ERNA HERTA VAN BENTHEM (HORN)

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ERNA HERTA VAN BENTHEM (nee HORN) November 29, 1909 - August 25, 2007 In her 98th year, Erna died peacefully surrounded by her beloved family. Erna was one of eight children born to Hugo and Anna Horn in Sehma, Germany. Her dear sister, Hilde Kind, of Creighton, SK is her last surviving sibling with whom she enjoyed traveling back home. In latter years Erna made memorable annual treks to visit her. The two of them were grateful for the letters and calls from relatives in Germany. Immigrating in 1929, she spent six wonderful years in New York City. Aboard a ship on a return trip from Germany she met Hans, her future husband. They married in 1936 and settled in Flin Flon, MB, where they raised two children, Bernard (1938) and Louise (1944). Hans predeceased her in 1970. In 1978 Oma, as she was affectionately called, moved to Winnipeg to live down the street from son Bernie (Margie) and her beloved grandchildren: Lisa, David and John. Oma delighted in their interests and accomplishments, encouraging them with subtle words of wisdom. Mom/Gram enjoyed numerous visits to Sunnyvale, California to daughter Louise (Bruce) Roettgering and loving grandchildren, Mark and Karin. There, they enjoyed traveling to special attractions throughout the state. Residing at the Eastern Star Chalet for 29 years until her death, Erna continued her passion for gardening, baking, knitting and needlepoint. Oma's cookies, homemade buns and wry humour were a welcome addition to every family gathering. Mom was a voracious reader and fascinating storyteller, whose keen and enquiring mind enthralled us. She led a simple life and wanted no fuss but thoroughly enjoyed the fuss . Gram was delighted to be a first-time great-grandma to Sandra (1999), daughter of Mark (Tanya) of Seattle, Washington. In July 2007 Bryce was born to Karin and Duane, thrilling her to have her first great-grandson. Get-togethers with Oma will be sorely missed by Winnipeg grandchildren, Lisa (Stephen) Babiuk, Dave (Kim) and John. John's singing uplifted her, especially his German lieder. Great-granddaughters, Kayla (2004) and Kathryn (2006) Babiuk brought much joy to Oma with their regular visits and antics. Mom has left a wonderful legacy and example of a life well-lived. Watching over her great-grandchildren and family gatherings, we are certain she will not miss a single detail. The family wishes to acknowledge the loving, quality care of Home Care Workers, Grace and Susan, Nurse Louise and Dr. D. Hartley, whose diligence enabled her to live independently. Her final days at Riverview Health Centre were handled with compassion and grace. Cremation has taken place at Wheeler Funeral Chapel in a most sensitive manner by Mr. Chad Wheeler. A Celebration of Erna's life will be held at All Saints' Anglican Church, Broadway and Osborne on Monday, September 3, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Erna's memory to All Saints' Raise the Roof project. DEATH is not extinguishing the LIGHT: It is putting out the LAMP because the DAWN has come.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 01, 2007