JANZEN, Marianne

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Marianne Janzen (nee: Dirks) on February 27, 2013 at the age of 82.  Marianne was born on February 24, 1931 at the family home in Namaka, Alberta.  She will be forever loved and remembered by her children Bob (Christine), Brenda, Beverley, Lori (Bruce), Allan (Jane), Warren (Dolores), Kathy (Marvin) and twenty grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Marianne was the sixth child born to Gerhard and Tina Dirks, and had sixteen brothers and sisters. She was very grateful for her Christian upbringing and the hard work ethic her parents instilled in her. She met her husband Nick in church and they were married on October 23, 1949. They enjoyed over sixty years of marriage. They raised their family in Strathmore and surrounding area. Marianne loved nature, she and Nick would frequently travel the countryside looking for deer, birds and other wildlife. Marianne had a green thumb and took pride in beautifying her home with many flowers and plants. She had a strong faith and was a great example to many. Marianne and Nick were long time members of the Alliance Church. Marianne took on many different roles within the church including teaching Sunday School, nursery care, AWANA leader, kitchen duties and later on Church Caretaker. One of Marianne’s greatest gifts was caring for people, be it a kind word, a good meal or a hug. Her greatest joy in life was her family. She loved spending time with all of her grandchildren and had a unique relationship with each one. The candy dishes were always full when the grandchildren came to visit. Her cinnamon buns and sweet buns (with icing) were legendary. Surrounded by her family, Marianne went peacefully to be with her Lord. She was predeceased by her son Rod in 1975 and her husband Nick in 2010. The family takes comfort in the fact they are together again. “For the Lord is good.  His unfailing love continues forever, and His faithfulness continues to each generation.” Rest in peace Mom – until we meet again. The family would like to thank Dr. Douglas and the emergency staff at the Strathmore Hospital for their care and compassion. For those wishing to pay their respects, a visitation and viewing will be held on Sunday, March 3, 2013 at the Wheatland Funeral Home between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Funeral services were held on Monday, March 4, 2013 at Strathmore Alliance Church at 2:00 p.m.  Internment took place prior to the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Strathmore Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either “Project HOPE” at www.ghsd75.ca (Golden Hills School Division 75) or “Hope Bridges Society” at www.hopebridges.ca. To send condolences, please visit www.wheatlandfuneralhome.ca.