Blondina was the third of 4 children. Her early years were during the Great Depression. She was impressed with the way her parents coped during those difficult years. After graduating from high school, Blondina taught in a public school for a year before enrolling in a 4-year training program at Prairie Bible Institute in Three Hills, Alta. This is where she sensed God leading her to become a missionary to northern India. She served there for 20 years with WEC International (Worldwide Evangelization for Christ). In her first years there, she and her coworkers served in a remote village where there were no roads. Travel was either by foot or ox cart. For health reasons, Blondina was transferred to Kishtiwar, Kasmir, where she assisted in a medical clinic. Blondina moved to Abbotsford, B.C., to be a caregiver to her parents. During that time, she worked as a receptionist in Dr. Fast’s dental office. She continued to have a passion for evangelism. At Clearbrook MB Church, she was involved in outreach, teaching English and Bible to newcomers from South Asia. She had a compassionate heart and assisted in a Sunday school class for disabled adults in the church. Her last years were in White Rock (B.C.) Senior Village. Staff often mentioned her exceptionally positive attitude and constant smile. Blondina’s sense of inner peace was deeply rooted in her faith. Even after poor health left her weak, she was always grateful for the co-laborers she had in church ministries, for friends, and for the staff who served her. She was especially grateful for the friendship and care given by her brother Clarence and his wife Joan. Joan was a real sister to her. She loved their family dearly. They visited her regularly even after Blondina lost her ability to express herself verbally. Blondina will be remembered for her selfless service and her burden to share her faith with others. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).
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