Kroeker, Gerhard C. (1889-1972)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1972 Jun 30 p. 30

Birth date: 1889 Aug 29

text of obituary:

GERHARD C. KROEKER

Gerhard Kroeker, of Winnipeg, Manitoba, was born in 1889 in Blumstein, South Russia, where he spent his childhood, later moving to the Terek. In 1917 he was married Aganetha Plett, and their union was blessed with six children.

He was saved in 1923 and joined the Mennonite Brethren church the same year. After surviving the difficult war years and the turbulent periods afterwards, the family emigrated to Canada in 1925, settling first in Alexander, then Justice, and after 1947 in Winnipeg. In 1953 he was ordained to the diaconate in the South End MB Church, where he also served as Sunday school teacher and Bible instructor. For a number of years he served as custodian and manager of buildings and grounds at the Mennonite Brethren Bible College.

Brother Kroeker became ill in November, 1971 with lung cancer, and spent some time in the hospital before being released for several months and then re-admitted. He died on May 5, with the family members present to witness the glorious death of the redeemed. He was predeceased by a son and a daughter, and a loving wife in November, 1971, after being married for 54 years. He was 82 years old.

Left to mourn are three daughters: Tina (Mrs. John Huebert), Selma (Mrs. Jacob Penner), and Agnes; one son: John; 13 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren, as well as many relatives and friends.

Speakers at the funeral, May 9, included G. D. Huebert, pastor of the Central MB Church, John Wall, and Wm. Schmidt. Interment followed at the Glen Eden Cemetery.