Kroeker, Madeline Ruth (Friesen) Epp (1919-2001)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2001 Nov 9 p. 24

Birth date: 1919 Jun 30

text of obituary:

MADELINE RUTH KROEKER

Madeline Ruth Kroeker of Winnipeg passed away Sept. 9. She was born June 30, 1919 in Sevastopol, south Russia. She was left without parents at an early age. She was brought to Canada by relatives in 1927 and welcomed into the family of Rev. Jacob P. and Helene Epp of Glenlea, Man. Proud of being a "chosen" child, she believed she had a head start in understanding we all are adopted by God. She married Walter Kroeker May 30, 1940. She supported his many business, church and personal pursuits. She shared his commitment to broadcasting and agriculture, and enjoyed the annual conventions of the National Religious Broadcasters in Washington and the Canadian Horticultural Council in Ottawa. Music was a vital part of her life. She followed the religious and classical music programs of Radio Southern Manitoba, with which she and Walter were closely involved. She was a strong supporter of Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and other musical efforts. She loved flowers and often grew the first tulips of spring and the last roses of summer. She was passionately interested in genealogies, found people fascinating, delighted in conversation on a wide range of topics and loved the church. She was baptized in her youth and was a longtime member of North End (now Elmwood) MB Church. Since Waiter's death a year earlier, she treasured the support of church, family and condo companions. She retained her good humour and enthusiasm for living and was prepared for life's final step and joys still to come. She is mourned by children Marlyce Swinnerton, Wally, Allan and Randy; 7 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; 1 sister and 1 brother. The memorial service was Sept. 15 in Elmwood MB Church, with Keith Poysti ministering.