Balzer, Hildegard Penner (1923-2007)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2007 Jun p/ 30

Birth date: 1923 Mar 31

text of obituary:

HILDEGARD BALZER

Hildegard Balzer died April 18. She was born Mar. 31,1923 in Gruenfeld, Russia to Johann and Susanna Penner. The family fled Russia, settling in Paraguay. Hildegard's caring nature was evident in the care she gave her ailing father. She married Andreas Balzer Mar. 11, 1944. They went to the U.S. to study in 1952, returned to Paraguay in 1956, then moved to Vancouver in 1960. Although subject to health problems after typhoid fever as a child, Hildegard faithfully supported her husband in his responsibilities, took a leading role in a ladies club , worked as a cleaning lady, and did many arts and crafts. She enjoyed reading Bible verses and caring for others. She also had a soft spot for animals. Upon retirement, Hildegard and Andreas moved to Abbotsford, B.C After Andreas died Nov. 28,1997, Hildegard was very lonely and her health declined. Eventually she became a resi dent of Menno Home. Predeceased by Andreas; 2 siblings; she is mourned by children Fred (Dorinda), Nancy (Don) Messere; 1 granddaughter; 1 great-grandson; 2 siblings.