Unruh, John Benjamin (1913-2007)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2007 Sep p. 29

Birth date: 1913 Mar 11

text of obituary:

JOHN BENJAMIN UNRUH

John Benjamin Unruh died peacefully June 26. He was born Mar. 11, 1913 in Schoenwiese, Russia to Benjamin and Meta Unruh. The family immigrated to Canada in 1927, homesteading in Indian Head, Sask. and then moving to Ste. Rose, Man. John married Elizabeth Janzen on Nov. 24, 1942. In 1946, they moved to B.C., where they farmed. When farming became a hardship, John started a business, John Unruh Excavating, which he enjoyed until retirement in 1971. He built a dream home in 1972 with a spectacular view of Mt. Baker. John was baptized in 1938. His faith and church involvement were important to him. He and Betty were charter members of East Aldergrove MB Church, which John helped build in 1947. A quiet and reserved man, John enjoyed travelling, driving, and fixing things, especially sewing machines. During his last 3 years of life, John's greatest sorrow was not being able to live with his wife. He visited her daily and took her out on dates. John is mourned by Betty; children Harry (Marlene), Ruth (Elvin) Warkentin, and Frieda (Ron) Kruchak; 6 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 1 brother; 1 sister. The celebration of life service was June 29 at Clearbrook MB Church, Abbotsford.