Elizabeth Lepp

Days after celebrating her 90th birthday, with her daughter Lori, at her side, Elizabeth Lepp passed peacefully into the waiting arms of Jesus to whom she had committed herself through baptism at age 17.

Elizabeth was the 6th of 10 children born to Henry and Maria Epp. Six others had died in infancy. In 1942, the family moved from rural Saskatchewan and settled on a small Mt. Lehman dairy farm. Elizabeth attended Mt. Lehman school, then MEI, but left before graduation to pick hops and berries to help support the family.

It was at MEI that she met the dashing, athletic Henry Lepp who soon escorted her home from church choir practice. They married in 1949, Elizabeth aglow in a satin dress she’d sewn herself. Their 66-year marriage exemplified true friendship and commitment, usually holding hands as they journeyed together. Elizabeth acquired her exceptional cooking skills by watching her mother-in-law, rushing home after each meal to write down all the steps. From then on, she perfected and recorded countless recipes. How lucky were the family, friends, and church family recipients who enjoyed her exceptional dishes, set on a beautiful table, Elizabeth humming gospel hymns as she worked!

Dedicated church members of South Abbotsford, then Bakerview Church, Elizabeth and Henry served as deacons, Sunday School teachers, led Bible Study, and sang in the choir. Their door was always open to friends from near and far, Elizabeth quick to prepare a welcoming meal. Hospitable, generous, kind-hearted and usually smiling, her gentle spirit touched all.

Elizabeth loved all her family equally, unconditionally, whether born to her or entered through marriage. Her graciousness outlived her memory and language loss as “Thank You;” “Beautiful;” or “Wonderful” were the words most often on her lips.

Elizabeth was predeceased by her husband Henry, daughter Karen, and son-in-law Jim Pankratz. Survived by her children Ken (Shirley), Dan (Jacqui), Rob (Charlotte) and Lori Pankratz, 18 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, sisters Helen Nickel and Ann Penner.

The family wishes to thank all the wonderful caregivers at Valhaven Home who lovingly cared for Mom in her last years.