Anna J. Penner of the Steinbach Rest Haven Nursing Home, and formerly of Winnipeg, was born in New York, Russia, on October 29, 1908, and passed away at the Nursing Home on March 13, 2001, at 6:45 a.m., reaching the age of 92 years. She was the daughter of Johann and Maria (Huebner) Penner. She spent her early years in normal conditions until World War I came about. This caused great distress on the family and the area as a whole. After the war was over, the Russian government lost control of its citizens and anarchy ruled the land. There was much unrest with roving gangs of bandits criss crossing the country, plundering and killing at will. It was then decided to emigrate to Canada. So in 1926, the family landed in the Arnaud area. Anna helped support the new farming venture by working in Winnipeg and helping financially. In her early years in Winnipeg she worked as domestic help for wealthy people and later for many years in the sewing industry. She was very active in her church and also did a lot of volunteer work. She had a very positive outlook on life, and cheered many people with her friendly nature and ready smile. She was predeceased by her parents Johann and Maria Penner; sisters Mary (John) Koop, Agnes (Arthur) Rempel, Helen (Jacob) Janzen; brothers Peter (Mary), Jacob (Margaret), Abram and a brother Peter in infancy. She is survived by four brothers John & Mary of St. Catharines, ON, Cornie (Joe) and Marie of Vineland, ON, Henry and Barbara of Winnipeg, Diedrich (Dick) and Wilma of Steinbach. She is also survived by her special friend of 63 years Helen Hamm of Winnipeg, many nieces, nephews, friends and acquaintances. The funeral service for Anna J. Penner was held Thursday, March 15, 2001 at 10:00 a.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel. Interment in Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach. Anna was always so pleased and thankful for the wonderful treatment she received from the staff at the nursing Home. She loved them all. SAFE IN THE ARMS OF JESUS FOR EVER AND EVER!