Hilda Penner nee Friesen was born on May 11, 1927 in Hochstadt, Manitoba, to John P. & Maria (Loewen) Friesen. She was the third of 9 children. They lived in Manitoba, and Alberta before moving to the Fraser Valley, B.C. in 1941. Here they enjoyed family and extended family (lots of cousins, aunts and uncles).
She worked in Harrison Hot Springs where she met Florence Brent who taught her guitar, which became a life-long passion. Many hours were spent singing and playing.
While working in the hop yards she met and fell in love with Bill Penner and after he returned from military service they were married in 1946. They lived
in Mission, where they were baptized and fellowshipped in the Baptist Church and where daughter Sharon was born. They moved and lived briefly to Arnold, and finally to Abbotsford, where daughter Doreen was born.
Hilda worked at many shops as a cashier. Hilda enjoyed visiting with family and friends the best. She also had a passion for gardening. Bill and Hilda spent time fishing and camping and enjoying the outdoors. Bill passed away in 2004.
Hilda attended the Arnold MB Church until, in 2005, Hilda suffered a stroke and was unable to drive. She lived independently with some assistance for 3 years, until authorities forced her into long term care, where her condition deteriorated rapidly. In late October her health took a turn for the worse and she passed away at 1:30 pm November 9th, 2010.
She was predeceased by her parents, husband Bill, sisters: Adina, Elizabeth and Erika, and brother Fred. She leaves to mourn Sharon (Andy), Doreen (Michael) and grandchildren Michelle (Phil) & Christopher (Katrina); Sisters, Mary Penner, Freda (Hank) Friesen, Susie (Dave) Friesen, Elsie (Bob) Ewert and many nieces & nephews. Graveside service is on Monday, November 15, 2010 at the Yarrow Cemetery, at 11am, with Memorial Tea following at Yarrow Community Centre. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Mennonite Historical Society or charity of your choice.
Wiebe & Jeske Funeral Services - 604.859.5885
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