Deuteronomy 31:8
On March 18, 2020, God peacefully called his daughter Mary Hoeppner home to join her beloved husband Peter, her parents John and Nettie, and several siblings.
Left to celebrate her legacy is her large, loving family: children Dennis (Marleen), Carol, Donna (Loris), Vicki (Marvin), Barry (Gloria), Jane (Terry) and Mark (Shannon), along with 21 grandchildren and their spouses, 21 great-grandchildren, and her remaining siblings. She will be greatly missed by them, as well as by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Mary Buhler was born on December 15, 1923, as the third of 17 children of John and Nettie Buhler in the farming community of Rhineland, Manitoba. Mary lived in Plum Coulee until 1927, when the family moved to northern Saskatchewan before finally settling in Arden, Manitoba.
Mary spent her childhood lovingly caring for her younger siblings and working hard on the farm, and those years taught her the value of a dollar and the importance of caring for others. She often surprised us with sharing interesting stories of her youth.
One day a handsome young man named Peter Hoeppner asked to walk Mary home form church. They enjoyed that walk so much that they decided to keep walking together through life. Mary and Peter married in 1947, originally living in rural Manitoba, and eventually settling in the Winnipeg neighbourhood of Transcona. Together they established a business, built a home, and raised their family.
Mary raised her children with love, delicious home-cooked meals, forthright advice and with Christian values, and we could always count on her for unconditional love. Mary's faith sustained her through her life and inspired her family. She never failed to thank God before eating or to praise Him for her blessings. Mary remained active in her church and community even in her later years and always as the heart of her family. She welcomed grandchildren to live with her while completing schooling and sent care packages to those in need. One of the highlights of her life was a trip to the Holy Land to pray in the places Jesus walked. She also enjoyed a trip to Hawaii and to the natural spa in Saskatchewan.
Mary reluctantly gave up the family home a few years ago moving to Bethel Place, but quickly became a social butterfly. She loved treating family to lunch in the dining room and introducing them to her friends and neighbours. In turn, we loved seeing how much her community valued our beloved matriarch. Mary was a source of constant comfort for her family and friends. She never forgot a birthday and would always call to send good wishes. We will miss her gentle support, constant love, amusing bluntness, and encouragement, but rejoice to know that she will now enjoy her rewards.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Bridges for Peace gratefully accepted.
