Dieterich Philippi

On September 9, 2015, in the quiet pause between two breaths, Dieter Alexander Philippi entered his eternal home prepared by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Born September 26, 1926, in Niederweistritz, Germany, he came to Canada with his parents at the age of two and called a farm near Marquette, Manitoba, home for some 30 years. Gifted with a keen sense of responsibility and eagerness, no work proved too menial or boring that he would not engage in it with full gusto and commitment, both to family, friends and co-workers. God's creation always captivated him, whether on the farm, in the Northern Ontario bush camps, or during many years of challenging work with the Ministry of Natural Resources. He would find relief from stress in much enjoyed labors in his abundant garden or while enjoying the beauty and excitement of fishing or hunting experiences in the Kenora area. He also loved sharing his love of nature and outdoor survival with young and old and was keenly aware of the need of conservation and regeneration.

Dieter was guided by the principles that were rooted in his deep faith in God and His Word. This characteristic was exemplified in a sincere concern for his fellowman. As his physical strength began to fade and his involvement inactive family church and community life diminished, he continued to be a steadfast prayer support to many, whether close to home or in far off countries. Though not a computer expert, this tool became an instrument of communication with his children, grandchildren, relatives and ministry workers.

Dieter was predeceased by his parents Walter & Annie Philippi - his first wife, Marilynn (nee Dyck) with their newborn daughter, Sheri - sister Barbara Ford - sister-in-law Priscilla Philippi.

Left behind to cherish his precious memory are his wife, Sylvia Philippi (nee Rasch), daughter Colleen Philippi with husband James Holroyd, son Stephan Philippi with wife Terri, children Anna, Megan, Nicholas, son Timothy Philippi with children Matthew, Cate and Jane. Remembering a wonderful brother are his sister Gabriele with husband Hans-Joachim Schneider, brother Hartwig Philippi and wife Jocelyn, as well as brother Wolfgang Philippi. Many nieces and nephews also feel the deep loss of a beloved uncle and friend.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for all the support and kindness received over the past months during Dieter's health struggles. We are especially grateful to our physician, Dr. B. Bowerman, the attentive staff of the Paterson Clinic, and the very caring nurses of the palliative unit in our Kenora hospital.

A service of praise and remembrance will take place on Saturday, September 26, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. at Lakeside Baptist Church, Kenora, Transmitter Road.

In light of Dieter's generous spirit of giving, donations towards a lasting gift can be considered to "Gospel for Asia - Youth Ministry”, Lake-of-the-Woods District Hospital, or the "Dieter Philippi Memorial Fund in support of Environmental education and Stewardship".