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ALVINA GIESBRECHT
Date of Passing: Feb 16, 2013
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryALVINA GIESBRECHT Alvina Giesbrecht died February 16, 2013 at the St. Boniface Hospital after a long and happy life. She will be greatly missed by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as by her many friends. Alvina was born February 22, 1921 to Maria F. and Jacob L. Friesen in Gretna Manitoba, where she spent her childhood as part of a large and loving family. After graduating from the Mennonite Collegiate Institute and then from Normal School, she taught children in a variety of one-room and larger town schools. On January 2, 1944 she married Bernard P. (Barney) Giesbrecht who was soon sent overseas with the armed services. During the 1950s, as the centre of a busy family, Alvina also embarked on her long-term career of teaching English as a Second Language for the Winnipeg School Division. After the death of her beloved husband in 1974, she began a decade of employment as Director of Volunteers and teacher of Canadian citizenship at the International Centre. The heart of Alvina's life was her family, and she was loved and honoured by her children Valerie (Terry Beckingham), Brian (Brenda Buckley) and Lorne (Wendy Penno). She was a special grandmother to George (Sandra), Jennifer (Jason), Diana (Gerond), Maegan (Ryan), Jacob, Aaron, Daniel, Jill and Luke, and most especially to Karen whom she treasured for all of her eight years. She found new joy in her great-grandchildren Anne, Adam, Jack, Jane, Rebecca, Thade, Rosannah and Sylvie. Alvina was predeceased by her siblings Jake, Anne, Margaret, Mary, Eve, Rhinehart, Ed, Henry, Esther, Rita, and two infant sisters. She is survived by three sisters-in-law Helen Penner, Mildred Giesbrecht, and Mary Giesbrecht as well as by many nieces and nephews who were very dear to her. Also missing Alvina are her friends from 360 Osborne and from Kildonan United Church. Interment will be at Chapel Lawn Cemetery, where Alvina will be laid to rest beside her husband. Friends and family are invited to attend the Memorial Service Saturday, February 23 at 11:00 a.m. at Kildonan United Church. Cropo Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Publish Date: Feb 20, 2013
ALVINA GIESBRECHT Alvina died Saturday, February 16, 2013. The Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 23, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. at Kildonan United Church, Kilbride Avenue at Main Street. A longer obituary will follow.
Publish Date: Feb 19, 2013
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 20, 2013
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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My deepest sympathy to the family. Alvina and I have worked together on the affairs of our Co-op,(since the beginning, 24+ years) She was always willing, reliable and contributed to all the undertakings that came up. She will be missed for her positive attitude, wisdom and experience. Maisie Park. - Posted by: Maisie Park (Resident at 360 Osborne) on: Feb 20, 2013
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Accepting, loving, caring are all words that describe Aunt Alvina. From one on one vists with her to the great gatherings we had at her place, she was always encouraging. Regardless of what she was experiencing. Her gentle answers and at times that little chuckle will be fondly remembered. - Posted by: Gord Penner (Nephew) on: Feb 19, 2013
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What a classsy lady: Always had nice things to say. It seems like she should be here to make us realize how good life is. Miss you already. Rest in Peace the way you lived. - Posted by: Elaine Brown (A friend from 360.) on: Feb 19, 2013
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Deeply saddened to hear this news. Alvina was a very special person to our whole family, but especially to my Mom (Amy)and Dad (Walt). She was more than just a neighbour across the hall. She was a beautiful person, kind, loving and a true friend!! There is a special place in Heaven for her. RIP Alvina. We'll miss you and smile when we remember all the great times we had together. Our deepest sympathies to her whole family. Sincerely, Winnie, Butch, Patrick, David & Colin Tanasichuk, Ron, Elaine, Tobi, Daniel, & Ronald Perepeluk, Sharon & Joe Perepeluk. - Posted by: Winnie Tanasichuk (Perepeuk) (Friend) on: Feb 19, 2013
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To the family of a wonderful, warm person who was always willing to help others no matter what. I met Alvina through my late sister, Naomi Permut, when they worked together at the International Centre, and even after loosing my sister kept up with emailing her even though I live so far away in Israel. You should have comfort in knowing how wonderful a person she was and how much she helped others. You should know from no more sorrow. (ylp18@013net.net) - Posted by: Judi Permut (friend ) on: Feb 19, 2013