Martens, Helena Rempel (1900-1977)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1977 Sept 16 p. 31

Birth date: 1900 July 24

text of obituary:

MRS. HELENA MARTENS

(Mrs.) Helena Rempel Martens was born on July 24, 1900 to Johann and Katharina Rempel in Grigorwka, Russia. She died on June 30, 1977 in Swift Current, Sask. from a heart attack, after several years of illness.

As a young girl she moved with her family to Orenburg, Russia where she spent her childhood and youth. At 11 years she accepted Christ, was baptized and joined the Mennonite Brethren Church which her father pastored. On August 4, 1921 she married Peter G . Martens in Orenburg. In 1925 the Martens moved to Canada, settling on a farm at McMahon, Sask. They were blessed with 10 children. Two sons and two daughters predeceased her. The living children include two sons, Pete and Calvin, and four daughters, Helen, Daisy, Erna and Nora, as well as seven grandchildren and two great·grandchildren. The Martens moved to Swift Current in 1952.

Mrs. Martens had a congenial disposition, was very courageous and optimistic. Her emotional stability was the backbone of the family, not only in crisis but in the everyday affairs of living. She was always concerned for the spiritual welfare of her family and for the development of love and unity within the family. Her influence extended to the community at large.

She is sorely missed by her husband, her children, grandchildren and great-grand· children, and many relatives and friends.