Dirks, Henry (1873-1971)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1971 Aug 06 p. 31

Birth date: 1873 May 10

text of obituary:

HENRY DIRKS

Henry Dirks was born on May 10, 1873, in Teige, Russia, to Henry and Susanna Dirks. His mother passed away when he was only three days old. The little orphan was then taken care of by friends. At the age of 19 he found the Lord, was baptized by Rev, Johann Born and joined the Mennonite Brethren Church of the Krim, He married Maria Hiebert in 1918 in Sagradofka, Russia. One son and three daughters were born to them.

In 1925 they emigrated to Canada and arrived in Drake, Sask., where they were taken in by the H.H. Bartels, From 1927 to 1949 they farmed, first at Watrous, Sask then at Rosedale, B.C. They retired then and spent nine years in East Chilliwack, B,C, and five years in Yarrow, B,C. before entering the Menno Home in Abbotsford, B.C. in 1963.

The Lord took Henry Dirks home on June 15, at the age of 98. His peaceful departure is testimony of his close relationship with his Saviour and Lord, His family remembers him as a devoted Christian father.

He is survived by his wife, Maria; his children, Mrs, Abe (Susie) Schroeder of Watrous, Sask., Henry of Chilliwack, B.C., Mrs. Peter (Marie) Isaak of Vineland, Ont. and Mrs. Abe (Katie) Voth of Matqui, B,C,; 12 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.