Renate Leitner

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RENATE RUTH LEITNER
(NEE LAUCKNER)
Apr. 27, 1919-May 10, 2015

Renate, 96 years of age, died peacefully in the arms of her beloved granddaughter, Wendy, holding her close while singing her a lullaby, ushering her into the arms of her Lord and Saviour whom she lovingly served.

Renate was the ninth child born to Suzette Elisabetha and Christian Emil Lauckner in Eckartz, Germany. Her father died one month before she was born. When she was 10 she and her mother immigrated to Canada, settling in rural Alberta. At age 18 she met her lifelong partner, “Franzl”, at her beloved Abiwin, on Lake Nydia in Ontario. After their marriage on June 4, 1937, they enjoyed 51 years together. They began their family and settled eventually at Middlebro, MB, where they raised two sons and two daughters and cared for 10 foster children, Rusty being the last.

After many years of health concerns, her children convinced her to move to Red River Manor in Selkirk in November 2009. Four years later, when she was unable to care for herself, they moved her to Red River Place Care Home.

Renate was predeceased by her husband Frank in 1988 and a grandson in 1972. She is survived by her children, Ralph (Ruthie) of BC, Ruth (John) of Manitoba, Renate (Marc) of Alberta, Ken (Betty) of Ontario, as well as 10 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place at Gilbart’s Funeral Home in Selkirk. A memorial service was held at Selkirk Gospel Chapel on May 16 and another service will take place at a later date in Middlebro.

Her final resting place will be at Middlebro Cemetery and at Abiwin, beside her lifelong mate.

If so desired, donations may be made to the Cancer Society or the Gideons in her memory.

As published in The Carillon on May 20, 2015