David ‘Blake’ Doerksen (BD)

Born in Carman, MB on January 8, 1947, Blake passed away peacefully on March 27, 2017 at the Grace Hospital with friends and family by his side.

Blake leaves behind his mother Muriel Doerksen of Carman, sons David (Linda) of Oakville, ON, Jason (Sue) of Mitchell, MB, 5 grandchildren, brother Dennis (Marlene) of Carman, and sisters Diane Duncan of Winnipeg, Joanne (Darren) Gunn of Edmonton, AB, and sister-in-law Norma of Gimli, as well as many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his father Abe and brother Garth.

Blake always wanted to become an air traffic controller. Being too young for ATC after graduating high school in Graysville, he started as a meteorological technician in La Ronge SK.  When he was 21 he qualified as an air traffic controller and worked in Brandon, Regina, St. Andrews, Kenora and finally Winnipeg Terminal where he worked for 25 years before retiring in 1996.  He was held in high esteem by his peers.

BD was an avid golfer (the six-pack tour will remember), dabbled in horse racing for a time, and was skilled at cribbage, Scrabble, and crosswords.  His vast circle of friends from the Dale, the Charley and the Legion knew his door was always open, his truck was always available, and he was always there if you needed a hand or a chat.

Blake appreciated the continuous support of his friends and family over the past months.  In particular the assistance of his sister Diane and friends Leanne Martin and Ron Zurba when his sons couldn’t be there.

Per Blake’s wishes, a private family interment will take place at a later date.  A celebration of Blake’s life will be held April 9 at the Charleswood Curling Club from 2-5pm.

The family would request that in lieu of flowers, donations in Blake’s name can be made to Cancer Care MB, or the Grace Hospital in appreciation of the care Blake received.