DUERKS, Elsie

ELSIE DUERKS July 26, 1938 – January 16, 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elsie Duerks on January 16, 2025, at the age of 86. Elsie was a beloved mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, who brought joy and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Elsie was born on July 26, 1938, in Wynyard, Saskatchewan, where she grew up and cherished her early years. She later lived in Winnipeg, Manitoba, before marrying Eugene Duerks and embarking on a journey of building a loving family and a life full of warmth and adventure. Over the years, Elsie and her family called many places home, including Langley and Williams Lake in British Columbia, Camrose and Raymond in Alberta, before settling in Lethbridge in 1988.
A long-time resident of the Legion Arms Senior Living Apartments in Lethbridge, Elsie was known for her vibrant personality and her active involvement in the Legion Arms community. She loved her daily trips to the community room to play cards and socialize with neighbors. Her weekly outings to Pop’s Lounge for dinner, wings, and drinks with friends brought her immense joy and connection.
Elsie’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her son Terry (Joyce), her daughter Darlene, her grandchildren Connor and Sonja, and her great-grandchildren Ariel, Kingston, Juliette, and Evelyn. She is also survived by her siblings Linda (Dale), Arthur, and her sister-in-law Vicki. Elsie was predeceased by her husband Eugene, her siblings Delores, Oliver, and Delores’ spouse Raymond, as well as Faye’s husband Ralph who was a dear friend.
Elsie shared a special bond with her close friend Faye and Faye’s children, Amber and Thor, who considered Elsie a second mom.
Throughout her life, Elsie worked to make everyone around her feel loved, happy, and cared for. Her smile lit up every room, and her kindness and generosity touched countless lives. Her family, friends, and neighbors will deeply miss her presence but take comfort in the memories she leaves behind.
Elsie’s family would like to thank the staff and residents of Legion Arms Senior Living for the friendships and care they shared with her over the years.
A small celebration of Elsie’s life will be held January 27th, 2025 at the Legion Arms Community Room. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Canadian Lung Association, in honor of Elsie’s generous spirit.
Elsie was truly a blessing in the lives of all who knew her, and her memory will forever remain in our hearts.