Helen Derksen
October 29, 1928 – May 8, 2021
It is with sadness we announce the passing of Helen Derksen at 92 years of age. She is survived by one sister Kay (Al) Trombley; two sons, Robert (Dianne) Doerksen, Ken (Charlene) Derksen; one granddaughter, Chantelle (Michael) MacIntyre; ; three great-grandchildren, Carlos, Kassidy and Keegan MacIntyre. She was predeceased by her husband John Derksen; parents John & Mary Klassen; brother Richard Klassen; and sister Marie Hudon.
Helen was born on a farm just outside of Gouldtown, Saskatchewan. At approximately 3 years of age the family moved to Carrot River and a few years later to the Peesane – Orley district. They eventually made their home in Tisdale, Saskatchewan. It was here she met her future husband John Derksen. Married in 1951, they lived on a farm near Carrot River for a short period until moving back to Tisdale. In 1953, their first son Robert was born in Tisdale. Work opportunities took them to Saskatoon in 1956 and a year later their second son Ken was born.
Helen worked at a number of jobs over the years. Her first venture into employment was working for the Tisdale Hotel. She also worked in retail for companies like Co-op, Kresge’s and Woolworths in Saskatoon. Knitting was a hobby that resulted in her making wool sweaters for friends and family at their request, including selling some sweaters through a local private retailer. Helen did some cleaning for friends and for the Mayfair Mennonite Church that she attended. Helen needed to be active to be happy. She volunteered countless hours to the Mennonite Clothes Closet over many years and also helped to serve meals at Bethany Manor etc..
Helen was a very social person who loved to joke and tease her friends, family and acquaintances. Helen dearly loved her grandchild and great grandchildren as evident by her actions and words. She cherished church gatherings and the fellowship that Mayfair Mennonite Church, which later became Cornerstone Church, afforded her. She was active in the church community too, sitting on various committees and through the Ladies Aide Group. For this reason the past year was difficult for her after losing her husband John in the year 2020 and with the Covid-19 restrictions that were placed on her seniors residence.
May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you; and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mennonite Central Committee, 600 45th Street West, Saskatoon, SK, S7L 5W9. Due to Covid-19 concerns a private interment will take place at Dalmeny Community Church Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Dalmeny Funeral Home 306-254-2022.
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