Dyck, Jacob Gerhard (1912-1975)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1975 May 02 p. 30

Birth date: 1912 Feb 18

text of obituary:

JACOB GERHARD DYCK

Jacob Dyck was born February 18, 1912 in the village of Miloradowka, South Russia, to Gerhard and Sara Dyck (nee Klassen), the youngest of seven brothers and one sister. When he was 6 years, his father was murdered and a year and nine months later he lost his mother. His oldest sister Katharina, who is still in Russia, took care of him. When she married in 1926, his brother's wife, Helena Dyck, took her place until they emigrated in 1929.

In Russia his education consisted of the six years of elementary school. In Canada he attended the Winkler Bible School for two winters. He worked on farms in Manitoba and Alberta until 1942. He was baptized upon the confession of his faith by B. B . Janz in 1936 and received into the Mennonite Brethren Church of Coaldale, Alta.

In 1941 he voluntarily joined the medical corps of the army and served for five years, mostly in Europe.

On February 9, 1947 he married Erica Thiessen. A son, Paul Randolph, was born to them, who lived only seven days. In September 1952 they adopted Victor Arthur who brought much joy into their home.

After his discharge from the army he worked with his brother for a short time in construction. Then he accepted a carpenter's position with the C.P.R. where he worked for 27 years, until his death.

He was not afraid to confess his Lord. A worker who listened to him said "Dyck, you must be a preacher." Another time: "Dyck, where will you go when you die?" Jacob answered, "Surely to a better place than this earth, to my Lord."

Many years he faithfully attended the Bible class. Five years before he became ill, he taught this class. The heavenly father spared him the anguish of a lingering death. He was found sitting in a chair at work as if having his dinner nap. He was with his Saviour.

He leaves to mourn his wife Erica, and his son Victor; two brothers, Isaak and John with their wives; his sister in Russia, Katharina Funk; his sisters-in-law, Agnes Dyck in Coaldale and Anna Dyck of Winnipeg; as well as the children and grandchildren of his brothers and sister and many friends.