Gertrude Driediger was born on May 20, 1923, the oldest of seven children, to Alexander and Katharina Fast at Alexandrodar, Kuban, Russia. Gertrude became a world traveler at the age of two, when the family emigrated to Canada. Her childhood was spent in Moosehorn, Manitoba. Following high school graduation, Gertrude attended Normal School in Winnipeg, where she not only learned to teach, but also fell in love with Jake Driediger.
Gertrude and Jake were married July 15, 1945. Several months later, they moved to Atchelitz, BC where they raised three sons and a daughter. As the children became independent, Gertrude resumed her teaching career and taught Kindergarten until 1983. After her retirement, she and Jake enjoyed numerous trips throughout Europe, Russia, Canada and the U.S. After Jake’s retirement, they were often found enjoying a round of golf, followed by dinner with close friends.
In November of 1997, Jake was diagnosed with bone cancer. This was a difficult time for Gertrude, but her deep faith and unwavering trust in God carried her through. It was at this time that her own health began to fail. On December 16th, Gertrude said “Goodbye” to the cares and concerns of this earthly life and passed through Gates of Splendor into the glorious presence of the Lord she loved and served throughout her life.
She will be remembered for her deep devotion to God, her unfailing love for family and friends, and her generosity to all she met. Her hospitality was spontaneous and gracious. Her culinary skills were second to none and her talented fingers crafted bed and baby quilts, crocheted afghans and created fashionable clothing.
“Her children arise and call her blessed… Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” the Bible (Proverbs 31:28a & 30)
Her passing is mourned by : her sons, George (Helen), Walter (Evelyn), Ted(Delores) and daughter Kathy (Randy) Grycan; grandchildren, Molly and Jordan Driediger; Karen (Dale) Hoeppner, David (Tara), Steven (Jen), Nathan (Annie) Driediger; Matthew (Tania) and Hans Driediger; Holly (Brian Weir) Grycan and Cori (Travis ) Klaus; nine great grandchildren and three expected great grandchildren; her sisters, Katherine (Peter) Harder, Frieda Fast, Joanne (Elvin) Neufeld, Helen Fast; and brothers, John (Mary) Fast and Dave (Shirlee) Fast; and many nieces and nephews.
Gertrude was predeceased by her husband Jake in 1999.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, December 20th , at 9:30 am at the Greendale Cemetery; Celebration of Life to follow, 11:00 am at the Greendale Mennonite Brethren Church, Sardis, BC.