Bartel, Elfrieda (1934-1972)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1972 May 19 p. 30

Birth date: 1934 Sep 06

text of obituary:

ELFRIEDA BARTEL

Elfrieda Bartel was born at Glenbush, Sask., on September 6, 1934. Already in her infancy she was not spared from serious illness and a number of times she was at the point of death. At the early age of 6 she accepted Christ as Saviour in simple faith. However she often experienced doubts until, when she was 15, she confided her despair to her mother. Her mother was able to help her and led her to full assurance of her salvation. In the same year she was baptized and joined the Mennonite Brethren church at Glenbush.

The Lord had blessed Elfrieda with a voice which she used to glorify him in congregational, choir and group singing . In the home singing was a major influence in molding her Christian character. She joined the pharmacy staff of the St . Paul's Hospital of Saskatoon in 1961 and worked in this department for 10 years. During the recent revival in Saskatoon the Lord again touched Elfrieda's life in a clear way and she responded, giving him full control of her life. She testified of a new relationship with the Lord and fellow workers. A new desire to serve the Lord led her to apply to MCC to serve as a secretary in a voluntary service assignment. She was to have joined MCC in July. Her life as well as her sudden departure on April 7 have been an impressive example not only to those with whom she had contact but also especially to her immediate family. Her care for her parents during their latter years will always be remembered by her family.

Predeceased by her parents, one sister and three brothers, she is survived by three sisters, Mrs. Jake (Helen) Isaak of Medstead, Sask., Mrs. Gerhard (Erna) Wiens of Vernon, B.C. and Mrs. John (Katie) Siemens of Medstead; and one brother, Henry, of North Battleford. The funeral was conducted from the Central Mennonite Brethren Church, Saskatoon, on April 12, with Rev. Henry J. Harder officiating. Interment was at Glenbush.