1931-2024
Mr. Aaron Elwood Derksen passed away on Sunday, June 23, 2024 at the age of 92 and ½ years.
Aaron was born on November 12, 1931, in Didsbury to Abram and Sara Derksen. He grew up on the farm east of Didsbury, where he married and raised his own family in the Bergthal Community. Dad started his agricultural adventure in 1957-1958 at the University of Alberta, Chemical Engineering Dairy Division, where he earned his Certificate to become a Cream and Milk Grader. He worked in the industry for a period before becoming a major producer of quality milk products. (AKA a Dairy Farmer)
Outside of the family, his cows were his pride and joy. He dedicated his heart and voice to praising God. He, along with seven other men, sang together for many years. We called them the Octet, but their group name was the Gospel Eight. After he retired from the farm, he and mom purchased a building in Didsbury as an investment, and eventually took over the existing Deli. The Sunflower Deli became the ‘coffee spot’ of the morning. Dad honed his “cooking skills”, particularly with potato salad becoming his specialty. When he finally retired, he and mom enjoyed their final years together here in Didsbury.
Aaron will be lovingly remembered by his children, Denise Derksen, Rose (Eric) Goerzen, Norma Derksen, Garry (Anita) Derksen, Tana and Rob Jermyn, his many grandchildren, his great grandchildren, and his extended family.
Aaron was predeceased by his wife, Lydia Derksen (2021), his son, Duane Derksen (2021) and his grandson, Randy Goerzen (1986).
A Celebration of Aaron’s Life was held at the Bergthal Mennonite Church, Bergthal Road and Township Road 310, Mountain View County, Alberta on Sunday, June 30, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. For those unable to attend the Celebration of Life Service, please visit www.parklandfuneralhome.com to find the recording of the service.
If desired, Memorial Donations in Aaron’s honor may be made directly to his special charity, the Breakfast Program at the Didsbury Schools. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com. Arrangements in care of Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.
