WALTER J. LOEWEN

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WALTER J. LOEWEN (Note change of time of viewing) With great courage Walter passed away on October 10, 1999 with his wife beside him. W.J. Loewen, beloved husband of Elvira Loewen, died at the age of 72. Besides his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Hedy (John) Joycey, Friede (Frank) Thiessen, Nellie (Hardy) Groening and one son, Frank (Christine) Loewen; and 13 grandchildren; sister-in-law Anneliesse Teichrieb and many other relatives and friends. Walter was born January 30, 1927 and grew up in the village of Gnadenfeld, Ukraine. During the Second World War he experienced many difficulties: he was drafted, separated from his family and spent three and a half years as a prisoner of war. Through the efforts of Mennonite Central Committee he was released, and immigrated to Canada in 1949. After one year of working on the farm in Culross, MB, he settled in Winnipeg. While attending English classes in Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute, he met many friends and his life partner, Elvira Teichrieb. He enjoyed his 38 years as Maintenance Mechanic at Brooke Bond (Thomas J. Lipton Inc.). He helped many by sharing his handyman skills, facilitating refugees with immigration, and giving rides to those who needed. He will be remembered for his strong Christian faith, integrity, generosity and caring. His church life was very important to him and he gave of himself freely. His grandchildren will remember him for his love of life, and the times he spent with them in his workshop, creating toys and intriguing them with unique gadgets. The family wishes to thank the individuals who provided Palliative Care to Walter both at home and in the Grace Hospital. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 14 at 10:30 a.m. at the Portage Avenue Mennonite Brethren Church, 1420 Portage Ave., with interment in Glen Eden Memorial Gardens. Viewing on Wednesday, 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Klassen Funeral Chapel, 1897 Henderson Hwy., and at the church prior to the service. If friends desire, donations may be made to Mennonite Brethren Communications (Russian Ministries) or a charity of ones choice. Arrangements entrusted to Klassen Funeral Chapel, 338-0331.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 13, 1999