IDA GRIENKE (BORKOWSKY)

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IDA GRIENKE (nee BORKOWSKY) Peacefully, on October 20, 2011, Ida passed away in Steinbach, Manitoba. She was predeceased by her parents John T. and Ottilie Borkowsky, her brothers Bill and Fred, her sisters Erna and Emily; her husband Albert on February 15, 2003; and her daughter Miriam on October 13, 1998. She is survived by her sister Frieda, her brother Lorenz, and her brother-in-law Art Schultz. Also, left to cherish her memory are her sons, Ron Grienke (Gail) and Alvin Grienke (Mintie); grandchildren, Tammy Stark (Bob Way and Christie), Candy Stark (Alf Wiebe), Lori, Michael, Jocelyn and Jennica. Ida was born in the Hanover Municipality of Manitoba on October 23, 1914; the eldest child of John T. and Ottilie Borkowsky. She grew up on the family farm in Bristol, Manitoba, doing farm chores and much of the work required on a farm. She had a way with animals, particularly horses (her favourite on her own farm later was Gypsy) and had a green thumb for gardening; so she was really suited for farm life. As a young woman she worked as a maid in Winnipeg and Lowe Farm. As kids we would hear stories of her adventures accompanying her Winnipeg family to their cottage in Ontario or about the friendships she formed with her employers in Lowe Farm. Marrying Albert brought her back to her home area to a farm in Friedensfeld, to the St. Paul's Lutheran Church, and the community in the Steinbach area. She farmed, worked, raised her family, gardened, did hand work (such as knitting, crocheting, quilting), well into her old age. Particularly Ida took delight in her grandchildren. Tammy and Candy would come spend the summer months on the farm when they were young. What a treat it was to have Ron and Gail bring Lori when they came out from Virden. A few years later it was Michael and Jocelyn's turn to revel in grandma's love and doting. Finally Jennica came along when Ida was already 72, but she never hesitated to take her in for an afternoon or evening. The grandchildren have only fond memories of playing with their wonderful grandma. At age 70, Ida and Albert sold the farm and retired to Steinbach. They lived on Pine Crescent for many years until at age 87, Ida broke her hip. After some time in the hospital, she entered Bethesda Place and lived there, forming many friendships with the staff until her passing. We thank God for giving Ida to us for so many years. She was strong, honest, kind, caring; a wonderful influence on her family. We will miss her and cherish our memories of her always. Family would sincerely like to thank staff at Bethesda Place for their care, and for being so kind to Ida in the years she spent with them. Viewing and prayers will take place at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Drive, Steinbach, at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 24. Funeral service will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 465 Henry St., Steinbach, at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 25. Interment at the St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements by BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL 1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 24, 2011