Katherina Giesbrecht died Feb. 10, 2011 at 101. She was born Jan. 14, 1910 in Kamenskaja, Russia to Johann and Katherina (Epp) Rempel. The family of 10 moved to Omsk, Siberia, seeking safety and living in poverty. In 1926, they immigrated to Canada, settling in Winnipeg. Katherina worked as a maid to support the family. She studied at Winkler (Man.) Bible Institute for a year. The family moved to Sardis, B.C. Katherina worked as a maid and nanny in Vancouver. She married John Giesbrecht in 1948. (Their families had known each other in Russia.) In 1965, John died of a heart attack, and Katherina relied on God for strength to raise 2 children. She was an active member of North Kildonan MB Church, Winnipeg, into her 80s, attending ladies’ group and serving as deaconess. God answered her prayer to live to see her first grandchild’s wedding. Katherina lived in her own home until 85, after which she spent 9 years in Donwood South and 6 in Donwood Personal Care Home. Predeceased by John, all her siblings; Katherina is mourned by children Carol (Walter) Warkentin, Peter (Jacky); 2 granddaughters; 1 great-grandson.
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