Gertrude Elsie Heppner

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gertrude Elsie Heppner, at 93 years of age, known affectionately as "Gerti," who left us to be with the Lord. Gerti was the eighth of twelve children born to Bernhard and Katarina Heppner in Teddington, Saskatchewan.

She was predeceased by her parents, as well as her brothers Dave, Ben, John, Dick, and George and her sisters; Mary Marriott, Margaret Rodgers, and Katherine "Tina" Heppner. She also mourned the loss of nephews Lyle Marriott, Nathan, Rick, and Roy Rodgers, Daryl, Kirk and Geoff Heppner.

Gerti is survived by her two sisters, Anna Bernard and Linda Beecham, along with many nieces and nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will fondly remember her.

Gerti was raised in a mennonite home in Saskatchewan. In her twenties, Gerti moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, where she pursued a career in nursing before becoming a beloved nanny. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. A dedicated member of the Lutheran Church in both Vancouver and Duncan, she found great comfort and purpose in her church community.

Gerti spoke both English and Low-German. She loved to laugh (giggle), telling the occasional inappropriate joke to those who knew her well. She had a strong love for reading, music, and playing the organ. Her travels took her to Scotland, Hawaii, Israel, and many places across Canada, including visits to Vancouver Island, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, where she spent precious time with family. One of her proudest achievements was her collection of bowling trophies, a testament to her competitive spirit and dedication.

In March 2012, Gerti moved to Duncan on Vancouver Island, where she enjoyed new friendships and being closer to her younger sister Anna and her family.

Gerti’s spirit now rests in heaven, and her body will be laid to rest beside her best friend and sister, Katherine "Tina" Heppner, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Burnaby, BC.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.