Doerksen, Erna Wiens (1917-2004)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2004 Nov 5 p. 29

Birth date: 1917 May 29

text of obituary:

ERNA DOERKSEN

Erna Doerksen died Sept. 4. She was born May 19, 1917 in Issyl Kul, Siberia, to Abram and Justina Wiens. The family immigrated to Morden, Man. in 1926, then to Steinbach, Man. In 1929 they moved to Gem, Alta. She received Jesus as Saviour at 14 and was baptized. She attended Bible school in Gem for 2 years, taught Sunday school and sang in the choir. She married John Doerksen Oct. 22, 1938. In 1945 they moved to Abbotsford and settled on a dairy farm. They attended Arnold MB Church and later South Abbotsford MB Church. John died May 1984. She moved to Evergreen Village and joined Clearbrook MB Church. She sang in the German choir. Because of deteriorating health she moved to Hallmark Assisted Living in Nov. 2002. She attended church via TV. She knit and crocheted for family and relief organizations. She was an avid reader and enjoyed listening to tapes. Predeceased by John, 2 infant grandchildren and 6 siblings, she is mourned by sons Ben and Bill; daughters Marie, Martha and Betty; 9 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 1 sister. The funeral was Sept. 9 at Clearbrook MB Church.

Editor's note: Erna's correct birth date is May 29, 1917.