IRMA KONRAD

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Irma Konrad, on July 6, 2026, at the age of 98.

Irma lived an extraordinary life filled with music, faith, family and service to others. Born in Winnipeg on April 6, 1928, she grew up in a family where classical and sacred music were part of everyday life. Her father, John Konrad, was a renowned violin teacher and conductor who established the Konrad Conservatory of Music. He was also the first head of the music department at the Canadian Mennonite Bible College. Irma’s mother, Emma Konrad, was a talented singer who was known for her beautiful, rich soprano voice. Irma inherited a rich musical legacy from both her parents and she carried that legacy forward with passion and dedication.

Irma was a gifted piano teacher and musician, earning her Associate of the Royal Conservatory of Toronto (ARCT) in Piano, a prestigious qualification recognizing advanced achievement in piano performance and teaching. Irma taught piano and voice for over 70 years in Winnipeg and Brandon, inspiring generations of students with her exceptional talent, patience, and encouragement. Over the course of Irma's long career, she remarkably organized more than 75 annual Christmas concerts creating cherished memories for generations of students, families and the community.

Irma earned her Bachelor of Music degree from Brandon University at the age of 52, reflecting her lifelong commitment to learning. In addition, she served as President of the Manitoba Registered Music Teachers’ Association and she was later made an honorary lifetime member of that organization.

Irma also loved choral music. She sang in the First Mennonite Church Choir whenever she could. For over 35 years, she participated in the church’s biannual oratorio performances and it was always a special joy when her son, the cellist Karl Toews, accompanied the choir.

Later in life, Irma also studied and taught the Alexander Technique; a relaxation technique which helps performing artists develop greater ease of movement in their work. Irma studied at the Alexander centre in Columbus, Ohio and at the Alexander Foundation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She taught at the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts and conducted workshops across Winnipeg, including the Faculty of Music at the University of Manitoba. Irma’s Alexander Technique students included professional performers from the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

Irma was known for her warmth, generosity, kindness, grace, and quiet strength. She had a radiant smile, a wonderful sense of humour, and a special talent for making everyone feel welcome. She was a remarkable woman whose classic elegance, grace and natural beauty were evident throughout her life. In spite of her many gifts and accomplishments, she remained genuinely humble and very interested in the lives of others. She loved family gatherings, cooking, swimming, golfing, movies, travel and spending time with those she cherished most.

Irma will be lovingly remembered by her three children, their spouses and her grandchildren, Jeffrey Toews (Caithlin McArton); Ingrid Toews (Daniel Dell’Agnese); Karl Toews (Roxolana Sawka); Vitaly Toews; Mykola Toews; extended family; many dear friends; and the thousands of students whose lives she enriched.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Riverview Health Centre for their exceptional kindness, care, and skill during Irma’s final years.

Mom, 

Your music, your kindness, 

your unwavering faith, and your 

unconditional love have left an 

enduring mark on all who knew you. 

Your legacy lives on 

through your family, your students, 

and the countless lives you touched. 

We will miss you beyond words, 

carry your lessons with us always, 

and love you forever.

A funeral and celebration of life will be held for Irma at the First Mennonite Church of Winnipeg on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 1:00 pm.

Donations in Irma’s memory may be made to the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts or the Riverview Health Centre Foundation.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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