Marian Grace Houghton

Born in Steinbach, Manitoba, she was the daughter of John D. and Anna Loewen. Her early years were spent in Steinbach, aside from three years spent in St. Anne, at which time their house burned down and the family returned to Steinbach. During Marian’s adolescent years she enjoyed friendships with a group of Christian young people call “the gang”. She attended Steinbach Bible School, and taught school for one year near Gypsumville, before leaving for Ecuador as a missionary at age 22, from the EMC church.

Marian’s occupation was that of missionary and homemaker. She was so proud of her beautiful children and her husband, Stan. While on the mission field they lost two children in infancy, which deepened her relationship with God-making her more aware of His love for her. She was grateful for the opportunity of spending over forty years on the mission field in Ecuador.

Marian was a member of GracePoint Church. She enjoyed leading Bible studies, both at church and in her home, as well as faithfully maintaining her personal time in the Word. The highlight of her week in recent years was her Life Group meeting. She has an amazing group of supportive friends.

Marian was an avid knitter, enjoyed crossword puzzles, sewing, painting, and reading. She loved to travel, and, to the end, was planning her next road trip to Manitoba. She will be remembered for her hospitable ways, always enjoying the “Kaffe Klatch.” Marian was very quick and intelligent. She spoke three languages fluently and could get by in two others. She excelled at playing board games, and could usually only be beaten if her opponent was having an exceptionally good day. Marian was patient and loving. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

She is survived by 3 children, 14 grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren!

She was predeceased by her husband, Stan, daughter Barbara, sons David and John; and brothers Lloyd and Leander Loewen. She will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be help on Saturday, February 24th at 11:00 am at GracePoint Church, 8278 WA-303, Bremerton WA 98311.

I'm Free

Don't grieve for me for now I'm free,

I'm following the path

God laid for me

I took His hand when I heard him call,

I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day,

To laugh, to love, to work or play,

Tasks left undone must stay that way.

I found that peace at close of day,

If my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembered joy.

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,

Ah yes these things I too will miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow,

I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow,

My life's been full,

I've savored much,

Good friends, good times,

A loved one's touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,

Don't lengthen it now with undue grief,

Lift up your hearts and share with me,

God wanted me now, He set me free.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all those who have supported us during this time of loss.