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MARIA WILMS  Obituary pic

MARIA WILMS

Born: Jul 19, 1923

Date of Passing: May 16, 2008

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MARIA WILMS On Friday, May 16, 2008, Maria Wilms (Schmidt) passed away at Bethania Mennonite Personal Care Home at the age of 84 years. Maria will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by daughter Herta and son Walter (Sharon); grandchildren, Christopher (Jacqueline), Melissa (Matthew), Jeremy (Robyn), Michael, as well as Sharon's children, Kyla, Ryan, Alia and Thea. Maria was predeceased by her husband John, her parents, two brothers and four sisters. Maria was born in Nieder Chortitza, Ukraine on July 19, 1923 to Abram and Susanne Schmidt. Her peaceful childhood was disrupted at the age of six when Maria, her mother and some of her sisters were sent to live in Siberia. After some time, her father found safer haven for Maria and she spent the remainder of her childhood and adolescence living with two aunts in Chortitza. Maria immigrated to Canada in November 1948. Her childhood sweetheart John followed her shortly thereafter and they married on March 19, 1949 in Rivers, Manitoba. Maria and John moved to Winnipeg the following summer and became active members at First Mennonite Church. After the birth of Herta and Walter, Maria remained at home, caring for John, her children and their home. She loved baking, crocheting and in later years spending time with her grandchildren. Maria and John shared many wonderful memories during their marriage. She was dedicated to her family, always helping and giving of herself. Maria tirelessly devoted her energy to caring for John during his lengthy illness, first at home and later at Bethania Mennonite Personal Care Home. Following his passing in 1994, Maria continued to spend time at Bethania as a volunteer and made many new friends. After moving from the family home, Maria enjoyed numerous years living at Bethania Haus, being with her friends and sharing in the lives of her family. As her health deteriorated over the past two years, Maria received excellent care at Misericordia and Bethania personal care homes. Our family is especially grateful to the staff at Bethania for the kindness and compassion extended to our Mom and Oma during her last days. A viewing service will be held at Bethania Mennonite Personal Care Home on Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Funeral service will be held at Friends Funeral Service on Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at 10:30 a.m., with viewing prior. Interment will follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. If friends so desire, donations may be made to Bethania Mennonite Personal Care Home. Arrangements entrusted to Friends Funeral Service.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 18, 2008

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