Agnes was a teacher for 40 years, beginning when she was not quite 18 with only a high school diploma. She taught one-room country schools, then primary schools in North Kildonan, Winnipeg, and lastly, high school English at River East Collegiate, Winnipeg. With MCC, she spent a year in St. Anthony, Nfld., teaching in the hospital that gave treatment to many children with tuberculosis. After retirement, Agnes taught English to new Canadians. She visited Rockwood Institute weekly to help inmates pass their exams. Often, she was approached by people affectionately stating, “You were my teacher.” Agnes pursued her own education assiduously, during vacations and occasionally taking time off from work. Agnes enjoyed reading Shakespeare, the Bible, poetry, novels, and classical literature. “Reading is breathing,” she said. She sang in choirs, cross-country skied, cycled, and walked. She delighted in her nieces and nephews, Joy (Harold) Huebert, Noni (Phil) Goertzen, Christine (Evan) Jennings, David (Betty) Huebert, Don Huebert, Philip (Diane) Unruh, Tim (Jeanette) Unruh, and their children. She enjoyed her flower gardens and hosted memorable family gatherings. Agnes was always generous with her time and resources, supporting many charities and the endeavours of her younger relatives. She was a devoted, active member of McIvor Avenue MB Church, a faithful Christian to the end. She had a sure hope of heaven and steadfastness in prayer. This helped her endure Parkinson’s disease with grace and fortitude.
