Loewen, Helen Reimer (1918-2000)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2001 Jan 05 p. 27

Birth date: 1918 May 13

text of obituary:

HELEN LOEWEN

Helen Loewen of Abbotsford, B.C passed away Nov. 16. She was born May 13,1918 to Peter and Maria Reimer in Blumenort, Siberia. In 1926 the family immigrated to Boissevain, Man. As a teen, she worked at a farm home for several summers. In 1934 she joined her sister Margaret to work in Winnipeg. In 1937 the family moved to Abbotsford to farm. They joined South Abbotsford MB Church. She was a domestic worker in Vancouver, including one summer at Vancouver General Hospital. She attended Yarrow (B.C) Bible School for 2 winters. She married John H. Loewen Mar. 25, 1944. They farmed in Ladner, B.C In 1947 they moved to a farm in Abbotsford, where they raised poultry and grew raspberries. She excelled in her role as wife and mother, helper and family leader, and cultivated interests in homemaking, handcrafting, gardening and learning. She had the gift of hospitality, sharing it willingly. In 1967 she was diagnosed with cancer. Through medical treatment, self-care and God's grace, she was able to live with grace and goodness, raise her family and enjoy her grandchildren. In 1976 they moved to Clearbrook, B.C She was admired by her children and grandchildren. Her love for God, knowledge of Scripture, interest in history and appreciation for her spiritual heritage grew steadily during these years. In 1997 they moved to Garden Park Tower in Abbotsford. Cancer recurred, but she continued to live with dignity and spiritual devotion. Her favourite verse was John 6:37. Her last words were, "Thank you, Jesus." Predeceased by 2 brothers and a sister, she is mourned by John; children Howard, Paul, Elsie Schmidt, Dan and Dave; 14 grandchildren; 2 sisters and 2 brothers. A memorial service was held Nov. 21 in South Abbotsford MB Church, with Steve Berg and David Epp ministering.