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JOHN RICHARD OELKERS
Born: Jul 09, 1949
Date of Passing: Mar 20, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryJOHN RICHARD OELKERS
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John Oelkers, who left us peacefully on March 20, 2025, at the age of 75.
Born on July 9, 1949, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to George and Mathilda (Tillie - nee Pauley) Oelkers. He grew up in the West End of Winnipeg and attended Isaac Brock and Red River Community College. John's life was marked by his unparalleled work ethic as a well renown master mechanic, all things motorcycles (since he was a teen), sports cars, his beloved dogs through the years, anything to do with being on or in the water, and protecting who/what he loved, fiercely. He liked to adventure and was an accomplished scuba diver who put skills to use at The Mineral King family camp located at West Hawk Lake and also acquired his pilot license in his younger years.
Throughout his life, John's journey took him and family from Winnipeg to Boston, eventually working his way West to Calgary, Courtney on Vancouver Island, and ultimately to the Lower Mainland, where he truly found his home.
John was a man of many passions but he especially took immense joy in spending time on his boat, finding peace and freedom on the water, and creating cherished memories with family and friends.
He is lovingly survived by his wife, Debra; their son, Frank (Alicia); his sons, Rob B. and Jacob (Grace) Oelkers; his daughters, Colleen (Jayson) and Carissa (Chris); his stepchildren, Tamara and Jonathan Murkin (Pam); his youngest sister, Marilyn Boland, as well as his nine grandchildren, three great-grand-children and numerous nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his parents and sister Brenda MacMillan.
Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit and the memories he leaves behind will continue to comfort us all.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 03, 2025
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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I was saddened to hear about John's passing. Being the best friend to his daughter Colleen, I saw John quite often, and he was very kind, and patient. My best memories were at West Hawk Lake. I used to go to the family cabin, and John taught me how to water ski! Memories I will never forget! let's just say that water skiing was not my forte.' But John had a lot of patience and wouldn't let me give up. During the winter, I would go with Colleen on her weekend visits with her dad. John also took Colleen and I, to what was my very first concert, which was April Wine. He always was relaxed and had patience for us young teenage girls. I Loved the Oelkers family very much, they all welcomed me, as if I was family. I really enjoyed my time, and grateful for the memories that I have. May Love and Peace be felt by everyone John Oelkers left behind. His memories will live on, in all those who knew him, and loved him. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Jennifer Turbovsky (Friend) on: May 04, 2025
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Marilyn, Debra & family, I am so sorry to hear of your brother, husband & father's passing. - Posted by: Brenda Kayer (wife of Ken Kayer distant cousin) on: May 03, 2025
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I am very sorry for your loss. I did not know John personally but as soon as I saw his picture I knew we were related. I have confirmed this. This gave me closure and it sounds like John was a wonderful man who led a good life. Sincerely Roxanne Hudson - Posted by: Roxanne Hudson (daughter of friend) on: May 03, 2025
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I was saddened to hear about John's passing. Being the best friend to his daughter Colleen, I saw John quite often, and he was very kind, and patient. My best memories were at West Hawk Lake. I used to go to the family cabin, and John taught me how to water ski! Memories I will never forget! let's just say that water skiing was not my forte.' But John had a lot of patience and wouldn't let me give up. During the winter, I would go with Colleen on her weekend visits with her dad. John also took Colleen and I, to what was my very first concert, which was April Wine. He always was relaxed and had patience for us young teenage girls. I Loved the Oelkers family very much, they all welcomed me, as if I was family. I really enjoyed my time, and grateful for the memories that I have. May Love and Peace be felt by everyone John Oelkers left behind. His memories will live on, in all those who knew him, and loved him. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Jennifer Turbovsky (Friend) on: May 03, 2025