Janzen, John N. (1902-1990)

"Mennonite Brethren Harald" obituary: 1990 May 18 p.31

Birth date: 1902

text of obituary:

John N. Janzen

John N. Janzen of Richmond, B.C. passed away Mar. 31. He was born Aug. 16, 1902 to Nikolai and Katherina Janzen in southern Russia. At 17 he committed his life to Christ, was baptized and joined the MB church. Both parents died of typhus, and the children moved to another village with an older brother. He joined the church choir, becoming conductor when Rev. Jacob B. Harder left. He married Susanna Harder Feb. 11, 1924. In 1926 they immigrated to Canada, living in Aberdeen, Sask. for 2 years. In 1929 they moved to B.C., where they lived in Yarrow for 2 years, then Sardis. They cleared land and established a dairy. Although he worked hard, he found time for his family and had a joyful disposition. He was a builder all his life and enjoyed working with wood and completing many projects, including the design and construction of Greendale MB Church. His sons often worked with him. In 1951 they moved to Vancouver. After retirement, he built children's furniture, spinning wheels, toy trains, etc., some of which won top prize at the Pacific National Exhibition. He rarely missed a Sunday service, sang in the choir, was a deacon for many years, served on the church board and helped keep order among the teenagers in the balcony in Greendale MB Church. Family devotions were observed regularly. In 1987 they moved to Pinegrove Care Home in Richmond, where they enjoyed walks and Bible study. He is mourned by his wife; daughters Susan Letkeman, Hilda Lowen and Doreen; sons John, Walter and Tony; 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Apr. 5 in Willingdon MB Church, Burnaby, B.C., with Carlin Weinhauer ministering.