Edwin Kehler Dueck passed away peacefully at Bethesda Regional Health Centre on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 4:15 a.m., after a brief battle with cancer. His sister Bertha was by his side, and Edwin was fortunate to have spent time with many of his family and close friends in the days leading up to his passing.
Edwin was born on February 22, 1953, on the family farm in the RM of Hanover. Coincidentally—or perhaps unfortunately for her—he was born on his sister Laverna’s birthday. Whether Edwin was the birthday gift she wanted remains a matter of debate.
He was predeceased by his parents, Diedrich and Lizzie Dueck; his brothers Ernie, Ervin, Melvin, and Daniel; and brothers-in-law Walter Griffith and Johnny Neufeld.
Left to cherish his memory are his sisters Martha Neufeld, Laverna Griffith, Bertha (Ray) Laing, Norma (Keith) Roulston, and Rhonda (Donald) Harms; his brother Peter (Phyllis) Dueck; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, countless friends, and his faithful companion Barley, who never turned down the opportunity for a car ride, tractor ride, or any ride if Edwin was driving.
Growing up on the farm helped shape Edwin’s lifelong love of agriculture and machinery. As a young man, he worked in drywall before finding his calling in automobile sales. In 1980, he moved to Mission, BC, where he spent many years selling cars and, depending on who you ask, participating in a little “extra-curricular agriculture” on the side.
Edwin was known for many things. His sharp wit. His sense of humour. His willingness to speak his mind. His remarkable ability to find something—anything—to complain about. Yet beneath that gruff exterior was a generous and caring man who quietly helped others whenever he could.
His passions were easy to identify: John Deere green, Coca-Cola red, Harley-Davidson chrome, Tim Hortons coffee, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the Winnipeg Jets, and perhaps the occasional cigarette. He also followed politics closely and was never shy about sharing his views.
Many knew Edwin as the founder, president, and sole reporter of ENN — Edwin’s News Network. If there was news to be shared, Edwin already knew it. Through thousands upon thousands of text messages, he kept family and friends informed of current events, sports scores, weather updates, political developments, crop conditions, and occasionally information that nobody actually needed.
His texting abilities were legendary. Even after living away from Manitoba for over 25 years, he could still send lengthy updates in German. Edwin never met a texting limit he couldn’t challenge. There were generally two camps when it came to Edwin’s messages: Team Edwin and Team “Please Make It Stop.” Regardless of which team you belonged to, you knew exactly what Edwin was thinking—and often what his blood sugar numbers were, what he had eaten that day, where he was going, what he was doing, and sometimes far more information than anyone had requested.
Those fortunate enough to spend time with Edwin discovered a side of him that many never fully saw. He was incredibly generous. When family would venture to visit Edwin in BC it would often included meals, shopping trips, sightseeing adventures, and countless acts of kindness. He was a gracious host who genuinely enjoyed treating others and quietly helping people in need without seeking recognition.
For the last 16 years, Edwin worked at LaingSpring Farm, where he proudly appointed himself Farm Manager. It was, in his opinion, the perfect arrangement: getting paid while using their equipment, their fuel, and occasionally helping other people with projects as well. He thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
Above all, Edwin loved his family. He valued friendships, treasured visits, enjoyed a good conversation, and never missed an opportunity to stay connected. Whether through a phone call, a visit, or a twenty-paragraph text message, he made sure people knew he was thinking about them.
Edwin may not have considered himself the richest man, but he was wealthy in ways that truly matter. He was blessed with a large and loving family, lifelong friendships, and countless people who cared deeply for him.
Some of Edwin’s most treasured memories are best told through the stories shared by family and friends.
His nephew Russell fondly remembers Edwin’s driving skills as being, shall we say, a little adventurous. Russell joked that when Edwin pulled away from a restaurant, even the plates inside were probably rattling from the excitement. Whether driving a car, truck, or tractor, Edwin always seemed to believe the destination was more important than the speed limit.
His sister Martha recalls a memorable trip she and their mother, Lizzie, took to visit Edwin in British Columbia. As any good Manitobans would, they arrived carrying only the finest provisions from home—Winnipeg Old Country baloney and fresh Bothwell cheese. During their visit, they toured the beautiful Butchart Gardens. As they admired the breathtaking scenery, Lizzie looked around and wondered aloud why they even lived in Manitoba when such beauty existed elsewhere. Yet true to their roots, Martha remembers enjoying one of Winnipeg’s finest meals while sitting in the vehicle, sharing baloney and cheese together. Sometimes the simplest moments become the most treasured memories.
His sister Rhonda fondly remembers Edwin’s annual arrivals in Manitoba on his beloved Harley-Davidson. After making the long trip, many people might have headed home to unpack and rest. Not Edwin. One of his first stops was often Salisbury House, where he would confidently order 27 nips. Then, while paying for all 27, he would proceed to eat two and be perfectly satisfied. It was classic Edwin—always doing things his own way and keeping everyone around him shaking their heads and laughing.
His sister Bertha recently recalled a conversation between Edwin and a home care nurse during his illness. The nurse was reviewing all the things Edwin could and could not do and remarked, “Well Edwin, you still seem to be able to do quite a lot. What can’t you do?” Without missing a beat, Edwin looked at her and replied, “Take orders.” The answer perfectly summed up Edwin’s personality. Independent, stubborn, quick-witted, and never one to let anyone tell him what to do, Edwin remained true to himself right to the very end.
Even in his final days, Edwin’s sense of humour never left him. Just one day before his passing, his nephew Joey had the opportunity to spend time with him and share one last laugh. In true Edwin fashion, that laugh happened to involve a perfectly timed fart. The two of them laughed together, enjoying a moment that was pure Edwin— simple, genuine, and full of humour right until the end.
These stories capture what so many will remember most about Edwin: his ability to make people laugh, create unforgettable memories, and leave behind stories that will be told around family tables for years to come.
Edwin’s stories, opinions, jokes, texts, updates, and unforgettable personality will be missed more than words can express. We take comfort knowing that somewhere, Edwin is already catching up on the latest news, finding something to complain about, and making sure everyone stays informed.
While Edwin was not one to openly speak about his faith, those closest to him knew that his belief in God was sincere and steadfast. He was especially grateful for the family members who prayed with him. As we celebrate Edwin’s life and the many memories he leaves behind, we take comfort in knowing that he has found eternal peace and rest in God’s loving presence.
A private burial has taken place at Clearsprings Cemetery.
A come-and-go Celebration of Life with coffee and dainties will be held at Birchwood Funeral Chapel on Monday, June 8, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m with a slideshow tribute at 6:30p.m.