ERNA RITA WILLMS (JANZEN)

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ERNA RITA WILLMS (nee JANZEN) December 22, 1932 - March 25, 2012 It is with sorrow that I announce the death of my beloved wife, Rita, who passed away peacefully at the Grace Hospital on March 25, 2012, at the age of 79 years. Rita was born to David and Anna Janzen in Winnipeg and grew up in Grunthal, Manitoba. In 1945 the family moved to Winnipeg where she attended Hugh John McDonald and Daniel MacIntyre Collegiate. Upon graduation she entered the working world and ultimately spent 37 years as an administrative assistant at IBM, retiring in 1990. Upon retirement Rita spent many years volunteering with Prairie Performances, Winnipeg Mennonite Theatre, as well as being a board member of the AutumnHaus Seniors Home. She was predeceased by her parents David (1967) and Anna (1995), as well as one brother Herbert (2010) and sister-in-law Chela (2004). She is survived by her husband Fred, of 44 years, brother Eric and his wife Maureen as well as their children Derek and Lorie. She is also survived by her late brother's family, Herb Jr., Chelita, Rhoda and Ingrid of Houston, TX. She will also be lovingly remembered by many great-nieces and nephews. The funeral will be held on Friday, March 30, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at First Mennonite Church, 922 Notre Dame Avenue, with viewing prior to the church service. As well there will be a short devotional service from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 29 at Friends Funeral Service, 2146 Main Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Rita to the Mennonite Central Committee, 134 Plaza Dr., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 5K9.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 29, 2012