JOSEPH HIEBERT -

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JOSEPH HIEBERT 1918 - 2011 Joseph (Joe) Hiebert, 93, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2011 at Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre. He was predeceased by the love of his life, Anne, who died last year, as well as his parents, eight brothers, a sister, and many dear friends. He will be remembered and deeply missed by his children Joanne, Paul (Beverly), Daniel (Natalie) and his grandchildren Matthew, Melanie (Matthew), Evelyn and Ed. He is also survived by his brother Martin and sister Mary. Joe was born on April 11, 1918 to Abram and Justina Hiebert, who raised a family of 12 children on a farm near Morden. His carefree childhood was brought to an early end by the Great Depression and he became an agricultural labourer at the age of 13. As a young man, his religious commitment led him to Winkler Bible School and a strong attachment to the Mennonite Brethren Church. He fell in love with Anne Unruh and they were married in 1945, whereupon they moved to Winnipeg. There they formed friendships that sustained them through life. Joe held several careers in Winnipeg but was particularly respected for his many years in the construction industry. He brought dedication and creativity to this work and took justified pride in the buildings he made. He devoted his long period of retirement to his family, especially Anne, who was frail and needed care. Remarkably, he was able to transform his skills as a farmer, machinist, and carpenter into the domestic sphere, and learned to love gardening and cooking. His commitment as husband, father, and grandfather was total and he held nothing back from those he loved. Those who knew Joe were struck by his faith in God, loyalty, determination, generosity of spirit, and sense of humour. These qualities were evident until his last days and enabled him to face death with exemplary grace. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at Glen Eden Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe's memory to Habitat for Humanity or the charity of your choice. Glen Eden Funeral Home 338-7111 www.gleneden-mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 11, 2011