Obituary of Mary Anne Hildebrand

Mary Anne Hildebrand (nee Warkentin)

March 29, 1938 – April 26, 2022

Mary Anne Hildebrand (Warkentin) 84, passed away on Tuesday, April 26th, 2022 after a lengthy health struggle where she often longed for Heaven, but in the end, it was a fight to leave her family.

Mary was born to Jacob and Maria Warkentin on March 29th, 1938 in Tschengraw, Crimea. Her family endured the devastation of World War II until they immigrated to Canada on August 19, 1948 and settled in Vineland, Ontario. The early years in Ontario were spent farming until Mary went to Teacher’s College at the age of 18.

On July 11, 1964 Mary wed Ernest Hildebrand and they had 3 beautiful children Tammy, Robert and Heidi. Residing in Jordan, they taught their children the importance of hard work and family.

Mary was an elementary school teacher where she enjoyed teaching music and the junior grades. She took pleasure in leading choirs and conducting Christmas concerts.

During her retirement years, Mary enjoyed her involvement with Mannatech and all of the many strangers who quickly became friends. As her grandchildren arrived, she was always available to spend time with them. Some of the highlights include corn pops or red river cereal for breakfast, cherry tarts and sleepovers at Edward Avenue.

She married Raoul (Ronnie) Chevallard on September 1, 2007. They enjoyed spending time in Florida entertaining friends and family.

Her first stroke was in 2012. This started a 10-year struggle with her health. Even through her struggles, she maintained her sharp mind and sassy attitude. She was survived by her beloved husband Ronnie, who will miss her dearly. Her children, Tammy (Kevin) Ruddle and their children Justine (Marcus) Mulder, Austin (Megan) Ruddle, and Lauren (Shaina Sollen) Ruddle; Robert (Miaco) Hildebrand, and their children Brittney (T.J.) Molnar, Branden (Brylin Schwan) Kuzyk, Kayla Zulik; Heidi (Bob) Fallowfield and their daughter Alexa. Mary was thrilled to welcome 3 great grandchildren, Sophia and R.J. Molnar and Jonathan Ruddle. Her siblings Jake (Helen), Lora, Hilda (Rudy), George (Donna), Pete (Mary), Margie (Bryan), and Ellie (Al); as well as many nieces and nephews who loved all of her shenanigans.

The family would like to thank the staff at Tabor Manor for the care and compassion during her time there. Mary’s Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 14th, 2022, 11:30 am at Cornerstone (Orchard Campus) Church, 434 Hunter Road, Niagara on the Lake. A private family interment will take place prior to the Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, a donation made to the Burundi Project through Cornerstone Church in honour of Mary would be appreciated by the family.