Penner, Wesley B. (1933-1965)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1965 May 14 p. 18

Birth date: 1933 Apr 16

text of obituary:

WESLEY B. PENNER

April 16, 1933 in Steinbach, Man., the son of Bernard D. and Anna (nee Giesbrecht) Penner. He received his elementary and secondary education in Steinbach and continued his advanced education, at United College, graduating with a B.A. degree in 1954. After a year in the teaching profession he followed his inclination to legal studies and entered law school, graduating with an L.L.B. and receiving a call to the bar in 1959. He joined the firm Newman, McLean and Associates with whom he later entered into partnership.

Wesley was reared in a Christian home and in 1950 made his personal commitment to Christ. Upon confession of faith and baptism he became a member of the EMB Church in Steinbach where he remained a member for 13 years. In 1963 he was married to Joyce Redekop and together with his wife joined the Elmwood Mennonite Brethren Church in Winnipeg. A son David Wesley, now 11 months, was born to this union.

Wesley Penner was able to make unique contributions to our people through his profession. Among the organizations to which he especially devoted his attention were MCC (Canada) during its incorporation, (Mennonite) Mutual Trust Company, the Canadian Mennonite and others. He earned the friendship and respect of his associates through his professional conduct and service.

Despite failing health over a period of a number of years the deceased could minimize his condition and appreciate the time God gave him in his work and with his family. For some time both he and his wife knew that his condition was serious. On Sunday morning, May 2, shortly after awakening, his heart failed and he answered his Maker's call. His life was well ordered when he died and his testimony left no doubt that he anticipated entry into a greater, life beyond. His wife and family reflected the testimony of Job: "The Lord gave, the Lord has taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord."

Mourning his passing are his wife, Joyce; a son, David Wesley; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bernard D. Penner; three sisters; a brother; his mother-in-law, Mrs. A. Redekop; and many friends and relatives.

The funeral was in the Elmwood Church, May 5, with I. W. Redekopp and C. Wilbert Loewen speaking.