JOHN A. GERBRANDT

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JOHN A. GERBRANDT

On Thursday, January 5, 2023, John A. Gerbrandt (Johnny) passed away at 79 years old at Eastview Place in Altona, MB with his family by his side.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Elvina (nee Dueck), four daughters, four sons, and their families. Darlene Gerbrandt, Rick (Terrilyn), Randy (Barb), Leona (Brian Toews), Sharon (Jeff Blanchard), Corinna (Henry Siemens), Warren (Trish), Sheldon (Melissa), He is also survived by 37 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
John was born April 19, 1943. He grew up in the RM of Montcalm from 1943 to 1967. In 1963 he married Elvina. In 1967 they moved to the village of Sommerfeld where they farmed and raised their children. They moved to Altona in 2015 where he resided until his peaceful passing. In May 2022, John suffered a stroke that changed the trajectory of his life. He went to the hospital and unfortunately could never fully recover.
His entrepreneurial drive allowed him to start Pioneer Meat with his brother-in-law Bernie. He was a passionate farmer with a knack for gardening. He was a school board trustee and a friendly bus driver throughout his senior years caring and handing out treats for the many students who climbed aboard.
John could pick up many instruments and jam along with his siblings and kids. Particularly the accordion. The louder the better. He was a lifelong Altona Maroon playing hockey, baseball and curling. He was a card shark as his kids would say. Camping and Traveling were favorites. His life motto was work hard and play hard. Laughing large was key. The thing that brought him the most joy was watching and spending time with his many children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Thank you to all of the doctors and caregivers, the many nurses and staff who cared for Johnny, particularly these last eight months.
A private funeral service will be held with burial at the Bergfeld Cemetery. Viewing will be at Wiebe Funeral Home Altona on Saturday, January 7 from 1:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Donations in memory of John may be made to Operation Smile Canada.

Wiebe Funeral Home Altona
In care of arrangements
www.wiebefhaltona.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 07, 2023