Agatha Penner (nee Enns)

1912 – 2004

I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me-the crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that great day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his glorious return. II Timothy 4:7&8 (NLT)

Agatha Penner (nee Enns) passed away peacefully July 3, 2004 at the Salem Home. Agatha leaves to mourn her passing, one son Harry and one daughter, Marlene and Marvin Loewen of Winkler, their children Christopher and Crystal Loewen of Charlotte N.C. and Lisa and Andrew Vanden Berg of Winkler. She is also survived by, one brother Peter (Selma) Enns, one sister Helen (Peter) Spratt, and one sister-in-law Elizabeth Enns, all of Winnipeg. She was predeceased by two brothers, John and Henry and one sister-in-law, Agnes Enns.

Agatha was born June 2, 1912 to Peter J. and Agathe Enns, in the vicinity of Ufa, Russia. In February 1925 the family left Russia and immigrated to Mexico. After a brief time in Mexico they immigrated to Canada, settling in the St. Jean area.

It was during these years Agatha began attending the St. Elizabeth Lichtenauer Mennonite Church where she was baptized upon her confession of faith. She attended the “Jugendverein” at the church where she met Henry Penner. Henry and Agatha were married June 2, 1935. They rented farmland north of Winkler for several years before settling on their own farm near Arnaud, MB where they farmed for 35 years.

In January 1971, Henry passed away unexpectedly and Agatha’s life was dramatically changed. It became necessary for her to sell the farm and move to Arnaud. Agatha often said it was her strong faith in God and the support she received from family and friends that sustained her during the difficult times. In 1981, Agatha moved to Winkler, in order to be closer to her family and grandchildren.

We will remember Mom as someone who had a close personal relationship with her Lord Jesus Christ, who regularly prayed for family and friends, who had a strong work ethic, and who always gave of herself to others. All who knew her appreciated her quiet, generous nature. Her happiest times were those spent with her grandchildren, whom she dearly loved.

We will miss you Mom, but we have the assurance that one day we will again be together in heaven.

Funeral service was held on Tuesday, July 6, 2004 at the Grace Mennonite Church at 11:00 am. Interment followed at Arnaud Cemetery.

The family would like to express our deep appreciation to the staff at the Salem Home, in particular the caregivers of Cottonwood wing, who so lovingly and kindly cared for Mom during the last 7 months.

Rest in Peace Omie.

Wiebe Funeral Home, Winkler in care of arrangements.