top of page

Evelyn Peterson

Image by Nick Andréka

EVELYN GRACE KOCH PETERSON

​

​

Teacher, avid traveler, and life-long learner, our mom, sister, friend, colleague, and neighbor passed away on December 9 at the age of 77. Evelyn will be deeply missed by her children Susan (Nevil Stephens) and Gregory (Christie and children Hunter and Emma).

 

Evelyn was born March 26, 1946, the fourth child of the late Lester and Alice (Nahrgang) Koch. She grew up on a farm near New Hamburg, Ontario along with her nine siblings who survive: Earl (Lucille), Harold (Grace), Florence (Fred) Michelin, Eleanor Snyder, Russell (Hazel), Norman (Gwen), Shirley Henley, Kenneth (Lorrie), Allan (Julia). She was a special aunt to her many nieces and nephews and their families.

 

Evelyn’s teaching career spanned 35 years, beginning as an intrepid twenty-two year old in Togo, West Africa, and ending at Rosslyn Academy in Kenya, East Africa.

 

During the intervening years she raised her children, built her career as a successful French and English teacher at various schools in Winnipeg, including 15 years at Westgate Mennonite Collegiate, participated in church and community activities, travelled, and made many friends along the way.

 

After her retirement she continued teaching, this time in adult literacy and academic writing and tutoring. She was passionate about people and enjoyed keeping busy with social and volunteer activities.

 

Evelyn had a passion for travel. She visited over 35 countries and was especially fond of France. She loved to practice her language skills wherever she went.

 

Evelyn was not afraid to embrace new challenges. She taught us all a great deal about making choices and seeking serenity. Her determination to regain her footing after treatment of ovarian cancer in 2019 was awe-inspiring.  She so appreciated the ongoing support from her family and close friends during her illness.

 

A dear friend to everyone she met, Evelyn will live on in our hearts. “Cherish those you love” were her parting words in her final visits.

 

A celebration of Evelyn’s life will be held on Friday, December 15 at 11:00 am at Charleswood Mennonite Church, 699 Haney Street, Winnipeg, MB. A livestream of the service will be available above, or by clicking here. 

 

Donations in her memory may be made to Cancer Care Manitoba or the Mennonite Central Committee Manitoba.

 

Evelyn's family kindly requests that all of her friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour her memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

​

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

​

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

Please share a story, photo, memory or condolence for the family by completing the form below and clicking "Post Comment"

Thank you for your comment!

3 Comments

Leave a Comment

↑ Both fields are required ↓

Upload Photo(s)

Tricia

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

I met Evelyn through the Goal (adult literacy program). This is what I wrote on the day she passed: God is always at work in our lives. I had not seen my dear friend, in many ways mentor and past boss since 2018. Once I moved back I reached out to her and was informed by a mutual colleague that she (my past boss) had limited time left (sudden news). I had the privilege of visiting her one last time and it was such a special visit- that I hold close to my heart.  There are some people that you meet that truly touch your life. Evelyn was that kind of person; her laugh filled up a room, she had that amazing humour and always encouraged me. She was also an adventurous spirit who was a world traveler and loved her children/family. She was always patient, kind and giving back. Although I cannot find many photos-this is our recent/last one together. I am happy I could say good bye.  The angels welcomed you home today. 💗

1/1

Werner and Adelia Wiens

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

We have known Evelyn for decades — as a colleague at Westgate (Werner) and then at Rosslyn (both of us). She became a dear friend. And then eventually we moved into the apartment building that Evelyn called home. As neighbours we gave each other space but also support. A perfect arrangement.  We have laughed and cried together. What a privilege it has been to learn so many things from and with her! We will miss Evelyn’s knock at our door, our impromptu visits, our shared history. Sending her family our condolences.  Adelia and Werner Wiens

1/1

Shannon Hocken

September 25, 2024 at 7:31 PM

I met Evelyn at the Goal Program. She was my boss and mentor. Immediately I though what a remarkable, gregarious woman. I enjoyed her smile and infectious laugh. We remained good friends over the years and shared good coffee and conversation. Evelyn was my guiding light over the past year as we both fought this challenging disease. Her resilience and determination inspired me to keep moving forward every day. Evelyn is one in a million and I'm so fortunate to have had her in my life. I will miss you my dear friend. My heart felt condolences to her family.  Shannon Hocken

1/1
bottom of page