Jakob Goertzen

Jakob L.Goertzen

After a brave fight at St. Boniface Hospital, Jake passed away peacefully, with family at his side on Saturday, July 10, 2010.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Art (Betty) of Roland, Val (Neil) Thiessen of La Salle, Tris (Gabe) of Portage la Prairie, Karen (Dean) of Winnipeg and Dorinda (Walter) Rodd of Portage la Prairie; grandchildren Mandy (Bob), Jo (Jeff), Dave, Charity, Tyler (Jessie), Kristen (Christian), Daneeka, Alex, Adam, Zac, Jessie, Heather and Sean, and great grandchild Landon Jakob. Also survived by siblings Mary, Anne, John (Agatha), Agnes, Gary (Sonia), Sarah (Ben) and Neil (Jan), and brother-in-law John (Rozanna). He was predeceased by his wife Dorothy; son Victor; brothers Frank, Henry, Abe and Dave; sister Katherine and childhood siblings Gerhardt and Helena, as well as parents Helena and Franz Goertzen. Also predeceased in-laws Suzie and John Neufeld, Susie and Pete Wiebe, Bill and Cathy Gerbrandt, and Marlys Neufeld.

Relocating from Saskatchewan to Steinbach area, as a young man Dad tried his hand at many of the plentiful jobs of the time. Later with a full family and settled comfortably in middle management, he and Mom designed and built their dream home south of St. Norbert. Together they later enjoyed working with the handicapped in a group home and Dad savoured teaching Driver's Ed to young fresh minds. After retirement, he still kept his hands busy with many projects in his "shop" and kept his home and heart open to newly arrived immigrants who became part of our family.

Jake was a gentle humble soul with a big heart. He had a genuine love of all those he knew. He loved to have his family around and was thrilled to have a new great grandchild in the family before his decline. Jake was a founding contributor of the Portage and District Foundation. He was passionate about music and books of every variety. Jake was happiest sitting around the kitchen table shooting the breeze with his family and friends who would drop by knowing there was always a great cup of coffee. His quiet presence and loving smile will be sadly missed.

In keeping with Jake's wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of Jake's life on Friday, July 16, 2010 at 7:00 pm at McKenzie United Church, 85 11th Street NW, Portage la Prairie, led by Rev. Beth Kerr.

As expressions of sympathy, if friends so wish, donations may be made in Jake's memory to Manitoba Lung Association, 629 McDermot Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3A 1P6 or to a charity of your choice.

Thanks to the St. Boniface hospital staff for their compassionate care during his stay. Special thanks to friends and family who supported Jake and his family during this difficult time.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared forby McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel 857-4021A message can be left in the on-line guest book at www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com