Hildebrand, Peter P. (1900-1970)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1970 Sep 04 p. 26

Birth date: 1900 Sep 14

text of obituary:

PETER P. HILDEBRAND

Peter Hildebrand went to be with the Lord on August 12. He was born September 14, 1900 in the village of Steinfeld, Baratow, South Russia, the oldest son of Peter and Aganetha Hildebrand.

God began speaking to him through messages by missionary Franz Wiens in 1911, but it was not until November 26, 1914 that he came through to a personal faith in Christ when his father read 1 John 1:9 to him. He was baptized and joined the Mennonite Brethren church on June 8, 1921.

In 1924 he left home and emigrated to Canada alone, arriving in Steinbach, Manitoba.

On October 12, 1930 he married Helena Froese and shared a happy 39 years and 10 months of life with her. The Lord blessed them with eight children, four daughters and four sons. One son was lost in infancy.

They settled on a farm at Lowe Farm in 1931 and remained there until their retirement in the fall of 1968. Mr. Hildebrand's life was characterized by service, both at home and in the church. At various times he served as Sunday school teacher, youth leader, treasurer, and deacon. For the latter position he was ordained in Elm Creek on June 17, 1962. He also served often in the local church at Sperling in the preaching ministry.

Life was not always easy for him. He had major surgery on a number of occasions, from which the Lord granted recovery. His unusually good health during the 'last while, prompted them to take a trip to Saskatchewan, beginning August 6. Mr. Hildebrand suffered from a heart attack on August 11, and on August 13 he went to be with the Lord, after being admitted to the hospital in Herbert.

Although the family was shocked at his sudden passing, they are thankful nevertheless, that he was spared a prolonged illness. He died at the age of 69 years.

Left to mourn are his bereaved wife, seven children (all married), Jessie (Mrs. Jake Falk), Manitou, Peter of Boissevain, Helena (Mrs. John Peters) of Ilse de Chene, David of Winnipeg, Willie of Boissevain, Linda (Mrs. Bill Dueck) of Oak Bluff and Ruth (Mrs. Tony Novak) of Winnipeg; 17 grandchildren, one brother and two sisters.

The family extends their thanks to the staff at Herbert Hospital, the Elmwood Church, all who sent flowers and cards, and to those who supported them in prayer.