Born in a log cabin in Turtleford, Saskatchewan, Mildred, along with her two sisters, Ella and Roena, was raised on a farm near Miami, Manitoba.
Later, after attending Western Bible College in Winnipeg, she joined her husband in pastoral work in Roland before settling in Brandon where they raised their two children. After a move to Tucson, Arizona, and 24 years of sunshine, they returned to Carman, where they were actively involved in church life, community, and Gideon ministry. Following Benson’s passing Mildred, at age 96, moved to St. Albert, Alberta to be closer to her family. Her final ten and a half years in independent living at Ironwood Estates, were filled with contentment and joy of life, cherished by family and new friends. She continued to bless others with her tatted bookmarks and personal notes of encouragement. Throughout her life, her home was always open to expected and unexpected guests. Welcomed to enjoy a meal at her table, they often feasted on her legendary pecan tarts and fresh buns.
Predeceased by her son Byron in 1946 and her husband Benson in 2010, left to mourn are her daughter Joy (Gordon) Franklin, and son Edward (Colleen) Berry. Also missing her are her three grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, Richelle (Bryan) Muth (Levi, Brett, Brooke), Mark (Verity) Franklin (London), and Aynsley (Klaye) Berry (Cody, Ryley, Kaeden, Maiya).
Mildred loved the Lord and served Him all her life. Her last prayer was one of gratitude for her family and their love of Jesus. Her absence leaves a void but her legacy will echo through the words of Proverbs 31:28, “Her children will rise up and call her blessed.”
In daily phone calls she repeatedly asked, “Did you have a busy day?” Yes mom, we have. Love you. See you soon.
The family wish to express gratitude to the staff and residents of Ironwood Estates in St. Albert, who loved her and affectionally referred to her as “granny.”
A Memorial Service celebrating her life will take place in Brandon at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mildred may be made to [email protected] (previously the Gideons) or phone 1-888-482-4253.