MADELINE RUTH KROEKER

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MADELINE RUTH KROEKER June 30, 1919 - September 9, 2001 On Sunday, September 9, 2001, peacefully at her residence, Madeline Kroeker died and went to be with her Lord and Saviour. Predeceased by her husband Walter on September 1, 2000, she will be lovingly remembered by her four children and those they brought into the family: Marlyce and husband Peter Swinnerton, Wally and wife Millie, Allan and wife Karen Iverson, Karin Regehr, Randy and wife Lorraine Regehr; seven grandchildren, Scott (Donna Labun), Joel (Catherine Bargen), Jonathan, Matthew (Tara), Paul, Sasha and Tanya; and three great-grandchildren, Anna, Jordan and Micah. She is survived by her sister Norma (Art Rempel) and her brother Jake Epp (Lydia) and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother George in 1993 and his wife Clara in 2000. Madeline was born June 30, 1919 in South Russia where she was left without parents at an early age. She was brought to Canada by relatives and welcomed into the family of Rev. Jacob P. and Helene Epp of Glenlea. She married Walter Kroeker on May 30, 1940, and enjoyed 60 years of married life with him, loyally supporting his many business, church and personal pursuits. She shared his commitment to broadcasting and agriculture, and delighted in accompanying him to the annual conventions of the National Religious Broadcasters in Washington and the Canadian Horticultural Council in Ottawa. Music was a vital part of her life. She followed the religious and classical music programs of Radio Southern Manitoba, with which she and her husband were closely involved. She was an avid fan of the Winnipeg Music Festival, and a strong supporter of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and other musical efforts. She was an outstanding cook, and for many years shared her culinary gifts widely in church, family and community settings. She participated personally in various charitable efforts, including hospital visitation, fundraising and knitting winterwear for disadvantaged children. She had a passionate interest in genealogies, and could transform a family tree, hedge or bush into a forest. Madeline was a great lover of flowers, and made many trips to see tulips in Holland. For years her homes were admired for their floral beauty. She found people endlessly fascinating, and delighted in engaging them in conversation on a wide range of topics. She was known for her thoughtful generosity on special occasions. Every birthday, anniversary and graduation was worthy of celebration. Madeline was a devoted member of the Elmwood Mennonite Brethren Church, and enjoyed participating in its womens programs. Since the passing of her husband a year earlier, she greatly treasured the support and friendship of her church, family, community and condo companions. While she retained her good humour and enthusiasm for living, she was prepared for lifes final step and the joys still to come. A celebration of Madelines life will be held at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, September 15 at the Elmwood Mennonite Brethren Church, 145 Henderson Hwy., Winnipeg. Interment to follow at Glen Eden Memorial Gardens. Viewing on Friday from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Klassen Funeral Chapel, 1897 Henderson Hwy., and at the church prior to the service. Klassen Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements, 338-0331.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 13, 2001