On May 30, 1954, Zelma and Henry were married at her parents’ farm. They moved to a farm in the Gretna area, where they worked together and began their family in May 1955. Their union was blessed with five children: Caroline, Rosalind, Rodney, Jacalyn, and Scott. Zelma devoted herself to raising their family while working alongside Henry. Family vacations often included day trips to the lake or auction sales, always accompanied by a picnic lunch.
As her children grew, Zelma became involved in her community, volunteering with Weight Watchers and serving in a leadership role for five years.
After her children were grown, Zelma and Henry enjoyed several winters traveling to warmer climates. Following Henry's passing, she embraced new adventures through bus tours, cruises, and spending ten winters in Phoenix, Arizona. There, she cherished the company of old friends while making many new ones. She loved lounging by the pool with a good book, especially works by her favorite author, Francine Rivers. Zelma was also passionate about her Friendship Coffee Bible study, actively participating in monthly dinner meetings. A devoted collector of dolls, she ensured that each granddaughter and great-granddaughter has one to remember her by.
Zelma was an avid walker, enjoying the freedom of solo strolls and often stopping to visit friends along the way. She loved attending car races, whether oval track or drag racing, and could easily spend entire days on the bleachers or in her lawn chair. She also enjoyed refurbished car shows and took a keen interest in their details. Many Sunday afternoons were spent at the track, chatting with friends.
Baptized in Ninga, Manitoba, in 1952, Zelma's faith was a guiding force throughout her life, evident to all who knew her. Upon marrying Henry and moving to the Rosetown area, she became a member of the Blumenort Mennonite Church. There, she taught Sunday school, participated in choir programs, attended Sunday School, served as a deacon, and was actively involved in the women’s group. Each morning, whether at home, in Phoenix, or on vacation, Zelma dedicated time to her devotions, praying daily for her family and welcoming new prayer concerns.
Zelma was preceded in death by her parents, Jacob and Anna; her husband, Henry; her son-in-law, Ron; two brothers, Jake and Pete; and three sisters, Margaret, Anne, and Elvina. She is survived by her brother, Ernie; her sister, Vera (Jim); her sister-in-law, Kay; her children, Carol (Jim), Rose, Rod (Ang), Jackie (James), and Scott (Connie); 17 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren and one more on the way.