Johanna’s father died before seeing her, and Bolsheviks confiscated her mother’s family’s estate. In 1925, Johanna, her mom and grandma joined family in Kitchener, Ont. Praying with her mom, at 9, Johanna accepted Jesus as Saviour, which set the course for her life. Johanna taught children into her 90s: first in elementary schools, then in Child Evangelism Fellowship Good News Clubs and church ministries. Over 70 years, her devotion to introducing children to Christ took her as far as James Bay and P.E.I. for summer Bible clubs. At Kitchener MB Church, Johanna welcomed Central American refugees: she taught EAL and a church class for adult immigrants. Her heart for people drew many to her home and kitchen. Johanna mailed her family roasted zwiebach and dried apples. She took great interest in their endeavours and prayed for them daily. Her trust in God’s grace sustained her through joy and sorrow. She treasured His Word and the beauty of his creation.
