Derksen, Henry G. (1914-2002)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2002 Mar 22 p. 23

Birth date: 1914 Nov 12

text of obituary:

HENRY G. DERKSEN

Henry G. Derksen of Saskatoon passed away Jan. 20 of congestive heart failure. He was born Nov. 12, 1914 to Gerhard and Anna Derksen near Borden, Sask., the 12th of 13 children. He accepted Christ at 14 and was later baptized and joined Borden MB Church. After 8 years of school, he began farming. He married Hulda Klassen Sept. 5, 1937. They bought their own farm . He provided a wonderful, loving, secure home for his family. He sang bass in a male quartet for many years, in the church choir and as recently as last year in a quartet in Saskatoon. His favourite solo was "His Eye is on the Sparrow". In 1964 he suffered his first heart attack. In 1974 they sold the farm to their son and moved to Langham, Sask., where he worked for Langham Lumber for several years and did some carpentry, building tables, lawn swings, etc. At 69, he had a second mild heart attack. In 1987 they moved to Saskatoon, living in an apartment for 1 year and then in a condo at Westwood Manor. Here he made many friends. He was building manager at the Manor for 8 years. They moved to Villa Royale on Dec. 1, 2001, but he was hospitalized Dec. 12 . He was looking forward to his final move to heaven. His faith remained strong, never wavering. He said he had lived a good, long life and was ready to go. Predeceased by infant son Donald in 1938, 1 granddaughter, 2 brothers and 9 sisters, he is mourned by Hulda; daughters Doreen Wiebe, Julia Neufeld, Doris Ens and Lucille Baerg; son Lloyd; 15 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 1 sister. A memorial service was held at West Portal MB Church, Saskatoon, with Kelly Wiebe ministering.