Gerda Driedger
April 16, 1923 – January 2, 2026
Gerda was born April 16, 1923, in Brunau, in the Free State of Danzig (Germany), to Willy and Louise Dyck. The second of four children, she enjoyed a happy childhood and worked in her father’s store until World War II forced the family from their home in 1945. After escaping to West Germany in 1946, she reconnected with Horst Driedger, a childhood acquaintance. Facing limited opportunities as refugees, they decided to immigrate to Canada and married quickly on April 6, 1952, just days before departing. After a challenging ocean crossing, they settled in Saskatchewan with the support of the Herschel Ebenfeld Mennonite Church. The majority of their years were lived in Eston, Saskatchewan.
Gerda’s greatest joy was her family. She and Horst raised five daughters, beginning with twins Marlis and Doris in 1953, followed by Lore (1955), Karen (1963), and Erica (1966). Life was busy but full, with hard work balanced by camping and trips to the lake. Travel became a shared passion, with adventures across Canada, the U.S., and abroad.
The sudden death of daughter Doris in 1988 was a profound loss. After Horst’s death in 2005, Gerda showed remarkable independence, living nearly 20 years at Bethany Manor in Saskatoon. She cherished community, games, handwork, chocolate, family gatherings and had an incredible green thumb. Quietly grounded in her faith, she remained devoted to prayer, daily Bible reading and regular church attendance throughout her life.
She died peacefully in her sleep on January 2, 2026, at Circle Drive Special Care Home in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The family wishes to thank Bethany Manor Villa, Sunnyside Long Term Care Home and Circle Drive Special Care Home for the excellent care mom received in her last few years. She developed close relationships with care aides in each of these facilities whom she considered to be her close friends.
She is fondly remembered by her children: Marlis (David) Nielsen, Lore (Dennis Weist) Ruschiensky, Karen (Ty) McKenzie, Erica (Dave) MacDonald and son in law, Lance (Doris) Homstol. She was a cherished Oma to: Eric (Kim) Nielsen, Matthew (Belinda) Nielsen, Melissa (Patrick) Dessaulles, Krista (Danny) Kaminski, Kyle (Michelle) Homstol, Kurt Ruschienksy, Katherine Ruschiensky, Kayla (Ben) Giesbrecht, Tiess (Devynn) McKenzie, Layne McKenzie, Jacob (Melania) MacDonald, Mitchel Macdonald and 10 great grandchildren and 2 more expected in 2026. She also became a much loved “adopted Oma” to many others over the years.
She was predeceased by her husband, Horst (2005) and daughter, Doris (1988).
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Circle Drive Alliance Church, 3035 Preston Ave S, Saskatoon.
CLICK HERE FOR LIVE STREAM LINK OF THE FUNERAL SERVICE FOR THE LATE GERDA DRIEDGER
(No password or login will be necessary. A copy of the live stream will also be available to view after the service at the link above. The copy will be available for approximately 6 months.)
The family is being cared for by Dalmeny Funeral Home 306-254-2022.
Having grown up in Eston, Gerda and her family were family friends. I especially enjoyed spending time with her daughters Marlis and Doris. In later years my mom was very happy to spend days together in Bethany Senior home. Gerta was one of mom , Ann Schneider’s , most cherished friends . Gerda’s great love for God and her family were what made her life meaningful. I know she will be missed by those who loved her, but we also know she is happy in God’s presence today . I pray that you , her family, will feel God’s comforting presence to give you strength through this time . It has been an honour to know your mom. I will be attending her special day online. Sending my love and Prayers , Elaine
My sincere sympathy to all of Gerda’s family. The smile in the picture here is the smile I so remember from many many years ago. She always had a smile on her face. She will be a great loss to all of you but her legacy lives on through all of you.
Palma
Sending condolences to her family. Greatful to have been a part of her care team. The sleeve tattoos will forever have us smiling when we think of her ❤️
Sending my condolences to all of Mrs. Dreidger‘s family . I remember going to the Dreidger farm with my sister (Linda) and enjoying her huge smiles and kindness.
Our deepest sympathy to her family – our thoughts are with you during this sad time.