Loewen, Patrick John (1974-2001)

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

Birth date: 1974 Feb 9

text of obituary:

PATRICK JOHN LOEWEN

Patrick john Loewen of Edmonton passed away jan. 17. He was born Feb. 9, 1974 to Bob and Fran Loewen. Although he had Down's syndrome and a congenital heart defect, he was a spirited, caring man with an insatiable zest for life. He attracted gifted, caring people into his life. By the time he was 5 months old, he had pneumonia 3 times. He was not expected to live more than 18 months, then 3 years, but his indomitable spirit allowed him to exceed expectations. He attended school from age 2 to 21, making many friends. His faith in God's love was of great comfort to him during the scary events of his declining health. After graduating from high school, he moved away from home. His 5 years in a Shared Living Program enabled him to continue to mature as a charismatic, humorous, loving man. He participated, as health allowed, in all aspects of his church community. He never doubted that he was a valued member of it. He was baptized and joined Lendrum MB Church Feb, 15, 1998. He is mourned by his parents Bob and Fran; brothers Robin, Andrew and Sarath Ou; and his grandmother Nina Willms. The funeral was jan. 22 in Lendrum MB Church, with David Dyck ministering.