Goossen, Erwin (1930-2008)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2008 Oct p. 35

Birth date: 1930 Dec 15

text of obituary:

ERWIN GOOSSEN

Erwin Jakob Goossen died peacefully Aug. 8, 2008. He was born Dec. 15, 1930 in Fuerstenwerder, Ukraine to Jacob and Anna Goossen. His early years were peaceful until his dad was taken away by Soviet officials, never to be seen or heard from again. At 11, Erwin accepted Jesus Christ as Saviour. In 1948, Erwin and his 3 siblings left Germany for Paraguay to rejoin other relatives. Erwin's love of learning from Scripture and singing in choirs was sparked by attending Bible school, where he also met and married Anna Klassen . Relatives in Canada helped the couple immigrate in 1955 . Erwin and Anna settled in Vineland, Ont., where Erwin worked in construction, in the automotive industry, and as church custodian. Erwin sang in the choir, taught Sunday school, served in the deacon ministry, and gave spiritual leadership to a small group at Vineland MB Church. He always took time to help where needed, attended many games, concerts, graduations, baptisms, weddings and family gatherings. Erwin is mourned by Anna; children Esther (Frank) Giesbrecht, Annie (Doug) Schulz, Ruth (Richard) Wiebe, Martha (Andrew) Dyck, Ingrid (Ken) Heidebrecht, Laurena (Ralph) Tallman, Harvey (Paula), Carolyn Goossen; 26 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren. His life celebration was Aug. 12 at Vineland (Ont.) MB Church.