Margaret (Loewen) Toews was born August 19, 1856, in the village of Lindenau, Malotschna, South Russia, and departed this life Feb. 14, 1948, at the age of 91 years, 5 months, and 26 days, in the home of her youngest daughter, H. L. Reimers, where she made her home since father's death.
In 1875 she immigrated with her parents to Hochsthat, Manitoba.
In 1876 she joined in holy matrimony with Jacob B. Toews, who preceded her in death in 1938, after sharing joys and sorrows over 62 years. To this union were born 11 children, 4 sons and 7 daughters, of which 2 daughters preceded her in death, one in childhood and the other after marriage, (Mrs. Javoo R. Loewen). They moved from Manitoba to Alberta in 1910.
In about 1880 she gave her heart to the Lord and was baptized and accepted unto the Church of God in Christ, to which she remained a faithful member. Although in great weakness, her concern always was to serve the Lord and her greatest aim was to inherit that Crown of Everlasting Life, which we can fully believe that she will obtain on that great resurrection morning.
In the early 90's she felt it her duty to serve her fellowmen as a midwife in which she as well as others had been instructed. In this service she was faithfully engaged as long as she was capable.
Feb. 14, shortly before 3 A. M. mother asked that a fire be built for she felt cold, and also complained of shortness of breath. Everything was done to make her comfortable, and when she was asked about her hope of eternal life, she answered that she felt ready to go. In the short time of 45 minutes her spirit had fled.
She leaves to mourn their loss, 4 sons; David, Peter, Jacob, and Henry; 5 daughters, Mrs. J. J. Barkman, Mrs. Jac. R. Loewen, Mrs. A. L. Regehr, Mrs. F. F. Hiebert, and Mrs. H. L. Reimer, all living nearby, 4 daughters-in-law, and 5 sons-in-law; 77 grandchildren, 138 great grandchildren, 2 brothers, and many relatives and friends.
Our wish is that the whole family might follow in her footsteps, so that we might all receive that Crown.
The Family, per David L. Toews
The funeral services were held on Feb. 16. First in the home of H. L. Reimers, where a few songs were sung and Bro. Min. Jac. L. Baerg spoke from Psa. 116:15, and closed with prayer. Then in the church Bro. Jac. L. Baerg opened with remarks and prayer. Bro. Isaac Toews chose for a text Isa. 38:1, and Rev. 14:13; and spoke in both the English and German.
At the grave was sung the hymn "Shall we meet beyond the river", and prayer offered by Bro. Dan Boese.