Dueck, Agatha (1902-2000)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 2000 Nov 17 p. 28

Birth date: 1902 May 16

text of obituary:

AGATHA DUECK

Agatha Dueck of Abbotsford, B.C. passed away Sept. 20. She was born May 16, 1902 to Dietrich and Sara Dueck in Alexanderwohl, Russia. She was a sickly child from birth. Her mother had tuberculosis during the pregnancy and died when Agatha was 4. Her father married Anna Klassen, a widow, 2 months later. Each brought 3 children to the marriage; 2 years later a brother was born. When Agatha was 15, her father died. Shortly after, she committed her life to Christ with the help of her stepmother, and was baptized. They lived on her older brother's farm for 8 years. Her mother married Peter Peters, who brought 9 children into the family. That same year, they immigrated to Duchess, Alta. They lived in Chortitz, Man. for 2 years and then bought farms in Gem, Alta. She often helped families in the community during harvest, sickness and childbirth. She was fondly known as "Tante Gatha" by many in Gem. Her health did not allow her to take on extended jobs. When her stepfather died in 1941, she took care of her stepmother. They kept some chickens, a few cows and some beehives to eke out a living. In 1956 her stepmother died. She moved in with her brother Herman in Mt. Lehman, B.C., picking raspberries for a living. After a while, she bought acreage in Aldergrove, B.C., where she grew fruit and flowers. She enjoyed fellowship at East Aldergrove MB Church. In 1971 she moved to Tabor Home, Abbotsford. She found it hard to see many of her friends die. In 1987 she lost her sight to cataracts, but 2 operations restored her sight and she was able to walk out for ice cream with friends again. In 1997 she recovered from pneumonia. She loved and trusted her Saviour. She is remembered for her positive attitude even when life was difficult. She counted her blessings and was appreciative of visits. Her last few years were difficult as she suffered from hearing loss, neuralgia and memory loss. She looked forward to being reunited with her Saviour and loved ones. The memorial service was held Sept. 25 in Tabor Manor, with Jay Neufeld and Peter Dueck ministering.