Deanna Sawatzky (nee Pappel)
Obituary
Deanna Ruth Sawatzky (née Pappel) age 83 of Niverville, Manitoba, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at the Health Science Centre, Winnipeg, MB.
Deanna was born on February 10, 1942, in the Emerson area. Growing up on the family farm meant long days filled with chores and housework, all while striving for high marks in school. She was active in the 4-H program, where she developed her skills in public speaking, sewing, cooking and gardening. After high school, she worked as a clerk and cashier at the Co-op store in Altona, where she eventually met the love of her life, George Sawatzky, who also worked there.
George and Deanna were married on October 6, 1963, and moved to Niverville in 1965. In 1967, they settled into what would become their “forever home,” just outside of town and began developing and landscaping their beautiful 2-acre property. There, they raised their three children – Greg, Kevin, and Kim.
Deanna took immense pride in her expansive flower beds. She often created stunning arrangements from her own gardens and frequently entered – and won – competitions at the town fair. She and George received several recognitions for their yard, including being featured in the Community in Bloom. Deanna enjoyed talking about gardening with anyone who shared her passion, and she often helped care for the flower gardens at the Niverville Heritage Centre.
Each year, Deanna ran her own “grow-op” – starting as early as February in the basement under low-hanging fluorescent lights. She would plant tomatoes, peppers and flowers, so they’d be ready by the May Long Weekend. Their garden overflowed with vegetables, producing far more than they needed, which they generously shared with friends, family, and neighbours.
Inside the home, Deanna was just as meticulous. Her house was always clean and orderly – but she will be especially remembered for her exceptional cooking and baking. She had a sweet tooth, and at Christmas she delighted in making large platters with up to 20 varieties of cookies and squares, which she shared with family, neighbours, and the staff at the Niverville Credit Union, where George worked as manager.
Deanna loved hosting family dinners, which always turned out wonderfully – and, of course, always included dessert. If you visited on a Saturday, chances are you were offered a slice of fresh homemade pie.
Despite dealing with various health issues and the painful effects of arthritis, Deanna remained active and kept a positive spirit about her. She rarely complained, choosing instead to focus on her blessings and to find the good in every situation.
Deanna felt fortunate to have seen many parts of the world. Over the years, the family took long camping trips across North America. She also traveled with George to Credit Union conventions, and later, in retirement, they enjoyed cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean, and Europe.
She modeled to her children what it meant to be a parent for life. Deanna was a constant source of support through both their joys and their challenges. She loved having her family around her. Known for her warm sense of humor and joyful laugh, she also had a quiet, mischievous streak and loved playing small pranks on her loved ones.
Deanna had a strong, unwavering faith in God. While we are deeply saddened by her passing, we are comforted knowing that she is now joyfully with Him. Deanna was an active member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she served as secretary/treasurer for several years. She loved to sing in the church choir, and she deeply cherished the friendships she formed there.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, George Sawatzky, and their children: Greg (Merrilee), Kevin (Ivy), and Kim; 10 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, Leopold and Anna Pappel; one sister; and one brother. Deanna’s last gift to this world was donating her eyes to Transplant Manitoba – Gift of Life.
The funeral service for Deanna Ruth Sawatzky will be held on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 465 Henry St, Steinbach, MB., with viewing one hour prior to the service. Interment will be following the service at St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery, Hwy. 12 South, Steinbach, MB. Lunch will be served following the service as well.
