Jennie grew up in a European immigrant family who moved to Edmonton Alberta in her younger years. There she lived, completing grade 9 high school and working as a dental assistant until meeting her husband Rev. Arthur Kahlke (deceased in 2018) and they were married in 1955.
Art and Jennie were married for 64 years and Jennie faithfully served alongside her husband in his pastoral role in the German Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada within Alberta, Ontario and B.C. As well, she contributed to the family income by cleaning houses (she loved cleaning), was a Care Aid at Eden Care Centre where ironically, she lived her last 3 weeks of life. Jennie worked alongside her husband as a partner in a business venture after retiring from church work.Throughout her years in church, Jennie was very involved in church ministry, using her music gift as a soprano vocalist, playing the piano, and involvement in various womens committees. Jennie was a capable worker in all these roles, however her heart was first and foremost being a homemaker and caring for her family. She helped her children as often as she was able, supporting them in any way with practical tasks as well as helping with her grandchildren. Jennie was gifted with a practical “jack of all trades” ability, and was not intimidated by tasks. She was comfortable using tools, loved painting houses, gardening, cooking, baking and serving her family.She had a common sense approach in all she did, all the while showing class, grace and humbleness in all her accomplishments. Over their many years together, Jennie and Art enjoyed many travels with family and siblings and had fond memories of this.
Jennie had a wonderful, youthful sense of humour, laughed easily and found joy in simple things often sharing memories from her childhood, thereby revealing her mischievous character. This trait was evident until the end.
There were many difficulties throughout Jennie’s life. The hardships of losing her younger brother at 3 yrs of age, loss of 4 pregnancies, and the death of her only son James at 2 years of age, only strengthened her faith and belief that God was sovereign and was always with her. She surrendered her life fully to God in her youth and experienced God’s presence and guidance throughout her life.
Jennie lived 91 years and was blessed to live the last two and a half years in her daughter Marilee’s home. Although a blessing for both of them, Jennie longed to go home with Jesus in her last year. Though we are sad, we are happy that her unshakeable faith has become sight. Her whole life was guided by this Blessed hope.
Jennie is survived by her 3 daughters - Carolyn Grapentin (David), Marilee Daase (Les), Lisa Olsen. Her grandchildren - Michelle, Jen (Brandon), Dylan, Shaelyn (Trevor), Jensen (Evan), Sadie, Jill, as well as 5 great grandchildren and extended family.
We will forever love you and miss you…until we see you again.
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