Martha Wiwchar-Postema

Suddenly, but peacefully, Martha Wiwchar-Postema passed away at Seven Oaks General Hospital on Sunday, April 29, 2012, at the age of 84. Martha will be lovingly remembered by her children Dan (Ruth), Ebra Ziron Judy (Roy Glasgow), Phil (Bonnie Eliuk), and Joy Stewart (Bill). She will also be greatly missed by her grandchildren Aqua, Stephen (Lisa), Michael (Mara), Thomas, Avery, Tessa and Cobi, and great-grandchildren Jayda, Diyn, Reese and Jackson. Also left to cherish her memory are her brother-in-law Joop Griekspoor, sister-in-law Polly Fisher, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Joe and Arlene Wiwchar, as well as numerous nieces and nephews here and in the Netherlands. She was predeceased by her husband Peter, daughter Shirley in infancy, parents Jan and Nell Postema, sisters Corrie and Thea, and brother Joop. Martha was born in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, on November 19, 1927. After enduring the hardships in occupied Holland during the Second World War, Martha immigrated to Canada in 1947. Using her excellent sewing skills learned in Holland, she found employment at Kay's in Winnipeg's garment industry. Through a mutual friend she met Peter and they married in 1948. Imagine the challenge of learning English while living for five years with in-laws who only spoke Ukrainian. Martha's mastery of Dutch and Ukrainian cooking was enjoyed by all. In addition to growing prize-winning gladiolus at the cottage, Martha enjoyed the sights and sounds of the peaceful nature around her, especially the birds and their calls. She got great pleasure from bowling and playing pool, and was particularly talented at sewing, knitting and embroidery. Martha loved animals of all types, and held a special place in her heart for cats. Her greatest joys came from little children, and her grand and great-grandchildren always brought smiles to their Oma. Martha's greatest quality was her thoughtful caring for others. She made many sacrifices to improve opportunities for her family, for which we are very grateful. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 11 at 11:00 a.m. at Thomson Funeral Chapel, 669 Broadway A private interment at Brookside Cemetery will follow. Flowers are gratefully declined; however donations in Martha's memory may be made to one of her favourite charities: Canadian Mental Health Association, Winnipeg Humane Society, or Alzheimer Society.