Wilbert came to know Jesus in Sunday school in New Hamburg, Ont. He gained a strong work ethic from his dad – a respected window maker, and demonstrated his mother’s gentle spirit as he cared for his sister Elsie, who became mentally challenged. He delivered eggs on roller skates. Wilbert lent a hand to anyone in trouble, having learned from the Father that everyone needs grace. He studied bookkeeping in night school. At Virgil MB Church, he fell in love with Betty. A charter member of Orchard Park Bible Church, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont., Wilbert taught Sunday school and boys’ club and served as trustee, treasurer and pastoral search committee member. Wilbert loved trains and enjoyed a promising career for 14 years with CP/CN as railroad inspector and auditor. When the railway asked him to move, rather than uproot his family, Wilbert chose a career change, settling into the appliance business and political involvement. He served as school trustee, alderman, regional councillor, lord mayor and regional chairman. Wilbert always made time for family road trips. He restored a 1924 Ford Model T. He was keenly aware of his grandchildren’s projects and dreams. 1981, the year Wilbert met the Queen Mother, his son Gerry died in a motorcycle accident, a defining moment over which Wilbert continued to struggle quietly. Wilbert’s last day was spent in joy at his church picnic.
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