DUECK, John

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February 25, 1931 – February 21, 2021

John was born in Schönau, Ukraine to Johann and Anna Dück (nee Baier). On February 21, 2021, our gentle, compassionate father passed into the presence of his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, at the age of 89, just 4 days shy of his 90th birthday.

At a young age he had to flee to Poland with his family, and from there to Berlin, Germany where MCC International eventually arranged passage to Paraguay after World War 2 ended. Here he established a carpentry business. It was there that he met and married the love of his life, Susanne Friesen, they were married in 1953 and had their first 2 sons, Erich and Alfred.  In 1957, (under the sponsorship of Susan’s mother, Susanna Hecht) they were able to come to Canada and start their new life in Winnipeg.  Here they had 3 more children, Bernhard, Maryanne & John.  In 1967, John felt the call, for health reasons, to move west, so he packed up the family again and moved to Kelowna, B.C.  There, with Susan at his side, he re-established a finish carpentry business. He enjoyed building over 15 homes, some were completed while also working at Kelowna School District as a custodian, during the last 18 years before retirement.  He was a hard worker and did everything he could to support his family.  His family meant everything to him.

John and Susan finally retired in 1991 and sat back to enjoy and be involved in their children’s lives wherever asked or needed.  They traveled a bit and had family and friends in the home constantly.  John always looked to God for guidance and was a quiet thoughtful husband, father, Opa, and Great Opa.  His legacy after 67 years of marriage is his loving wife and family.

John leaves behind his wife Susanne, his five children: Erich (Lois), Alfred (Elaine), Bernie, Maryanne (Steve), John (Jo-Ann). Eleven grandchildren; Charmaine (Craig), Michelle, Shelli, Brent, Scott, Kimberly, Jennifer (Cody), Alexander (Carly), Rachel, Courtney (Roche), and David. six great-grandchildren. Neriah, Ellisha, Cohen, Isaiah, Zachariah, and Levanie.

John’s memory will also be cherished by his sister Elli Klassen and brother Willy Dueck.  He was predeceased by his sisters, Anna Wilhelm and Helene Unruh. With such a big, blessed family there are so many wonderful memories of our father and Opa.  He was a loving and devoted husband to Susan and a kind compassionate father to his children.  Dad was a man of very few words, but when he spoke, the wisdom was astounding. We remember John with love and affection, thankful for his faith which he lived out in quiet actions for his family and friends to see. We are all better people for having his prayers guide and protect us.

John was an avid fisherman, loved to play games, and enjoyed doing puzzles and playing pool.  He invested himself into the lives of his grandchildren and they have such wonderful memories of him.

Special thanks to the Dorchester and community palliative care, their support allowed us to honour dad’s wishes to pass peacefully in his familiar surroundings with his family beside him.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s name to MCC at  https://donate.mcccanada.ca/registry/john-dueck

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

Meine zeit steht in deinen händen (Psalms 31:16) (on a plaque in their home)

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