Apr. 23, 1913 to Henry and Elizabeth Hildebrand in Reinfeld, Siberia. The family immigrated to Brookdale, Man. in 1924. She became a Christian at a young age, and was baptized in 1935, along with her parents and brother Peter. In her youth, she worked as a housemaid in Winnipeg to help support the family. She married Jacob F. Doerksen in 1939. They lived in Winnipeg, then bought a farm in Brookdale. They moved to Messiah's Corners, Ont. in 1947, where they farmed strawberries and asparagus. She was very active in the life of the church, serving on the food and hosting committees for many years. She was also church custodian for many years. She enjoyed quilting for the ladies aid. After Jacob's death in 1991, her health deteriorated quickly. She moved to Tabor Manor, St. Catharines in February, 1994. She is remembered as a wonderful mother. Predeceased by Jacob and 2 brothers, she is mourned by children Ernie of Port Rowan, Ont., Betty Thiessen of Kitchener, Ont., Ed of Port Rowan and Irma of Kitchener; 7 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild, 3 brothers and 2 sisters. The funeral was Aug. 21 at Port Rowan MB Church, with Bill Lehman ministering.

Elaine Redekop

Elaine Redekop passed away Dec. 12. She was born Oct. 10, 1935 to Alex and Edith Calder in Wapella, Sask. She grew up in Rocanville, Sask. She left home at 16 to work as a live-in housekeeper in Virden, Man. and later in Brandon, Man. She married Peter Redekop Jan. 20, 1955. They moved to Winnipeg. She was a tireless, conscientious worker all of her life. She worked for Whitehall Laundry and Donwood Manor before establishing her own engraving business. She later worked as a sales representative for Nikken. They joined Brooklands Community Church. She was active in ladies' fellowship and for many years was church treasurer. She was always willing to lend a helping hand. She was known for her dependability and service in business. She often worked long hours to fill a customer's last-minute order. She loved visiting friends and family, sometimes driving long distances by herself to be with family. Vacation travel with the family was a regular event. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy for cancer after falling ill in February, 1992. The 4 following years were filled with many joyous activities and renewed hope. In July, 1996, cancer reappeared. She is mourned by Peter; son Bruce; daughters Holly and Penny; 6 grandchildren; 4 brothers and 3 sisters. The funeral was Dec. 17 at Brooklands Community Church, with Will Feldbusch ministering.

Kornelius B. Klassen

Kornelius B. Klassen passed away Jan. 15. He was born Aug. 13, 1919 to Benjamin and Katherine Klassen in Sagradovka, Ukraine. The family immigrated to Canada when Kornie was 10. He lived at Springstein, Man. and Culross, Man. He was baptized in 1938, joining Elm Creek (Man.) MB Church. He married Kathie Adrian Mar. 14, 1943. They farmed for almost 40 years. They attended Wingham Mennonite Church, Elm Creek, where they were actively involved in teaching Sunday school and other areas for 15 years. Kathie died June 24, 1977. He married Kornelia Martens Aug. 18, 1979. He loved going out for coffee and socializing with friends and family. He was diagnosed with Huntington's disease in 1989. He moved into Boyne Lodge in Carman, Man. in 1994. He often spoke of God's grace in his life. He is remembered for his vibrant faith, positive attitude and sense of humour. Predeceased by his first wife and 2 brothers, he is mourned by Kornelia, children Kay Martens of Elm Creek, Betty Peters of Winnipeg, Harry Klassen of Morden, Man., Emily Klassen and Lois Wiebe of Winnipeg; 12 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters and 1 brother. The funeral was Jan. 18 at Elm Creek MB Church, with John Willems ministering.

Waldo David Rempel

Waldo David Rempel passed away Dec. 30. He was born Feb. 22, 1917 to David and Anna Rempel in Main Centre, Sask. He attended 1 year at Briercrest Bible College. He was saved after attending evangelistic meetings with Frank Wiens, and was baptized in the South Saskatchewan River, joining Main Centre MB Church. He moved to B.C. in 1939 to pursue a lifelong career in carpentry and construction. He joined Vancouver MB Church in its beginning stages. In 1943, he married Kay Derksen and shortly after moved to Yarrow to become a farmer, fulfilling his obligation as a registered conscientious objector. After the war, they returned to Vancouver where he worked in construction. He soon formed his own company, W.R. Construction. He then became a charter member of Fraserview MB Church, where he donated much time and energy in various capacities. He enjoyed travelling to the Holy Land and especially their annual trip to Palm Springs, Calif. After being diagnosed with cancer, he underwent successful surgery in fall, 1993. However, symptoms of Alzheimer's disease began to appear. He moved into Rosewood Manor. Predeceased by 3 brothers and 2 sisters, he is mourned by Kay, daughters Carol Jantzen and Loraine Krahn; son Garry; 1 brother and 2 sisters. A memorial service was held Jan. 3 at Fraserview MB Church, with Dan Unrau and Herb Brandt ministering.

Peter Koslowsky

Peter Koslowsky passed away Oct. 13. He was born May 15, 1919 to Peter and Agatha Koslowsky in Kokobka, Russia. The family immigrated to a farm near Niverville, Man. in 1926. He accepted the Lord at 25. He married Elizabeth Falk Sept. 15, 1946. They moved to Winnipeg in 1964, and he continued to farm. He also taught at Winkler Bible Institute for several years and actively participated in church life and other Christian organizations. He is remembered as a loving and devoted family man. He is also remembered for his beautiful tenor voice and other gifts which he used to glorify God. He is mourned by Elizabeth; children Ernie, Ron, Ken, Bob, Janet, Laurene and Jeff; 19 grandchildren; 3 sisters; and 1 brother. The funeral was Oct. 17 at Eastview Community Church, Winnipeg, with Adam Wiggins ministering.

Eleanor Neufeld

Eleanor Neufeld passed away Nov. 12 of cancer. She was born Feb. 7, 1938 to Jacob and Mary Neufeld near Horndean, Man. She accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized at 14. She earned an education degree from the University of Brandon (Man.) and taught in a number of schools including a year in Truro, N.S. as a volunteer under Christian Service. She spent most of her years teaching at Linden Lanes School in Brandon before retiring in 1993. She interrupted her career for a 3-year period, attending Mennonite Brethren Bible College to earn a Bachelor of Christian Education degree. She was a member of Richmond Park MB Church in Brandon, where she used her talents in art, music and education. She enjoyed the company of her nieces, nephews and Sunday school children. She loved to share ideas from her teaching experience and to encourage others in their service. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Her faith remained strong throughout her 7-year struggle, and she loved to join with others in prayer. She is mourned by her parents of Winkler, Man.; brothers Leonard of Abbotsford, B.C., Larry of Brandon, Clarence of Winnipeg and Ronald of Brandon; and sister Leona Shroeder of Red Deer, Alta. The funeral was Nov. 15 in Richmond Park MB Church, with John Unger ministering.

Marlene Peters

Marlene Peters passed away Dec. 7 of cancer. She was born Mar. 22, 1953 to Henry and Nettie Falk in Crystal City, Man. Raised in a Christian home, she came to faith in Christ as she grew up. After graduation, she attended Elim Bible School in Altona, Man. She was baptized in 1973, joining Crystal City Mennonite Church. Church was always important to her. She was involved in the church choir, youth activities, camp, teaching and Bible education. She longed for a Christian life with depth. She married Mervyn Peters June 21, 1975. They attended Canadian Mennonite Bible College in Winnipeg for 1 year. She completed a B.Ed. from the University of Manitoba in 1978. In 1978 they moved to Paungassi, Man., where she taught nursery and kindergarten. They later moved to Riverton, Man., where she taught at a private school. They moved to Portage la Prairie, Man., then back to Paungassi. They encountered biblical teaching through a friend which revitalized their faith, resulting in a renewed commitment to the church. They later became involved in a meaningful house church in Little Black River, Man. They moved back to Winnipeg in 1986. Family campouts were a highlight for her. Her skill in crafts and her willingness to share that skill benefited many. She was diagnosed with lymphoma in 1988. During this time, her faith became a constant source of strength and renewal. She was a member of Jubilee Mennonite Church, where she contributed much. She is remembered for her love of family, her sense of adventure and her courage. Predeceased by her mother in 1985 and 1 sister, she is mourned by Merv; sons Evan, Karl, Brendan; her father of Crystal City; 1 sister and 3 brothers. The funeral was Dec. 10 at Jubilee Mennonite Church, with Sieg Wall and John Epp ministering.

Kathryn Neufeld

Kathryn Neufeld passed away in December. She was born Oct. 16, 1908 in Reinfeld, Ukraine. She contracted polio at 8 months. Though she recovered, she experienced residual health problems throughout her life. The family moved to Nikopol, where her father owned a flour mill. She invited Jesus into her heart at age 9 with the help of her parents, experiencing great joy and the desire to share her experiences. The family emigrated to the United States, where she completed teacher's college. She then taught school for several years in Minnesota. She married Kornelius Neufeld in 1943, becoming mother to his 3 children. Two years later, they moved to Yarrow, B.C., where he established a printing business. She helped with the business, taught Sunday school, led Bible studies, taught night school in Chilliwack, B.C. and taught English to immigrants. They retired to Clearbrook, B.C. in 1973. Kornelius died in 1988. She moved to Sunset Manor, then Tabor Home and Menno Home. She loved her family and many friends. Predeceased by 3 brothers and 1 sister, she is mourned by 6 children; and 13 grandchildren. The funeral was Dec. 13 at Clearbrook MB Church, with Jacob Pauls, George Baier and John E. Klassen ministering.

Maria Siebert

Maria Siebert passed away Nov. 23. She was born Nov. 15, 1933 to Abram and Maria Isaak in Fernheim, Paraguay. She accepted the Lord at an early age. She married Hans Siebert Mar. 22, 1952. They immigrated to Vancouver in December, 1957. She was baptized in 1961, joining Clearbrook (B.C.) MB Church. Music was a great comfort to her. She spent many hours singing and playing hymns on her organ. She was actively involved in the Dorcas Ladies Group. She and Hans enjoyed fishing and travelling together and were foster parents for many years. She had a special love for her grandchildren and was concerned that each know the Lord. She is mourned by Hans; children Siegfried, Sieglinde Enns, Eduard, Brunhilde Warkentin and Heinz; 14 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; 7 sisters and 3 brothers. The funeral was Nov. 27 at Clearbrook MB Church, with Jacob Pauls, Jay Neufeld and Dan Warkentin ministering.

Bill H. Kroeker

Bill H. Kroeker passed away Dec. 14. He was born May 11, 1908 to Henry and Agnes Kroeker in Hepburn, Sask. When he was 2, his father died. His mother married Mr. Priebe. With her family of 10 and his family of 11, they became a household of 21, living in Flowing Well, Sask. When he was 17, the family moved to Hepburn, but he stayed in Flowing Well to work for various farmers. He started his own farm in 1928. He married Helen Thielmann in 1930. They accepted the Lord together at an evangelistic meeting. In June, 1931 they moved to Hepburn to farm. He also took a cream route in Waldheim, Sask. In 1939, their youngest daughter died during a diphtheria epidemic. They moved to B.C. in 1945, but moved back to Hepburn the following spring. He also worked at the co-op store to supplement their income. In 1959, Helen accepted work at Bethany Bible Institute. He sold the land and joined Helen to work together as head cooks at BBI for 21 years. They also cooked for Redberry Bible Camp for 5 years. In November, 1996, they moved to Pineview Manor in Rosthern, Sask. He was diagnosed with cancer. He is remembered as the family prayer warrior, a caregiver, a great friend and a loving man. Predeceased by daughter Ruby, 8 brothers and sisters and step-siblings, he is mourned by Helen, daughter Alice Willms of Hepburn, Sask.; 5 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and 1 sister. The funeral was Dec. 17 at Hepburn MB Church with Ralph Gliege and Ross Penner ministering.

Jacob Klassen

Jacob Klassen passed away Dec. 15. He was born June 25, 1917 to Jacob and Susanna Klassen in Sagradowka, Russia. The family moved to Alexanderwohl, Molotschna the next year, escaping the rampage of bandits who killed most of the men of the area. The family immigrated to St. Elizabeth, Man. in 1926. They bought a farm in Kenton, Man. 3 years later, where he came to faith in Christ. He left home in 1938, moving to the Fraser Valley in B.C. where he found work. He married Lena Nikkel Aug. 15, 1940 in Yarrow, B.C. He worked as an electrician, but in 1941 was drafted into military service. He worked as a conscientious objector in forestry camps. They moved to Greendale, B.C. in 1947, where he maintained a small farm and developed an electrical and plumbing business. He built several houses and apartment buildings over the years. He served Greendale MB Church in the areas of building, maintenance and finance. They moved to Ryder Lake, B.C., then Sardis, B.C. They moved to Clearbrook, B.C. in 1994, joining Clearbrook MB Church. He enjoyed woodworking and making furniture for his family. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, travelling, photography and discussing politics. He was active in Bible studies and congregational meetings, where he was a strong advocate that the truth of Scripture be maintained. They travelled extensively internationally. He maintained a steadfast faith in God and was thankful for the blessings he received. The funeral was Dec. 19 at Clearbrook MB Church, with Jacob Pauls and Jay Neufeld ministering.

Maria Guenther

Maria Guenther passed away Dec. 15. She was born Feb. 21, 1910 to Isbrandt and Anna Friesen in Rosthern, Sask. The family moved to Chortitz, Sask., where she was baptized June 8, 1930. She married Isaac B. Guenther July 16, 1933. They lived in Hochstadt, Sask., moving to a farm near Hepburn, Sask. in 1946. She enjoyed flowers, gardening and baking for her family. When daughter Elsie died in a farming accident, Maria established a new relationship with God. Faithfulness and love for God were always a high priority with her. She had a keen interest in the physical and spiritual well-being of her family, praying for each one by name even when her memory was failing. She loved singing and listening to music. She was diagnosed with diabetes in 1967. She deeply grieved the loss of daughter Anne in 1972. They moved to Hepburn in 1971, to Circle Drive Place in 1987 and to Bethany Manor in 1989. Isaac passed away in 1993. She suffered a stroke Nov. 29, which confined her to a wheelchair. Predeceased by husband Isaac and daughters Elsie and Anne, she is mourned by sons Dave of Warman, Sask., Bill of Saskatoon, Menno of Vermilian, Alta. and Herb of Saskatoon; 11 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Dec. 20 at Warman (Sask.) Gospel Church, with John D. Friesen, Ralph Gliege and Greg Guarnett ministering.

Ernest Jacob Friesen

Ernest Jacob Friesen passed away Dec. 27. He was born Feb. 12, 1927 to Peter and Agatha Friesen in Hepburn, Sask. He accepted his farm chores with great dedication. He and his brother Wilbert were close companions throughout life, despite varying interests and personalities. He suffered from Fragile X Syndrome from birth, a genetic disorder that hindered his academic development. In spite of being mentally challenged, he learned and enjoyed many hymns and carols in the church. Psalm 23 was his favourite Bible passage. He enjoyed family picnics and day trips. He is remembered as gentle, reliable, possessing a fine sense of humour and appreciation. Predeceased by brother Alvin, he is mourned by sisters Mildred Stickwood of Sharon, Ont., Mary of Hepburn, Sask., Verna Heinrichs of Manitou, Man., and brothers Wilbert of Waldheim, Sask. and Arthur of Saskatoon. The funeral was Dec. 30 at Hepburn MB Church, with Art Friesen, John Heinrichs and Reuben Andres ministering.

Selma Kroeker

Selma Kroeker passed away Dec. 30. She was born Feb. 4, 1904 to Jacob and Sara Eichendorf near Waldheim, Sask. Some of her early years were spent with her grandparents at Laird, Sask., and she finished school at Windom, Sask. After graduating, she worked at various places such as Richlea, Sask. and Eston, Sask. She was baptized in 1929, joining Brotherfield MB Church. She served in various ways, both in and outside the church. She married Jacob F. Kroeker Oct. 30, 1929. Although they were fond of children, they had none of their own. They farmed together for 41 years near Waldheim, Sask. They moved into Waldheim in 1970. She loved gardening, and flowers were beautifully displayed on her yard. In 1985, they moved into Westview Pioneer Lodge. Predeceased by Jacob in June, 1994 and 3 brothers, she is mourned by 1 sister. The funeral was Jan. 3 in Waldheim MB Church, with Clarence Peters ministering.

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