Toews, Marie Wiens (1910-2000)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2001 Mar 30 p. 28

Birth date: 1910 Feb 23

text of obituary:

MARIE TOEWS

Marie Toews of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Feb. 16. She was born Feb. 23, 1910 to Jacob and Helena Wiens in Kleefeld, Russia. When she was 11, her parents died, leaving 6 children. She accepted the Lord with the help of her sister and brothers Frank and Martin. In 1926 the children left Russia for Canada, but Marie remained in England for 3 years due to trachoma. In 1929 she was reunited with her family in Watrous, Sask. She was baptized at 19. She married Abram Henry Toews Nov. 22, 1931. She loved babies even though they meant much work. In 1943 they moved to Yarrow, B.C. for 9 months. They then lived in Surrey, B.C. for 3 years and New Westminster for 4 years before moving to Richmond, B.C. In 1968 they moved to Abbotsford. She learned to drive at age 60. They joined South Abbotsford MB Church. In retirement, they enjoyed travelling and visiting family. Abram died Aug. 7, 1978. She spent many hours visiting the sick, volunteering at the MCC store and driving friends to ladies' meetings and medical appointments. Her last 5 years were spent at Tabor Manor, Tabor Home and Menno Hospital. Predeceased by Abram, daughter Mary in 1943, 2 brothers and 2 sisters, she is mourned by children Don, Benno, Helen Wiens, Martha Janzen, Louise Peters, Ernie, Linda Peters, Esther Martens, Neil, and Dave; 23 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 1 brother. The funeral was Feb. 21 in South Abbotsford MB Church, with Frank Martens ministering.