Warkentin, Helena Winter (1888-1971)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1971 Aug 27 p. 30

Birth date: 1888 Mar 04

text of obituary:

HELENA WARKENTIN

Mrs. Helena Warkentin was born March 4, 1888 in Gnadenfeld, near Altona, Man., to John and Agatha Winter. She grew up with five sisters, three brothers and two step-brothers. In 1901 her mother died. Shortly afterwards her father and the family moved to Hope Farm near St. Jean, Man. 1 John 1:7: "And the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin" led her to accept Christ as her Saviour at the age of 17. She spent much time reading and memorizing Scripture.

On Dec. 3, 1907 she was married to Jacob Warkentin by Bishop Abram Derksen of the Sommerfelder church of which both were members. Through the preaching of God's word and the faithful witness of others her husband was saved. Both were baptized in June 1916 by Rev. J. B. Penner and became members of the Mennonite Brethren church. Mrs. Warkentin became active in Sunday school teaching.

In 1919 they moved to Roland, Man. where they attended the Kronsgart Church.

On Aug. 11, 1927 Mrs. Warkentin's husband was killed accidentally. However the Lord was her help at this time. She continued to farm with the aid of many kind neighbours and friends.

In 1949 she moved to Winkler, Man. The last four years of her life were spent in the Salem Home.

Psalm 103 was her favourite, and her prayers were filled with praise and thanks for God's love and mercy.

On July 1st the Lord called her home.

She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Jake (Lena) Penner of Kronsgart, Man., Mrs. Frank (Pat) Howden of Toronto, Ont. and Mrs. Jake (Elsie) Hiebert of Winkler, Man.; one son, John Warkentin of Winnipeg; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two sisters; and one brother.