Retzlaff, Mary Fast (1895-1991)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1991 Nov 8 p. 28

Birth date: 1901 Nov 17

text of obituary:

DAVID D. GOERTZEN

Mary Retzlaff of Clearbrook, B.C. passed away Sept. 4. She was born Nov. 15, 1895 to Cornelius and Margareta Fast in Alexanderkrone, Molotschna, Russia. The family moved to Terek in 1903 and to Kalantarowka in 1911. Here she was baptized and joined the Mennonite Church. She married John Retzlaff Apr. 18, 1918. They lived on hi s parents' farm. In 1923 they both accepted Christ during revival services, were baptized again and joined the MB church. One son died in infancy and the other died of starvation at age 4. In 1924 they immigrated to Canada with their 2 daughters. They lived in many places in Manitoba : Gnadenthal, Osterwick, Killarney, Fork River and Winnipegosis. In 1941 they moved to B.C., where they enjoyed the fellowship of Clearbrook MB Church. John died July 10, 1954. The difficult years moulded in her a quiet, independent character. Despite her illnesses, she gave evidence of her strong faith. Her prayer was that all her family would serve the Lord she had loved and trusted throughout her life. She is mourned by her children Margaret Lepp of Carman, Man., Mary Neufeld of Westlock, Alta., Victor of Surrey, B.C., Eva Esau of Clearbrook, John of Calgary, Kay of Clearbrook and Olga Papou of Abbotsford, B.C.; 18 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson; 2 brothers and 1 sister. The funeral was Sept. 9 in Clearbrook MB Church, with J.E . Klassen and John Esau ministering.