Obituary of Mary Wiens

Peacefully, on Wednesday, July 1, 2020, Mary Wiens, age 97, passed away at Simkin Centre, Winnipeg, MB. 

Mary was born in Russia and immigrated to Canada with her parents, Abram and Helena Warkentin and one younger brother, John. They settled on a farm in Glenlea, MB and over the years nine more children joined the family. Her early education was in the Glenlea one-room school which she attended until grade 7. The family worshipped at the Glenlea Mennonite Church and on June 7, 1942, Mary was baptized. She taught Sunday School, played the piano for congregational singing and was involved in the ladies programs.

Over two winters Mary attended the First Mennonite Bible School in Winnipeg. She also loved to participate in youth activities which included social games, roller skating and cheering on the Glenlea hockey team, particularly one dashing player!

She married Henry Wiens on June 28, 1947. Together they established an implement dealership in Glenlea which also provided a coffee shop for the locals to gather. Life was busy but they enjoyed many blessings. They raised three children and have eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Mary’s love for her family and those around her was immense.

Mary loved to sing, hum and whistle. And from square dancing to the polka or a graceful waltz, she and Henry loved to dance together. Mary was known for her fine seamstress skills and loved sewing with beautiful fabrics. She also had a passion for painting, especially flowers. She was modest about her paintings but they truly were a work of art!

In later years she lived in LaSalle and then Lindenwood Manor. A prolonged period with Alzheimer's placed her in Pembina Place and then Simkin Centre where she was cared for by an outstanding staff. 

Beloved by all, she leaves to mourn Henry, her loving husband of 73 years, her three children: Irene Ens (Alvin), Harold (Bonita), and Anita Neufeld (Randy); eight grandchildren: Trevor Ens (Carla), Brian Ens, Amanda Ens, Marcus Wiens, Marena Wiens, Michael Wiens, Jason Neufeld (Ashley) and Sabrina Neufeld (Matthew); and nine great-grandchildren, four siblings and many friends.

A private family graveside service will be held at the Glenlea Mennonite Cemetery, Glenlea, MB.