George Kroeker

Obituary

George Kroeker was born on May 10, 1925, in Gnadenfeld, Russia, and died in Winnipeg on Tuesday, March 13, 2018 at the age of 92.

He was predeceased by his wife Renata (Rena); parents Peter and Katherine (Dyck); brothers: Jacob, Abram (Abe), Henry, and David; stepbrothers Peter and John in Russia; and sisters Annie and Katherine (Katie).

He leaves to mourn his sons: Ken, Harold (Linda), Philip (Sheila), and Murray (Janine); grandchildren: Evan, Kathryn, Colson, and Logan; brother Bill (Anne); sisters-in-law Irene Kroeker and Clara Dyck; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

George immigrated with the family as an infant. He grew up on a farm near Whitewater, Manitoba, and experienced the full gamut of farm life. He became a member of the Whitewater Mennonite Church by baptism. On August 27, 1952, he married the love of his life Renata (Rena) Dyck at her home church in Tiefengrund near Laird, Saskatchewan. They then made their home in Winnipeg. George worked within the church, was instrumental in organizing the first Bethel Boys League, taught Sunday School etc., and served on a variety of boards and committees of the Conference of Mennonites in Manitoba. George received his early education at Boissevain Collegiate, then later earned his three degrees from the University of Manitoba mostly by attending classes in the evenings and during vacation time.

He began teaching on a permit at age 17 at Winnipeg Falls South. In early January, he met his classes of nine grades and 60 students. One day the Education Department inspector arrived, and after many questions to himself and the students, they received a very good report, much to everyone’s relief. While he was attending Normal School, it was requested that he return to his first school to complete the school term, which he did. He taught at Great Falls, High Bluff, and St. James, then moved to Winnipeg School Division 1. He taught classes for the evening and vocation school, eventually becoming its principal. During the summers, Rena and the boys went tenting at the lake, but they later enjoyed vacations at the cottage in Lac du Bonnet. George loved fishing and had many fishing stories to tell. He retired in 1985, having taught for 40 years, often in difficult circumstances, but he seldom complained.

Several years later, he and Rena spent two years teaching in China under the auspices of the Commission on Overseas Mission and the China Educational Exchange, seconded to Amity (the Chinese Christian organization). While serving overseas, they traveled extensively during vacation time within China and surrounding countries. Upon returning home, they spent a very busy two years sharing their experiences with congregations and other organizations and interested groups. George and Rena were slated to return to China, but it was not to be. Just weeks short of their departure date, George had several strokes followed by heart bypass surgery. A number of former students who were now doctors, nurses, and therapists provided him with excellent care. Thus, ended the plan for returning to China.

Nevertheless, he and Rena never lost their curiosity to explore and learn. They criss-crossed Canada and the U.S. numerous times in their fifth wheel camper, visiting relatives and friends. For a number of winters, they joined friends who camped in the Arizona desert. When it rained, dry creek beds and gullies awoke, turning into torrential rivers, which meant scrambling for higher ground. The desert came alive with a profusion of flowering plants, shrubs, and cacti, as well as reptiles, insects, and mammals from hares to desert donkeys. Not only did they learn the intricacies of desert life but also about God’s wonderful creation. With friends they enjoyed several cruises, relaxing but exploring and learning. When Rena was moved into the Simkin Centre Nursing Home, George moved into Lindenwood Manor. He appreciated the daily evening discussions with Ken since Rena’s death, the invitations from family to share meals, and the help received from all the family and friends.

The memorial service for George will be held on Monday, March 19, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel Mennonite Church, 465 Stafford St, Winnipeg MB. The burial will take place prior to the service at Mennonite Memorial Gardens, Winnipeg, MB.

If friends so desire, donations in memory of George may be made to Mennonite Central Committee, 134 Plaza Dr., Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9.

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