Peacefully, and with some of those whom she loved dearly by her side, Taunte Lena went to her heavenly home, at the age of 90 on December 16, 2013, after a three week stay at the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach. In her final days she was blessed and surrounded by many of her nephews and nieces. She is survived by her nephews, nieces and their families. As the youngest of her family, she has been predeceased by her parents, five brothers and six sisters. In her later teens, Taunte Lena, made a decision to follow Jesus as Lord and Saviour. This was a watershed moment for her; a decision she never regretted and held firm to the end. In her young adult years she worked as a telephone operator in Blumenort and then continued on to nurses training. Taunte Lena graduated with her LPN and had worked in numerous hospitals, including the Municipal Hospital, the Children's Hospital (both in Winnipeg) and in later years in Steinbach at the Personal Care Home, until her retirement. As family, we have so much appreciated her all-encompassing love and acceptance. She loved life and loved those who were blessed to be a part of her life whether near or far. She was aware of, supportive of and prayed for, not only her own family and friends, but also many of those whom they cared for. She kept in touch in a variety of ways: phone calls, cards, visits, and even email. She was a great conversationalist and anyone meeting her would be drawn into a vibrant conversation, mostly about their lives and interests. Most of these visits occurred individually because of her poor hearing. She found larger groups quite frustrating, and struggled at times with the fact that she couldn't follow all that was going on. She was even interested in what the politicians were doing (or not doing)! A verse that characterized her life is found in 1Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV), “...I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness…” The above interest naturally spilled over into another of her passions - missions! It was her strong desire that everyone, everywhere, hear the good news that Jesus loves them and paid the price for their sins. Be it teaching extension Sunday school, handing out tracks, supporting missionaries, locally and overseas, all was done enthusiastically, and with a heart of love and concern. We all know that Taunte Lena was quite independent! This sometimes made life interesting. Imagine the surprise when she showed up with her bright red new car without having previously consulted anyone in her family! She enjoyed travel and was not afraid to make trips to faraway places on her own. This independent lifestyle came to an abrupt end when after a trip to buy groceries she found herself breathless and in need of medical care. That was in spring of 2008. The subsequent diagnosis of congestive heart failure, led to frequent medical visits and hospitalizations. This forced her to rely more on others to meet her needs. She didn't give in easily to these losses, but at each step along the way, made deliberate choices to not only accept, but to 'be thankful in all circumstances'. Her desire was to glorify God in all stages of her life. How do you say good-bye to such an Aunt? Maybe you don't - you say thank you… Thanks for the inspiration and the memories and for being a support and encouragement…and thank You, Lord for the hope that we will see her again someday! The family wishes to express their thanks and appreciation for the medical help, palliative care, home care, prayers, words of encouragement and support received during our Aunt's illness and passing. The funeral service will be held Friday, December 20, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, Manitoba with viewing one hour prior to the service. Interment to follow at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach, Manitoba. A reception and time of sharing will follow the interment at 4:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel. If friends so desire, donations in memory of Lena may be made to the Union Gospel Mission (in memo line: Charis Centre), PO Box 1073; Stn. Main; Winnipeg., MB R3C 2X4.