Lepp Mary Klassen (1896-2003)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2003 May 2 p. 28

Birth date: 1896 Aug 21

text of obituary:

MARY KLASSEN LEPP

Mary Klassen Lepp of Dalmeny, Sask. died Mar. 1. She was born to David Conrad and Agatha Klassen Aug. 21, 1896 in Visilovka, Russia. In 1903 the family immigrated to Gretna, Man. Local youth appreciated the family's guitar playing and singing. At age 18, she accepted Jesus; two years later she was baptized by her father and joined Borden (Sask.) MB Church. She participated in a traveling Bible school held at Brotherfield, Laird and Aberdeen, Sask. She married Cornelius J. Lepp Nov. 21, 1920. The next year both her parents and their first child died. They moved to Dallas, Ore. for 3 years, then to a homestead north of Dalmeny, Sask. With faith, determination and ingenuity, they managed. They were involved with neighbours at Christmas concerts, Red Cross fundraising and picnics. Cornelius died in 1990. Her garden and flowers became more important to her. A song and a walk were included in her day. She travelled widely with family members in retirement, bringing joy and a zest for life. She moved to Spruce Manor Care Home in Dalmeny. She is mourned by sons Henry, Paul and Arthur; daughters Mary Janzen and Luella Krahn; 6 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Mar. 8 in Dalmeny Community Church with Gary Sawatzky ministering.