Anton "Tony" Driedger

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tony Driedger at the age of 84. He passed away peacefully at the St. Boniface Hospital surrounded by family.

He leaves to mourn his loving wife of 62 years Marie (nee Derksen); children Valerie (Gerry), Keith (Antonine), Birdena, and Karl (Brenda); grandchildren Danielle (Rob), David (Jessica), Karine (Kyle), Kristina (Brandon), Justin, Jordan (Ally), and Jonathan; and four great-granddaughters Kaydance, Melodee, Ariana, and Cloé.

Tony also leaves to mourn his brothers and sisters; Abe (Hilda), Cornelius (Elsie), Bernie (Irene), Henrietta (Marvin), sister-in-law Katherina (Katie) as well as other in-laws, nieces, and nephews who were dear to him.

Tony was predeceased by parents Helena and Abram, sisters Helen and Cornelia (Nellie), and brother Erdman (Eddie).

Tony was born in Gretna Manitoba on June 27, 1936 to Helena and Abram Driedger. He spent his early years working on the family farm. Dad attended high school at MCI in Gretna. He was influenced by his teacher Miss Klassen, and at one time thought that he might like to be a politician; however, that was not be. Upon graduation he applied for a job at DW Friesen (which he did not get), and that led him to his next choice of going to “Normal” school and becoming a teacher.

Dad met Mom while in grade 12. He and Peter Geisbrecht had been driving around Altona and he had noticed Mom on the street. Mom agreed to go out with Dad and on their first date Dad had her home by midnight. I am sure that Grandpa Derksen was waiting at the door…. After their first date, many more followed, and eventually led to their marriage. Dad and Mom were married on June 21, 1958. Their first child Valerie was born on August 2, 1959 followed by Keith on December 30, 1960, Birdena on July 18, 1962 and Karl on March 7, 1966.

When Dad started teaching, he had his grade 12 diploma and a “Normal” school certificate. Through summer and evening courses at the University of Manitoba, he earned his B.A. and B.ED. degrees. Dad began his teaching career in Plum Coulee with stops in Steinfeld, New Bergthal, Altona, Thompson, and Winnipeg where he finished his career in 1992 at Shamrock School.

Early on in our family life, we took many trips during the summer months whenever Dad was not taking courses at the University of Manitoba. We went to Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone, Banff, Jasper, and B.C., among other places. We remember these trips with great fondness.

Following retirement, Dad enjoyed hiking with friends Allan Dueck, Gordon Kroeker, and Gordon Schellenburg. They took extended trips to the Rockies and came back with many interesting photos and stories. These friendships were extremely important to Dad.

Dad was very involved with Braeside EMC church, where he formed many meaningful friendships. He was a Sunday School teacher, a Sunday School Superintendent, and a church Deacon. He was on the committee that helped bring Laotian refugees to Manitoba through the EMC. He was an active member of the Keenagers Choir and enjoyed performing with the group.

Tony will be fondly remembered by his family and many close friends.

Due to the current safety practices with COVID-19, a private service will be held on Friday September 4th at Braeside Evangelical Church, Pastor Dan Cormie officiating. Guests by invitation only.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Mennonite Central Committee, or any charity of your choice. The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at the St. Boniface Hospital (5E) for their care and kindness during this difficult time.