GEORGE GERBRANDT

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GEORGE GERBRANDT March 10, 1926 - January 1, 2006 Unexpectedly, but with grace and dignity, George clasped the hand of his Lord for eternity, when called on the morning of January 1. Waiting to meet George again are Mary, his wife of 55 years; son Albert (Maureen); daughters Anne (Brian) Rempel, Kathy (Lyle) Barkman; son Henry; grandchildren, Wendy (Cam) Murchison, Wes (Melanie), Ben and Dan Barkman, Cara Rempel, and RuthAnne Berry. George became a proud great-grandfather of Jessica Murchison on October 31, 2005. George is also survived by sisters, Tina Klassen, Margaret Gerbrandt, sisters-in-law Netta, Linda, Tena, and pre-deceased by three brothers, Peter, Henry, Jake, as well as parents, Henry and Katarina. George grew up on a farm in Grimsby School District and spent his young adult life in the blacksmith shop with his father. He believed that they made the first self-propelled swather. In his early 20's, he built a motorcycle and went west with it. While he was gone his father passed away which was an event that stayed with him always. George married Mary Unrau on October 28, 1950. He tried to make a living on the farm for a time as a blacksmith but moved to Morris where he became a welder, then on to Winnipeg where he took up carpentry, excelling at finish carpentry and cabinetmaking. In 1955 they built a house on Buchanan St. George patented a rotating saw table, which he hand crafted. Although the table was a success, it was difficult to bring to market. The Gerbrandts became hobby farmers and market gardeners when they moved to Loudoun Road in 1964. Over the next several years they built a house there as well as many things in it. Inventions and creations were a part of his everyday life. He had a continuing fascination with perpetual motion, building several different prototypes. In the mid 80's George's snowblower invention was patented. Although the snowblower is very successful, it has not found it's market as expected. George was a mentor to many, solving seemingly impossible tasks in a matter-of-fact manner. George was a great husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, neighbour and friend. In his retirement George was an active volunteer at Inner City Youth, involved with church activities, helping family, neighbours and friends, working in his shop, and enjoying a daily walk. George had an unwavering and loyal faith in God and led his life as a vessel for God's purpose, which coloured every aspect of his life. George was always a gentle and loving man who was not hesitant to let his beliefs be known. Thanks to Dr. Brent Zabolotny for his compassion, Dr. RP Guzman, Nurse Val (HSC), Henry and Marie Dueck and Ken Stoesz, with a special thanks to all those who have supported the family with prayers, food and encouragement. A viewing and sharing service will be held on Thursday, January 5 at 7:30 - 8:30 p.m., Norm Friesen officiating. The funeral service will be held Friday, January 6 at 1:00 p.m. (viewing 12:30) Pastor Al Letkemann officiating. Both services will be held at Gospel Mennonite Church, 232 Nassau St. N. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Mennonite Central Committee. FRIENDS FUNERAL SERVICE 339-5555

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 04, 2006