Monthly Archives: November 2011

Mennonite Mirror, October 1979 

The Kehlers living in the wider Steinbach region are a truly remarkable clan. Not only are they as numerous as chokecherries in August, but like chokecherries they grow in dense family clusters in close proximity to each other. There the comparison breaks down. Chokecherries are silent, waiting to be picked.  The Kehlers are never silent and anything but passive. They are active, spirited and vocal – if not downright gabby. They never stop talking and when they have nothing more to say they go on talking for the sheer pleasure of it. When Kehlers get together the air turns into a whirlwind of words and laughter. As the Kehlers themselves like to say: ‘Never bury a Kehler until you’ve made sure his mouth is dead too.’

Aunt Susan takes the mike from Syd Reimer at the Kehler clan gathering in Mitchell

In August, the Kehlers held a one-day reunion in the Mitchell Arena, near Steinbach. Both physically and symbolically an arena is the proper place for a Kehler clan reunion. In this case the site was fitting for another reason. The new arena in Mitchell happens to be built on what was once the south-east corner of the original Kehler family farm. Local residents waited nervously for this momentous gathering of the clan. Many made plans to be away from home that weekend, hoping that the neighborhood would not have been declared a disaster area when they got back. Some took new comfort in the hope that their brand new arena was sturdy enough to withstand the vocal onslaughts of hundreds of celebrating Kehlers of all ages. (more…)

Leonard George Unger

On November 17, 2011 Leonard George Unger passed away peacefully with his family by his side, at the Bethesda Hospital in Steinbach. Leonard was born April 4, 1928 to Jacob and Aganetha Unger of Steinbach.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 60 years Helen, his children Pete (Carla) and Pat (Leo); sister Norma (Harry), his brothers and sisters-in-law; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents. (more…)

Marjorie Anne Reimer Heinrichs

In loving memory of Marj who left us one year ago today.

We could not have been prepared for the loss of this amazing wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. We miss her warm embrace, her boundless energy, her infectious laughter and her ever present camera which captured all that she loved and admired. We’ve lost an irreplaceable advocate and cheerleader. Silent is the voice we still yearn to hear. Yet, her legacy lives on. She taught us well and in her honour we will continue to gather as family and friends, to share her memories, stories, hopes and dreams. We love and miss you Marj.

Gigawabamin Ginew Washeek (Until we meet again)

Jim and family

Lest we forget! On November 11th, which this year is 11/11/11, at the eleventh hour, we stop to remember those who fought to defend our freedoms.