MR. FISH TAXIDERMY

This page is in honor of a dear friend who tragically lost

 his life while enjoying what he loved to do.

John...your friendship will never be forgotten.

 

                          ...making your memories last a lifetime.
Mr. Fish Taxidermy Studio

John “Flitz” Thiessen

May 20, 1957 ~ April 2, 2012

 

John “Flitz” Thiessen, loving Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Brother and friend, aged 54 years of Winkler, MB. Formerly of Reinland, passed away suddenly into the loving arms of his Savior on Monday, April 2, 2012 on Cedar Lake at Grand Rapids, MB.

 

John was born in Winkler, MB. On May 20, 1957 to David J. and Sarah Thiessen. He was baptized on the confession of his faith, on May 19, 1991 by Pastor Abe Reimer. John married Darlene Zacharias on May 17, 1981. They were blessed with two daughters, Melissa (Missy) and Shawna. John was a loyal employee at Monarch Industries, Winkler for the last 35 years and held his employers in highest regard. John’s love of the outdoors, whether it was hunting, fishing or waiting for the robin’s return in the spring, was evident in everything he did. John and Darlene were blessed three weeks ago to be able to enjoy a trip to Cuba together for some rest and relaxation.

 

He is survived by his ever-loving wife of 31 years Darlene (nee Zacharias). Daughter Melissa, and husband James Wiebe, and daughter Shawna, and husband Russ Wolfe and one granddaughter, Brielle Mackenzie Wolfe (Beamer).

 

He was predeceased by his father David J. Thiessen (1996), brother David in infancy (1951), and sister Sarah Peters (March 4, 2012).

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Wiebe Funeral Home, our families, church family and many friends for all the love and support.

 

John gave his life doing what he loved to do and we will cherish all our memories of him.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

 

Winkler Game & Fish

John “Flitz” Thiessen Memorial

Teach A Kid To Fish

P.O. Box 1222, Winkler, MB.

R6W 4B2

Time…where does it go? When I look back, my love for the outdoors was evident…even back in grade school, where I would collect and scrapbook any and all articles relating to wildlife. I had done some fishing when I was young, and only started hunting when I was in high school…I was hooked after that. After graduation, I fished every weekend I could, spending countless hours scouting for deer, and even extending my love for the outdoors by dabbling in taxidermy.

 

In the early 1980’s I was a member of the Winkler & District Game & Fish Association, where I was fortunate to get to know a lot of good people, one of which was John. He and I became good friends while enjoying many memorable fishing and hunting experiences. John was instrumental in getting me involved in bear hunting, and showed me what walleye fishing at Pine Falls was really all about. During those years, John helped me expand my experience as a big game taxidermist, by allowing me to mount his velvet buck, his bear head, plus a variety of other items.

Whether we were shed hunting together, fishing, or setting up bear baits…any time spent with John was an experience to be remembered.

 

In 1988, I moved from Winkler to pursue taxidermy full time. It felt bitter sweet…to move from the people I loved…but my move also meant I was embarking on a career I was looking forward to. John and I remained good friends, even after my move, but as time passes…so too do opportunities of getting together due to scheduling conflicts and distance. Every bear season, and each fall at Pine Falls…I would think maybe, just maybe John would be out there, and I should go just to share some time with him and surely a laugh or two.


I have many fond memories with John, and each one will be cherished like it happened yesterday. The joy I feel in my heart when I remember those days…even now when the “seasons” are underway, I realize it was the spirit of John that brought the joy.


There was no way anyone could have foreseen how April 2, 2012 would unfold...after all, it was just another fishing trip with friends. How precious our time on earth really is...only realizing how much so after losing someone we love.

I loved John…his humor and his spirit will continue to live in my memories with him. I will miss him for that.
John took advantage of living his life to its fullest and to the best of his ability, without losing sight of the important things in life...his family and his love for the Lord.

I feel humbled and blessed to have shared outdoor experiences with John, and calling him my friend…memories I’ll never forget.

I will truly miss him…a friend forever....

Sincerely,

Wes Wall