Frank Doerksen

On Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at St. Joseph's Home in Medicine Hat, Frank Doerksen of Redcliff, passed away at the age of 80 years.  A special thanks to all staff at Carmel Hospice for caring for Frank during his stay.

Frank was born February 8, 1944, to David and Margaret Doerksen at Carrot River, Saskatchewan.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Carol; parents David and Margaret; and several of his many siblings.

Left to mourn his passing are his children Karla (Mark) Wilson and Sara Clark (Jason Tangen); grandchildren Josie Clark, Manny Clark, Alice Wilson, and Paul Wilson.

Who was Frank Doerksen? Lovingly known by many as “Frankie”, yet some others might remember him by his earlier prestigious title of  “King of Brandon Manitoba” proudly declared a top the bar table in many establishments. To us he was Dad, Daddy, Papa Frank and Grandad to the British folk.

Dad was the strong silent type. Even though he was a quiet man, there was always a thought or story mulling around in his mind which was made obvious by his subtle lip movements and a wry grin displayed on his face.

So many lunches and treats were shared with Dad at Casey’s Ice Cream Parlor and Dad always had a pocket full of quarters so that we could play the arcade games at Trukkers while he sipped coffee at the counter, mulling over many thoughts and chatting with the staff there whom he grew so fond of.

He always knew he was welcome on a stool at the bar at Who’s on Third where he would be greeted by familiar faces that were always happy to see him.

We continue to be amazed at his incredible talent for constructing. From a lovingly made guitar case (yes a guitar case made of plywood is as heavy as it sounds), to digging out the basement beneath our childhood home BY HAND, to his last hurrah, his final fourplex. He was proud of the work of his hands.

In Dad’s final years, he battled hard and made the best of his situation and handled it all with admirable  strength. Throughout his many hospital visits and stays for surgery and treatments, he managed to quickly charm the nurses and had an extra soft spot for some of his favorites. 

Dad was weary and tired and was ready to rest. In his final days he humbly stated, “ I don’t have another Taj Mahal to build, I am ok to go “

Rest well now Daddy

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Monday evening between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. 

A private family interment will take place at Redcliff Cemetery where Frank will be laid to rest with his wife Carol.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

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