A former Member of Parliament for Provencher has passed away.
Jake Epp died Saturday at the age of 85.
Born on September 1st, 1939, his family says he was proud of his Mennonite roots and began his professional life as a high school history teacher in Steinbach. The Jake Epp Library in Steinbach was named after him.
He was first elected to Parliament in 1972 as the Member of Parliament for Provencher, beginning a political career that spanned more than two decades. Epp served in several cabinet roles, including Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Minister of National Health and Welfare, and Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources.
After retiring from politics in 1993, Epp continued his leadership in the private sector as a senior executive at TransCanada Pipelines until 2000.
His family says that while Epp's public service is well documented, it is his steadfast love for his family, his strong faith, and his commitment to principle that will be most deeply missed by those who knew him best.
A public ceremony to honour Epp's life is being planned in Steinbach in the coming weeks. His family wishes to thank all who have expressed their condolences during this time of mourning.