Peter Jacob Koop

Obituary

On Thursday, October 11, 2018, Dad left his earthly home peacefully with Mom at his side and entered his new home in Heaven, to be reunited with his parents, two brothers and one sister.

Dad was born November 28, 1931 to Jacob J. and Justina Koop in Colony Fernheim, Paraguay. Their family moved to Canada in 1951.

Dad met Mom not long after arriving in Steinbach, when she came out from Saskatchewan to visit her brother and sister-in- law. They all enjoyed spending time together. When Mom went home, Dad followed not long after to convince her to move to Steinbach permanently. They married on February 18, 1956.

Their first child soon followed – a daughter Laureen. At the age of 8, she finally received her wish of a sibling, Delbert. Ivan and Twyla followed a few years later. Our family was complete.

Dad’s first job was at Loewen Body Shop. He loved fixing cars and eventually opened Koop’s Body Shop on Main Street. After it burned down in 1972, he built another body shop on Highway 12. He managed to run his successful business with a grade 3 education and much determination.

In 1979 Mom and Dad, Delbert, Ivan and Twyla moved to Camrose, Alberta. They lived there until their first grandchild was born. Dad loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren unconditionally and loved to spend time getting to know them.

He continued to work in the body shop business until he discovered the need for a radiator repair shop in Steinbach. His shop was conveniently located on the yard where they lived. After running this business for a number of years he finally decided to retire at the age of 67.

Dad enjoyed watching all sports on television, but golf was something he could participate in. After retirement he golfed as often as he could. Dad often suggested road trips with Mom that included golfing. Mom would ride in the cart with him and he thought that was the best holiday ever.

He had many golfing buddies – many of which stopped by to visit him during his hospital stay. He passed on his love of golf to Ivan and Jeremy. Both could tell you stories of their golf adventures. He was unable to play golf this last summer, but he made sure everyone knew that he went out on a winning note. He played in our annual church golf tournament and was part of the winning team. It was especially meaningful to him because of the youngest member of their team Ben.

He spent the last 9 1/2 months in Bethesda hospital and the staff there became like family. A special thanks to the amazing staff. They took excellent care of Dad.

Dad’s faith was very important to him. His Bible was the most important item in his room. He very willingly shared his faith with anyone who was willing to listen and possibly even some who realty didn’t want to listen.

Dad is survived by his wife Mary and 4 children; Laureen (Elmer), Delbert (Norma), Ivan (Tanya) and Twyla (Ray), 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three brothers and three sisters.

The memorial service will be held on October 17, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Steinbach Mennonite Church, 345 Loewen Blvd., Steinbach, MB.

As per Dad’s wishes cremation has taken place.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Bethesda Foundation, 316 Henry St., Steinbach, MB R5G 0P9.