Obituary of Helen Penner

Helen Penner (nee Klassen), age 89 of Steinbach, formerly of Niverville, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 2, 2024, at Rest Haven Care Home, Steinbach, Manitoba.

She is survived by her son, Tim (Janice), grandchildren, Kathy (Jonathan) Wiens, Greg Rempel, Derek Penner, Travis (Suzanne) Penner, Candice (Gord) Kroeker, great-grandchildren, Carson and Grace Wiens, Brynnley and Savannah Rempel, Peter Kroeker, and Sarah Penner. She is also survived by her brother, John (Hilda) Klassen, sisters, Nettie (George) Duerksen, Carol Taylor, Betty (Alfred) Freund and brother-in-law, Ike Doerksen.

She was predeceased by her husband, Wilbert, her daughter, Sheryl Rempel, brother, Peter Klassen, sisters, Tina Doerksen, Mary (Art) Reimer and brother-in-law, Bruce Taylor.

Helen was born to Peter J. and Katherina Klassen on September 23, 1934, in the RM of Rhineland, Manitoba. She was third of eight children. She married Wilbert Penner on December 28, 1951, and celebrated 70 years together in 2021.

Helen was a homemaker with many creative interests. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, sewing, quilting, knitting, crochet, embroidering and painting. She was involved in church life – choir, teaching Sunday School and sewing for those in need.

She made new friends as the family moved to Thunder Bay, Toronto, Calgary, Winnipeg and then to the farm near Niverville, where they lived for 42 years, before moving to Steinbach. Her family brought her great joy. She loved family gatherings, always cooking a large variety of dishes to be enjoyed. The grandchildren will remember pink jello and chocolate pie. The great-grandchildren will remember special visits, that her favourite colour was blue, and her love.

Helen was a woman of great faith, reading God’s word and praying for her family daily. Hymns and southern gospel music held a special place in her heart, bringing encouragement and hope for her eternal life in Heaven.

We would like to thank the staff of Rest Haven Care Home for the wonderful care they gave Mom during the last 2 years.

If friends so desire, donations in memory of Helen may be made to Haven Group Foundation.

The funeral service will be held Friday, August 9, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB., with viewing one hour prior to the service. To join the family via livestream, click HERE prior to the service.

The interment will take place at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach, MB.