Gertrude Mildred Grabke was born in Whitemouth, Manitoba on November 23, 1921, the third of five children. The family moved to Detroit, Michigan when she was 3 years old, returning to Whitemouth when she was 9 years old. She became a Christian and was Âbaptized at the age of 14.
Gertrude married Eric Best in 1942 and moved to Beausejour, farming with him until the lure of the building trade drew them out to BC.
Four children were born to them: Marilyn, Gary, Mervin and Dawna. Gertrude's pregnancies and deliveries left her with health issues and although never fully resolved, seldom held her back from energetically tackling projects, among which were the four foster babies she cared for and setting up and running a small restaurant/coffee shop in the motel her husband had built in Coquitlam. She even learned to use the computer and had her own prayer website. She always took an active leadership role in Sunday school, children's clubs, women's meetings and retreats, enjoying music and singing and playing both guitar and piano. In retirement her Âenergies were spent on the seniors at "Good Friends" (Sevenoaks Alliance Church).
Gertrude suffered a severe stroke in 2002 which necessitated extended care placement. Eric moved into Menno Terrace to be close to her. He passed away December 31, 2005, just one day short of four weeks before her passing on January 27, 2006 at 84 years of age. They are Âtogether again with their Lord!
Gertrude will be remembered as a loving and caring mother and friend and leaves to mourn her 4 children, their spouses, 15 grandchildren, 8 great grandÂchildren, 1 sister, 3 brothers and their Âspouses, nieces and nephews.
Anticipating her passing, the family had a double memorial service after Eric died, and will have a graveside service only, Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 3:00 pm. Donations in her memory may be directed to www.worldserve.org