Neumann, David Henry (1916-2001)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2001 Jun 22 p. 26

Birth date: 1916 Mar 12

text of obituary:

DAVID HENRY NEUMANN

David Henry Neumann of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Apr. 11 of a massive stroke. He was born Mar. 12, 1916 to Henry and Sarah Neumann in Gruenfeld, Siberia. In 1926 the family immigrated to Hague, Sask. At 19, he responded to an altar call at a watch-night service in Yarrow, B.C., receiving joy and peace. He was baptized in summer 1936. In 1942 he married Martha Harder. At 31 he returned to school and earned an M.A. in history. He believed wholeheartedly in Christian education and spent a lifetime in its support. He was principal of Eden Christian College, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont., for 10 years, was director of children's camps for 6 years, was a member of the MB Bible College Board for 18 years and was principal of MEI, Abbotsford, for 9 years. He taught Sunday school and preached as opportunity arose. In 1947 he was ordained for the ministry in Gem, Alta. He spent periods of time as an interim pastor, including a summer in Traunstein, Germany. He was a leader in the founding of Bakerview MB Church in 1965. In retirement, he taught at Trinity Western University and Columbia Bible College, travelled and played golf and chess. In 1993 he suffered his first stroke, but kept a positive attitude and sense of humour. In September 2000 Martha died. The next 7 months were hard, but he approached life without complaint, with jokes and stories and with a continued interest in spiritual growth, history, current events, sports and his family. He is mourned by children Carol Wiebe of Abbotsford, Dennis of Abbotsford, Delores Driediger of Yarrow and Allan of High Point, N.C.; 9 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters and 3 brothers. The funeral was Apr. 16 in Bakerview MB Church, with Henry Thiessen and John Neufeld ministering.