Erna Janzen passed away suddenly in her 82nd year, in her home in Chilliwack. Erna was born to Abram and Katharina Warkentin, September 14, 1923 in Padolsk, Russia. As so many others, her parents and their children emigrated to Canada in 1926. The family made their first home in Provost, Alberta and moved to Sardis in 1937. On February 19, 1944, Greendale Mennonite Church became the setting for her marriage to John Born. John died of cancer on February 22, 1964. On February 20, 1971, Greendale Mennonite Church again became the setting for her marriage to John Janzen. At this time she moved to his home in Yarrow where she and John enjoyed many years entertaining the family and many friends. Together, they enjoyed the travels to Europe, Israel, through Canada and parts of the United States. John died of cancer August 19, 1988. Erna enjoyed her involvement in the Women’s Group and many Bible Studies at Eden Mennonite Church. In some of her last conversations with family, she expressed that she wanted and was ready to go “home” and so her wish and prayer have been granted- she is at “home” with her God; all is well.
Erna is survived by her children Loretta (Dave) Ortis, Alvin (Diane) Born; Walter (Ellie) Janzen, Edna (Harry) richert, Selma (Johnny) Ewert, Gladys (Bill) Neudorf, Freda (Harry) Derksen; thirty-four grandchildren, thirty seven great grandchildren and her siblings, Evelyn Klassen, Frieda (Frank) Ediger, Kay 9George) Baerg, sister in law Irene Warkentin and many nieces and nephews. Erna was predeceased by her parents, Abram and Katharina Warkentin, spouses, John Born and John Janzen, two infant children, three infant great grandchildren and her brother Abe Warkentin.
Interment was in Greendale Cemetery and the Memorial Service was held Monday July 4th, 2005 at Eden Mennonite Church Chilliwack. If family and friends so desire, donations in Erna’s memory may be made to MCC Supportive Care Services, 2776 Bourquin Ave. Abbotsford, BC V2S 6A4