Erika immigrated to Canada in 1922, travelling to Montreal on the Empress of Scotland, then to Rosthern, Sask. She wore a pair of shoes her father made, which she treasured all her life. Her family moved to Winnipeg in 1938. Waiting at a bus stop, Erika met John. After they married, they moved to Vancouver, returning to Winnipeg 6 years later. A true artist, Erika could make anything from nothing. She supported her girls’ creative aspirations. She cooked, sewed and created together with John and their daughters. She especially enjoyed her work outfitting the Winnipeg Mennonite Children’s Choir and teaching the first home economics classes at MB Collegiate Institute, Winnipeg. Erika supported community efforts in Elmwood and was active in Elmwood MB Church. She enjoyed leading tours at the Winnipeg Art Gallery and chairing committees for Women’s World Day of Prayer and Fellowship of the Least Coin. After John’s death, grandchildren filled her days with joy. Erika showed kind, considerate love and appreciation to others. She inspired beauty all around her.
