Mary trusted Jesus as Saviour early. She attended Mennonite Collegiate Institute, Gretna, Man., and Winkler (Man.) Bible Institute, where she met Irvin. They moved many times, including to Steinbach, Man., as Irvin taught in small country schools. In 1968, Irvin and Mary were called to pastor Blaine Lake (Sask.) Gospel Chapel, where Mary endeared herself to the Russian and Ukrainian people in the community. When Irvin was director at Redberry Bible Camp, Mary was camp “mom.” They ministered in Swift Current, Sask.; Newton, Man.; Woodrow, Sask.; Cochrane, Alta.; Enchant, Alta.; and Arnold, B.C. Mary shared her heart for children at risk by opening their home to many hurting youth. While Irvin attended Briercrest Bible College, Caronport, Sask., Mary blessed many students’ wives preparing for ministry. As retirement neared, they ministered to seniors in their buildings in Vancouver and Abbotsford, B.C. At Fernwood Place, Steinbach, they reconnected with old friends over 10 years. When health deteriorated, their children encouraged them to return to Abbotsford, B.C. They moved to Tabor Manor in 2012, and Mary entered Tabor Home in 2013. Although she needed help with daily living, she continued to share her faith and encourage staff and residents. Mary died as Irvin read her Psalm 84.
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