July 14, 1931 - July 26, 2021
Erna passed away in the early morning hours of July 26, 2021, after several years of declining health.
Erna was born July 14, 1931, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Gerhard and Aganeta Epp, and grew up on the family farm in Osborne, Manitoba. The family moved to East Chilliwack in 1946.
Erna married John Lenzmann in 1953. They had three daughters, Ruth, Janet, and Karen.
Erna was an elementary school teacher, and taught in 70 Mile House, White Rock, Aiyansh, and Abbotsford. She had a gift for connecting with students and remembered them by name many years later.
In retirement, she enjoyed volunteering at the MCC thrift store, as well as singing in various groups in seniors' homes. She also enjoyed reading, crocheting, travelling, and going out for lunch with family. She was a very generous person, and willingly gave of herself to others.
Erna was an active member of Bakerview MB Church since 1965, where she taught Sunday School and sang in choirs.
Memories of Erna will long be cherished by John, her husband of almost 68 years; daughters Ruth (Paul) Tarasenko of Abbotsford, Janet Lenzmann of Sunnyvale CA, and Karen Lenzmann of Abbotsford; grandchildren Cynthia Tarasenko (Erik Bailey), Steven Tarasenko, Alex Friesen, Marina Friesen, and Carly Friesen; brothers Walter (Selma) Epp of Edmonton, and Werner Epp of Bakersfield, CA, and sisters Martha Braun and Agnes (Dave) Dahl, both of Abbotsford; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
She is predeceased by her parents, two brothers in infancy, and numerous brothers - and sisters-in-law.
Memorial service will be held at Bakerview Church on Tuesday, August 24 at 2 pm, and will be live streamed (Please visit www.woodlawnfh-abbotsford.com for link).
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Erna's memory to MCC or the Starfish Program at Archway Food Bank.
Online tributes and condolences to the family can be made at www.woodlawnfhabbotsford.com
Woodlawn Funeral Home