Heinrichs, Erika Kroeker (1936-2001)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2002 Feb 8 p.25

Birth date: 1936 Sep 25

text of obituary:

ERIKA HEINRICHS

Erika Heinrichs passed away Nov. 2. She was born Sept. 25, 1936 to Johannes and Elizabeth Kroeker in Santa Catarina, Brazil. The family was close. Her home was filled with love of God, and the children were taught right from wrong. She accepted Christ at 11 and was baptized at 15. On Mar. 25, 1954, she married Abram Heinrichs, a corporal in the Brazilian military, in Colonia Nova, Brazil. In 1969 they moved to Canada, with only $1000, not knowing English. Through hard work, sharing and laughter, they survived the early years. They took risks and adapted to change. They made a number of moves in the Niagara area of Ontario. She loved her children and grandchildren, making time for them. She spoke to them on the phone, gave them hugs, made them buns, pancakes, apple fritters and meat buns and served them treats. She knitted quilts for them and for friends. Her hands were always busy; she prayed as she knitted. She cleaned homes working for Mrs. Costello for 28 years. She and Abram moved to Virgil, Ont. 13 years ago. They loved to travel; trips to Calgary, Cuba, Myrtle Beach, Brazil, Germany, B.C. and California were taken. She enjoyed camping, travelling in their motorhome, being with people, sitting around the fire, going for long walks, and sitting by the lake watching Abram fish. She spent hours preparing meals for celebrations as the family played Brazilian music and danced together. She enjoyed times of worship at church. Her Bible was well-worn; she said that there had been many good times, some had been difficult, but God had always helped them through. She was an unselfish, caring, loving, quiet, praying mother. She is mourned by Abram; children Elvera Voth, Lucy Hubert, Hugo, Edith Neufeld, Ed and Carl; and 15 grandchildren. The funeral was Nov. 5 in Cornerstone Community Church, Virgil, with Herman Neufeld ministering.