Obituary of Bertha Plett

Bertha Plett (nee Penner), aged 84 years, of Blumenort, MB., passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Bethesda Regional Health Centre, Steinbach, MB.

Bertha Penner was born to Ben CL and Anna Penner on July 15, 1939.  She was the oldest of eight siblings. Growing up as the oldest child in a large family meant taking on significant responsibilities at a young age.  Although she enjoyed school and aspired to be a nurse she quit school after grade nine to help at home.  She also grew in her desire to follow Jesus and was baptized upon her personal confession of faith in Jesus in the spring of 1957.

She was barely 17 years of age when she attracted the attention of a handsome young farmer who lived just a quarter mile down the road.  On September 27, 1958 she married David L Plett with her uncle Peter P Friesen officiating.

Together they took over the family dairy farm from David’s parents.  This is where they spent the first 32 years of their married life; working hard to make the farm a success while also welcoming four sons and two daughters into their family.  Unfortunately an incurable kidney disease took the life of their 1 1/2 year old son Cameron and their 2 ½ year old daughter Candace.  These were very difficult experiences especially for her caring mother heart!

Despite these difficulties she continued to live out her strong gift of service, love, and care for others;  from the nurses, doctors, and parents of other young hospitalized children, to the friends of her teenage children, to countless neighbors, friends and family.

After another 31 years in their second home – an acreage just south of their first farmyard – they moved into Oakview Manor in Blumenort a year and a half ago.  The time in this new apartment alongside friends and relatives was so good for the health of her social heart and mind. 

She was admitted to the hospital on February 11 with difficulty breathing and excessive coughing.  She had experienced this before but it became apparent fairly quickly that this time her energy and resolve to fight was depleted and her body was simply too tired to resist any longer.  As the week went on she informed us that all she wanted was to go home to heaven.

She passed away peacefully in the late afternoon on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.  She is survived by her husband of 65 years David L Plett; three sons and one daughter; Dalen, Darren, Barry, and Jaycia and their families; one brother and four sisters.

She was predeceased by one son Cameron and one daughter Candace.

We are so thankful for the legacy of faithful service, loyal relationships, and commitment to Jesus that she has left us.

The come & go viewing will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB.

The memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 25, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at Blumenort Community Church, with a private family interment. Reception to follow immediately after the service. 

To join the family via livestream please click HERE shortly before the time of the service.