Richert, Helen (1909-2000)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 2000 Nov 17 p. 29

Birth date: 1909 Jan 27

text of obituary:

HELEN RICHERT

Helen Richert of Abbotsford, B.C passed away Oct. 1. She was born Jan. 27, 1909, the third youngest of 9 children, in Waldheim, Molotschna, Ukraine. Her mother and a brother died before the family immigrated to Borden, Sask. in 1926. In 1927 the family moved to a farm in Coaldale, Alta. She accepted Christ at 14 and rededicated her life to the Lord at 19. She was baptized and joined Coaldale MB Church July 28, 1928. She loved John 3:16 and based her baptismal testimony on Is. 53:5. She worked at Coaldale Hospital and became a practical nurse, trained by Dr. D.L. Epp. Later, she worked as domestic help for some Jewish families in Vancouver, worked as a practical nurse in St. Joseph's Hospital and then worked for 10 years at Jericho Hill School, retiring at 65. In Vancouver, she joined Vancouver MB Church and later Culloden MB Church, where she was church librarian. She faithfully read each book before placing it in the library. She moved to a condo in Clearbrook, B.C She helped at the MCC store. She had a keen mind and was interested in politics and current events. She had a strong interest in missions, with a special interest in Jewish people. She was frugal with herself, but generous in giving of herself and her finances to worthy causes. She prayed for missionaries. She longed to be with her Lord. Predeceased by all her siblings, she is mourned by nieces, nephews and many friends. The memorial service was held Oct. 4 in Clearbrook MB Church, with Peter J. Klassen, Eldon DeFehr and Jay Neufeld ministering.