When Erna was 2 months, her family moved to Mexico. Erna’s father died not long afterward. The family was often hungry. Some of Erna’s half-siblings moved to Canada. Her mother decided to join the extended family. They arrived in Flowing Well, Sask., later settling Coaldale, Alta., where Erna’s mother met and married a widower. Erna gained stepsiblings. When Erna was 20, the family moved to Arnold, B.C., to farm. Finding long-term employment was more difficult with her disabilities, but Erna often helped her mother’s friends. As her mother aged, the family didn’t want Erna to be alone. When her mother moved to Tabor Home, Abbotsford, B.C., Erna came to live there as well in 1969. Many friends visited her there, receiving chocolate bars from her stash. Erna enjoyed travelling to the B.C. interior. Though she struggled with communication, she was clear about what she wanted. Erna enjoyed eating out, reading, doing puzzles. She was baptized and remained true to Jesus and her church. She regularly watched Clearbrook MB Church’s services on CFEG. Erna was concerned for her family and friends’ wellbeing.
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