Pankratz, Anna (1896-1977)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1977 Sept 02 p. 31

Birth date: 1896 Apr 27

text of obituary:

ANNA PANKRATZ

Anna Pankratz was born on April 27, 1896 in Alexandrowka (Kusmitzky), south Ukraine, the daughter of Abram and Helene (nee Harder) Pankratz. At the age of nine months she contracted polio, which left her handicapped for the rest of her long life. Her parents predeceased her in her youth. For two years she lived with her sister Lena, and for the next 45 years her sister, (Mrs.) Liese Niessen, faithfully cared for her until she entered a nursing home.

At an early age she realized her lost condition. She was saved and baptized, joining the Mennonite Brethren Church in Blumenfeld. Because of her handicap she was never able to attend school, but learned to read at home. She spent much time reading God's Word, in prayer and singing Gospel songs. She loved her Saviour and the Church. In 1943 she fled from Russia, spent six years in Germany, and finally emigrated to Coaldale, Albert in 1950. The church deacons provided for her for many years, for which she was always grateful. Since 1969 she was cared for in invalid homes. In 1975 she suffered a stroke and pneumonia, which left her paralyzed and unable to talk. Hers was a long, difficult life, especially in the last two years. On July 17 the Lord took his weary child home.

Rudy Heidebrecht, pastor of the Coaldale Church, led a funeral service on July 27, assisted by John J. Dueck. She is mourned by two sisters·in-law in Russia, and many other friends and relatives in Russia, Germany and Canada.