OBITUARY: Erma Funk

Erma Neufeld Funk went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Dec. 13, 2021.

Erma was born on Sept. 14, 1924 in Shafter, to Nicolai and Justina Neufeld. She attended Maple School and Wasco High School, graduating in 1942.

She married Wesley Paul Funk in 1943.

Erma was a devoted Christian her entire life serving the church and her Lord in many capacities such as church secretary and Sunday School teacher where her love of children was so evident. Her love for her children and grandchildren was boundless. She was always available to serve on church committees and volunteer for whatever needed to be done.

She was an avid gardener growing and producing fresh fruit and vegetables much of which was canned or frozen. She made particularly wonderful dill pickles. She also made the best Danish pastry for Christmas breakfast.

She was also well known for her gift of hospitality. Her home (The Funk Hotel as she called it) was always available where friends, relatives, and church visitors were offered a comfortable bed, meals, and great fellowship.

She is survived by three children: Janet Selvidge (Wes) of Buttonwillow, Paul Funk (Barbara) of Wasco, and Carol Funk Hamilton of Bakersfield. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Andrea Weishar (Walt); Jason Selvidge (Mia); Matthew Funk (Christy); Tracy Holton (Ben); Sean Hamilton and eight great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by both of her parents, her husband Wesley, five brothers: Ernest, Edwin, Lester, Vernon, her twin brother Harold, and an infant son, Kenneth Wesley Funk.

The family is indebted to Michelle Waters for providing devoted and loving care of Erma over the last several years until the time of Erma’s passing. Erma’s life was richer and more fulfilling because of Michelle.

Rosie at the assisted living facility where Erma lived her last few years, was particularly caring and attentive of Erma’s physical needs.

Also, to be thanked is the staff of Hoffmann Hospice, especially Marianne, for providing dedicated and tender care during Erma’s last days and for their support of family needs.

A private interment of her ashes will take place on Jan. 29, 2022 at the Wasco Memorial Cemetery at 10 a.m.

A Celebration of Life followed by a time of fellowship will be held at 11 a.m. on Jan. 29, 2022 at the Shafter Mennonite Brethren Church in Shafter.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Teen Challenge or the Shafter Mennonite Brethren Church.