John Olfert died May 15, 2009 at 96. He was born Mar. 29, 1913 in Steinfeld, Ukraine to Johann and Aganetha Olfert. Prior to immigrating to Canada in 1926, he became brother to 3 foster children. They arrived in Canada in Nov. 1926 and settled in a newly formed village of immigrants referred to as “The Bunch” near Sperling, Man. Here, he and his parents were baptized and joined the local MB church. On Oct. 9, 1937, he married Maria Froese. They settled on the parental farm and raised a family until Maria died May 20, 1955. In October, John moved his family to Winnipeg, where he did factory work, and joined the North Kildonan MB Church. On Mar. 10, 1956, John married Elizabeth (Betty) Enns. In 1970, he began work at Donwood Manor, continuing there until retirement at 70. In 1998 Betty passed away. John stayed in the Donwood community, receiving excellent care and bringing a smile to the staff. He was always grateful for the visits of family and friends. John is mourned by children David (Hermine), John (Agnes), Harry (Agnes), Agnes (Ed) Fehr, Mary Anne (Lorne) Penner, Kathy Dyck, Art (Elsie), Ruth (Arvid) Loewen; 39 grandchildren (including spouses); 39 great-grandchildren.
954
