Obituary of Clifford Ronald Derkatz

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Cliff Derkatz, who passed away peacefully on April 27,2023 at the age of 88. Cliff was born on August 30, 1934, in Balcarres, Saskatchewan, to Edward and Irene Derkatz. He was the second of three sons.
Cliff’s childhood was spent on the family farm in the Resource area, where he gave his life to the Lord at a young age, never wavering from his faith. Cliff attended Jones School before going on to Two Rivers Bible Institute of Carlea and graduating from Melfort Collegiate. At the young age of 17, Cliff obtained his pilot’s license and his love of flying continued for decades.
In 1957, Cliff married Thelma Nelson, the love of his life, in Melfort. They were blessed with six children: Cindy, Kim, Tammy, Trent, Trevor, and Jodi. Cliff and Thelma started their family life together while working for SaskPower in Kinistino, then transferring to Squaw Rapids and Kindersley. In 1969, they transferred to Naicam, where they built their family home. Cliff worked for SaskPower from 1953 to 1974. In 1974, he began farming after purchasing land east of Lac Vert. In 1975, he established Derkatz Flying Service after he started crop dusting in 1969.
Cliff co-founded the Naicam Agra Suppliers in the early eighties, and his dedication to his community never wavered. He retired from farming in 2001 and spraying in 2009 at the age of 75.
Along with his family, Cliff had a deep love for hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors, always eager to explore new areas and challenge himself. What also started as a hobby, was Cliff’s fascination with buying and selling cars.
But perhaps his greatest love was for gospel quartets, which he listened to and sang along with for countless hours. His love for music was infectious, and he would often share his favorite songs with his friends and family.
Cliff was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He will be deeply missed by his wife of 65 years, Thelma, his children, Cindy Lindsay, Kim (Donna) Derkatz, Tammy Derkatz (Lyle Olson), Trent (Wanda) Derkatz, Trevor (Rhonda) Derkatz, and Jodi (Shawn) Hollingsworth. He was a cherished grandfather to Angela (Russ), Jeff (Jackie), Kurt (Charity), Jake (Katy), Austin, Abbey (Brandon), Ashley (Don), Stacey (Stephen), Brett (Candace), Brittney, Scott, Jared (Vanessa), Braeden, Brenden (Sarah), Kelsi (Alex), Kylie (Cole), Tanner (Gracie), Joel, Kate, and 14 great-grandchildren.
Cliff is predeceased by his parents, Edward and Irene Derkatz, his eldest brother, Ken Derkatz, and infant great-grandchildren Micah and Milan Derkatz.
Cliff will always be remembered for his kind and generous spirit, his love of flying, and his devotion to his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Memorial contributions in memory of Clifford may be directed to Parkland Place Residents Council.

The Funeral Service will be live streamed, please use link below.
https://youtube.com/live/9-ermvSv_tc