Ekkert, Tina Penner (1923-1999)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary 2000 Mar 17 p. 27

Birth date: 1923 Aug 9

Text of obituary:

TINA EKKERT

Tina (Penner) Ekkert of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Dec. 30. She was born Aug. 8, 1923 in Orenburg, Russia. At age 6, the family fled to Germany, then to Paraguay. She committed her life to God at an early age; at 15 she was baptized. In 1942 she married Jacob Ekkert. After living in different places, in 1948 they homesteaded in Landskrone, Fernheim, Paraguay. Farm life was hard, but they made spiritual matters a priority. In 1973 they and 7 sons immigrated to Vancouver, leaving 2 daughters in Paraguay. They found fellowship in Vancouver MB Church. Life was easier, but they continued to work hard. They opened their home to visitors, offering a caring smile, inviting conversation and lodging. In retirement, she expressed creativity by making framed verses with dried pressed flowers. In 1996 they moved to a condo in Clearbrook, B.C., where they enjoyed old and new friendships. She suffered a severe stroke Mar. 24, 1997, leaving her dependent on others. Predeceased by Jacob and 3 sons, she is mourned by her children Friedrich, Herbert, Rudolf, Harold, Helga Friesen and Marlene Bartel; grandchildren and several brothers and sisters. The funeral was Jan. 4 in Clearbrook MB Church, with Peter J. Klassen and Hans Wiens ministering.