Bernard G. Wiebe

Bernard G Wiebe passed away on December 28, 2023.  Born to Johann H and Maria Wiebe on March 6, 1925, he was the youngest of 13 and reached 98 years of age.  Having attended the Alt Bergthal school as a young boy, he enjoyed his life in the Altona area.  At the age of 14, he lost his father and he and his two older brothers helped manage the farm just outside of town.  During the war, he was a Conscientious Objector, which took him to Stead near Pine Falls, where he worked on the farm and hauling pulpwood to the river.  These early days forged his life’s path, accepting what came his way and his tireless work ethic was a known characteristic.

Bernard then met Annie Janzen on a trip to Winnipeg Beach with a youth group. After their engagement in 1946, they were married in 1947…the same year he was baptized upon his confession of faith.  They started their family of four boys in 1950. They enjoyed nearly 69 years of marriage before Annie passed away in 2016.

Bernard’s life included several occupations. From owning his own Minneapolis Moline dealership from 1960 until 1976, to managing the grain elevators or serving at the local Esso station before committing to farming full time.

In addition to his strong work ethic, Bernard and Annie always made time for recreation.  Their travels included locations from Hawaii to the Maritimes and many locations in between, often including the golf clubs.  Family and friends were always important to the Wiebes, enjoying lively games of canasta, puzzling, Sudoku or a variety of other card games. Hobbies included woodworking, making footstools, birdhouses and wooden puzzle games, many of which are sprinkled around to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He had so many interests and tried his hand at many of them…enjoying the trials and tribulations as he did so.  He was a master at researching genealogy. Whenever he met someone, including his home care aides, he'd be researching their family history and that would be a topic of conversation and his ability to make a connection and help others feel comfortable chatting was second to none.

Survived by four sons, Norman (Ollie), Allan (Alice), Terrence and Warren (Shawn). Additionally, five grandchildren: Darlene (Dan Lafave), David (Barb), Cameron (April), Jaime (Mark), and Julie (Matt). Eight great grandchildren: Zachary, Austin, Gracen, Sawyer, Kaden, Chase, Ellie and Max.   

To summarize his nearly 99 years of life would be impossible without using words like selfless, caring, joyful, proud, humble, and thoughtful.  His impact on each of his family and friends was and will forever be timeless. 

A celebration of Bernard's life was held on Friday, January 5, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Altona Bergthaler Mennonite Church.  Interment took place at the Altona Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Bernard may be made to Altona and District Palliative Care.