Enns, Wilfred (1954-1972)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1972 Sep 08 p. 31

Birth date: 1954 Jan 20

WILFRED ENNS

Wil·fred Enns was hom in 1954, and accepted by the family as a gift from God. He underwent a hemia operation when 10 months old, but after that enjoyed a healthy childhood unti,1 he was five years old. After tests in the Winnipeg Clinic, it was discovered that his lungs were diseased and he was troubled with bronchial and other ailments for most of the rema·inder of his 'life. Wilfred accepted Christ when he was five ye'ars old, and attended church whenever his health would p·ermit. Although he spent weeks at a time in v·arious hospitals, he was able to complete his schooling without failing a grade. In 1966 the family moved to St. Catharines, Ontario. He continued to receive the services of specia,l-ists. In 1970 he was baptized and joined the Scot,t Street M.B. Church, whose fa'ithfu'l member he remained till the end. His he'alth c·ontinued to remain precarious, and various operations were conducted with some success. Although the healtih problem was a severe test, the family and WiHred were strengthened in their faith and apprecia·ted the supporting prayers of other believers. The last winter Wilfred spent a good deal of time in the hospital. Here he found in the chaplain, Father Peter Macaulay, a real friend. In spite of all attempts to he·lp, Wi·lfred's health slowly dedin-ed. His las·t days were made happy by visits from his pastor, and a quartet, an·d he dictated a messa·ge to the church members as weN. He di·ed on July 29, at the age of 18 years . The large attendance of nurses, teachers, friends, and young people at the funeral home and at the church servic-e was very meaningful. A large number o·f Gideon Bibles were placed in his memory. A large cho·ir of young people sang some o~ his favourite hymns at the funeral as we'll as at the home of the bereaved parents. Left to mourn brothers, 4 s'isters, and fr·iends. are his parents, 3 as well as relatives and friends.