Our mother Anna Penner was born to parents Gerhardt and Elizabeth Giesbrecht, in Steinbach , Manitoba on September 10, 1905. She passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 27, 2006 at the Vita Personal Care Home. She was predeceased by her husband Ben D. Penner in 1991, two sons- Wesley in 1965, Dennis in 2005 and her daughter Dorothy in 2006. Remembering her with deep love are two daughters- Irene and Frank Barkman of Steinbach; Caroll and Erwin Kroeker of Winnipeg and son Eric Penner & Bev Funk and daughter-in-law Joyce Fink of Germany. She also leaves to mourn 9 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Anna is survived by her siblings Katie Toews, Mary Mooney, Lottie Mooney, Minna Goosen and Ernest & Alma Giesbrecht. After completing Grade 9 at the Clearspring School she helped on her parents farm and also worked at the telephone system in Steinbach in the early 1920’s, where she, as the central operator, was the first to hear of wedding plans, the birth of babies or other important news. Keeping occupied was not a problem for our mother. She loved to be intellectually stimulated by reading, doing crossword puzzles, playing Scrabble and other board games. She crocheted numerous afghans for each family member, participated in volunteer work at her church and in the community, and quilted at the Steinbach Heritage Village Museum. Mom liked to garden and walk to keep in shape and to travel (she drove her car well into her eighties). Above all, she enjoyed showing love to her family by requesting, participating in and planning get-togethers. She was ready for a party at the drop of a hat. Anna was baptized upon the confession of her faith in1921 and married Ben Penner in 1925. She put her faith into practice, demonstrating patience and choosing wisely the ways of peace throughout the challenging experiences of life. Our mother constantly sought God’s comfort and strength through prayers and Bible readings. Despite life’s difficulties, she retained a gracious and thankful spirit, blessing everyone she met with genuine goodness. The family wishes to thank the home care workers at Fernwood Place, the personnel at Vita P.C.H. and Dr. Karen Toews for the years of understanding, compassionate care they gave to our mother. Anna was always very appreciative of their support. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, July 1, 2006 10:30 a.m. at Cornerstone Bible Church, Steinbach with viewing prior to the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to MCC 134 Plaza Dr. Winnipeg, MB. R3T 5K9 (or available at the church) or to a charity of one’s choice. Birchwood Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements