Falk, Ben D. (1910-2003)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2003 May 2 p. 27

Birth date: 1910 Sep 14

text of obituary:

BEN. D. FALK

Ben D. Falk of Niverville, Man. died Mar. 2. He was born Sept. 14, 1910 to David and Maria Falk in Steinfeld, Ukraine. The family moved to Arkadak 6 months later, immigrating to Niverville in 1929. He was responsible for his newly-widowed mother and 6 younger siblings. He worked hard and soon bought a farm for his mother and later one for himself. He accepted Christ at age 14, was baptized in Canada and became a member of Niverville MB Church. He married Elsie Friesen Sept. 10, 1938. They farmed together with their 4 oldest sons until retiring to Niverville in 1986. He loved farming, worked hard and was not afraid to take risks like buying more land and new equipment and using new technologies. He loved animals, especially horses. He was caring and compassionate, helping neighbours by taxiing them to hospitals and appointments. He opened roads to the school and highway after snowstorms. He helped neighbours complete their fall work after his was done. They sponsored many "displaced persons" following World War II. During retirement they travelled to Russia, the Holy Land, Europe, South America; made MDS tours and travelled within North America. He contributed to missions to Russia and built a church in Tipliechny and helped build one in Berdyansk. He supported a children's camp in Russia . He taught the value of hard work, honesty and a personal relationship with the Lord, praying daily for his children and their families. Predeceased by Elsie in April 1998, he his mourned by sons Alvin, Willie, Bernie and Erwin of Niverville, Dennis of Fresno, Calif. daughter Viola Toews of Steinbach, Man.; grandchildren; great-grand-children; 3 brothers; 2 sisters. The funeral was Mar. 7 in Fourth Avenue Bible Church, Niverville, with Rick McCorkindale ministering.