Ernest “Ernie” Harder

Obituary

It is with both joy and sorrow that we announce the passing of Ernie Harder aged 95 years of Steinbach, Manitoba,

Ernie passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2026 just two months shy of his 96th birthday.

He has been called home to be with his personal Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, where he is at peace and free from pain.

Ernie will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Elma with whom he shared 71 years of marriage. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family and friends. He will be lovingly remembered by his son, Gary (Sharon); daughter Bev (Jerry); daughter Sandee and son Allan (Lorie) and was a proud grandfather to his seven grandchildren: Robyn (Ed); Michael (Arika), Sean, Jonathon (Alicia), Kara (Nico), Kasidy (Mackenzie) and Bernice as well as a cherished great-grandfather to Damon, Jada-Lei, Tate and Olivia and a baby girl on the way.

As we review Dad’s life we are amazed at his many years of sacrifice and hard work. He was a man with determined character. That included his jobs: Steinbach Bakery (we loved those ride alongs from time to time laying on a blanket in the warm bread van and smelling fresh baked goodies all day long; enjoying a few of them as well!), Penner International (many years spent away from home and family while earning a living); Hanover School Division (cleaning and repairing schools to have them looking and functioning their best). Later years dad drove school bus where kids were treated to goodies at Christmas time and the end of each school year. Dad and Mom purchased Evergreen Broiler Farm where they worked tirelessly at the business and keeping their large yard looking great.

Once they moved to their condo dad helped with tasks that needed to be done around the complex until his health no longer allowed him to work.

In our younger years dad set up a large ice skating rink in our backyard where neighbourhood kids could join us on the ice just skating or playing hockey games. He even set up a small canteen in a warm up shack. Dad spent countless hours perfecting that rink.

Dad participated in church activities as well which included singing in a men’s quartet for many years. They travelled to Falcon Lake prison camp to sing during worship services. He played guitar in a musical group called The Workshop Boys. He also served as church deacon for many years.

Dad and Mom loved to travel. In our early years we travelled as a family every summer even if it was just camping trips with a tent. In their later years dad and mom travelled to Russia, Mexico, Alaska, Texas, Florida, Ukraine, Missouri and from coast to coast in Canada.

Gardening was his specialty. Beautifully landscaped yards and gardens. In the hottest heat of summer dad was working in his flower gardens or manicuring the lawn.

Dad accepted anyone his children loved as family and loved them as well. Dad cherished his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His face lit up when he saw them and the teasing began. He set a wonderful example for us to follow regarding dedication and responsibility.

Right up until his health began failing dad helped family and friends in their homes with work projects. We remember him well with a hammer, paint brush and roller in his hand.

Thank you to family and friends who have prayed and supported us through this difficult time. A special thank you to Rose Dyck for her commitment, love and care for our parents. We are very grateful. Also a big thank you to Dr. Joel Scott-Herridge (cardiologist) and Dr. Dan Ilchyna (family physician) for their medical care for dad.

A celebration of Ernie’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB, with viewing prior to the service.

The burial will take place at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach, MB.