ELVIRA DERKSEN

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ELVIRA DERKSEN August 1, 1928 - August 11, 2016 It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elvira Derksen to her heavenly home. Elvira lived every day with a desire to serve the Lord and prepare for her eternal home. Remaining to cherish her memory are her loving husband Victor, daughter Linda (spouse Al and family); son Waldy (spouse Wanda and family); daughter Shelley (spouse Neil and family); son-in-law Gerry and family. Elvira is survived by her sister Tamara Dyck and her spouse Peter. Elvira was predeceased by her daughter Evy in 2013, infant grandson Jacob, and son-in-law Ernie Janzen in 1988. Elvira was born in Crimea. As a one-year-old child her family wanted to immigrate to Canada but the borders of her country were closed, so the family moved to Chortitza in Ukraine where Elvira attended a Russian school and later a German school. As a very bright 14-year-old girl she was chosen to attend Teacher's college in Kiev, Ukraine far away from home. She was excited to learn and see the possibilities that lay ahead. Education remained a key focus all of her life, both for herself and her family. She moved to Germany in 1943 and in 1947 was able to immigrate to Canada. Barely a day went by when she didn't express gratitude to be able to live in Winnipeg in what she described as the great country of Canada. She first worked on a farm and then came to Winnipeg to work in the household of a doctor's family. As a follower of Jesus Christ she was baptized and was accepted into the membership of North Kildonan Mennonite Brethren Church. She married Victor Derksen on October 25, 1952. She devoted herself to being a very competent wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed serving as a Sunday School Teacher, a member of the young people's committee, a member of the choir, ladies fellowship and many other areas of service throughout the years. She always cared for those who suffered, being quick to give both practical and spiritual support. She also enjoyed volunteering with her husband Victor in organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Mennonite Central Committee, Mennonite Disaster Services, Lithuanian Christian College, and serving coffee at church for 32 years. Elvira liked to travel with her family when the children were young as well as taking numerous trips later with Victor. The funeral service will be held at McIvor Mennonite Brethren Church, 200 McIvor Ave. on Tuesday morning (August 16, 2016) at 10:30 a.m. with viewing beginning at 9:30 a.m. Interment to follow in Glen Eden Memorial Gardens. The family would like to thank the staff at St. Boniface Palliative Care for their kindness and compassionate care. If people wish to honour Elvira's memory, donations can be made to Square One World Media, 225 Riverton Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2L 0N1.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 13, 2016