Wiens, Anna Wiens (1920-2000)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2001 Jan 05 p. 27

Birth date: 1920 Aug 08

text of obituary:

ANNA WIENS

Anna Wiens of St. Catharines, Ont. passed away Oct. 3 in an accident. She was born Aug. 8, 1920 to Jacob and Liese Wiens in Russia. At 9, she accepted Christ; at 14, she renewed that commitment. In 1930 the family crossed the Amur River into China. In 1932 the family reached Paraguay. She recalled only times of joy growing up surrounded by a loving family-something she did not take for granted as her right. Though she struggled at times with assurance of salvation, she always had awe and reverence for God. She married Abram Wiens Oct. 1, 1938. Son Henry died at age 18 on Apr. 3, 1966. She responded to the needs of others as she learned about them, sharing even in times of financial hardship. Her motto, which she worked to instill in her children, was "Help me to live for others, that I may live for Thee". She loved to sing and saw singing in the church on Sundays as practice for her worship of God in song throughout the week. She remembered birthdays. She prayed often for her children on her knees by her bed. As her family expanded, so did her prayer ministry. Beside her bed was a box of Scripture cards which she had memorized and used daily as prayers for her children. She and Abram had daily devotions with Bible reading and prayer. Family occasions like Easter and Christmas were open to those who were lonely or needed encouragement. She was struck by a vehicle while crossing the road to buy cards to send to family and friends. Predeceased by 1 son, 1 sister and 3 brothers, she is mourned by Abram; children Ernie, Erv, Hugo, Hart, Mary Warkentin, Betty Loewen, Muggs Klassen, Dave, and Boma Waboso; 42 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters and 1 brother. The funeral was Oct. 7 in Scott St. MB Church, with John Wiebe and Erv Wiens ministering.