Elma Poetker

Obituary

With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the peaceful passing of Elma Poetker on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by her beloved family.

Mom leaves behind her devoted husband of nearly 68 years, Jacob Poetker, and her cherished children: Valerie (Randy) Verestiuk of Mitchell, Norman (Joan) Poetker of Vita, Harvey (Bernice) Poetker of New Bothwell, Angela (Brian) Falk of Mitchell, and Irene Poetker of Winnipeg. She was a proud and loving grandmother and great-grandmother to many.

She is now reunited in peace with her children Marilyn (2012), Alvin (2014), Wayne (2024), and Brian (2024), as well as three precious great-grandchildren who passed before her.

Born on September 16, 1934, in Winkler, Manitoba, mom was the third child of Peter and Maria Elias. Her early years were spent in New Bothwell, where her parents owned & operated the Red & White Store. A gentle and quiet soul, mom helped in the family store and excelled in school, where she especially loved spelling bees and track events.

Mom met the love of her life, Jacob, in New Bothwell. They married on June 16, 1957, and began their life together in Winnipeg before settling on a farm near New Bothwell. There, they built a life filled with love, hard work, raising nine children in just under 13 years. Mom’s days were full – tending to her family with tireless devotion through cooking, gardening, sewing, and caring for her home.

In 2014, after over 55 years on the farm, mom & dad moved to Steinbach. That year was especially difficult, as they mourned the loss of their oldest son Alvin. Yet, with strength and grace, they embraced a new chapter at Millcreek Condos. Mom later moved to Bridge Park Manor, where she found companionship and community, though she deeply missed dad, whose care needs had taken him to the Vita Care home

In 2023, dad moved to Rest Haven in Steinbach, bringing mom & dad closer once again. Their reunion brought comfort and joy, as they spent precious time together. In the fall of 2024, mom’s health began to decline, and she too moved to Rest Haven. Though their time together there was brief, it was filled with love. They were often seen holding hands, treasuring every moment – right up to the day mom was called home to be with the Lord.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Rest Haven for the gentle care and kindness shown to mom during her final days.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Bothwell Christian Fellowship Church, 20 Sara Ave. New Bothwell. Viewing 1 hour prior to the service.