MARY VERMETTE (KLASSEN)

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MARY VERMETTE (nee KLASSEN) After a lengthy battle with cancer, Mary (Klassen) Vermette went home to be with her Lord and Saviour on January 25, 2008 at the age of 65 years and 10 months. She is survived by her beloved husband, Albert, and her two daughters, Chantal and Rachelle. Mourning with them are seven sisters Margaret, Helen (Henry) Thiessen, Betty (Bill) McIntyre, Nettie (Don) Heppner, Ann, Susan (Garry) Kehler and Eva (Cliff) Stobbe, as well as two brothers, Abe and Jake (Elaine). Mary also leaves behind many Vermette family members, as well as nieces, nephews and countless friends scattered around the globe. Mary was predeceased by her mother, Helena Loewen, in 1971, her father, Abram A. Klassen, in 1977, and her sister, Tena Neufeld, in 2000. Mary greatly appreciated her Mennonite heritage and the Christian nurture from her parents, close friends and church. She was baptized upon confession of her faith in the Neuanlage Grace Mennonite church, near Hague, Saskatchewan. As an adult, she attended the Canadian Mennonite Bible College (now CMU), where she graduated with a Christian Education degree. Several years later, she met and married Albert. Much searching, counselling and prayer dominated their courtship, leading to Mary's decision to join Albert in the Catholic church. Mary's passion for sacred music led to participation in numerous choirs, namely the Saskatchewan University Greystone Singers, Thompson Aurora Singers, the Mennonite Oratorio choir, les Intrépides, and various church choirs and small vocal ensembles. Apart from cooking, reading, and golfing, Mary especially appreciated her travels around the world with Albert, during which they always attempted to connect with the locals. However, peace, reconciliation and Christian unity were priorities in Mary's life, leading her to participate in various ecumenical projects. Close friendships, a listening ear and quiet support were characteristic of Mary. She was always thankful for the privilege of living a rich, fulfilled life. She wishes to leave a quote by Jean Vanier: Let's begin by establishing peace first within our hearts, and then in the hearts of others. Let's create communities and families of peace. Isn't that the responsibility of each one of us? The family wishes to thank Dr. Czarnecka, Dr. Jolly, Dr. Grenier, Dr. Dabrovska and all the wonderful care by support staff, family and friends. Funeral will be held on Wednesday January 30, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at Saints-Martyrs-Canadiens Parish, 289 Dussault Ave., with father Marcel Toupin officiating. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Development Peace, Mennonite Central Committee, Canadian Cancer Society or Heart Stroke Foundation. Marie, maman, épouse chérie, repose en paix. Chantal, Rachelle, Albert Arrangements entrusted to Desjardins Funeral Chapel, 233-4949; toll free 1-888-233-4949.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 29, 2008