Obituary of Ben K. Penner

Ben Penner’s brief journey ended Wednesday, November 3, 2021. He leaves to cherish the memories his wife Claudia Penner, his two sisters, Martha (Ike) Fehr, Clara (Peter) Harms and his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many friends.

He was predeceased by his parents Helen & Peter Penner, his son Bernie Penner, his former wife Doreen Penner, along with many uncles, aunts and extended family members.

We, the family fondly remember his journey and the many lives he impacted along the way in many ways.

Ben’s story as told by him…

It all began very simply in 1938. No bells or whistles, just a simple home in Shaunavon, SK., small town in south-western Saskatchewan. It was a small and humble, but we were a family in the every sense of the word. Mom and Dad loved the Lord and they had a powerful impact on all the children and grandchildren‘s lives.

We moved from Shaunavon to the Foam Lake area in the late 30s, where we continued to farm and only by God’s grace, flourished. Everyone got to chip in and help, that’s the family way.

In 1948, we moved from Foam Lake to Manitoba and settled in the Steinbach area, some 10 miles north west of town. Our parents were looking for a more Christian influence for the family.

In 1949, I gave my heart to the Lord and my new journey had begun. There were many ups and downs. Self-will soon took over. I rebelled against God and family and soon the road that was on my life was strewn with ugly fruits of my selfish choices.

Thank God he didn’t give up on me. In 1978 at the end of my selfish rope, I had the opportunity one Sunday morning to recommit my life to the Lord and that is what I did.

Things really began to change quickly. Old desires were gone. Wasted time had to be recovered. Loving God, serving him and loving others became very important to me. God gave me numerous opportunities to serve the body of Christ in a variety of ways. There were special times and great days in my life.

I am really looking forward to all that heaven holds for all who put their faith and trust in Jesus as Saviour and Lord. Jesus said, there’s only one way to heaven. No person, no preacher, no pastor, no priest, no pope, no church, no denomination, can get you to heaven. There’s only one way, one door and Jesus is it. It’s our choice, heaven or hell. There is no middle ground, no purgatory, no halfway house, just heaven or hell. Our body will die but our spirit lives on forever.

I thank all those still left behind anticipating heaven. Thank you for all you did for me. It is it’s up to you now to carry the banner and to lift it high. Remind everyone you can that Jesus is Lord!

I am especially grateful to my wife, partner and friend. God gave me an amazing woman. You had a powerful impact on my life. Thank you! To all my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, thank you for everything. You all surely had a special place in my heart. I am looking forward to seeing you all again soon!

Thank you to all the nurses, doctors and medical teams who attended to my needs in my last days.

The public come & go viewing will be held Monday, November 8, 2021 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB. 

The private family, by invitation only, funeral service will be held Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel. 

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Christ for All Nations Inc., P.O Box 24090 London, ON, N6H 5C4.