Dirks, Gerhard (1890-1974)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1974 May 03 p. 30

Birth date: 1890 Oct 03

text of obituary:

REV. GERHARD DIRKS

Gerhard Dirks was born October 3, 1890 to Gerhard and Margaret Dirks in Paulsheim, Molotschna, in the Ukraine. At his mother's urging he completed teachers seminary after attending high school. In 1912, in his third year of teaching, tuberculosis forced him to quit and he spent eight months in the Sanitarium in Yalta on the Crimean Riviera where the disease was arrested.

He spent 1915·17 in a forestry camp in alternative service. In 1922 he met Tina Willms and was married to her on August 28 of that same year. Through this union were born 17 children, ten boys and seven girls. In 1925 they immigrated to Canada, arriving first at Acme, Alta., then a brief stay at Sterling and then on to Namaka, Alta. where they resided and farmed until 1971. Many good times as well as hardships were shared by them through these years. In January 1971 they moved to Calgary.

Mr. Dirks had a very deep faith in his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, to whom he was true until his last moment here on earth. He was a true witness for Christ and served in the capacity of the preaching ministry for many years.

He passed on to his eternal reward on March 13. He was predeceased by three sons and one daughter, and is survived by his loving wife, Tina, one sister, Katherine, seven sons, six daughters, 31 grandchildren and one great·grandchild. Funeral services were held at Highland Mennonite Brethren Church March 15 with Rev. A. L. Klassen presiding.