Janzen, Lydia (1910-1990)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 1990 Dec 21 p. 25

Birth date: 1910

text of obituary:

LYDIA JANZEN

Lydia Janzen of Clearbrook, B.C. passed away Nov. 21. She was born Sept. 19, 1910 to Kornelius Jacob and Anna Janzen in Riickenau, Russia. When she was 16, the family immigrated to Canada, living in Arnaud, Man. and moving to a farm in Fortier, Man. in February, 1927. She kept the house in order and looked after cattle, poultry and a large garden. She cared for her parents until they passed away. When her father died, she realized her spiritual need, accepted the Lord, was baptized and joined Newton (Man.) MB Church. After her mother died in January, 1945, she and brother Peter bought a farm in Arnold, B.C., joining Arnold MB Church. Together they worked the farm, enriched each other's lives, maintained relationships with extended family and served God in church and neighbourhood. When Peter was ordained, she became an unofficial pastor's assistant, making sure his clothes were clean and pressed and visiting the sick and needy. Her compassion, diligence and humour endeared her to others. Her devotion to God led her to love people, noticing needs, encouraging the despondent, bringing supper to a family whose mother was ill and sharing farm produce with family in the city. She worked hard even when the going was tough, and had high expectations. She cared for her brother when he was sick. When he died in 1980, she moved to an apartment in Clearbrook, joining Clearbrook MB Church. She helped those in need, served as an MCC volunteer and cultivated deep personal relationships with her 25 nieces and nephews and their families. The funeral was Nov. 24 in Clearbrook MB Church, with John E. Klassen and Jacob Pauls ministering.