LONI BETTCHER

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LONI BETTCHER

With great sorrow, the Bettcher family announces the peaceful passing of our beloved mom, Loni, at age 95. Loni will be remembered for her strength, courage, humility and sense of humour, her deep love of family, and her unwavering faith.

Loni is predeceased by her husband Ewald (Ed) and her sister, Else (Bettcher). Mom will live on in her children, Connie (Bob), Cindy (David) and Nancy (Marek). She will be remembered by her brother-in-law Alex (Lydia Betcher), and nieces, nephews, cousins and many cherished friends.

Loni was born of German descendants on December 9, 1929 in Sergejufka (Sierhiejówka), Poland (now Ukraine) to Albert and Holdine Pahl (Kusmaul). She tragically lost both her parents as a young girl and was raised by relatives, the Dreger family. After the Second World War, Loni set her sights on a future in Canada, and in 1951, at age 22, she courageously emigrated, alone, to Canada, making Winnipeg her home. In 1959, she was reunited with, and ultimately married, her childhood neighbour and friend, Ed. They were married for 30 years before his passing in April 1989.

Mom was deeply devoted to her family. She worked tirelessly at home and later at Eaton's, raising her three children and creating a warm and loving environment. Food was mom's love language, with holidays and special occasions marked by large gatherings of family and close friends. Mom cooked incredible feasts and always hosted warm celebrations. She raised her daughters to be food lovers, avid gardeners and to be grateful for all of life's blessings. She instilled in us the importance of family, hard work, and helping others. Fuelled by her faith, she gave generously of her time and money in service to those in need. She volunteered at Meadowood Manor during her 70s and 80s, assisting seniors in care. She will be sorely missed.

Special thanks to our Meadowood Manor family who lovingly cared for her during the last four years of her life.

The family will be holding a private interment. A funeral service will be held at Meadowood Manor's Fellowship Hall on May 2, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Refreshments to follow. Please park at St. Vital Centennial Arena across from Meadowood on St. Anne's Road.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to make a donation to an organization that helps those in need. Siloam Mission, the Salvation Army and Meadowood Manor were mom's personal charities of choice.

May she rest in peace.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 19, 2025