MINYIP came to a standstill on Monday as the community celebrated the life of prominent resident and businessman John Niewand, who died on December 9, aged 79.
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Minyip Lions Club member Diane Connolly said St John’s Lutheran Church was full.
“About 100 more people were sitting outside,” she said.
The town’s memorial hall was also full afterwards, as people gathered to remember a man who gave selflessly and often.
“He brought people together while he was alive, and he did it again on Monday,” Mrs Connolly said.
His wife of almost 60 years, Ellen, said he died peacefully, surrounded by as many of his family as could be there.
“He virtually just went to sleep,” she said.
She believed the community would remember her husband for his altruism.
“He loved helping other people,” she said. “If he could help somebody, he did.”
Mr Niewand was involved in many community groups, with leadership positions in Minyip Lions Club and the Lions district.
He was involved in the Country Fire Authority, the former Dunmunkle Shire Council, his church and Minyip Men’s Shed.
He will be remembered by the couple’s three children, Chris, Tammi and AJ, their nine grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
Mrs Niewand thanked everyone who had supported the family with their prayers and well-wishes.
Son AJ Niewand said he was touched by how many people attended Monday’s funeral.?
