SELMA LOEWEN

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SELMA LOEWEN I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 Grateful for a long and well-lived life the family wishes to announce the peaceful passing of our dear mother, Selma Agatha Loewen (Rempel Epp) on January 6, 2015. "Masha" has joined Dad in eternal life. Selma was born to David P. and Agatha Epp on April 21, 1927, in Laird, Saskatchewan, the tenth of eleven children, three of whom died in infancy. She was the youngest and last surviving member of her immediate family. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Gerry Loewen (Ron) Bev Friesen (Calvin) and Randy Loewen, her precious grandchildren Patrick (Cheryl), Rachelle (Keith), Marie, Danielle (Brett) and Andrew. One year ago she was thrilled to become "Gigi "to Everest William. She was predeceased by her parents, husband Bill, daughter Susan Anne, brothers Art, Wilfred, and Jake (Helen) and sisters Esther (Bill), Anna (Bill), Ruth, and Tina (Armin). Sister-in-law Gerta (Peter), brothers-in-law Ernie (Lil) and Hardy. She is survived by sister-in-law Kay Epp and brother-in-law Harvey Jahnke, sisters-in-law Elsie (Harry) Johanna (Guy), Ruth (John), Marge, Ferne, brother-in-law Ron. Aunty Selma will be lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews. You were all so dear to her. Mom had a happy childhood growing up on the family farm. Education was always encouraged and after high school and a year of Bible school she entered the psychiatric nursing program at the North Battleford Psychiatric Hospital in 1947, where she received her diploma. Mom enjoyed these years immensely. She worked for several years until in the summer of 1952 when a young MCC volunteer from Manitoba caught her eye. Mom and Dad corresponded for a year and married on July 22, 1953. Moving to Winnipeg, Dad entered medicine and Mom worked at Deer Lodge Hospital for several years until 1955, after which the children arrived in quick success! ion. They settled in Altona where she devoted her time to raising her young family and immersing herself into church, community and board work. Family life centered around Altona Mennonite Church. Mom was a proud member of the Women's Institute and participated in the Stonecroft Bible Studies. She managed Dad's office for many years and opened a craft store. Her enduring legacy was hosting the tea party that founded the MCC Thrift Store Network. Her love for MCC continues in a most profound way- she planted a mustard seed "To God be the Glory" she said. Family meant everything to Mom and over the years we made many a pilgrimage to Saskatchewan for family reunions, weddings, funerals. The family treasures every visit. She was current with all the news via the family chain letters, always adding a new letter when the bundle arrived in the post. Mom also cherished Dad's family, and together we have created 61 years of incredible family memories and fellowship. Our best family times were at the cottage at Moose Lake. Although Mom's physical limitations prevented her from participating in the many wonderful activities of cottage life, we will remember Mom for nourishing us with great food, waffle breakfasts, the best buns in the world, and creating laughter and joy through endless table games, lively debates and midnight talks. We remember her as a devoted mother and an amazing grandmother! Her legacy to the grandchildren was her unconditional love and her unlimited gift of time and energy. "Perfect love begins with the first grandchild" The last eleven years with Dad were the best years for Mom, traveling the world with friends, attending concerts, camping, hiking, bird watching, and wintering in Phoenix. She had many wonderful times with both the "Birders" and the "Snowbirders"! Mom made lifelong friends wherever she lived and traveled, and they were truly her greatest gift. In turn she was a good and faithful friend to so many and always took time to nurture these relationships. Our family wishes to thank her family of friends, for their unconditional love and support especially in the later years without Dad. We thank the wonderful dedicated staff at Lindenwood Manor, and acknowledge the excellent care Mom received from the Palliative Home care Program and the Riverview Palliative Care Unit and to thank everyone who supported Mom and the family during these last five difficult months, but especially Pastor John Braun, who provided exceptional spiritual comfort in her greatest hour of need, and Gerry for ensuring Mom received the best possible support during her last days. Mom was grateful for her long and wonderful life. If you so chose, a donation may be made to MCC, 134 Plaza Drive, Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9 or to a charity of your choice. According to Selma's wishes cremation has taken place with internment at a later date. A celebration of her life will be take place at Bethel Mennonite Church, 870 Carter Ave., Winnipeg, MB on Monday, January 12, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. " My friends are my estate" -Emily Dickinson Arrangements by Wiebe 's Funeral Home Ltd. Terry W.H. Wiebe Director, Altona, MB, 204-324-5404.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 10, 2015