It is with tremendous sadness we announce the passing of our mother, Valentina Wiebe.

Mom was born in Adelsheim Ukraine in 1935.  When WW 2 broke out mom and her family escaped Russia into Germany. With the help of the Red Cross and a sponsor family in Kelowna, Mom and her family boarded a ship from Hanover Germany to Canada in 1947. It was on that ship she met the love of her life, our Dad, whose family was also immigrating to Canada. By coincidence both families ended up in Kelowna, BC. Both Mom and dad attended the First Mennonite Church and began dating.  They were married in 1954.

Mom and dad enjoyed trips to Mexico, Hawaii, Caribbean with dear friends and family and spent many a winter vacationing in Palm Springs.

Mom will forever be remembered for the amazing yard and gardens she maintained around the family homes. Every rose bush trimmed beautifully, her summer flower baskets and we certainly cannot forget the vegetable gardens with the most flavorful tomatoes. She was also very busy ensuring the hummingbirds had her homemade nectar available at all times. 

You were never hungry at Mom’s house as there was always an abundance of food.  From Mennonite soups and baking, to potato salad, watermelon and ice cream cones for the little ones in the summer. Anyone who enjoyed a family reunion, office party or get together at the Wiebe house got to experience her loving hospitality. 

Mom had the most beautiful blue eyes that were the windows to her soul.  So many commented on how beautiful she was; inside and out.  Even as she aged her eyes continued to tell a beautiful love story.

The most important thing to mom was family.  She loved us all fiercely.  While our hearts are fractured, we will heal.  Mom would not have wanted it any other way. During our upbringing and especially the last years of her life she taught us to keep going no matter the adversity.

Mom is predeceased by her mother, father, husband of 64 years, John, daughter Karen, sister Helen and brother Victor.  Left behind are her children Rick, Liza (Scott), Ramona (John), son-in-law Guy, 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.  She also leaves behind 4 sisters and many nieces and nephews.

Mom and Dad left us a legacy of beautiful memories.  They are now resting peacefully together and we will be waiting for the whistle for when it’s time to come home.

A private graveside service will be held in the coming days.

Donations in mom’s name can be made to Alzheimer’s Society.  Mennonite Central Committee

Special thanks to Dr. Lindsay Pritchett; the amazing staff at Hearthstone Manor; Nurse Michelle at Interior Health