DERKSEN, JOHN H
Born in Tessier, Saskatchewan, August 31, 1929 and passed away suddenly May 16, 2010, at the age of 80. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Nellie of almost 57 years, his 5 children & their spouses: Kathy (Ron) Dyck, Tim (Sherry), Leanne Zacharias, Marj (Bill) Wolfson, Audrey (Dan) Neufeld, 18 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, 1 brother, 2 sisters-in-law, and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his parents and 4 siblings. He spent his childhood in Saskatchewan, and moved to Abbotsford when he was 16. He finished school here and then went to CMBC to further his education where he received a Bachelor of Christian Education. While there he met his future bride, Nellie. They were married in 1953, moved to Abbotsford and spent the rest of his life there. He opened up a Christian Bookstore in Clearbrook which he operated until his retirement. He was very involved in his church, serving as chairman for many years. The church conference was also a big part of his life. He was also involved in the Clearbrook Chamber of Commerce for several years, as well as Clearbrook Water Works. John loved flying and obtained a private pilots license which he put to good use, flying to visit family from the Island to Saskatchewan. His family was very important to him, and he loved spending time with them. He will be deeply missed! Celebration service will be held Thursday, May 20, 2010 at 2:00 pm, at Emmanuel Mennonite Church, 3471 Clearbrook Rd., Abbotsford.
Viewing on Wednesday, May 19, 7-8 pm at Emmanuel Church.