HARDER, Lena

Lena Harder

1924 – 2019

Lena Harder passed away peacefully at the age of 94 years on June 7, 2019 at the Sunny South Lodge in Coaldale, Alberta. Lena was born in Grigorowka, Russia on June 21, 1924. At 2 years of age she immigrated to Canada with her parents Henry H. Penner and Kathrina Braun, as well as her older sister Tena. The family originally farmed in Saskatchewan, then moved to Alberta in 1935 to continue farming. Lena met Jake Harder when she was 15 years old and he was 26. They met at a church social where Jake taught Lena to dance, and so began a lifelong love. They married on November 15, 1942 in Coaldale. Through the years Jake was a mechanic, a farmer, and then worked in the Maintenance Department at the Research Station. Mom worked as a housewife, farm worker, and later a store clerk at Zeller’s and Sears. Most importantly together they raised four boys and enjoyed every minute. Through the years they made sure that their boys had every opportunity to follow their dreams and they supported them however they could. The children, grandchildren and great grandchildren have always enjoyed the warmth and love so evident in their home. Jake died in 2009. Two years later Lena moved into the Sunny South Lodge in Coaldale where she enjoyed the wonderful loving care provided by the staff. Lena is survived by her sons James (Joyce), John (Jelena) and Harry (Sheryl); daughter in law Faye; 12 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son Edward; husband Jake, and grandson Tim. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 12:00pm to 1:00pm on Friday, June 14, 2019 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta. A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, June 14, 2019 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Pastor Doug Klassen, officiating. For those who wish, donations may be made in Lena’s name to the Mennonite Central Committee, 210, 2946-32 Street N.E, Calgary, Alberta T1Y 6J7.