Elizabeth Toews
Obituary
Elizabeth Toews (Unrau), age 93, of Steinbach, MB., passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Bethesda Regional Health Centre, Steinbach, MB.
Elizabeth was born in Lowe Farm, Manitoba, to Isbrand and Maria Unrau, the eighth of eleven children.
She was a fun loving child who longed to have the freedom to do the same things boys were allowed to do. She wanted to swim, climb a tree, ride a bike. In her home girls were not allowed such fun.
She was a good student but decided to quit school after grade 8 to get a job which was fairly common at that time. Her first job was house keeping for a neighbor and then, most significantly working in the St. Pierre sewing factory which later relocated to Steinbach. She often spoke fondly of those days with a sparkle in her eyes. She would reminisce over the fun and laughter she enjoyed with the French girls.
It seems that the sewing factory experience advanced the sewing skills that she had acquired in school. She went on to become an exceptionally good seamstress, sewing clothes for herself and her daughter Carey and even hunting garb for her husband Albert. For many years the living room was full of fancy, elaborate gowns which she created for grads and weddings. Beyond clothing she made drapes and did upholstery. It seemed there was nothing she could not sew if she set her mind to it.
She married Albert Toews April 18,1952 and they shared 70 years together.
Elizabeth desired to have six children and was given only one daughter Carey. With a heart full of love to give she cherished every one of her many nieces and nephews as well as any other children who entered her life. She felt very rich to have three grandchildren who each brought in another and then eight great-grandchildren.
Her love overflowed to others as well and many remember her big hugs.
Elizabeth was interested in many things and was very good at many things she attempted, like hairdressing, butchering, and bun baker extraordinaire.
Together, Liz and Albert were baptized on Easter Sunday in 1966 and joined the EMB church in Steinbach, later changed to Cornerstone Bible Church. They both remained as active members till their deaths.
Elizabeth loved her sewing circle ladies with whom she could share the joys, hardships and sorrows of life and always laughter. She served as a social convener for many years organizing weddings, funerals and showers.
A highlight of Liz and Albert’s retirement was taking two driving trips to Alaska with close friends.
These last senior years have been difficult for mom as so many of her dear friends passed away. Albert’s decline in mobility and health really took its toll on her as well. Her zest for life diminished, but her faith in the God of her salvation never wavered. Recently she was paneled for a care home which she accepted with dignity. In His mercy God brought her to the best and perfect Care Home for which we, the family, are grateful beyond words. You’re safely home Mom.
Elizabeth leaves to mourn her sister Anne Unrau, daughter Carey and son-in-law Billy Reimer, grandchildren Barrett & Kristy Reimer, Stephanie & Scott Reimer, Douglas & Janelle Reimer, great-grandchildren Eli, Aidan, Lucas, Finley, Julia, Ezra, Ashton, Madelyn.
The memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB., with reception to follow.
Elizabeth liked to use her creative gifts to show her love. If you received such a homemade gift, please bring it with you to place on the display table. Large items can be represented in a picture.
