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DONALD POETKER
Born: Jan 22, 1948
Date of Passing: Nov 22, 2020
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DONALD POETKER
January 22, 1948 - November 22, 2020
Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Ashley (Scott), and Crystal (Ryan); granddaughters, Savannah and Mylie; brothers, Rudy (Allison), and Dennis (Lillian); nephews, Mark, Brian, Jon and Kevin; nieces, Jocelyn and Amy. Don was predeceased by his father Bill, mother Betty, and brother Robert.
After graduating from River East Collegiate in 1966, Don continued his education at Red River College and obtained his Business Administration diploma in 1972. He then went on to obtain his CMA certification in 1978 to start his career in accounting. While Don held many positions in the accounting industry, he settled into a long career with Canada Revenue Agency as a GST auditor. After 17 years of dedicated service, Don retired from CRA in 2008.
As Don's family was deeply rooted in East Kildonan, it was only fitting that Don place his own roots there too. His home was his castle with his bountiful backyard garden being his pride and joy. His natural green thumb filled his yard with roses as beautiful as can be, tomato plants that grew as tall as six feet some years and an abundant amount of cucumbers, just to name a few.
Although Don was a man of few words, it was evident that he had two loves in his life -the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and his family. The moments we shared as a family around the kitchen table are memories that we will hold close to our hearts for a lifetime.
Due to COVID restrictions, a private graveside burial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 30 at Brookside Cemetery. Friends and relatives are invited to view his service via Facebook live on Klassen Funeral Home's page.
A special thank you to the staff from 4E, at Deer Lodge Centre. You made his final weeks as comfortable as possible in such a challenging time. Your endless patience and kind hearts in his final days will not be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Don's memory to Canadian Diabetes or the Alzheimers Society of Manitoba.
We love you Bud!
KLASSEN FUNERAL HOME
204-338-0331
Condolences may be sent to
www.klassenfuneralhome.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 28, 2020
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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I was saddened to hear of Don’s passing. We had been good neighbours for over 35 years, which is a rare thing these days. He was so very fortunate to have Crystal & Ashley in his life. My heartfelt condolences to Don’s family & friends for their loss. - Posted by: Sue Washnuk (Neighbour) on: Nov 29, 2020
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My sincere condolences to Dennis and Lillian as well as Donald’s immediate family. These are very sad times. - Posted by: Lois Robinson (Friend) on: Nov 29, 2020
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Don was a good man and a loyal friend. I have a picture of Don, Bob, Rick and myself in my office downstairs that reminds me constantly of the good times we enjoyed together in our younger years. Don was a best man at our wedding. He phoned every year on Nov. 22nd, to wish me happy birthday, ask how I was doing and what we were up to. He was always positive and never complained. I can still hear and remember his voice. Our hope for the family is that God will bring you comfort and encouragement to your hurting hearts. Take care friend, thinking of you. - Posted by: Warren Earl (Life long friend) on: Nov 29, 2020
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I am so grateful that Don came into our lives. He was a kind and gentle man that opened his heart and home to my nieces when they needed it most. He showed them kindness and compassion. He loved them unconditionally and was so proud to become an Opa to Savannah and Mylie. Sometimes people come into your life for a season but I also believe they come into your life for a reason! Don helped change the path for my nieces. He gave them a foundation to grow from and supported, loved and taught them the meaning and value of family! I am forever grateful for the gift of this wonderful man. May he Rest In Peace, knowing that he was loved. - Posted by: Auntie Deb (Sister in law) on: Nov 28, 2020
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I am so grateful that Don came into our lives. He was a kind and gentle man that opened his heart and home to my nieces when they needed it most. He showed them kindness and compassion. He loved them unconditionally and was so proud to become an Opa to Savannah and Mylie. Sometimes people come into your life for a season but I also believe they come into your life for a reason! Don helped change the path for my nieces. He gave them a foundation to grow from and supported, loved and taught them the meaning and value of family! I am forever grateful for the gift of this wonderful man. May he Rest In Peace, knowing that he was loved. - Posted by: Auntie Deb (Sister in law) on: Nov 28, 2020
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