Jessie Elias (nee Rempel)
After a long life of service and generosity, with loving daughter Joanne at her bedside, Jessie passed peacefully on May 25, 2019 at the age of 96.
She was predeceased by her parents, Peter G and Justina Rempel, her husband, Peter R, 1 brother, George, and 2 sisters, Susie and Mary. She leaves to mourn her four children, Don (Elfie), Andy (Saskia), Joanne (Larry), and Tim. She will be lovingly remembered by her 6 grandchildren, Rachael (Michael), Rob (Elizabeth), Sonya (Ryan), Karl (Karly), Garrett (Shelby), Justina (Reuben), 5 great-grandchildren, Kathryn, Daniel, Erin, Ella, and Landon, 1 sister, Annie, 1 sister-in-law, Marge, nieces and nephews, and so many others who were a part of her life. Special thanks to her faithful nieces, Adeline, Linda, and Carol, who visited her even in her final years. The visits of Pastor Adam Robinson and others from Douglas Mennonite Church were much appreciated. Her church was a great source of comfort and inspiration over the years, as was her faith and love of “good music”, which often brought tears to her eyes and joy to her soul.
Jessie was born on October 24, 1922 in Nieder Chortitza, Ukraine. She arrived in Canada as a toddler in 1925 and began a new life in southern Manitoba. Her childhood was difficult, and she had to leave school early to help on the farm and care for her mother. She was baptized in 1941 and married Peter R Elias in 1945. They were blessed with 4 children and Jessie adored each one of them. Her husband died suddenly in 1968. She was always resourceful, working at various jobs, but found her passion in cooking for others. She became Head Cook at Bethel Hospital, obtaining a Dietician diploma and her Grade Twelve Equivalency with a great sense of accomplishment. At age 63, she retired from the hospital position and moved from Winkler to Winnipeg to be closer to her children there. Caring for and being involved with her grandchildren was a top priority; they were all spoken about in glowing terms at every opportunity. She also managed to do volunteer work, tend to her raised garden plot, sew, knit, crochet, and read extensively. Apartment life was most enjoyable for her as she could easily “hop on a bus” and explore the city on a frequent basis. She was known to regularly push a friend’s wheelchair across Portage Avenue so that this friend could enjoy a fast food meal. Generosity to homeless people was another trademark of her character and “safety talks” were largely ignored. She took various scenic trips over the years with her sister Annie Falk from St. Catharines, ON. Together, they had many laughs and adventures as sisters do. Her final trip was to Victoria, BC when she was 85. She continued her habit of a daily outdoor walk until her steps slowed and she entered full time care at Deer Lodge in 2017 in Tower 6. Never one to complain, she often commented that having a beautiful outdoor view from her bed made her very grateful. Her transfer to Kildonan Personal Care Centre on Henderson Highway was also accepted with grace. The family is very appreciative of the care and beautiful surroundings she had during this time.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Siloam Mission, one of her many favourite charities.
Cremation has taken place. A private family interment will be held at a later date in the Winkler Cemetery.
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, June 6, 10:30 am, at Douglas Mennonite Church, 1517 Rothesay Street, Winnipeg.
Read Less
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Jessie Elias Rempel Saturday May 25th 2019..
Décès pour la Ville: Winnipeg, Province: Manitoba