Neumann Alma Fangrath (1918-2001)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2001 Oct 26 p. 24

Birth date: 1918 Apr 16

text of obituary:

ALMA NEUMANN

Alma Neumann passed away July 27 at Tabor Manor, St. Catharines, Ont. She was born Apr. 16, 1918 to Gottlieb and Augustine Fangrath in Nogath, West Prussia, the youngest of 10 children. In 1921 the family fled from West Prussia, which had become part of Poland, to East Prussia. They bought a farm near Goldap, then moved to Gelweiden 10 years later. After she grew up, she took training in home economics. She gave her heart to the Lord at 15 and was baptized in a Baptist church a year later. Music had a prominent place in the home. Her father was choir director and a lay preacher. She married Kurt Neumann July 19, 1940; 2 daughters were born. Kurt was drafted into the German army in April 1943; he was killed at the Russian front Oct. 8, 1943. Alma and her daughters fled to Bad Vilbel/Heilsberg, Germany. She immigrated to Stratford, Ont. in 1952 and moved to Kitchener, Ont. several years later. She joined Kitchener MB Church in 1957. In retirement, she enjoyed travelling, her many friends and church involvement, participating in the Women's Missionary Service, singing with the "Hospital Group" and working in Story Hour. She loved and invested her life in her family. Her cooking and baking were enjoyed by many. As she grew older, she kept a vibrant outlook on life. She is remembered for her hospitality, kindness and devotion to her Lord, Predeceased by Kurt, she is mourned by daughters Monika Thiessen and Ursula Blumentrath; 5 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and 1 brother. The funeral was July 30 in Kitchener MB Church, with Albert Friesen and John Wall ministering.