JOHN D. PETERS

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JOHN D. PETERS 1915 2006 On Thursday, November 30, 2006 John D. Peters aged 91 years, of Winkler, MB passed away peacefully at Boundary Trails Health Centre. He had suffered a massive stroke in the driveway of his home the day before but the doctors assured us he didn't suffer. He is now safe in the arms of Jesus. John D. Peters was born on July 19, 1915 to David H. and Helena (nee Kroeker) Peters at his parents' home outside the village of Winkler. He was raised on the family farm in the Glencross District and attended the Glencross School. During these early years on the farm, he and his siblings did the customary hard work on the farm. As a young man, dad enjoyed playing the violin and banjo with a group of local musicians. They also went skiing, fed deer, rode horses and explored the neighbourhood. Apart from working on the farm, dad also drove truck for a local auctioneer, William E. Wiebe whose daughter, Sarah became the love of his life. Dad was baptized upon confession of his faith into the Bergthaler Mennonite Church. He and Sarah were married on August 25, 1940. They were blessed with five children. In 1954, Sarah's parents both died within a week, leaving Sarah's 11 year old brother John. Mom and dad became his legal guardians and raised him as their son. He loved to help people prepare and maintain their gardens. His love of nature made this less of a chore than trucking. When he went out with his truck, he took time to explore the valleys. He admired God's creation by sitting by creeks and rivers during his breaks. He would take his children along on some of these trips. He was self-employed most of his life but in 1971, he took a position with the Town of Winkler as an equipment operator. He retired at the age of 65 but could not seem to stop working. Dad loved inventions and reinventions. If something didn't work, he would find the problem and if necessary, reinvent the part. He was a jack of all trades and was always helping family, friends, neighbours or anyone who needed a hand. He was a long time volunteer at M.C.C. He made several enjoyable trips to Texas and New Mexico where he met many people; some of whom stayed in touch. He received an award in 2004 for his contribution toward building a ranch home. The ranch family made him feel at home. This past October, Dad was able to go on a mission trip to Mexico to help build a house for Hans and Irene Friesen. He is lovingly remembered by three daughters, Sarah Gwen Peters of Winnipeg, Judy and Art Dyck of Schoenweise, Ronda and Bob Peters of Winkler; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two daughters-in-law, Sharon Wiebe of Winnipeg and Pearl Peters of Sherwood Park, AB; four sisters, Mary Peters, Agatha Dyck, Anne Thiessen, Betty Martens; one brother Hank Peters and one sister-in-law Anne Peters. He was predeceased by his wife Sarah (nee Wiebe) (1993); three sons, one in infancy, Rick (1979) and John (1987); three sisters and two brothers. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 7, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at Grace Mennonite Church, 1350 Pembina Ave. with Rev. Gerald Neufeld and Rev. Bernie Loeppky officiating. Interment to follow at Winkler Cemetery. Special thanks to the doctors and nurses at Boundary Trails Health Centre as well as the police and paramedics who cared for him at such a stressful time. Wiebe Funeral Home In care of arrangements, 325-4201 www.wiebefuneralhomes.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 06, 2006