Elda Barkman was born to Martin F. and Agnes Toews Barkman at Steinbach, MB on September 19, 1921. She peacefully passed away at Maplewood Manor, Steinbach, MB on November 25, 2010 reaching the age of 89 years. She spent her growing up years on the family farm in the Clearspring District and attended the Clearspring school. She continued living with her parents on the farm till they moved to Steinbach. This was home to her till her health began to fail and she moved into the self-care apartments at the Maplewood Manor in 1997. In 2003 she moved into the full care facility where she was lovingly cared for there these last seven years. Elda was converted and baptized into the Church of God in Christ Mennonite on November 26, 1935, remaining faithful till the end. She worked as an LPN at the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach until her failing eyesight forced her to quit her nursing career which she so much enjoyed. She then spent a winter in Toronto taking a Medical Records course and returned to work at the hospital. She also spent time at the Canadian National Institute for the Blind and studied Braille. It always fascinated us to see her read and type Braille. She enjoyed gardening and continued to grow flowers, especially gladiolas even when she could hardly see well enough to enjoy them as much as the rest of us did. Elda never considered her being blind a handicap and could manage very well in her own home for many years. She is lovingly remembered by one sister, Mary Ann Bartel of Roblin, MB, two sisters-in-law, Gladys Barkman and Elma Giesbrecht of Steinbach, MB, her 22 nieces and nephews and their families, and a very close friend, Dorothy Friesen, and many relatives and friends. She is predeceased by her parents, four brothers, one sister, two brothers-in-law, two sisters-in-law, one sister in infancy, two nephews and one niece. We as a family want to thank the staff at the Maplewood Manor for the excellent care given to Aunt Elda. Viewing will be held at the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite in Steinbach on Saturday, November 27 at 7:00 p.m. and at the church prior to the service. The funeral service will be held Sunday November 28 at 10:30 a.m. also at the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite in Steinbach. Interment at Heritage Cemetery.