Dennis Duerksen

Obituary

Dennis Gerald Duerksen was born to Jacob and Marie Duerksen on Oct 29, 1941 in Morris, MB. His daughter Joanne’s last words, “See you in the morning”, came to pass as he peacefully left us at 5:40 a.m on August 20, 2025 at age 83.

At a young age, his parents moved the family to Linden, AB. Dad gave his heart to the Lord and was baptized at age 15. In 1960, he moved back to Manitoba and took a job on Uncle Herman’s farm. Soon he met Adeline and it was love at first sight! The wedding took place Dec 28, 1961, during a raging snowstorm, followed by a honeymoon at home, and beginning a wonderful life together. Their home was blessed with four children. In the following years, nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren also brought much joy.

Dad worked a variety of jobs, most notably 38 years at Loewen Windows, where he was a meticulous serviceman. The grandfather clock in the living room is a pleasant reminder of his dedicated service to them. A lifetime dream was fulfilled for him when he took a part time job at Birchwood Funeral Chapel in his retirement.

Upon first impression, he was quite a sober man, but he could laugh like the best of them and crack some good jokes. Dad was a detailed bookkeeper who never had a penny misplaced in his ledger. He had a love for clean Chevy cars, a fascination for American presidents and politics, and liked to study world events in depth. Going to church in well polished shoes and a nice suit was important to him.

He was kind, loyal, and friendly, and felt very deeply for those closest to him. He had many long-lasting friendships. A quick trip to the grocery store might become an hour of connecting with friends, co-workers, or new acquaintances.

Dad loved his Saviour dearly. Many hours were spent in devotions and prayer. He was a man of principle and loved to read his Bible.

Dad was always a good provider to his family. He handled the traumatic, life-altering accident of his daughter Joanne with grace and fortitude. Together with Mom, he continued to care for her at home. Later, when Joanne moved to Maplewood Manor, they spent much time with her there. He loved his family very much. When children or grandchildren were going through hard times, he always had their back. If he was unable to help with words of encouragement or financial support, he would uphold them in prayer. He was a man of wisdom, and the children always found a source of strength and security when seeking his advice.

We are thankful he is now at rest with his Saviour, whom he dearly loved. Rest in peace, Dad.

Dad leaves to mourn his loving wife, Adeline, and their children: Louise and Galen Giesbrecht of Buhl, Idaho; Brian and Deb Duerksen of Elkton, Virginia; Rhonda and Matthew Penner of Kleefeld, Manitoba; as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He also leaves behind his siblings: Connie and Roy Penner, Marg Duerksen, Dalton and Joyce Duerksen; sister-in-law Julie Giesbrecht; sister-in-law Joyce Friesen; and sister-in-law Delores Giesbrecht.

He is predeceased by his parents and his daughter Joanne, as well as five brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law.

The viewing will take place on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB., with a short devotional and a time for sharing memories.

The funeral service for Dennis will take place on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 2:30 p.m., at the Kleefeld Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, with viewing prior to the service.