Epp, Ewald P. (Ed) (1920-2002)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2003 Feb 7 p. 18

Birth date: 1920 Jan 26

text of obituary:

EWALD P. (ED) EPP

Ewald P. (Ed) Epp passed away Nov. 3. He was born to Peter and Susanna Epp in Rueckenau, Ukraine in 1920. The family immigrated to Canada in 1924, settled in Peoria, Alta. in 1928 and bought land in La Glace, Alta. in 1935. He attended the local MB Bible school for 3 years. He married Mary Konrad July 6, 1943. They farmed 40 years in La Glace and Valhalla, Alta., the first 25 years without electricity or a phone. He was also a trucker, sawmill operator, carpenter and stockman, and bought and sold cattle, land and rental houses. They retired in Grande Prairie, Alta. in 1987 and served as volunteer staff at Peace River Bible Institute, also providing agricultural produce. In 1992 they moved to Abbotsford, B.C. Favourite family times were quiet Sunday evenings when Mary would read out loud, and a 5-month camping trip to the US and Mexico 1958-59. He enjoyed music, playing guitar and mandolin as a young man and singing in choirs and quartets; travelling in the US, Mexico, Europe and Israel; and engaging strangers in lively, witty conversation around campfires and in coffee shops. He collected proverbs and sayings; appreciated the skillful use of language; appreciated large machines and work well done; and gained satisfaction from making a difference in the lives of others through volunteering and charitable donations. He is mourned by Mary; children Ellie, Judie, Paul and Rudy; 10 grandchildren; 1 great -grandson; 2 brothers and 1 sister. A memorial service was held Nov. 6 at Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford, with Heinz Ratzlaff and Wilf Johnson ministering.