GABRUCH - In loving memory of Alma May Gabruch (nee Vance) who was born November 3, 1922 in Elm Creek, Manitoba and passed away in Saskatoon on April 29, 2013 at the age of 90. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 54 years, Mike A. Gabruch , and parents Caroll and Christina Margaret Vance . Left to cherish her memory is son Brian (Marlene), Saskatoon; daughter Susan (Patrick Asmussen), Cayman Islands; daughter Christine (Dan Soy), Saskatoon; and daughter Jennifer , Cayman Islands. Grandchildren: Michael, Matthew and Nicholas Gabruch, and Rebecca and Benjamin Soy. Brothers: Ivan Vance, Gerald (Jo) Vance, Gordon (Carol) Vance, and Mervin (Vi) Vance. Sister-in-laws: Olivia Redmond and Diane Gabruch. Nephews: Tim (Tina) Gabruch and Heath (Colleen) Gabruch, along with other loving nieces, nephews and relatives. Alma had fond memories of growing up in Baldwinton, Sask., including her life-long friendship with Freda Brown. The family moved to Chilliwack, B.C., and Alma eventually returned to Saskatchewan to attend Bethel Bible Institute in Saskatoon and went on to practice as a deacon. She and Mike were married December 21, 1954 in Chilliwack, making their home in Saskatchewan. Alma and Mike farmed in the Highgate district near the Battlefords, and both worked hard on the farm - with Alma always planting a huge garden. Alma was a skilled, resourceful and talented homemaker. She enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, sewing and knitting, creating eye-catching quilts and clothing, and making delicious homemade bread, pies and jams. As her children got older, Alma began working off the farm at a variety of jobs. Generous, caring and welcoming, Alma was well-liked by her neighbors and colleagues. She enjoyed her times with the Highgate Homemakers. With a ready smile and quick wit, Alma had a love of life and it showed. She shared her love of reading and books by volunteering with the Saskatchewan Literacy Council. Alma also enjoyed writing, having several pieces published in The Western Producer. Alma was a dedicated and loving wife and mother, and enriched the lives of many. She saw the positives in life, and shared her humor, strong character and thoughtfulness with those around her. She will be missed. Alma requested a graveside service, and a small family gathering to celebrate her life. She was laid to rest beside her husband on May 2, 2013 at the City of North Battleford Cemetery. Officiant was Joe Gabruch with Robert MacKay singing a solo of "How Great Thou Art". Pallbearers were Michael, Matthew, Nicholas and Marlene Gabruch and Rebecca and Benjamin Soy. Donations in honour of Alma may be made to the Mennonite Central Committee Saskatchewan to support its relief, development and peace outreach programs (600 45th Street West, Saskatoon, SK, S7L 5W9; Tel: 306-665-2555). Special thanks to the caring staff and friends at Bethany Manor in Saskatoon, where Alma made her home for five years; and the compassionate doctors, nurses and caregivers at the palliative care unit at St. Paul's Hospital and Lutheran Sunset Home in Saskatoon. Arrangements in care of Saskatoon Funeral Home (306) 244-5577 and The Battlefords Funeral Service (306) 446-4200. ____________________________________________________
