Linda was born on May 21, 1929 in Herbert, Saskatchewan to Annie (née Wiebe) and Peter Shellenberg. She was the oldest of four children, and enjoyed a particularly close relationship with her sister Hilda. In 1941, her family moved to Coaldale, Alberta. After completing Grade 11, Linda joined the workforce until 1948, when she returned to Saskatchewan to attend Herbert Bible. In 1949, she came back to Coaldale, where she met and fell in love with Abram (Abe) Toews. She and Abe were married on January 8, 1950 and established a home on the farmyard they shared with Abe’s parents.

Although she had grown up in town, Linda embraced farm life and all that came with it. Over time, she and Abe added six children to their family. When she wasn’t busy caring for her family she enjoyed playing the piano, reading and quilting. She was an active member of the Coaldale Mennonite Brethren Church and faith was central to her life. In 1990 she and Abe sold their farm and moved to the town of Coaldale. Much of Linda’s retirement was spent lovingly supporting Abe during his battle with Alzheimer’s disease. After Abe’s death in 2003, Linda continued to live independently until 2012, when she moved into the Sunny South Lodge. In 2016 she moved to Calgary to be closer to her children.

Linda was predeceased by her husband Abe Toews and infant grandson Patrick Kesslering.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children: Lois (Duncan) Kesslering, Marilyn (Carl) Dahl, Lorraine Toews, Eldon (Lorraine) Toews, Orlando Toews, and Lynette Toews-Neufeldt (Colin Neufeldt); 12 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; siblings Hilda Redekopp, Harry Shellenberg, and Edna (Jake) Derksen; and in-laws John (Lillian) Toews.

A private burial will be held at the Coaldale Cemetery followed by a Celebration of Linda’s life at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, March 28 at 11:30 a.m. with Pastor Gary Burke officiating.

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to ShareWord Global (https://sharewordglobal.com).