Toews, Elizabeth Bargen (1913-2005)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2006 Jan 13 p. 26

Birth date: 1913 Jul 18

text of obituary:

ELIZABETH TOEWS

Elizabeth Toews died Oct. 24. She was born July 18, 1913 in Orloff, Russia to Jacob and Helene Bargen. The family immigrated to Canada in 1926, settling in Gilroy, Sask. Elizabeth made a commitment to Christ early in life, was baptized and joined the church. At 18, she moved to Winnipeg to work as a nanny. She married John Jacob Toews in 1937. They farmed in Aldergrove, B.C., lived in Vancouver, and owned and operated a store and gas station in the Fraser Valley. South Abbotsford MB Church was their spiritual home. Elizabeth taught Sunday school and served as church secretary. She enjoyed visiting friends and relatives, gardening and travelling. After John's death in 1988, Elizabeth struggled with health issues, yet she loved life, had a strong faith in God and re- mained positive. She is mourned by children John (Linda), Hal and Vic (Bev); 2 granddaughters; 5 great-grandchildren; nieces (to whom she was guardian), Johanna (Doug) Vogel, Linda (Paul) Binding, Helen (Jake) Konrad and Adina (Peter) Poole; 1 nephew; 1 brother; 1 sister. The celebration of life service was Nov. 1 at Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford.