Penner, Mary Neufeldt (1892-1972)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1972 Sep 22 p. 23

Birth date: 1892 Dec 25

text of obituary:

MARY PENNER

Mary Penner, beloved wife of David Penner Sr. of Grassy Lake, Alberta was born in 1892, in Southern Russia in the home of Jakob and Anna Neufeldt. She was married in 1912 to David Penner. The early years of their marriage were marred by the outbreak of World War l, with the resulting separation and loneliness caused by compulsory service to their country. Following the revolution the Penners felt the uneasiness and insecurity in Russia and in 1925 they emigrated to Canada, settling on a farm at Grassy Lake.

It was here that they participated in the organization of a small Mennonite Brethren Church, which remained her church-home throughout the years of her life.

Despite her declining health, Mrs, Penner lived to enjoy the diamond anniversary of their marriage in June of this year. About two weeks before her passing her illness became very serious. She was taken to hospital, but her heart was too weary to respond to treatment. The Lord took her home quietly, in the presence of her family, on the afternoon of August 23, 1972.

She leaves to mourn her husband David, four sons and three daughters, 30 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. Two sisters survive her - Mrs. Anna Willms in Lethbridge, Alberta and Mrs. Tina Siemens in Russia.

The funeral was held on the Saturday following, with Br. D. J. Pankratz officiating. Mrs. Penner was laid to rest in the small cemetery on the grounds of the M. B. Church at Grassy Lake. "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." Psalm 116:1