ERWIN HENRY (ERV) PENNER, M.D. L.M.C.C.,

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ERWIN HENRY (ERV) PENNER, M.D. L.M.C.C., BSc Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12 On Wednesday, June 2, 2010 at home, our loving husband, father and grandfather passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord. Erwin was born December 7, 1926 in Winnipeg. He spent a happy childhood growing up on the family farm in Petersfield, Manitoba and attended Hartley School followed by high school at MCI in Gretna, graduating in 1944. Upon confession of his faith, Erwin was baptized in 1950 at First Mennonite Church where he remained a faithful, lifelong member. In 1950 he graduated from U. of M. with a BSc following a period of alternately working and attending school. Next was his acceptance into the Faculty of Medicine where he spent five years completing his medical degree. In 1953 while studying, Erwin married his sweetheart Anna Klassen (a school teacher) who became his lifelong friend and soul-mate. Upon graduation he entered general practice for two years in Teulon alongside Doc Goodwin, an excellent obstetrician and surgeon whose mentorship formed the basis of Erwin's future career. Following this he spent one year practicing in Altona before being called to assume the practice of Dr. John Peters in Winnipeg. Erwin sat on various medical departments and committees at Concordia Hospital and Bethania Nursing Home as chairman for medical staff. He was a co-founder of Westgate Mennonite Collegiate and sat on that board as an elected and appointed member. He also served on the board of First Mennonite Church and the Mennonite Benevolent Society. In his last 20 years of practice, Anna, his wife, joined him in the office as a medical receptionist. Together they provided a warm, caring environment for three generations of patients. In 1986 his son Meredith joined them in the formation of Evergreen Medical-Dental Centre where he spent a very fulfilling last few years before retiring in 1990. Spending quality time with family was important for a busy physician. Many weekends were spent fishing, camping, boating and water-skiing. Other family vacations included adventurous trips across Canada and the US. Erwin and Anna travelled extensively together; among the highlights were Russia, Europe, Egypt, Brazil and Australia. They also served on two short-term Mennonite Disaster Service assignments rebuilding homes. Dad's 1970 Mother's Day project was restoration of a 1929 Nash automobile which grew into a 12-car enterprise, amply supported and encouraged by his fellow enthusiasts in the Manitoba Classic and Antique Car Club. Mom reluctantly entered into this hobby with him, later taking great pride in her contribution as an upholstery specialist. Together they hosted many memorable Fall Foliage Tours to their farm property. Erwin is survived by his dear wife of nearly 57 years, Anna (Klassen); sons, Meredith (Karen), Tom (Daniella), Tim (Geri) and only daughter Naomi. He was blessed with 20 grandchildren (including spouses) and four great-grandchildren. In addition he is survived by oldest brother George (Mary); sisters, Ellie (Richard) Tews and Katie; sisters-in-law, Jane, Mary-Rose, Lois; and brother-in-law Ray Isbister. In addition he leaves to mourn his passing two aunts, Sue Plett and Anne Friesen (BC), numerous in-laws, cousins, special nieces and nephews and many dear friends and former patients. He was predeceased by his parents, Heinrich and Katherina Penner; brothers, Nick, Henry, John, Herb; sister Irma Isbister; and sister-in-law Marlene Penner. A memorial service celebrating Erwin's life will be held on Sunday, June 6 at 6:30 p.m. at First Mennonite Church (Notre Dame and Alverstone). All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations in Erwin's memory may be made to the Mennonite Disaster Service. The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation to Dr. Homik and Dr. Doermer and the palliative care team who attended our father. A Physicians Prayer Dear Lord, Please give skill to my hands, clear vision to my mind, kindness and sympathy to my heart. Give me singleness of purpose, strength to lift at least a part of the burden of my suffering fellowmen and true realization of the privilege that is mine.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 05, 2010