Diedrich J. Gerbrandt

1924 - 2007

On Thursday morning, January 25, 2007 at Salem Home, Diedrich J. Gerbrandt aged 82 years of Winkler MB died peacefully in his sleep.  He was born on March 7, 1924 in Kronsweide, MB.

Dad's focus throughout his life was education and he spent many years, including summers pursuing it.  He began teaching before he married Agnes Giesbrecht in 1950.  Even after receiving his last degree; a Masters of Divinity from the U of W, he never stopped studying.

In 1959, he accepted the call to become a pastor.  He served in that capacity at the Morden Rudnerweide Church, Gospel Mennonite Church in Winnipeg, Rosthern Mennonite Church and Elim Mennonite Church in Grunthal.  He had a passion for God's word and for the work of the church, dedicating his life to this work.

In February 1990, dad suffered a massive cerebral aneurysm, hospitalizing him for many months.  He never fully recovered and they officially retired to Winkler in December 1992.  He remained at home in mom's care until 2001 when he was admitted to Salem Home.

He leaves to mourn his passing his devoted wife of 56 years, Agnes (nee Giesbrecht) of Winkler, Mary-Esther Gerbrandt-Wiebe of Abbotsford, BC and her children RaeAnn and Chris; Ruth and Earl Reimer of Winkler and their children Andrea and Brad Arts, Meagan and Jillian; JoAnne and John de Groot of Winnipeg and their children, Mandy, Jonathan and Ian; Connie and Wayne LeMay of Grunthal and their children Deanna, Kelly and Erin; one brother, Henry Gerbrandt and a large extended family.

He was predeceased by 3 sisters; 4 brothers and 10 stepsiblings.

Funeral service was held on Sunday, January 28, 2007 at 3:00 pm at Winkler EMM Church with Rev. Wilbert Friesen and Rev. Dale Dueck officiating.  Interment followed at Bergfeld Cemetery.

If friends so desire, donations may be made to in Diedrich’s memory to the Salem Foundation Inc. 165 15^th St. Winkler, MB R6W 4B2.

Wiebe Funeral Home, Winkler in care of arrangements.