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LEOPOLD PRETEAU
With his loving family at his side, peacefully after a lengthy illness of blindness and his recent battle with cancer, it is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Leopold Preteau, at the age 75, April 6, 2006 at the St. Pierre Hospital.
Left to cherish his love and his life is his loving wife of 30 years, Dorothy; and their nine children: Real; Louis (Karen); Luc (Connie) and their children, Jerome (Heidi), Jeannine (Wes) and Kay-Lyn, Vanessa, Aaron and Daniel; Frances (John) and their children, Paul (Trista), Joyce (Randy) and Miriam; Eileina (Albert), Logan and Tyrel; Jacques; Pierre (Darlene) and LeAnne; stepchildren and their children, Jim Empey (Lise), Sean and Dean; Diane Leite (Rob), Ashley, Ryan and stepdaughter Colleen (Darryl) and grandchild Braiden; Cindy MacDonald (Sean). His sister Alice; brothers, Denis and Edward; sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, family and friends, will also sadly miss him. Leopold was predeceased by his first wife (Jeanne Dubois in 1974), parents, brothers, and sisters.
Leopold was born and raised in St. Malo, Man., where he took over the family farm. He enjoyed farming and driving the school bus, but after his heart surgery in 1985 he had to sell the farm. In 1988 we built a new house on the north side of town and he semi retired. He was a school bus driver for 20 years. He retired in 1995 and bought himself a quad and camper. He loved to travel, go camping at Thief River Falls, hunting and going quading with friends Laurent and Roger.
Leopold's faith in His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ led him through each day, especially since he became blind in 2002.
Viewing was held Tuesday, April 11, 7:30 p.m., at Vita Funeral Homes, St. Pierre Chapel St. Pierre, Man. The funeral service for Leopold took place Wednesday, April 12, 2006, 2.p.m., at St. Malo Parish, followed with interment in the parish cemetery. Father Marcel Chaput and Pastor Mark Funk officiated.
Pallbearers were his grandsons, Paul Wiebe, Jerome Preteau, Sean Empey, Aaron Preteau, Dean Empey, and Daniel Preteau.
The family would like to thank everyone for their ongoing prayers. A special thanks to Dr. Mark Duerksen and his staff of Steinbach Medical Center, homecare workers who took care of Leopold in the last few years, and a very special thanks to doctors, nurses and staff of St. Pierre Hospital for care they gave Leopold in the last 11 weeks.
In memory of Leopold, donations may be made to St Pierre Hospital or a charity of one's choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Vita Funeral Homes St Pierre Chapel, St Pierre, Man.
CLARA DOERKSEN
Clara Doerksen (nee Funk) went to be with the Lord on Friday morning, April 21, 2006, at Steinbach Bethesda Hospital, after a lengthy deterioration of her health. She was born to Katherina and Bernard Funk on July 31, 1922 in Main Centre, Sask. They moved to Gnadenfeld, Man. in 1935, where she attended Grunthal Goodwill School. As a young woman she accepted Jesus as her Saviour and was baptized in March of 1939. Mother was predeceased by our father, John B. Doerksen, whom she married on Oct. 22, 1939; son-in-law Jerrold Janz; and granddaughter Emily Honicker. She is survived by seven children, Alvin (Eva), Marlene (Robert Reimer), Paul (Joyce), Joyce (Henry Doerksen), Carol (Lloyd Lewis), Milton (Roberta) and Cynthia (Michel Amyot). In addition she is survived by 21 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, her sister Anne (Pete) Neufeld, and four sisters-in-law.
John and Clara joined the Spencer Bergthaler church and were involved in music and other functions of the church. In 1958, the family moved into Steinbach, Man. Here Mother went to work outside the home and held a variety of jobs.
Mother always had a real interest in education and personal development for herself, and especially for her children. She wanted her children to be well equipped to meet the demands of the "real" world - she always stressed the importance of a strong work ethic. As a young woman and mother of three she learned to play the piano. At the age of 50, when time would finally allow, she went back to school. She continued her education at Red River Community College, graduating with diplomas in Commercial Art and Interior Decorating.
Her father, Bernard Funk, writes in his autobiography, about our mother when she was born, that, "Clara is intelligent". What our grandfather saw in the very beginning of her life we had an opportunity to see throughout her life. We likely appreciated that quality more as we observed decisions she made and steps she took later on in her own life.
Mother was caring and compassionate, but in a proactive way - she was hardworking, tenacious, goal-directed, and committed. These qualities greatly impacted her family. She rejoiced in her children's successes, and likewise in the success of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also was a tenacious prayer warrior. She will be sadly missed by all, including her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she prayed for by name and communicated with and encouraged regularly.
The family wishes to thank those who contributed to her comfort and well being, including Home Care, Dr. Duerksen, Dr. Minnaar, and the Emergency Nurses. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
The funeral service was held at Birchwood Funeral Chapel on Monday, April 24, 2006. Interment at Heritage Cemetery.
Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Drive, Steinbach, Man.
ANNIE REIMER
Tuesday, April 25, 2006 at Bethesda Hospital, Steinbach, Man., Annie Reimer of Blumenort, Man., formerly of Mexico, passed away at the age of 83 years.
Annie was born March 5, 1923 at Kleefeld, Man. to Jacob W. and Mary Friesen.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Jake B. Reimer, and their 14 children: Jeannie (Clarence) Dueck of Costa Rica, Rose (Willie) Penner of Steinbach, Lawrence (Agnes) of Mexico/Blumenort, Peter (Agatha) of Blumenort, John (Sara) of Blumenort, Gordon (Esther) of Steinbach, Mary Ann (Henry) Unger of Alberta, Lorna (Ken) Penner of Landmark, Man., Frank (Tina) of Blumenort, Ervin (Margaret) of Steinbach, Nettie Wall of Mexico, Milton (Leona) of Mexico, Clara (Larry) Loewen of Texas, Cornie (Elvira) of Mexico; 61 grandchildren; and 103 great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by three sons-in-law, Diedrich Friesen, Gerhard Rempel and Henry Wall; as well as grandchildren, Alfred Reimer, Loreen Unger and several in infancy.
The funeral services will be held Saturday, April 29, 11 a.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Dr., Steinbach, Man. Interment at Kleefeld EMC cemetery.
Friends may pay their last respects at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Friday, April 28 at 7 p.m., with devotional at 7:30 p.m.
Arrangements entrusted to Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Drive, Steinbach.
DON PLETT
With great sadness, we, the family, announce the passing of Don Plett, 49 years of age, into his eternal home. He passed away at the Bethesda Hospital on Wednesday, April 26, 2006 surrounded by his family.
He is survived by his loving wife Rose; two daughters, Melissa (and Carl) Brandt, and Jackie; two sons, Justin and Bryan, all of Steinbach, Man.; his parents, David and Betty Plett, Kleefeld, Man.; one brother, Wayne (and Darlene) Plett, Kleefeld; two sisters, Sylvia (and Dan) Reimer, Kleefeld, Bev (and Terry) Penner, Steinbach; mother-in-law Gerda Plett, Steinbach; one brother-in-law, Frank (and Irene) Plett, Steinbach; two sisters-in-law, Sharon (and Jake) Fehr, Fort St. John, B.C., Grace (and Patrick) Plett, Steinbach; and many nieces and nephews.
Viewing will be held at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, Monday, May 1 at 7 p.m., with a devotional at 7:30 p.m. Funeral will be held Tuesday, May 2, 11 a.m., at Southland Community Church in Steinbach, with interment at Steinbach Heritage Cemetery.
Arrangements entrusted to Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
LAURA ISAAC
Laura Isaac was born April 22, 1940 to Cornelius and Elizabeth Toews at Morris, Man. In 1943, she moved with her parents to Kleefeld, Man., where she spent her childhood and youth years. She peacefully departed this life at Maplewood Manor, Steinbach, Man., April 22, 2006, reaching the age of 66 years.
At a young age she realized her need of a Saviour and gave her heart to the Lord. She was baptized into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite at Kleefeld in June 1953. She endeavored to stay true to her vows until her passing.
On Oct. 10, 1958, she was married to me, John Isaac, at Kleefeld, Man. To this union were born six children. We spent our first few years together on the home farm at Hochstadt, Man. In 1964, we moved to Roblin, Man., where we spent the next 33 years. Here we raised our family and had many happy times. In 1997, we moved to Steinbach, where I accepted a position at Maplewood Manor. She enjoyed the added dimension this move brought to her life by the involvement with the residents and staff.
Throughout her life, she enjoyed doing handwork and sewing. Many hours were spent during her illness making gifts for her grandchildren. This project gave her much satisfaction, but she left us before it was completed. She had a gift for composing and has left us many poems and songs.
Five years ago cancer became a part of her life. She bravely accepted her lot, although not without struggles. After a lengthy battle with the disease, she became weary and God called her home. We as a family are grateful that she cleared her way and left a clear testimony of being ready to meet her Lord. We also appreciated the loving care she received at Maplewood Manor the last 11 days of her life. Though we grieve, we look forward to the blessing of meeting her again some day in Heaven, where there will be no more pain.
She leaves to mourn her passing: me, her loving husband; two sons and four daughters: Marilyn and Calvin James of Carrot River, Sask., Mildred and Bernie Friesen of Rosenort, Man., Marcel and special friend Elizabeth Nagy of Kitchener, Ont., Ray and Sheryl of Bredenbury, Sask., Lynette and Lynwood Friesen of Roblin, Brenda and Phillip Wiebe of Steinbach; 19 grandchildren; and many more relatives and friends. Her parents and two brothers preceded her in death.
The funeral service was held at the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite in Steinbach Wednesday, April 26. Interment at Heritage Cemetery.
Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach and Winnipeg, Man.
GÉRARD BEAUDOIN
C'est avec le cœur lourd que nous annonçons le décès de notre Papa, grand-papa et arrière grand-papa, Gérard le mercredi 3 mai 2006. Il était âgé de 85 ans.
Gérard, né le 13 mars 1921 et fils de Signard et d'Arthémise (née Robert) a grandi dans sa paroisse natale, Sainte-Agathe.
Après des études à l'école du village, dès un jeune âge et à cause de la santé chancelante de son père, Papa assume la responsabilité de la ferme où il grandit. Quelques années plus tard, avec sa « Reine », il exploitera cette même ferme et plus tard, une ferme à Otterburne où, en même temps, ils veilleront à l'épanouissement de six fils et de deux filles.
Papa fut précédé dans la tombe par sa première épouse, Marie-Reine Laroche, sa deuxième épouse, Madeleine Daoust, sa fille, Rachel Munilla, une petite fille, Marie, ses parents et beaux-parents, Signard et Arthémise (née Robert), Joseph et Alphonsine (née Côté) Laroche, sa sœur, Irène Beaudry et ses beaux-frères, Paul Laroche et Léo Beaudry. Il laisse pour chérir sa mémoire, ses enfants et leurs conjoint.e.s : Pierre et Evelyne (née Raffard); Michel et Colleen Vale; Jean et Pauline Lavoie; Claude; Denis et Kimberly Knowles; François Munilla; Henri et Louise (née Gagnon); Aline et Robert Tremblay; 27 petits-enfants; 17 arrière-petits-enfants; sa sœur, Sœur Jeanne Beaudoin, snjm; ainsi que ses beaux-frères et belles-sœurs de la famille Laroche, Alphonse et Laurence, Noëlla, Albert et Helen, Étienne et Ellen, Madeleine, David, Pierre et Carmen, François et Marie-Reine, Léon et Marie-Rose.
Gérard tenait à remercier sincèrement Philippe et Yolande LeQuéré. Lors de la maladie et du décès de Madeleine, leur présence et leur support furent précieux.
La famille de Gérard désire remercier chaleureusement Yolande et Philippe LeQuéré ainsi que l'abbé Laval Cloutier pour les soins et l'attention porté à Papa, leur encouragement, leur support et leur présence pour tous et chacun. Un merci spécial au personnel de l'Hôpital général de Saint-Boniface pour les bons soins médicaux et le confort qu'on assurait pour Papa.
Au lieu de fleurs, ceux qui le désirent peuvent faire un don en la mémoire de Gérard à Manitoba Lung Association, 629, avenue McDermot, Winnipeg, MB R3A 1P6 (tél. 204 774-5501)
La messe des funérailles en présence des cendres en la Cathédrale de Saint-Boniface ont eu lieu le samedi 6 mai à 10h 00. L'inhumation des cendres suivra à une date ultérieure dans le cimetière de Sainte-Agathe.
With much sadness, we announce the passing away of our father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Gérard, Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at the Saint-Boniface Hospital. Papa was 85 years young.
Funeral mass in presence of the ashes was held at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 6, 2006 in the Saint-Boniface Cathedral. Interment in the family plot in the Sainte-Agathe cemetery will take place later.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Gérard's memory, to the Manitoba Lung Association, 629 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R3A 1P6 (phone 204-774-5501).
The Desjardins Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements, 233-4949 or toll free 1-888-233-4949.
PETER TOEWS
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Peter Toews. In quintessential Peter fashion he faced the cancer with a fierce determination that was characteristic of his personality. Sadly the battle was lost, but ultimately he slipped away on his own terms. He found the strength and courage to hold on long enough to say goodbye to his loving family.
Peter was born Sept. 23, 1943 in New Bothwell, Man. Although he spent 30 years in Calgary, Alta., some of his most cherished memories were that of his childhood spent on the family farm; he often spoke of his time there as a boy with fond recollection.
A dedicated family man, Peter leaves behind his loving wife Kathy; and his children, Jeff (Dana), Chris (Christy), Jennifer (Ryan), Ken (Michelle); and two beautiful granddaughters, Olivia and Sydney. As well, Peter is survived by his mother Helen; his sisters, Mariann (Brian), Helen (Henry); his brother Jack (Mary); and numerous nieces and nephews. Peter was predeceased by his father George and his sister Mary.
Peter radiated a warmth and charm that was matched only by his infectious smile and delightful sense of humor. Always the consummate host, Peter's generous spirit and love of life will be greatly missed, but fondly remembered.
Services will be held Sunday, May 14, 2 p.m., at the Birchwood Funeral Chapel in Steinbach, Man. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. The Toews family would also like to thank all those who attended to Peter at the Tom Baker for their compassionate care and understanding.
WILMA SOFRONIUK
Wednesday, May 3, 2006, Wilma Isabella Sofroniuk (nee Flannery) passed away accidentally in the R.M. of Stuartburn at the age of 69 years.
Wilma is survived by her beloved husband Stephen Sofroniuk of Vita, Man.; her son Bill Sofroniuk of Steinbach, Man., and his family, wife Bev (nee Barkman) and their two daughters, Madisson and Michelle. She is also survived by her granddaughter Angie Sofroniuk, her partner Robbin Froese and his sons, Elijah and Dakota; and by her grandson Bill and his partner Pam Spencer, all of Winnipeg, Man. Wilma was predeceased by her parents, three brothers, and a stepson.
Wilma had a kind and giving heart, and had a passion for cooking, baking and playing bingo. She recently retired from nearly 30 years of service in the home care field, the last 22 years of which were spent in the Vita area. Wilma will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Wilma's honor may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Society and/or the Pipestone Cemetery.
"May you always walk in sunshine, may you never want for more, may Irish angels rest their wings right beside your door."
The funeral was held Wednesday, May 10, 2006, 2 p.m., at the Vita Funeral Home in Vita.
Arrangements entrusted with Vita Funeral Homes "Vita Chapel".
ANTON KEHLER
Peacefully, May 7, 2006, with family by his side, Anton Kehler passed away to be with his Lord and Savior. Anton is survived by six children, 17 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren: Nancy and Jerry Friesen of Rosenort, Man., and their children; Orville and Jenni Kehler of Rosenort, and their children; Angela and Peter Siemens of Rosenort, and their children; Rebecca and Don Reimer of Mitchell, Man., and son Dustin; Christine and Jim Warkentin of Yorkton, Sask., and their children; Paul and Lisa Kehler of Steinbach, Man., and their children. He is also survived by two sisters, Olga and Arnold Pokrant of Altona, Man., and Annie Gunn of Sherwood Park, Alta. He was predeceased by his wife Lena on May 4, 2006; one daughter, Mary Jane in infancy; one grandson, Adam Kehler in infancy; and two brothers, Arnold and Edwin.
Anton was born Nov. 25, 1920, and raised in the village of Altona, Man. As a farm boy he enjoyed many hours helping out with the chores, and teasing his sisters, Annie and Olga. Dad met Mom, Lena Kehler, in Morris, Man. in 1948 and they married on Oct. 16, 1949. They spent the first 20 years in Altona, where Dad worked for D.W. Friesens. Here their family grew from two to eight. Dad then took a job in Rosenort as Co-op store manager for the next seven years. He later accepted a job in Steinbach as manager of Robinson stores, where he stayed till 1985. Dad has served on many church boards, committees and MCC. In August of 1995, Dad suffered a major heart attack. Together with his diabetes, his health greatly deteriorated. May 7, 2006, Dad was relieved of his suffering and went home to be with his Lord and Savior.
The family would like to thank the nursing staff on the first floor of the Bethesda Hospital, and the home care staff at Woodhaven who have been a great blessing to Mom and Dad. We would also like to express thanks for all the pastoral visits, and all the help we have received in planning two funerals. The family is very grateful for all of the prayers, cards, food, and visits at this time of loss.
The funeral service will be officiated by Reverend John Dyck and Ben Friesen. Viewing will be held at the EMC, Main Street, in Steinbach at 7 p.m., Thursday, May 11. Funeral services will be held at the EMC at 2 p.m., Friday, May 12. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mennonite Central Committee.
Arrangements by Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Dr., Steinbach, Man.
ANNE HIEBERT
Anne Hiebert, born April 28, 1924, passed away to be with her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ on May 6, 2006 at the St. Pierre Hospital. She is predeceased by her parents, Jacob and Maria Hiebert; and sisters, Marie, Helen, Susan and Katherine.
Anne leaves to mourn, sisters, Agnes (C.K. Harder) and Elisabeth Kehler; and brothers, Jacob (Sally), and Brad Hiebert; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends who affectionately called her Tante Anne. Anne also leaves to mourn, Tassos and Joy Xanthopoulos, whom she considered part of her family.
Anne spent much of her life on the family farm in Prefontaine area, milking cows, tending the gardens, and working in the fields. She was a hard worker throughout her life. She lived in an era that transcends the time of horse drawn wagons, the use of automobiles and the speed of airplanes, and Anne enjoyed them all. Her adventurous spirit took her on trips to Ontario, Alberta and Florida. Anne and her sister Kathy moved from the farm to Steinbach, Man., where they faithfully took care of their mother until her death, after which they moved to Niverville, Man. Anne again demonstrated her faithfulness by taking care of her sister Kathy until her death in 2003.
Together Anne and Kathy ministered to their church and the community by opening their home to out of province visitors, helping prepare weekly lunches for the high school students, extending hospitality to family and friends, and folding bulletins for the church. Anne also knitted an abundance of mittens and socks, which she donated to missions, all the while sharing her faith.
Many have enjoyed Anne's company over a friendly Faspa. She loved beautiful and productive gardens, reading, knitting, music and visiting with people. She enjoyed a large celebration for her 80th birthday in 2004 and was planning her 82nd birthday party this spring.
She will be greatly missed by her family and friends, but we rejoice that she is celebrating life with her Saviour in Heaven. "Therefore since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 5:1
The funeral service for Anne will be held at the Word of Life Church in Niverville, Saturday, May 13, 2006 at 10:30 a.m., with viewing prior to the service. Interment will take place at Hespeler Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Compassion Canada.
Arrangements entrusted to Steinbach Funeral Home, 5 Chrysler Gate, Steinbach, Man.
