SIEMENS: Katie passed into the arms of her Lord and Savior peacefully on March 14, 2011. Katie (Bartel) Siemens was born on April 27, 1933 to Peter P. and Helene (Klassen) Bartel. Katie grew up on her parent's farm in the Glenbush area and went to the Glenbush School. She took some jobs away from home working for a doctor, and cooking at Bethany Bible School. Then she returned to the Glenbush/Medstead area and she married John Siemens on August 1, 1956. On the farm she continued with farm work of which she was well acquainted. Katie and John had a blessed marriage of 54 years. Katie, in partnership with John, worked hard outside and inside. She drove tractor, combine, truck; milked cows, fed pigs and chickens. She was an excellent cook and the house was always filled with the wonderful aroma of baking and cooking. Her children remember that their mother would take special care to make their favorite dishes. She was involved in community and church. Katie played piano and organ in the Mennonite Brethren church for many years. She played for duets, quartets, choir, worship service and loved to sing herself. She also played piano for many functions. Katie willingly helped in the community. Katie was a faithful servant. She gave much to those around her. She liked to work with her hands to provide something for someone else. Katie had a strong faith and prayed much. She had special times with neighbor ladies sharing life's stories over cups of tea or coffee, encouraging those who could not get out. When quiet winter days did not call her out to do chores she spent many hours sewing baby layettes or in a team effort with John they would cut, design and sew patchwork blankets for missions. She enjoyed many hours making fine quilts and quilting at the community center. In May 2001 Katie suffered a massive stroke, leaving her right side paralyzed and unable to speak. With some rehabilitation she was able to walk and communicate with a limited degree of speech. Katie was then cared for at the Idylwild Lodge in Spiritwood. John often took her home for short periods of time and when possible continued to attend church and community functions. We appreciate the kind and thoughtful care which enabled Katie to live her final years with grace. Katie leaves to cherish her memory: her loving husband of 54 years, John of Medstead, SK., her children and grandchildren: Gwen Bradshaw of Canmore, AB., Garry (Karen) Siemens and their children: Jordan, Jeanna, Jason of Lloydminster, SK., Donna (Takeshi) Aida and their children: Kenji, Seiji, Koji of Iruma, Japan. Her sisters in law: Melita Bartel of Toronto, Ontario, Amanda Dirks of Abbottsford, BC, Doris Siemens of Calgary, AB, Olga Siemens of Glenbush, SK., Mary Anne (Wilfred) Klassen of Prince Albert, SK., Helen (Leonard) Skulmoski of Sorento, BC, Her brother in law: George Weins of Kelowna, BC, Numerous nieces, nephews & other relatives. She was predeceased by: her sisters: Helen (Jake) Isaac, Erna Weins, Elfreida Bartel, Her brother Henry Bartel her brothers in law: Adolph Dirks, Rudy Siemens, Henry Siemens The funeral service was held Monday, March 21st, 2011 at 2:00 pm from the Medstead Community Hall with Pastor John Klassen officiating. Marj Klassen was the organist. Duets were performed by Mary Anne & Wilfred Klassen. Honorary Pallbearers were "All relatives & friends who knew & loved Katie" Her pallbearers were Garry Siemens, Jordan Siemens, Greg Siemens, Braxton Siemens, Randy Jones and Matthew Hauk. Interment took place in the Mennonite Brethren Cemetery at Glenbush. Donations in memory of Katie may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Sask. Beau"Lac" Funeral Home of Spiritwood were entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Email condolences will be forwarded to the family. ____________________________________________________
