In Celebration of

Dr. John Henry Derksen

November 8, 1945 - June 1, 2024

On June 1, 2024 the world lost a remarkable person. Dr. John was a Mennonite prairie boy from Saskatchewan whose love of music, especially music for the church and the organ, led him to Toronto. He graduated from the University of Toronto in 1982 with a doctorate in musicology. Mentor, teacher, conductor, composer, organist, John inspired others to grow personally and musically under his loving and erudite guidance. He died peacefully at home after a brief and difficult battle with brain cancer. John will be forever loved and missed by his wife Kristen, his children Benjamin (Sofie) and Samuel (Melanie), his loving Derksen/Nickel family and Anema family and his many friends.

A celebration of life will be held at Islington United Church on June 21st at 11:00 a.m. If you wish to hear Dr. Jonathan Oldengarm’s magnificent prelude, please plan to arrive by 10:40.
A reception is to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Mennonite Central Committee emergency fund or to the music ministry at Islington United Church.

Guestbook

(4 of 4)

Ian Grady (Friend)

Entered June 4, 2024 from Milton

It’s been an honour to have known John and the Derksen family for so many years. From laughter and conversation over meals, to inspiring leadership of the choir. I will always cherish the special moments sitting in quiet awe listening to his gift of music at the keys of the organ. John was a leader, mentor and friend - peace to Kristen, Ben and Sam and all who have had the privilege of being part of his incredible life.

Rick and Nancy Tamas (friend)

Entered June 5, 2024 from Etobicoke

We were blessed with the opportunity to know and love the man beyond musician and scholar - only some parts of who he was. Between our wine tastings, absurd and fun dinner parties, celebrating milestones we each had achieved, we witnessed the heart, intellect, intuitiveness and strong code of ethics that made John who he was. We will miss that special smile that Ben and Sam have both inherited. Sincere condolences and love to Kristen, Ben and Sam and extended family.

Pia Machado (Friend, Islington United Church)

Entered June 12, 2024 from Etobicoke, Ontario Canada

My deepest condolences to Kristen, Ben and Sam. It has been a honour to have known Dr. John H. Derksen at Islington United Church. He was a remarkable and talented man! With thanks and gratitude - His dedicated leadership of the Senior Choir, and amazing organ is appreciated. John will be missed, but never forgotten.
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13.13
May cherished memories bring you comfort and strength. Rest in Peace!
Love and Hugs, Pia Machado Islington United Church

Tom and Nancy Cook and Tracey Rideout (Friend)

Entered June 27, 2024 from Etobicoke

We all sorry to hear of John's passing. We were unable to make it to the Memorial Service to convey our condolences to Kristen and family.
We will always remember John playing The Little Drummer Boy at the Light Up the Night service as my handicapped sister Nancy sang. He was a very gentle and kind man. Nancy cried when she heard the news of John's death.
John thanks for your friendship!

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