Jacob Suderman

1923 - 2002

Our father, Jacob Suderman, aged 78, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2002 at the Boundary Trails Health Centre. He was predeceased by two grandchildren, two sons in infancy and his wife Susana Suderman (nee Teichroeb) in 1990.

He leaves to mourn his passing seven sons and six daughters and their families (44 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren). Anita (Bert) Nieuwenhuis, Tony (Margaret) Suderman, Dick (Agatha) Suderman, Jake (Marge) Suderman, Herman (Linda) Suderman, John (Roxanne) Suderman, Susan (Raymond) Grenier, Tina (Wayne) Rezansoff, Henry (Eunice) Suderman, Mary (Kell) Menzies, Peter (Val) Suderman, Linda (Brent) Menzies, Trudy Restmayer.

Dad was born in Mexico on December 6, 1923 to Anton and Maria (nee Driedger) Suderman. Dad spent his youth in Mexico. He was baptized upon the confession of his faith at the age of 21. He was married on September 20, 1947 to Susan Teichroeb. God blessed them with 15 children.

Our parents immigrated to Canada in 1957 and moved to Gnadenthal. They resided in Winkler and Morden area for many years during which time Dad worked as a machinist and welder for Krushels in Morden and Schmidts in Winkler.  Dad was well-known for his incredible skills and knowledge throughout his working years. For the last eight years Dad resided in the high-rise and heritage apartments in Winkler. He always enjoyed company, including the company of his pet parrot. Many times he’d be seen “scootering” around town with his parrot as his companion.

In may 2001, Dad suffered a broken hip as a result of a fall. Surgery was successful but healing was slow. He never gained full strength in his hip and leg, but he remained active with his scooter and walker. On Saturday, February 9, 2002, Dad suffered a great deal of pain in his hip and was admitted to the Boundary Trails Health Centre at which time he was discovered to be in kidney failure. Two weeks later he received a blood transfusion to build up his blood supply and help him fight infection in his body. With great medical care and lots of prayers Dad’s health seemed to improve greatly.  This helped him regain some of his strength and lift his spirits.

Dad had a great sense of humor. He never failed to bring a smile to our face with his jokes and great story telling. He frequently expressed his love for all his children. He always reminded us of the importance or prayer and staying on the straight and narrow path. Over the past year Dad seemed to have a special peace about him. He’d talk about paradise, seeing Mom again, and meeting his Beloved Lord Jesus.

Dad will be missed by many. But with great assurance we all look forward to seeing him again in eternity.

We the family of Jacob Suderman want to express our sincere appreciation to the staff at the Boundary Trails Health Centre for the special care that was given, to Wiebe Funeral Home in Winkler, to the Ministerial and ladies group of the old colony church. A very special thank-you to Bishop Peter Elias for that special visit you had with Dad just a few days before he passed away. Your visit meant a lot to him. Especially we want to thank all of our family and friends for the great support and love you have shown us during this time. God bless you all for being a blessing to us!

Funeral service was held on Saturday, March 02, 2002, at the Old Colony Church, Chortitz, MB, at 2:00p.m., with Bishop Peter Elias officiating. Burial followed at the Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations were made to the Union Gospel Mission in Winnipeg or the Gideons Bible Society.

Submitted by the Family

Wiebe Funeral Home, Winkler in care of arrangements.