Joyce Penner
Obituary
Our dear sister, Joyce Penner, was born to Edward D. and Helena Goossen Penner on April 3, 1941 at Rosenort, Manitoba. She was followed by her twin sister Joanne. After living a full and rewarding life, Joyce peacefully passed away in the early hours of Sunday, September 28, 2025.
Joyce was the eleventh child in a family of 15. This meant growing up in a busy household where she took part in daily duties; chores in the barn included. Her elementary education was at the one-room school of Lea Bank. It was a 2-mile walk from home.
Feeling a need of a Saviour, Joyce was converted in her youth. One December 28, 1952 she was baptised into the Church of God in Christ, by Min. John Isaac. She remained faithful to her vows.
Joyce had a heart for the unfortunate. This led her to upgrade her schooling and taking LPN training. She worked at Eventide Home in the Rosenort community, Maplewood Manor, and later at Ste. Adolphe Nursing Home.
Joyce’s life of service took her to Guatemala and Mexico. Teaching school and helping with household duties was her life. Part of the time she lived with her sister Helena & Glenn Schneider.
It wasn’t hard to be cheerful when Joyce was around. She was an inspiring sister to have. One to look up to. As a Christian, she was a good example to follow.
Joyce was outgoing and sociable. She enjoyed having her nephews and nieces coming to visit. Joyce was happy to be a part of a large family.
Four years ago, health difficulties meant a move to Maplewood Manor. Joyce was lovingly cared for. As family, we thank the staff for that. Most days, Joyce was ready for a cup of coffee when her sisters came to visit. She had a determination to live even when her health was failing.
Left to mourn are her sisters and one brother: Gladys and Sherwin Friesen, St. Marys, ON. Joanne Penner, Rosenort, MB. Helena and Glenn Schneider, Leesburg, OH. Stella Penner, Rosenort, MB. Roland and Doris Penner, St. Marys, ON. Sisters-in-law: Frances Penner, Steinbach, MB. Ruth Penner, Murray, KY. Nephews & nieces, great nephews and nieces, and a host of friends.
Preceding her in death are her parents, three brothers and six sisters.
The public viewing will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB., with devotional at 7:30 p.m.
The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Rosenort Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, 30106 PR422, Rosenort, MB R0G 1W0. Interment to follow at the Rosenort Church of God in Christ Cemetery.
