HELENA JANZEN

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HELENA JANZEN Helena was born in Summerfelt, MB on March 23, 1924, the first of eight children. In 1928, the family moved to Winnipegosis. Upon completing elementary school, family poverty kept her from the education she would have desired. She worked hard at things like transporting lumber across Lake Winnipegosis with horses. Later she worked as a domestic for various people. She also took a sewing course at which she excelled. As children we didnt know how poor we were because Moms sewing kept us so well dressed. Mom met my father at a choirfest and they were married on October 12, 1946. They settled on a farm east of McCreary where their first three children were born. In 1955, the family moved to Winnipegosis where two more children were born. My parents also took in foster children of whom we have fond memories. Because of this we gained another brother and sister who we feel lucky to be chosen by. Cousins & neighbours were always welcome in our home. She loved company and was a wonderful cook. In 1977 the family moved to the Pas. There Mom ran a rooming house and worked in the personal care home. She enjoyed the interaction with other people and taking care of the elderly. After returning to McCreary in 1983, she continued to work in home care until a couple of years ago. Just before I finish, Id like to read a card sent to us by Pat Janzens sister and mother. "She had a special way that warmed the hearts of everyone who knew her - and the qualities that made her the wonderful person she was have left us all with many beautiful memories..." She is survived by her husband Abram and her children, Janice and Rob Stevens of Vancouver, Judy in Winnipeg, Kurt and Marg Janzen of Arborg, Danny in Winnipeg, Lionnel in Thompson, Ginnie and Deen Coulter of the Pas, Pat and Kenton Janzen of the Pas. Surviving siblings are Nettie Rempel, Mary Wiebe, David Penner, Justina Baerg, Henry Penner and Hilda Franz. She was predeceased by her brother Peter Penner. Funeral service was held Saturday, November 3 at the McCreary Gospel Church. Pastor Roger Woywoda and Pastor Walter Franz officiated with interment following at the McCreary Cemetery. Pallbearers were Vern Toews, David Remple, Randy Penner, Kris Franz, Dennis Wiebe and Ron Penner. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to the McCreary Gospel Church Building Fund. Dobchuk Funeral Home, McCreary was entrusted with arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 09, 2001