JOHN KROEKER

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JOHN KROEKER May 29, 1916 - July 17, 2001 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Kroeker, beloved husband, father and grandfather, on Tuesday, July 17, 2001, aged 85 years. Born on May 29, 1916 near Altona, MB, he spent his early life attending local schools and later working on neighbouring farms. A great believer in the value of education, he saved nickels and dimes during The Depression in order to pay for the privilege of writing high school exams. With the arrival of war, he left Manitoba for the shipyards of Port Arthur where he learned the painting trade. After the war he worked as an independent painting contractor for a time until joining the firm of Brothan Painting, where he worked for many years. After his first heart bypass operation he looked for and found less strenuous employment as a painter with the provincial government, where he remained until retiring. On June 1, 1946 he married Irene Niemann in Winnipeg. Together they had four children, Ken (Claudia), Judith (David), Eleanor (Barry), and Glen, all resident in Winnipeg. In retirement he took up golf, a game he grew to love. Each summer he played as much as he could. The steady progress of years could not diminish his enthusiasm for the game. He drove the golf cart more and walked less, but he continued to play. On May 29, 2001, he celebrated his 85th birthday with family at several lunch and dinner events. A few days later he and Irene celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. He played his last game of golf just a few days before entering the hospital. Predeceased by his brother Fred; and brothers-in-law, Merv Seals and Henry Dueck, he is survived by his wife Irene, his four children and five grandchildren, Deanne, Melissa and Samantha Evans and Karen and Keith Lusty. Also left to mourn his passing are his brothers, Peter and Jacob (Eva) his sisters, Margaret, Agnes, Kay (Horst), and Joanne (Ed) and sister-in-law Gladys. He will also be greatly missed by his many nieces, nephews and friends. For many years, John and Irene have been members of the congregation of Home Street Mennonite Church. A service celebrating his life will take place there on Saturday, July 21 at 10:30 a.m., with interment to follow in the Mennonite Memorial Cemetery. Viewing will be possible prior to the service. The family would like to thank the staff of Concordia Hospital, in particular the ICU staff for their kindness throughout Dads stay in hospital. The family also wishes to thank Pastor Clarence Epp for his help and guidance during Dads last hours. Flowers are gratefully declined. Friends may, if they wish, make donations in his memory to the Home Street Church, 318 Home St., Winnipeg, MB R3G 1X4, in aid of their work in the community - work in which Dad regularly participated. Arrangements entrusted to: GLEN LAWN FUNERAL HOME 455 LAGIMODIERE BLVD. 982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 19, 2001