Cornelsen, James Elvin (1927-2004)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2004 Jun 11 p. 28

Birth date: 1927 Jan 19

text of obituary:

JAMES ELVIN CORNELSEN

James Elvin Cornelsen died Apr. 7. He was born Jan. 19, 1927 in Herbert, Sask. to George and Kathrina Cornelsen. When he was 7 the family moved to Turnhill, Sask. Here he was led to Jesus by his mother. At 15 he was baptized and joined the MB Church. He became a teacher. The family moved to Kelowna, B.C. He married Dora Hauff. Jim taught at numerous schools. He then taught at Prairie Bible Institute, Three Hills, Alta. They moved to Valleyview, Alta. where he was teacher and vice-principal. He served as president of the school division and as vice-president of the Grande Prairie Country Local. He was named Honorary President of the Teachers Convention Board. His staff remembers him fondly. He was "Mr. Fix-it" and helped friends, family and the church. He served as lay pastor, choir director, moderator, youth leader, teacher and on the provincial MB Conference board. He was not ashamed of his faith. He loved music. They retired to Kelowna in May 1991. He became ill but suffered silently. He was a loving husband and father, spiritual leader, and a walking encyclopedia. Predeceased by 1 grandson, he is mourned by Dora, daughters Lucille McKee, Rhonda Harvie, Monica Rowson, Cynthia Olson; sons James, Geoffrey and Gregory; 21 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; 1 sister. The funeral was Apr. 12 in Willow Park Church, Kelowna.