Martha Barkman

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MARTHA (BARTEL) BARKMAN
1919 – 2017

Martha was born at home at Kleefeld, Manitoba, on August 31, 1919 to Jacob I. Bartel and Susanna (Isaac) Bartel. She quietly passed away on Thursday, January 12, 2017 at the Maplewood Manor in Steinbach, Manitoba.

Mom worked hard as a girl, in the house and doing chores such as milking and cooking large meals for harvest crews. Later she helped out in the homes of uncles and aunts when a baby was born and the other siblings needed care.

She gave her heart to the Lord and was baptized on November 24, 1935 upon the confession of her faith, which she embraced with all her heart and endured to the end.

In 1941, after turning 21 years of age, she started working in the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach, often riding her bike from Kleefeld. She enjoyed working in obstetrics and giving nursing care.

On July 29, 1945, Mom married Herbert Barkman from Steinbach, and they lived and farmed there. Dad was ordained to the ministry in 1949, and Mom was a great helpmeet to Dad in this calling, being ready to have company or make a visit as needed. In 1953, they moved to Sinclair, with two young sons. Two daughters were born later. Mom always worked hard to help make a livelihood on the farm, doing chores and keeping home fires burning when Dad was away on revival work or other church duties. Mom loved nature and taught us much about birds. Her flowers and large gardens were a joy to her. She enjoyed sharing the fruits of her labors with others, and putting up supplies for the winter.

In 2004, when they were in their 80's, she and Dad moved off the farm and back to Steinbach into the Stonebridge Crossing condos. Dad passed on 3 years ago, and daughter Hazel helped look after her and keep her company until July, 2016, when she needed to move into the Maplewood Manor for care needs. She lived there about 4 months, and then quite quickly succumbed to the flu. At 97 years of age, she was glad to go. We will miss her a lot, but are glad she could go to her desired haven.

She was always deeply concerned about the salvation of her children and grandchildren. Her prayer was that not one would be left behind. This faith was an anchor to her soul and we have a clear assurance of her readiness, and many precious memories.

Left behind are: children — Allen and Verna, Brandon, MB; Con and Mary, Swanson, SK; Hazel, Steinbach, MB; and Viona and Doug Regehr, Bredenbury, SK; 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; one brother Edwin, two sisters-in-law Elizabeth Bartel and Irma Barkman; and many nieces and nephews.

Mom was predeceased by her parents, her husband, three brothers, two sisters, and a grandson Adrian Regehr.

The funeral service will be held Sunday, January 15, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, 280 Loewen Blvd, Steinbach, MB, with the interment at Heritage Cemetery.

Arrangements by
BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL
1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030

As published in The Carillon on Jan 13, 2017