Obituary of Peter DOERKSEN

PETER J. DOERKSEN Peter J. Doerksen of Donwood Manor, Winnipeg, died peacefully December 28, 2009 at 88. His memory is cherished by his wife Tina (Harder) of 62 years; four sons, Al (Agatha), John (Barb), Vic (Doris), Norm (Moira); four daughters, Dora (Helmut) Dueck, Linda (Norm) Foth, Louise (Eric) Braun, Viola (Terry) Kaethler; 24 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; relatives and friends. He was born in Kleefeld, Ukraine on April 23, 1921 to Johann and Katharina Doerksen. The family immigrated to Canada in 1926, eventually settling in Gem, Alberta. As a teen, Peter committed himself to following Jesus Christ, a commitment he kept with great diligence throughout his life. He earned theology and education degrees, and served as minister in Mennonite Brethren churches in a number of locations, and as a teacher, sometimes concurrently. He is remembered for his faith, integrity, hard work, thrift, and steady spirit, and for his faithful devotion to his wife and family. Viewing will be at Donwood Manor, Jan. 1, 4 p.m. A funeral service will be held Jan. 2, 10 a.m., at Eastview Community Church, 3500 De Vries Ave. with interment to follow. If friends so desire, donations in Peter's name can be made to Mennonite Brethren Mission and Service International (mbmsi.org), for their ministry in Ukraine.