Epp, Gerhard Johann (1897-1990)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 1991 Jan 11 p. 27

Birth date: 1897

text of obituary:

GERHARD JOHANN EPP

Gerhard Johann Epp of St. Catharines passed away Nov. 2. He was born Aug. 24, 1897 to Johann Gerhard and Eva Epp in Kleefeld, Molotschna, Russia. When he was 11, the family moved to Rosenort. His twin brother's death at age 15 left a profound impression. When he was 16, the family moved to Arrival, Suvorovka, near the Caucasus Mts. At age At age 18, he accepted Jesus, was baptized and joined a church, meeting in his parents' home. Also at 18, he was conscripted into the civil service. In 1919 he served in the medical corps of the White Army. On Sept. 30, 1921 he married Maria Wiens. They lived on his parents' farm; then his father bought him a neighbouring farm. At 26, the church elected him for preaching ministry. In June, 1925 they immigrated to Gnadenthal, Man. In spring they moved to Winnipeg, where he worked at construction, harness making and road work. In 1928 they moved to North Kildonan, Man., living in a shed they bought for $350. Work was scarce and they were on relief a short time, but never went hungry. He served as Sunday school teacher and superintendent, youth leader, church secretary, assistant church leader and, for 5 years, pastor. In 1933 he was ordained in North End (now Elmwood MB) Church. In 1942 they moved to Ontario. In 1943 he helped organize Scott St. MB church in St. Catharines, serving 7 years as pastor. As his health improved, he found other jobs. He was assistant moderator of Ontario MB Conference for several years. In 1955 he and Maria became house parents and chaplain at Bethesda Home; they served together 6 years, then he served alone for 2 more. Maria died Mar. 4, 1975. He preached, ministered at Tabor Manor and travelled to visit relatives in Europe. Predeceased by his wife and 2 sisters, he is survived by daughters Mary Rempel of St. Catharines and Ann Schaefer of Winnipeg; sons George of St. Catharines, John of Winnipeg and David and Henry of Toronto; 20 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; 1 brother and 1 sister. The funeral was Nov. 6 in Scott St. MB Church, with John Unrau, Henry Penner and John Epp ministering.