JAMES ALLAN DERKSON

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JAMES ALLAN DERKSON September 25, 1944 - October 29, 2008 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Allan Derkson at the Victoria General Hospital on October 29, 2008. Remaining to forever cherish Allan's memory is his devoted and loving wife of 40 years, Heather; daughters, Megan (Trevor), Dana and Ruth; his mother-in-law, who resided in the family home for the past 35 years and with whom he shared a special bond. He is also survived by his nephew David Rokyta (Josephine) and their children, Ashley, Amanda, and Aaron, as well as numerous cousins across Canada. Allan was predeceased by his father Benny Derkson in 1962, his mother Audrey Pawlinski in January 2006, his sister Elaine Rokyta in February 2006 and recently his stepfather Michael Pawlinski in April 2008. Allan was born and spent his entire life in Winnipeg. He attended several schools in the west end, finishing at Gordon Bell High School. Dad spent countless hours during these years at the Earl Grey Community Centre with friends such as Ernie, Brian and Bob. A sports enthusiast, dad excelled at football, hockey, baseball, bowling and played on many teams while at Manitoba Hydro. His case of trophies always gave him a deep sense of pride. He began his working life at a young age and had several jobs - you may have seen him delivering the Winnipeg Free Press, setting pins at the bowling alley, making deliveries for the pharmacy on his bike, testing electronics at RCA Victor or prepping the bread pans at the bakery. Allan started his career with Winnipeg Hydro and within a few short years, moved to Manitoba Hydro, where he proudly retired in 2003 after more than 35 years of service. Dad was the best representative Hydro could have for the United Way/Heart and Stroke Foundation Corporate Campaign, as he had suffered both a stroke and heart attack as a very young man, both from which he completely recovered. As a member of the International Right of Way Association, he held several posts, which enabled him to travel and meet some very interesting people. During his time with Manitoba Hydro in the Property and Risk Control Department, Dad worked with many terrific people, who were very important to him, especially Ron and Gary. Dad's fondest memories of his younger years were summers with his Aunt Jean, Uncle Duncan and cousins Barbara and Jim Young at Clear Lake. Auntie Jean was an important part of Allan's upbringing and always provided him with unconditional support. Often, he also recalled many Sunday gatherings of the Derkson Clan at Aunt Eva's (Larsen) home after church. Dad always treasured the time he spent with his sister Elaine. They had a wealth of common interests, particularly 1950s music and silver screen classics. As a young adult, Dad lived with Elaine and her husband which created an even stronger bond between them and her passing in 2006 was very difficult for him to accept. Allan married Heather on March 9, 1968. They built their home in St. Norbert in 1973 where he resided until his death. Allan was very actively involved in his community - coaching his daughter's soccer, baseball and ringette teams, a board member of the St. Norbert Community Club and volunteer at Bingo and Fun-O-Rama for many years, and a member at the Fraternal Order of Eagles - St. Norbert Branch. In a very special community, exists many special friends - supportive of Dad and our family, under any and all circumstances - John, Joanne, Connie and Rod (deceased). Allan enjoyed travelling extensively through the United States. Each summer, the trailer hit the interstate on route to visit a number of National Parks and tourist attractions - In more recent years he and Heather visited Mexico regularly, but his favourite spot of course, was his snowbird home at Pine to Palm in Weslaco, Texas. An antique and classic car optimist, Allan was an active member of 55/6/7 Chevy Car Club. He attended many car rallies, Show-n-Shines, swap meets and events like World of Wheels for years. Driving his 55 Chevy Belair in the summer brought him great delight. Dad had a tremendous friend in Mike and looked forward each week to their Friday lunch. A memorial service for Dad will be held in Trinity United Church, 933 Summerside Avenue, Fort Richmond on Wednesday, November 5 at 2:00 p.m. Our deepest gratitude to Dr. Brian Sharkey, Dr. Cam Lowden, all of the wonderful staff at the Victoria General Hospital and Winnipeg Paramedic Service. In lieu of flowers, friends so wishing may make donations to their charity of choice. Life Was Meant To Be Lived I could not, at any age, be content to take my place by the fireside and simply look on. Life was meant to be lived. Curiosity must be kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn his back on life. GLEN LAWN FUNERAL HOME 982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 01, 2008