Obituary of Mimi Helen Neufeld

In Loving Memory of Mimi (Penner) Neufeld June 29, 1930 – December 16, 2016 Her story … Her song Mimi’s earthly song became silent on December 16, 2016, surrounded by her family at the Orchard View Apartments in Vineland, where she lived and served for over 15 years. She is now rejoicing, “How can I Keep From Singing”, as she was called to dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Mimi was born in Provost, Alberta on June 29, 1930, the eighth and last child born to John P. and Katherine Penner. It was a happy home in the midst of the Great Depression. Her childhood years were spent in Rosemary, Alberta where her family worked hard, served the community and church, and generously opened up their paltry table to strangers and family alike. Hospitality and music filled her childhood home. Mimi learned to play several instruments and often sang together with her brothers. Mimi left her family home to attend Rosthern Junior College in Saskatchewan and then Canadian Mennonite Bible College in Winnipeg, Manitoba. During these years she followed her calling to serve God and the Church. Music remained her passion and when she met her future husband, John W. Neufeld in Winnipeg, they soon learnt that service and commitment to the church was a calling they would share together. John and Mimi were married in 1951 in Rosemary, Alberta and then moved to the Neufeld family farm in Ontario. Together they farmed, tirelessly served the local and national church, and raised a family of four children. They welcomed many into their home, the lowly and the lonely, the hungry and the happy, the nieces and nephews, speakers and musicians, as well as farm workers from near and far. This abundance of hospitality and generousity filled their home and lives with much character and friendship. Together they were an integral part of many celebrations including hundreds of weddings, which were highlights for them. They worked tirelessly and did the very best they knew how, always assured of forgiveness and God’s grace. Life changed dramatically when John passed away in 1994. Mimi leaned on her assurance of the faithfulness of her God and continued to find her song in new ways. Grandchildren were arriving quickly by this time and she had things to do; crafts to make, sweaters to knit, pies to bake and so much more. When Mimi moved into Orchard View Apartments her life became rich with the ability to travel more often, volunteer more often, demonstrate hospitality and serve with music. For over 15 years Mimi lived in this community continuing life-long friendships and cultivating new relationships with both residents and staff. It was a rich time and she was so grateful to end her story here surrounded and cared by so many. Left to celebrate her life are her four children, twelve grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren: Tim and Diane Neufeld, their children and grandchildren; Jodi and Will Thompson, Taylor, Charlotte and Sydney; Stephanie and Greg Westveer, Adelyn, Carter and Eli; Joel and Ashley Neufeld, Logan, Austin, Ryleigh and Gabe; and Drew Neufeld. Christine and Don Epp, their children; Kyle Epp and Michelle Epp. Mark and Marlene Neufeld, their children and grandchildren: Mark Jr. and Sharyn Neufeld, Josh, Alyson and Matthew; Eric and Jaclyn Neufeld, Wyatt and Kaitlyn; and Leanne and Frankie Solarik, and Kai. Gary and Elaine Neufeld, their children and their partners Bradley Neufeld (Brittany), Brandon Neufeld (Taylor) and Bailey Neufeld. Mimi also leaves behind two brothers, John (Hilda) Penner and Dick Penner, several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. Mimi assured her family that her life was good, rich in love, relationships and experiences until the very end – not because she earned it but because God was faithful and His grace was sufficient for her. She was indeed Led by the Master’s Hand. Visitations and sharing of memories will be held on Monday, December 19, 2016 from 2-4 PM and 7–9 PM at Tallman Funeral Home, Vineland, Ontario. Interment will be a private family occasion. A celebration of the life of Mimi and God’s faithfulness to her will be held at the Vineland United Mennonite Church on Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at 11 AM. Donations in Mimi’s memory can be made to Vineland United Mennonite Home which has been a special and generous place for many in our family. A very special thank you to Bonnie and the staff of Orchard View Apartments for their compassionate care.