August 13, 1919 - November 26, 2021
After a long and rich life filled with much love our mother, Helene A. Franz, died peacefully November 26, at the age of 102. Born August 13, 1919 in the Ukraine, she and her family immigrated to Canada in 1926 where her parents, Aron and Helena Janzen, began a homestead in La Glace, Alberta.
She met the love of her life, Jacob H. Franz and they married in 1942. After some years in Coaldale, Alberta, they and their first daughter made a 3 month journey by train, boat and finally ox cart, to the Chaco in Paraguay, where they began an outreach to the Nivacle people. In total they spent 25 years as missionaries in the Chaco and Asuncion, Paraguay, where their family grew to 6 children.
In 1969 they moved to BC where Dad and Mom served as pastor couple at the King Road MB Church till Dad's death on November 25 in 1978. She decided to make her "heavenly entrance" 43 years, plus one day, after Dad. Happy reunion no doubt!
For Mom, her pride and joy was her family. The children were always dressed well, often with the clothes she sewed and because of our father's travels, she shouldered much of the responsibility of running the home. Our parents gifted us with a life filled with exposure to multiple cultures and languages. Their greatest gift, however, was their demonstration of the unconditional, never-ending love of God, which we will always treasure ... till we meet again.
At the time of her passing Mom was blessed with almost 50 grand and great grandchildren, for whom she regularly prayed.
Mom's celebration of life is planned for Sunday, December 5.
For tributes and condolences please view: www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/10465846