Helen Peters (nee Thiessen)

1918 – 2008

On Thursday, April 10, 2008 at her residence at Salem Home in Winkler, MB, Helen Peters aged 89 years peacefully went to her eternal home with 2 sisters at her side. 

Helen was born on August 13, 1918 in the village of Chortitz, the daughter of John and Maria (nee Froese) Thiessen.  She spent her childhood in the village where she also went to school.  In 1938, sh was baptized upon confession of her faith by Bishop Jacob Froese.  On December 20, 1942, she married Cornelius Peters.  During their first years of marriage, they lived in Kronsgart and later they moved to Winkler.  Although they had no children of their own, they both loved children and Helen often babysat for other people. 

Helen and Cornie both enjoyed gardening.  They had a large garden and were always very generous in sharing their produce with neighbours and friends.  Helen had always enjoyed good health but as she grew older, it became increasingly apparent that she was no longer able to look after her needs.  In 1998, she became a resident at Eastview Place in Altona where she received excellent care.  In 2002, she was transferred to Salem Home where again she was looked after by a very caring staff.  She remained there until the time of her death. 

Helen was always a favorite in the home.  She did not complain and was always very forgiving.  She was a woman of faith and prayer.  One special verse that stayed with her was “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.”  She must have drawn strength from this many times when life was sometimes difficult.  She spent much time in prayer, always remembering to pray for others. 

She leaves to mourn her passing 5 sisters, Mary, Agnes, Susie, Anne and Betty; 2 brothers, Peter and Abe; sister-in-law, Helen and brother-in-law, Harry Friesen and many nieces and nephews. 

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Cornelius on September 29, 1999 after 57 years of marriage; her parents; 1 sister and 2 brothers in infancy; 2 sisters, Tina and Margaret and 1 brother, John. 

Funeral service was held on Sunday, April 13, 2008 at 2:00 pm at Chortitz Old Colony Mennonite Church with Bishop Peter Elias officiating.  Interment followed at the Church Cemetery. 

We would especially like to thank Betty and Cornie Driedger for all their kindness to Helen and also to our sister, Betty for the many hours she spent with her. 

We mourn our loss but we rejoice that her suffering is over and that she is with God. 

Wiebe Funeral Home, Winkler in care of arrangements.