DIANNE LOEWEN

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DIANNE LOEWEN Dianne Loewen was born on October 17, 1954 to Allan and Annie Penner Loewen. She left this world for a better home, early in the morning of April 21, 2014. She was fifty-nine years old. Dianne grew up on a farm near the Rosenort, Manitoba area. She got her education at a number of small country schools. After completing grade 10, she helped her parents on the farm. She had several local jobs and also spent time taking care of her brother Russell after he was diagnosed with Lupus. Later in life she worked at the Maplewood Manor for 17 years as a health care aide. She enjoyed her work and is remembered for her kind and tender ways. Dianne especially enjoyed working in palliative care. In 2006, she quit her job due to failing health. Dianne found peace with God in her youthful years and was baptized into the Church of God in Christ by Minister Jake Bartel on February 14, 1971. Her family appreciated the upbeat and positive attitude she displayed in her last number of years despite some severe health problems. We feel confident that she has gone to be with the Lord. When she was twenty-four years old her kidneys failed and she had to go on dialysis. Two years later she was able to have a transplant. She appreciated the new kidney she received from her brother Byron and took great pains to give it the best of care. This kidney served her well for 30 years. In 2011, her donated kidney quit working and she was once again placed on dialysis. Dianne faced a variety of health issues in her life and found herself in the hospital quite frequently. Six years ago she was diagnosed with cancer. She fought this new enemy courageously. On April 14, 2014, she was again taken to emergency at St. Boniface Hospital. A few days later the doctor told her that her liver was full of cancer and she did not have long to live. Although this was a disappointment to her, she accepted it with grace. Dianne was the oldest of nine children. Her family was special to her and she loved all of her nephews and nieces. She was lovingly known as "Auntie Di." Dianne was also an excellent cook and baker; many a friend and family member could attest to this fact. In 2006, it worked for her to move into her own apartment. This was a place she loved. We are deeply grateful to Aunt Darleen who so lovingly cared for her the last three years. Her care made it possible for Dianne to stay in her own home sweet home up to the last week of her life. She was predeceased by her parents and one brother Russell who died when he was 18 years of age. She will be missed by her remaining four brothers and three sisters: Gerald and Cheryl of Fountain Run, Kentucky; Fern and Victor Toews of Moorefield, Ontario; Byron and Darla of Rosenort, Manitoba; Larry and Rosie of Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia; Betty and Dalen Goossen of Gretna, Manitoba; Keith and Sandi of Altona, Manitoba; and Rhonda and Chet Friesen of Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia. Besides her brothers and sisters there are thirty-two nephews and nieces who were dear to her. Also missing her will be her aunts, Darleen Loewen, Joanne, Joyce, and Stella Penner, and Uncle Randell and Aunt Julie Goossen, all of the Rosenort area. Also affected by her passing will be many other uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. The family would like to thank the health care workers and professionals for the wonderful care Dianne received. The funeral service will be held Sunday, April 27, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at Red River Church of God In Christ, Mennonite, in Rosenort, MB, with burial to follow at the church cemetery. Viewing will be held at the church prior to the service. Arrangements by BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL 1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 26, 2014