Duane Arthur Derksen

Duane Arthur Derksen Born October 16, 1956, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday, July 2, 2021 in his home town of Didsbury, Alberta, at the age of 64 years. 

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Denise Derksen (nee Coreman); his children, Tara Stewart (Chris), Lindsey Rion (Jeff), Brittany Derksen (James); grandchildren Alexis Stewart, Elizabeth, Isabelle, and Abigail Rion; parents,Aaron and Lydia Derksen; siblings, Rose and her husband Eric Goerzen, Norma Derksen, Garry Derksen and his wife Anita Michiel-Derksen; bother-in-law, Les Tronsgard; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and special people.

Duane had an incredibly full life. He didn't just have one job, he had many. Husband, father, son, papa, uncle, friend, companion, confidant, welder, truck driver, fixer, and most of all, Dairy Farmer. Duane sat on the Calgary Milk Producer Board that later became the Chinook Milk Producers.

The dairy industry was his main focus and passion, he started by watching his dad hand milk cows into cream cans, to seeing robots milking cows and doing the chores. He was witness to all the changes and new technologies that have come to the dairy industry. 

He spent his life sharing his joy with others and sharing his love of music with all. If he wasn't singing he was laughing. Duane spent his life in service of God, always showing love, compassion, humility, and always lending a helping hand. 

He has touched many hearts and lives and will be deeply missed by all. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Mennonite Disaster Services, MDS 200 – 600, Shaftesbury Blvd, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3P 2J1 or mds.mennonite.net.