OBITUARY
Michael Didur
October 18, 1919 – January 11, 2019
Mike Didur passed away peacefully on Friday night Jan 11, 2019 at the age of 99 years old.
He is survived by his wife (Eleanor), son (Dean), daughter in law (Lisa), grandson (Kyle) and grand-daughter (Courtney) … and one surviving brother Tom Didur.
Mike was born on October 18, 1919 in Ethelbert, Manitoba (north of Dauphin).
Mike started at Canadian National Railways in Winnipeg (1943). He worked as a General labourer, Express Train Messenger and finally in the office as a Claims Inspector. With 38 years of service he retired in March 1981.
He came from a Farming and Railway family that had 8 boys. The boys learned the values of dedication, hard work, self-sacrifice and how to survive difficult times on a very small income.
One brother became a teacher, one went into farming, and one stayed on the homestead to look after mother, while the other 5 dedicated their lives to pursue spiritual values in the ministry and helped numerous ones over the years learn about the Bible. Tom, Alex and their wives served as Full Time Ministers throughout Alaska & North America for decades.
Mike was baptized on September 15, 1939 in Broken Pipe Lake, Manitoba.
During the war, the brothers picked an obscure lake to perform baptisms, this was because work was banned in Canada. Dad often thought “Wonder what the cattle thought as they came to drink what are these people doing in our mosquito infested Lake?”
Mike developed had a very deep spiritual faith a very unique way! Noticed an interesting message inscribed on a train station wall (Ukraina) that peaked his interest! Millions Now Living Will Never Die? What did that mean? Started investigating and the rest is history. He was the first in his family to learn answers to Bible questions, hope for the future, and meaning of God’s kingdom. Called to Army for military training. Refused on scriptural grounds & sentenced to 9 months detention camp (Dauphin April 1940). Released in 1941 and then later recalled for 2nd military service.
After lengthy Court hearing, finally granted release as a ‘Conscientious Objector’ with restrictions. Stay in province and work under CN supervision. According to Dauphin Herald, Mike was 1st in Canada to be prosecuted under ‘National War Services 1940 Recruits Regulations. He saw the growth of many publishers, families and congregations in Winnipeg, Old River, Riverview, Fort Rouge cong’s. Traveled to iconic Conventions, special meetings that were historical game-changers.
Mike was always involved in the ministry and volunteer work comforting others about the Bibles promise and hope for the future based on scriptures like Revelation 21:3,4. His favorite scriptures and songs were John 3:16 and Dan 2:44 and #140 Life without End.
Dad loved the lyrics Uncle Mike (affectionately known as) always had endless stories to tell. Sometimes you could hear a cringe or sigh when Uncle Mike was just starting to warm up. Was it going to be one story or two or three or the same one again? He loved to talk.
He loved collecting rare stamps, coins, travelling and of course loved his family. Always mentioned: Despite our limitations, work hard at enduring each day, don’t worry about tomorrow until tomorrow, Then endure that day. Mike always talked about having a good name, in the community, at work, with family and of course most important with the creator (Jehovah God).
A small private family memorial service and burial (officiated by Robertus Berkers) was held earlier in the week.
The family expresses their sincere appreciation & heartfelt thanks to the many relatives, spiritual brothers and sisters, numerous friends, neighbours & workmates over the decades for everyone’s support, help and encouragement.
Family is very indebted to all the medical, homecare & support staff in the various hospitals and care facilities during 2018 and 2019. A special thanks to the Riverwood Square and Harmony House staff for all their hard work and continued support in caring for Mike and Eleanor.
If donations are desired, please make them out to the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Canada.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Michael Didur 2019..
Thomson In The Park Funeral Home and Cemetery
Death notice for the town of: winnipeg, Province: Manitoba