1917 ~ 2016
Minnie Bauschke died on December 6, 2016 at the age of 99.
She is survived by her six daughters, Lorraine Lutz (Ernie), Myrna Strijbosch (Hank), Erna Michalow, Iona Plato (Norman), Eileen Froehlich (Alvin) and Marilyn Lackman (Harold Gross). She leaves to mourn her passing, twelve grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren and one great, great granddaughter, as well as her sister Rose Heselton, and sisters-in-law Joan Beyer and Patricia Beyer. Minnie was predeceased by her husband Erich, sons-in-law Eugene Michalow and Dennis Lackman, grandson Leland Brennan, siblings Helen Rothenberger, Albert Beyer Jr., Ferdinand (Fred) Beyer, Evelyn Unrau, Ervin (Larry) Beyer, Lillian Porter and three siblings in infancy.
Minnie was born on August 7, 1917 in Friedensfeld, MB to Albert Beyer Sr. and Regina (nee Fiebelkorn). She was the eldest of seven. As the eldest, she was responsible for her younger siblings, especially her brother Albert Jr. She was a close friend to her sister Helen and often recalled happy childhood memories she and Helen spent with their maternal grandparents and all their Fiebelkorn cousins.
In 1929, at the age of twelve, she went to work as a maid at the hotel in St. Pierre, MB to help support her family. Two years later she went to Winnipeg to work as a domestic where the wages were better. The seven dollars per month she earned was greatly needed at home.
In May, 1937 she married Erich Bauschke and became a hard working partner on their family farm in Dencross, MB. She was proud of her huge productive garden and, as most farm women of her time, she made her own feather pillows, duvets and woolen quilts. She was also an expert at canning, baking and preserving. Minnie had an amazing ability as a seamstress. She sewed dresses, coats, blouses and suits by replicating garments her girls chose from the Eaton’s catalogue, calculating the exact yardage required and designing them, often repurposing used garments. She was also an avid crafter: knitting slippers, scarves and mittens, sewing doll clothes, embroidering and creating teddy bears from old fur coats.
In 1976 Erich and Minnie sold their farm and retired to Beausejour, MB living in their custom built home. In 1997, as a widow, Minnie relocated to Winnipeg, first living with Lorraine and Ernie, later moving to Luther Home Assisted Living. While at Luther Home she made many friends and actively participated in extracurricular activities. She especially enjoyed the game of Rummikub and was playing this game until a few weeks before her death. After suffering a stroke in 2008, Minnie was relocated to Bethania PCH where she remained an active resident, often expressing gratitude for the care she received.
Minnie consistently played an active, supportive role in the lives of her children and grandchildren, offering support and encouragement whenever needed. Throughout her life Minnie maintained a steadfast Christian belief.
Pallbearers will be her grandsons, Wesley Brennan, Kirk Brennan, Cory Froehlich, Kevin Froehlich, Christopher Plato and Matthew Lackman.
Donations in Minnie’s memory may be made to Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, Box 968, Beausejour, MB R0E 0C0.
Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, December 13 at 10:30 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 403 First Street N., Beausejour, MB. Rev. Bart Coleman will preside assisted by Minnie’s granddaughter, Rev. Lenise Michalow Francis. Interment will be at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery following the service.
Minnie’s family is deeply grateful for having enjoyed her loving company for such a long, long time.
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Dianna Fosty
I am praying for peace,comfort, and strength at this time for you and your families.
I remember the many visits our mother’s shared. The many sewing projects they worked on, always with loving hands and good conversations.
“Moms stay in a special part of our hearts even after they pass”.
Sincerely,
Dianna
Geraldine Otto
Auntie Minnie was a very special lady in my life. As a neighbor and friend she was always there
for me. We had many good visits and I feel very blessed to have know her.
I want to express my sincere sympathy to all her family.
Charlene Heuft
Auntie Minnie was the last Aunt from the Bauschke side. She was quite the pioneer woman and so talented with abilities as a seamstress and craft person. She had gifted both my mom (Gertie Cookson) and ourselves with one of her Rag Rugs which after daily use for over 20 years are still being enjoyed. We also enjoy the wood gifts from Uncle Eric. With sympathy to all her family and our prayers for comfort and peace during this time. Charlene & Roman from BC
John and Lorraine Kozera
This condolence message is directed to mainly, Lorraine Lutz, Iona Plato, and Myrna Strijbosch: the three family members that I have had to opportunity to know from the education in schools to square dancing. I am so sorry to learn about the passing of your mother. Your mother’s obituary struck a cord in my heart when I read that she passed away at the age of 99 years. My mother passed away two days short of her 99th birthday. By reading the obituary, many of your mother’s activities were very similar to my mother’s activities. May the many wonderful memories help you through this sorrowful time.
With sincere sympathy,
Lorraine Kozera