Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgement, but has passed from death into life. (John 5:24 NKJV)
In loving memory of Melvin Petkau, 47, who passed away on Saturday, April 7, 2018 at his home in Emo, Ont.
He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his parents, Henry and Tina; his brothers and sisters, Alice (George), Maria (David), Elizabeth, Gertrude (Cornelius), Clara (Norman), Doris (Richard), Doreen (Frank), Tina (Clayton), Henry (Beth), Janice (Raymond), Sara (Dennis), Loyd (Londa), Darlene (Larry), Bernice, and Beverly (Johnny); as well as 25 nieces and 26 nephews.
Always having a very soft spot in his heart for children, Uncle Mel developed a special bond with many of them.
Melvin was born to Henry and Tina Petkau on Nov. 14, 1970 in Mexico. He grew up and received most of his education in S.C.A.P. Melvin trusted in Jesus as his personal Saviour as a young teen, and was baptized on the confession of his faith in July of 1986.
In recent months, Mel has many times expressed a hope, as well as a longing after God’s everlasting love. He desired to pursue God more and prayed a lot.
As a teenager and young adult, he enjoyed hockey, baseball, and waterskiing. He was known as the guy who “If it can be done, he can do it!”
Melvin was a hard-working man, spending most of his working years in the logging industry, with the exception of a few years spent with “Over the Road Trucking.” His co-workers and friends will remember him as an honest, cheerful, and generous friend. Everyone who knew him, liked him.
Over the course of his short life, Melvin endured many physical challenges. Starting early on in his elementary years with a broken leg to later on having triple bypass surgery, along with more medical procedures due to his heart condition. Even in the midst of all his pain, however, he was not known to ever complain. His strength and positivity in the face of hardship was amazing.
As his parents, their hearts are filled with fond memories of their precious son, Melvin. Over the past years, Melvin and his mom sent countless texts to each other. His mom held a very special place in his heart. One of the messages that he sent said, “Mom you are my best friend!”
Dad treasures a recent day in the bush with Mel, where Mel choose to simply spend time showing him around instead of getting that extra load in. Having difficulty getting up into Mel’s truck, Dad says that Mel was right there, ready to give him the push he needed.
Viewing will be held on Thursday, April 12, 2018 from 7-8 p.m. at the Northridge Funeral Home in Emo, Ont.
A service will be on Friday, April 13, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Christian Reformed Church in Emo, with Pastor Trevor Martin and Pastor Peter Krahn officiating.
If desired, in memoriam donations may be made to the charity of your choice c/o the Northridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
MELVIN PETKAU
