Schmidt, Erika Isaak (1929-2000)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 2000 Jun 9 p. 27

Birth date: 1929 Oct 6

Text of obituary:

ERIKA SCHMIDT

Erika Schmidt of Waldheim, Sask. passed away May 3 of cancer. She was born Oct. 6, 1929 to Johann and Sara Isaak in Moscow, Russia. Weeks later, they immigrated to Manitoba. They moved to southern Saskatchewan, then to Glenbush, Sask. She had to work hard because her mother was sick. At 14, she accepted Christ; in 1947 she was baptized, joining Glenbush MB Church. She attended Bethany Bible Institute for 1 1/2 years, returning home to care for her siblings when her mother died. After her father remarried, she became a teacher for 3 years; later, she began the kindergarten program in Waldheim, which she taught 11 years. She married Vernon Schmidt July 19, 1956. She worked hard at raising a family, gardening, sewing and cooking. After 1965, she and Vernon were involved with the Gideons. They made trips to Jamaica, Bahamas and Europe and took family vacations each summer. She taught Sunday school most of her adult life and was involved in a number of ministries in church, including 8 years on the board of administration. She volunteered at the MCC store. Community involvement included Home and School Association, figure skating club and local news reporting. After Vern died in 1992, she stayed on the farm as long as possible. In 1996 she moved to daughter Loretta's home. In 1998 she moved to Waldheim. She enjoyed reading, doing crossword puzzles and playing Scrabble. She entertained many people over the years, including missionaries and Bible school students. In 1994 a battle with cancer began. Numerous surgeries and treatments helped for a time. In 1999, after a trip to Hawaii, ill health returned. Throughout these struggles, her faith never wavered and she remained grateful. Predeceased by Vern and 1 brother, she is mourned by children Larry, Loretta Bueckert and Lanny, all of Waldheim, Lavonne Derksen of Rosthern, Sask., Lucille of B.C. and LeeAnne of Saskatoon; 14 grandchildren; 1 sister and 3 brothers. The funeral was May 7 in Waldheim MB Church, with Clarence Peters ministering.