1937-2021
Lydia Derksen (Neufeld), passed away on December 30th 2021, one month shy of 85 years of age.
She is survived by her husband of 66 years; Aaron Derksen of Didsbury; her children Denise Derksen, Rose (Eric) Goerzen, Norma Derksen, Garry (Anita) Derksen, Tana & Rob Jermyn; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son Duane Derksen (2021) and grandson Randy Goerzen (1986). Lydia was born on January 26th 1937, in Didsbury to Rev. Cornelius & Agatha Neufeld. She grew up on the farm east of Didsbury in the Bergthal Community. She married and raised her family in the community. Mom has always been a musical person. At the age of 11, her parents got a piano and she took lessons for 2 years then played in the church till the age of 82. There wasn’t a song she couldn’t play. She always figured out which notes to leave out.
She was a woman of many talents and endeavors, working with dad on the dairy farm. Throughout her life, she worked at the Didsbury Hospital in the kitchen; led several Weight Watchers classes, and then went back to school to get her administration certificate. She worked at the Olds Town office for many years, and they had to hire 2 people to take her place when she retired, efficiency at its best. When the opportunity arose,“ The Sunflower Deli” was established, mom and dad continued running the business into their senior years. Mom survived a previous bout of cancer but succumbed to the brain tumor which took everything away from her and ultimately her life.
A huge thank you to the staff at the Didsbury Hospital, who touched her life and ours, especially those in long term care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mennonite Central Committee or the Breakfast Program at the Didsbury Schools. A private service will be Saturday January 8, 2022. A live stream of the memorial service may be viewed starting 2:00 pm at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Didsbury entrusted with arrangements. 403-335-4773 Condolences may be made or viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com
