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NETTIE PENNER
It is with deep sadness that we, the family, announce the death of Nettie Penner (Schellenberg). Following a lengthy illness, Nettie passed away Saturday, July 30, 2005 at the Grunthal Menno Home for the Aged, at the age of 94.
She will be sadly missed by her two daughters and one son-in-law, Helen Penner of Grunthal, Man. and Mary and Albert Driedger of Grunthal; eight grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She is survived by one brother-in-law, Peter Froese of Grunthal, and one daughter-in-law, Dorothy Schellenberg of Winnipeg, Man. She was predeceased by her husband Peter Penner in 1949, one daughter, one son-in-law, her parents, three brothers, and one sister.
Mom was born Feb. 2, 1911 in Russia to Peter and Aganetha Schellenberg. She immigrated to Canada in 1923 when she was 12 years old. She had no schooling in Canada, and did housework in Winnipeg as a young adult. On June 27, 1931 she married Peter Penner. After Dad died in 1949 she moved from Gnadenthal to Grunthal, where she joined the Ferein and made her family and helping others less fortunate her first priority.
She moved to Winnipeg for a few years and worked at the Concordia Hospital. After returning to Grunthal, Mom and Mrs Kroeker rented an apartment in Winnipeg and worked at Donwood Manor. Upon retirement she lived in her house on Main Street in Grunthal and spent many hours quilting and enjoying friends and family. When it became impossible to live in her own house, she moved into the partments on Park Street. In January of 2004, after falling and breaking her arm, Mom moved into the Menno Home where she enjoyed having company. On March 2, 2005, Mom was diagnosed with pneumonia. She recovered from that but on July 2 fell and broke her hip. Surgery was done on July 9, and on July 13 she returned to the Menno Home. On Saturday, July 30, she passed away peacefully with her children at her side.
The family wishes to thank the staff at the Grunthal Menno Home, who not only provided professional, but also compassionate personal care.
A celebration of Nettie Penner's life was held Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2 p.m., at the Grunthal Elim Mennonite Church, with Gordon Driedger officiating. Viewing took place at Steinbach Funeral Home, Tuesday, Aug. 2, at 7 p.m., with the devotional at 7:30 p.m.
Pallbearers for the service were Matthew Dyck, Sheryl Broesky, Michael Broesky, Jeffrey Block, Kristin Unrau, Todd Friesen. The interment followed the service at the Grunthal Cemetery.
If friends so desire, memorial contributions may be made to Menno Home Foundation, Box 280, Grunthal, MB, R0A 0R0.
Steinbach Funeral Home, 5 Chrysler Gate, Steinbach, Man., in care of arrangements.
MARIE GAUTHIER-RICHARDSON
With great sadness we announce the passing of Marie Gauthier-Richardson, Friday, Sept. 2, 2005, at the age of 49. A tragic motorcycle accident claimed both her and her husband, Gary Richardson. Marie was born at the St. Boniface General Hospital in Winnipeg, Man., Jan. 7, 1956. She resided in St. Labre, Man., and in 1965 moved to St. Boniface, Winnipeg. Moving to Ste. Genevieve, Man. after marrying Etienne Ross of Ross, Man. in 1973, and having three children, she then began her thrilling career with practical nursing, then moved on to achieve her master's degree in nursing. In 1991 she met her love and best friend, Gary Richardson, and they were married Aug. 25, 1995.
She was a vibrant woman who loved life and lived it to the fullest. Always very energetic with never a dull moment; she was forever helping others and putting other's needs before her own. Her gentle heart touched many lives in her short time on earth and her warmth and compassion will be remembered by every life she touched.
Marie is survived by her son Noel (Jennifer) Ross; her daughter Chantal Ross (Dennis Leblanc); her daughter-in-law Lisa Ross; her stepchildren, Janette Richardson (Jason Hedley) and Marc (Charlene) Richardson; her seven grandchildren, Tyler, Brendan, Trinity, Noah, Tosh, Ian, and Zachary; parents, Edmond and Marcelle Gauthier; seven brothers, Gilbert (Nicole) Gauthier, Gilles (Wilma) Gauthier, Barney (Irene) Gauthier, Fern (Doris) Gauthier, Norbert (Linda) Gauthier, Francois (Luella) Gauthier, Mitch Gauthier; one sister Ghislaine (Larry) Gauthier; and one sister-in-law Rita Gauthier.
She is predeceased by one son, Edmond Ross, who was lost due to cancer in 2003.
Funeral mass will be held Friday, Sept. 9, 2:00 p.m., in the St. Timothy Parish, 135 John Forsyth Rd.
GARY ROBERT RICHARDSON
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Robert Richardson, Sept. 2, 2005 in a tragic motorcycle accident, at the age of 55 years, which also claimed the life of his loving wife Marie, age 49 years. Gary was born in Winnipeg, Man., June 14, 1950, and grew up in Strathclaire, Man. until the age of 7 years, at which time he and his parents moved into the West end on Strathcona Street in Winnipeg. In 1967 he met his first wife, Paulette Therese Richardson, and they married. The marriage resulted in two children, Janette and Marcus. He met his love Marie in 1991; they married in 1995. They lived a very active life, travelling, snowmobiling and riding motorcycles.
Gary was a very accomplished member of society, working for the Winnipeg Fire Department for 23 years. He retired with the rank of Deputy-Chief and moved to take the position of Fire Chief for the City of Ottawa. In 2000 he retired.
Gary had a great sense of humour and always loved a good joke. He touched many lives and lived his short life to the fullest. Gary is survived by his daughter Janette Richardson (Jason Hedley); son Marcus Richardson and wife Charlene Richardson; as well as ex-wife and dear friend, Paulette Richardson; stepchildren: son Noel (Jennifer) Ross, daughter Chantal Ross (Dennis Leblanc), daughter-in-law Lisa Ross; seven grandchildren, Tyler, Brendan, Trinity, Noah, Ian, Tosh, Zachary; cousins, Pat Crowell, David (Sharon) Webster, Richard (Arlene) Webster.
His parents, Robert and Jessie Mae Richardson; his sisters, Margaret and Joyce; and stepson, Edmond Ross, predeceased Gary.
Funeral mass will be held Friday, Sept. 9, 2:00 p.m., in the St. Timothy Parish, 135 John Forsyth Rd.
The Coutu family in care of arrangements: E.J. Coutu & Co. Funeral Directors, 680 Archibald St., Winnipeg, Man. (204) 253-5086
ALMA FREUND (nee Biedler)
Sept. 29, 1913 — Sept. 1, 2005
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, Alma Freund.
Alma has been reunited with her husband Gustav, her daughter Nora, great-grandson Zachary and son-in-law Roy.
Alma is sadly missed but lovingly remembered by her daughter Linda Freund, son Elmer Freund, daughters Norma (Tom) Dyback, Elfrieda Smuk, Elaine (Ted) Osadchuk and Eileen Freund. She also leaves numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
Alma was born in Steinbach, Man., and grew up on the family farmstead near Friedensfeld, Man., with her father and brother. Alma and Gustav were married in 1933 and were blessed with seven children. After Gustav passed away in 1966, Alma remained on the family farm with her son Elmer. It is there she enjoyed gardening, baking (especially those chocolate cakes) and the many family get-togethers that would occur over the years at the farm. With fond memories we will always remember those special times spent with our mom, grandma and Oma.
Alma was special. Her soft, gentle, kind-hearted nature touched those who were fortunate enough to spend time with her, especially her grandchildren. She loved watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play and cherished those times with her family.
We were blessed to have spent so many years with her and we are happy that she was able to do and enjoy the things that she loved right up until her passing.
Funeral service was held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Steinbach. Interment at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements by: Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
CORNELIUS J. FAST
1922-2005
Cornelius J. Fast of Blumenort, Man., passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, Sept. 2, 2005 at the Steinbach Rest Haven at the age of 82 years.
He will be missed and lovingly remembered by his children, Carol and Phil
Doerksen (Jodi, Carey and Pam) of Winnipeg, Man., Donald and Emily Fast (Adrian, Michael, Darrick) of Blumenort, Sharon and Allan Reimer (Aaron, Austin) of Balmoral, Man., Bonita and Ike Friesen (Jeff, Kristen, Tyler) of Emo, Ont., Grace Fast (Stuart and Charis, Ella, Reese, Andrew, Tasha) of Mitchell, Man., Dylan and Val Fast (O'Danis, Isaiah) of Winnipeg, and Angie and Jody Baty (Evan, Nina) of Winnipeg. He is also survived by his siblings Eva Fast, Edmar Fast, Agatha Grant, and by numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends.
He was predeceased by his wife Dora in 2004 and by his son Reg in 1998. He was also predeceased by his parents, Henry and Agatha Fast, and his siblings, Vern, Helen, Wilbert, Margaret, Albert and Ann.
Cornie spent his early years in Linden, Man. As a young boy during the depression, he already carried a lot of responsibility helping to provide for his family. At the age of 16 he started working at a lumber camp. Together with his brother Vern, he started Fast Brothers at the age of 23. He continued to be involved in heavy construction for the rest of his life. With his engineering mind and creative hands he designed and built many things. He obtained his private pilot license in 1958. He flew for fun and surveying job sites, using his backyard as a landing strip.
In 1947 he married Dora Warkentine. After living in Ridgewood, Man. for several years, they moved to Blumenort. They raised seven children. Although work took him away from home for extended periods, family was always his first priority. He will be remembered as having a quiet but strong character, which reflected on how he lived his life. His humble lifestyle demonstrated his strong faith in God.
The funeral service was held Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2005 at the Blumenort Evangelical Mennonite Church. Interment at the Blumenort EMC Cemetery.
If friends so desire, donations may be made to Mennonite Disaster Service, 306-2265 Pembina Hwy, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 5J3.
Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
PETER ERVIN HEIDE
Peter Heide, born Oct. 2, 1919, passed away peacefully Sept. 4, 2005 at Steinbach Bethesda Hospital. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife of 58 years, Helen (nee Stoesz); daughters, Evelyn Heide, Carrie Wachsmann (Win); sons, Irv Heide (Tobi) and Tim Heide. Also left to cherish fond memories are grandchildren, Minde, Hart, Julie, Amanda, Jenna and Corbin; as well as his brother John Heide; many nieces, nephews, other extended family and friends.
Peter was predeceased by parents, John J. and Sarah Heide; and sister Annie Brandt. Peter lived for 58 years in the Horndean, Man. area, where he established and operated a gravel construction and hauling company, until the family's move to Steinbach, Man. in 1967. His aptitude for mechanical design and creativity provided him with the opportunity to continue the work that he loved well into his 80s.
A sincere thank you to Dr. Fast and the home care workers who cared so lovingly for Dad and to those dear friends who provided such meaningful support in his last weeks.
Viewing will take place at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Dr. in Steinbach, Friday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held Saturday, Sept. 10, 11 a.m., at the Mennonite Brethren Church, 2nd St. and Lumber Ave, Steinbach. Interment will be at Groseweide Cemetery, near Horndean, Sunday, Sept. 11 at 11:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Gideons, PO Box 3619 Stn. Main, Guelph, ON, N1H 9Z9.
Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
WALTER P. WOHLGEMUTH
Walter P. Wohlgemuth, age 92, passed away Sept. 5, 2005 at Steinbach Bethesda Hospital.
He is survived by his wife Helen; three sons and two daughters: Mary Lou, Wilbert (Lydia), Susan (Ivan) Nolt, Glenn (Helen), Floyd (Myrna); 21 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; one brother, Abe; four sisters, Mary Reimer, Adina Isaac, Katie (Ernest) Reimer, and Nellie Penner.
He is predeceased by his parents, Henry and Katherine Wohlgemuth; two brothers and one sister.
Friends and family may view at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Saturday, Sept. 10 at 7 p.m., with a devotional at 7:30 p.m. Funeral service will be held Sunday, Sept. 11, 10:30 a.m., at the Greenland Church of God in Christ Mennonite.
Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
HARVEY G. PENNER
1913 — 2005
Harvey Penner passed away peacefully, Monday, Sept. 5, 2005 at Steinbach Bethesda Hospital at the age of 92.
He is survived by his beloved wife of over 37 years, Edna; two daughters, Julietta (Monroe) Goossen, and Nealda; and son, Chris Stevenson; six grandchildren and their families; one brother, Neil; and sisters, Leah and Elma. He was predeceased by his first wife Margaret in 1965.
The funeral service was held Thursday, Sept. 8, 10:30 a.m., at Greenland Church of God in Christ.
Arrangements entrusted to Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
MARY TOEWS PENNER
Mary Penner, aged 86 years, of Maplewood Manor, Steinbach, Man., formerly of Elma, Man., dearly beloved wife of the late Mr. Peter P. Penner, passed away Sunday, Sept. 4, 2005 at her residence.
She is survived by her sons, Ted and Averill, Philip and Sandra, Melvin and Edith, Peter and Ann; her daughters, Susan and Wayne Froese, Martha, Alfrieda and Phil Martin, Bernice and Rodney Froese, Laura and Kevin Boese, Josy, Louella and Bill Holden and Rosalie and Darc Loewen; 35 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.
Funeral service will be held Friday, Sept. 9, 2 p.m., in the Whitemouth Mennonite Church, with Minister Ed Friesen officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Viewing will be held at Sobering Funeral Chapel in Beausejour, Man., Thursday, Sept. 8, beginning at 7 p.m., with a devotional to follow.
In lieu of flowers, if family and friends so desire, donations in her memory may be made to Maplewood Manor, 284 Loewen Blvd., Steinbach, MB, R5G 1K3.
Arrangements by Sobering Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, Beausejour, Man.
RICHARD WINTONIW
Richard Wintoniw passed away peacefully Saturday, Aug. 20, 2005 at Rideau Lodge in Brandon, Man. Family and friends are welcome to attend a celebration of life to be held at Zhoda Hall, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2005 from 2-4 p.m.
A donation to the Canadian Diabetes, Kidney Foundation or Blind Institution in lieu of flowers would be greatly appreciated.
LOIS MAE PETERS
Lois Peters peacefully passed away at the age of 58, Sept. 22, 2005, with her husband by her side. Left behind to cherish her memory are her husband Aron; children, Roy (Teresa), Nora (Wayne), John (Tracy), Tammy (Shawn), Ruby; six granddaughters; five grandsons; sister Gail (Alf); and nephews, Corey and Lenny. She was predeceased by her parents and son Allen. Lois loved to knit, read, camp, garden, fish and spend time with all her family.
The funeral was held Sept. 26 at Birchwood Funeral Chapel.
If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Ste. Anne Hospital Fund, 52 St. Gerard St., Ste. Anne, MB, R5H 1C4.
Arrangements entrusted to: Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
HENRIETTA TOPNIK
Henrietta Topnik of Steinbach, Man. passed away at Bethesda Hospital Monday, Sept. 26, 2005 at the age of 82 years.
She is survived by her husband Arthur; daughters, Elaine Fingler, Remona Scarr, Lorelei Topnik (Dave Ivanchysko); grandchildren, Pamela and Jeffrey Fingler, Steven Scarr; sisters, Erna and Olga of Germany; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by three brothers and two sisters, all of Germany.
Her smile and sense of humor will be sadly missed by many people.
Many thanks to all the caregivers at Bethesda Hospital, Health Sciences Centre, St. Boniface Hospital, palliative care specialists, Dr. Toews, and all the many other loving people who helped make her last few months a special place in her heart.
Viewing will be held at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Thursday, Sept 29, 7 p.m., with a devotional at 7:30 p.m. Funeral service will be held Friday, Sept. 30, 10:30 a.m., at the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Steinbach. Interment at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, Friedensfeld, Man.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lutheran Hour Ministries, 270 Lawrence Ave., Kitchener, ON, N2M 1Y4 or South Eastman Palliative Care, PO Box 88, St. Pierre, MB, R0A 1V0.
Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
